Things To Consider When Shipping Export

Preparing an international shipment requires a little more than just putting product in a box. The proper shipping crate is of the utmost importance, not only to meet regulations but also to protect your shipment.

Each import and export country has their own set of government requirements and customs regulations. To do business confidently in this global economy, it is essential you know what these requirements are.

Customs
Nothing makes a business look worse than shipments being delayed or turned back by customs. Occasional delays are to be expected due to fluctuating factors such as weather, but the grace period only lasts so long before your customers start to look for another supplier.

There is so much to know about the entire customs process.

Documentation
Any documents for shipping crates internationally need precision and accuracy. The smallest mistake can lead to delays that cost both you and the customer money. The following documents are generally required for shipping so you should familiarize yourself with them, even if you are using a broker:

1. Bill of lading
2. Commercial invoice
3. Consular invoice
4. Inspection certification
5. Destination control statement
6. Certificate of origin
7. Certificate of insurance
8. Warehouse and dock receipts
9. Export packing list
10. Export license (if needed)

The “Bug Stamp”
Otherwise known as IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention), most countries accepting international shipping crates constructed from wood require this stamp. These rules apply to both supply and packing materials that contain wood.

Packaging material includes items such as wooden drums, crates, pallets, cases, and dunnage used as cargo cushioning.

The purpose of the ISPM 15 rules is to prevent the possible spread of various diseases and pests that come from plant-based materials. After the use of heat treatments or fumigation to kill fungi or insects, raw wood packaging may receive the stamp. Any shipment containing materials using raw wood will not be permitted to enter destination countries or cross borders of IPPC participants without inspection for the stamp.

Height and Weight
There are also restrictions on the height and weight of shipping crates and pallet containers. Forty-eight inches by forty inches by six inches is the standard size for U.S. pallets.

The most important consideration is the ability for forklifts to handle the skids or pallets easily. For example, there should be a minimum clearance of 3.5″ on two sides of the base to make them accessible to pallet jacks.

International LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping rules also require that skids on pallets must fit into a forty-foot standard or multi-model ocean freight container.

Below are a few dimensions to keep in mind when shipping export.  Your shipment will likely require a prior approval permit from your shipping company if any of the following apply:

1. 91” door width for 20’ and 40’ sea containers.
2. 89” door height clearance for 20’ and 40’ standard sea containers.
3. 101” door height for 40’ high cube sea containers.

Final Thoughts
There is plenty to think about when shipping crates internationally: weight, height, construction materials, and paperwork. Learning how to do this properly will see all of your shipments go smoothly on the global stage.

For all your exports needs contact us at 1 877 223 0605 or contact us here.