International shipping is a little more complicated than most people would assume. That’s why it’s crucial for you to understand the basics of how to prep your loads before sending them off. Read through some of these tips for preparing to ship cargo internationally, so you can ensure your package arrives at its destination.
Know the Max Cargo Size and Weight Limits
Before you can start loading up your cargo, you’ll need to check that what you’re shipping overseas meets the instructed weight and size limit of the crates or pallets that will hold it during transport. So, it’s wise to have a firm understanding of how large your load is and precisely how much it will weigh once you package it.
You can check your cargo by either weighing it and the packaging separately or by weighing everything at once. Either way, knowing this information will ensure that you won’t exceed the required weight and size limits. Additionally, it will also prevent over-stacking on crates, which will considerably offset the chances of potentially hazardous conditions and lost or damaged cargo.
Package and Secure Your Cargo Adequately
It’s imperative to ensure that your cargo is packaged as adequately as possible so that it makes it to its destination safely. You’ll need to be discerning in your selection of external packaging and ensure that whatever container you choose can support your cargo and withstand the conditions of international travel. However, it’s also prudent to account for the way you package your load internally.
For instance, if you’re shipping fragile items, you’ll likely need to double-wrap them with tape and fill any empty spaces in your container with cushioning, such as air-cushion support or foam peanuts. Doing this will keep items from shifting or breaking during transport. After you have a grasp on your packaging, you’ll also need to make sure that the container itself is adequately secured in place. You can do this using a variety of load securement products that will keep your cargo steady and in place during its trip.
Check Shipping Restrictions
Once your cargo is ready for shipment, it’s crucial for you to check the shipping restrictions of what you’re trying to send off. If you’re trying to ship heavy equipment, you must consider the possibility that there will be specific qualifications your cargo must meet in order to gain the proper customs clearance. This is especially essential when you consider that these types of restrictions are put in place to avoid legal ramifications, hazardous conditions, and loss of cargo.
Prepare All Required Documentation
Finally, an integral step in preparing your load for international shipping is procuring all the documents you’ll need to get approval for shipment. There are more than a few of these documents that you’ll need to present before you can send off your cargo, but the following are some of the most essential.
- Packing list
- Invoices
- Import/export customs declaration
- Certificate of Origin
Having these documents prepped and ready to go will help ensure that your cargo passes through customs smoothly and can be sent to its destination. Hopefully, scanning this quick guide provides you with some valuable tips for preparing to ship cargo internationally.