Key Concerns When Shipping Industrial Goods Internationally
If you are new to shipping large, oversized and heavy equipment or other industrial goods internationally you may find it to be quite the learning curve. There are a lot of parts in the process and a number of steps to be taken in order to get your product from your home port successfully to its final destination. With some research, however, you will soon become comfortable with shipping cargo overseas without too much concern or worry.
While there are some things you can do on your own, others are easier to accomplish with a bit of professional help such as palletizing, crating, and transloading. In order to get your cargo shipment successfully across long distances, it is important to do some research and education yourself on the essential tasks that must be accomplished and completed before your product begins its long journey. Here are a few key concerns to think about.
- Figure Out the Expenses First
Before you put the shipping process in motion it is suggested you get a handle on how much it will cost from start to finish. Do some calling around and get some quotes on any professional services you are thinking of using. Also look into things like tariff, taxes and any customs fees you may be expected to pay. The method of shipping you plan on using also affects your bottom line so try to figure out the different costs for each mode you are considering.
- Decide How You Will Ship the Goods
When it comes to moving heavy equipment and other industrial products you need to decide how it will get from its point of origin to its destination. Typically with heavy items the use of airplanes is out, but you can use ocean freight, rail or roads to get your goods where you want them to go. Often it is necessary to use more than one mode of transportation. Consider transloading services in such situations as they are beneficial when using multi-modal transport.
- Create a Tentative Timeline
Shipping goods to overseas customers can be a complicated process and there are always chances of delays along the way. However you should be able to come up with a tentative arrival time to give your clients so they know when to expect the product. Try to have a rough idea of how long the travel time will be as well as how long it may take to go through customs. If you know the date of expected arrival it will be less stressful in the long run.
- Make Sure You Purchase Insurance
While overseas shipping is pretty safe and secure there are times when things go awry and your product gets damaged or hung up along the way. Though this is never an ideal situation when you have insured your cargo shipment the situation will be less worrisome and costly. Look into different insurance companies and find one that works for you and the product you are shipping. Some providers are more reliable and reputable than others so definitely do some research here.
- Educated Yourself on Restrictions
Every country around the world has its own sets of regulations and restrictions surrounding the import of goods from overseas markets. While your shipment may not be restricted there may be rules letting you know how to deal with your goods. For example, with industrial or farm equipment it may only be allowed in if you have had it professionally cleaned and sprayed to make sure there is no residual dirt in its tracks. Knowing this in advance decreases delays.
- Plan on Packing and Crating
When a cargo shipment is traveling long distances to international markets having it properly packaged is key to it arriving in one piece in perfect condition. Hiring a company to build custom crates for industrial goods means you won’t have to worry about things like damage due to improper packaging, corrosion or loss. Be sure the shipment is properly labeled so there are no issues when it comes to going to customs as any hold-ups can be expensive.
- Calculate Customs Fees, Taxes and Tariffs
These expenses vary depending on what you are shipping and how much it is worth. Be sure you know what is expected of you before you send your merchandise off as these costs can add up to quite a bit. You do not want to be surprised after the fact. Also, the process will be smoother if you have everything ready to go with all necessary documentation attached.
