If you are a new start up, an established business with new internationally based customers, or just considering a move of your personal goods to another country, there are 5 things you should know and consider when planning to move goods from one country to another.
- Cost – When all the shipping costs for ocean freight are totaled up, the price tag may seem high, but it is important to know that ocean freight costs are lower than the alternatives in almost all cases. About 90% of all freight that moves in the world is transported at some point on an ocean carrier. Shipping rates for ocean going freight can vary dramatically based on the time of the year, the ports that will load and unload your goods and changing demand patterns. For example, shipping a container from the USA to China is generally cheaper than shipping the same container from China to the USA simply because more goods flow from China than to china and there is more pressure to make use of empty containers collecting on the west coast of the USA.
- Restrictions – Not everything can be shipped and every country has its own list of restricted items. Obvious items such as drugs and firearms are restricted at every port of call, but there are also many items that are unique to specific countries including religious and plant based items. Additionally, most countries require anything being shipped on wooden pallets or items made of wood need to be pre-treated for insects.
- Inspections – While the percentage of ocean going containers that are inspected at customs is relatively small, about 5%, there is always a chance that your container will be tagged for inspection. This can delay your delivery by several days if the documentation isn’t in order or if they find questionable items within the shipment. It is best to make sure your goods are packaged so that they are easily accessible to avoid delays or damage to your goods.
- Schedules – When shipping via ocean going freight carriers, it is best to “pad” your delivery schedule in anticipation of delays. About 25% of all ocean freight arrives late. This can be the result of interruptions in schedules at other ports of call, weather related delays, or mechanical issues. In any case, allow yourself plenty of time for unexpected delays when shipping via ocean carriers.
- Complexity – There is no debating that shipping goods internationally with an ocean going carrier is a complicated activity. Documentation, scheduling, managing unexpected route changes, and other issues that come up require the attention and skill of a reputable freight forwarder that has developed a reputation for service excellence over a period of years. Eagles Air & Sea has been helping customers manage the complexities of shipping goods internationally since 1990 and they look forward to discussing your needs either by phone at +66 (02)790 4599 or via their e-mail at sales@eaglesthai.com.
