Not as simple as you think, how to ship container from the States to other countries requires several processes and some documents.
The process often includes choosing the right container type, selecting a freight forwarder, preparing documentation, and arranging transport to the port.
Find out in this article to know the complete guide on how to ship container from the us to other countries!
Contents
Shipping Container from the US to Overseas
1. Decide What You’re Shipping
Determine what goods you’re exporting. It can include household items, vehicles, and commercial goods.
Check whether any export restrictions, such as hazardous materials, certain electronics, weapons, or agricultural products, require special permits.
2. Select a Freight Forwarder or Shipping Company
Freight forwarders handle logistics, customs paperwork, and transport for you. They will help you book vessel space, arrange pickup from your location, handle customs/export documentation, and deliver to the destination port or even door-to-door.
3. Prepare and Pack Your Shipment
To prepare and pack your shipment, it is better to use professional packing services, especially for international shipping. Make sure your items are secured and labeled.
Then, create a detailed packing list that includes contents, weights, and values.
4. Arrange Documentation
While arranging the documentation, you will need:
- Bill of lading, or the official shipping document issued by the carrier.
- A commercial invoice that contains an itemized list and declared value.
- Packing list.
- An export declaration is filed electronically if the value is more than $2,500.
- Import documentation that is required by the destination country for customs clearance, duties, etc.
5. Transport to the Port
Have the container delivered to your address for loading, or deliver your goods to a warehouse or freight forwarder’s facility.
6. Customs Clearance and Overseas Arrival
In the destination country, your consignee or receiving agent handles import customs. Then, pay any duties, taxes, and port fees.
After that, you need to arrange the final delivery or pickup from the port or warehouse.
7. Estimate Costs
The typical costs of a container overseas shipping depend on the origin and destination ports, container size, container type, freight mode, insurance, customs, and handling fees.
8. Consider Marine Insurance
Always purchase cargo insurance to cover loss or damage, as ocean transit can be rough, and standard carrier liability is very limited.
What to Inspect Before Overseas Shipping
Here’s a full breakdown of the good ocean container specs:
Container Type & Size
Make sure you have the right container for your cargo. Use the standard 20’ and 40’ containers for general cargo and heavy goods.
Use the 40’ and 45’ High Cube containers for tall and bulky cargo. Then, utilize the reefer container to ship perishable products like fruit, seafood, and medicine.
CSC Plate
Every container used for international shipping must have a valid CSC plate that proves that the container is safe for stacking, lifting, and transporting by ship, rail, and truck. It also ensures the container complies with international regulations for structural strength and integrity.
A typical CSC plate includes CSC Safety Approval, manufacturer & model, max gross weight, and date of manufacture & inspection
Physical Condition: Key Inspection Points
The physical condition of a shipping container is critical for shipping, especially for international or ocean transport. The key inspection points of container physical conditions are the exterior, interior, roof, and doors.
Weight Limits & Payload
Never exceed the gross weight limit printed on the CSC plate. Check the maximum payload capacity stamped on the container:
- 20’: 37,000 lbs payload
- 40’: 60,000 lbs payload
- High Cube: Slightly reduced if weight is a factor
Container ID Number
Each container should have a unique ID that matches the shipping documents, booking, and seal number. It will help you trace and track your shipment worldwide.
Structural Integrity
Check for warping due to heat or stacking pressure. The container’s frame and walls should show no deformation.
Seal Lock & Number
Record the seal number after locking the container. Then, verify that the high-security bolt seal matches the seal number on the bill of lading.
This detail is important for customs clearance and insurance claims.
Cargo Securing & Packaging
You need to make sure that the container is evenly loaded, properly secured, and compliant with the IMO/CTU Code for containerized cargo.
Improper loading can damage the container or result in rejection at the port.
Documentation
Match your inspection with the bill of lading, packing list, export license or certificate of origin, customs paperwork, and insurance policy.
Conclusion
Understanding these factors can help businesses and individuals make informed decisions when arranging shipping container delivery.
If you would like to buy shipping containers to ship your products, buy them from a trusted provider such as Tradecorp.
Tradecorp is a reliable container sales, purchase, rental, and modification service company. Tradecorp provides modification and custom container services by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!