Five Tips To Ship Overseas

Moving a large item from one place to another can be difficult. It can be even more complicated if it has to be relocated over an ocean. Whether it is for personal reasons or professional ones, following the rules laid out can get your item where it needs to go efficiently and quickly. Here are some steps to follow to make sure that happens.

Detail What Is Being Shipped

Before you get too far into the process, record what you are shipping and document every detail about it. Get an accurate measurement of the length, width, and depth of the container the items will go in. Weigh it and add that to your notes also. Write down a description of each item, the value of the item, and whether you have insured it. It would be wise to consult your insurance company about adding the products to your policy in the event that they are damaged in transit.

Talk To a Customs Broker

Once everything is packaged and ready to ship, reach out to a customs broker to get advice on how to proceed. They will help you arrange a crane rental virginia if your container is too large to be easily moved onboard the boat. Show the list of things you are shipping so that they can tell you which paperwork should be filed and how far in advance it must be submitted. The broker can look over your documents and ensure they are correct so that you avoid having large fees assessed against you. They will walk you through every step until your shipment has left the dock.

Know the Charges and Restrictions

As you are packing up what you are about to ship, study what can be sent and what is restricted. Be truthful of the contents of your container and what might be included inside them. Find out if your shipper is willing to transport the product and if they will add any charges to your bill to do so. Be aware of the taxes and tariffs that might be assessed and be sure to factor that into your budget. These numbers change frequently so check more than once before you commit to the shipment. Also, inquire how long your things will be in customs both here and at its destination so that you can let whoever is receiving it when they can expect it.

Keep Communication Open

Ask questions of your customs broker and the freight hauler when they come up. Give them more than one form of contact for you in case there is an emergency and they need to reach you as soon as possible. A delay in getting back to them might result in your container staying at the port instead of being loaded on the ship and sent out. Also keep in constant contact with the person on the other end. You will want to know what is happening at all times so that if a problem arises, you will be able to address it. The end recipient should also be made aware of any significant changes that might happen. The items that are being sent to them may be time sensitive so if they are late it may cause an issue.

Recoup the Costs Of Shipment

If you are shipping something for your customer, be certain that you add the shipping cost to the quote so that you can get that money back. Make sure you add everything including the cost of the container that you are putting the product in and the insurance to cover any damage. Estimate a little over the number that you determine to cover any fluctuation in tariffs and taxes. Sending something overseas can be a complicated and expensive procedure. If you research the laws and restrictions as well as seek out the help of a professional in the business, the process can be a smooth one for you.