Complete Shipping Guide

1. Understanding Shipping Options

Air Freight

Best For: Urgent shipments, high-value items, perishables

Transit Time: 3-7 business days
Cost: Higher per kilogram
Capacity: Limited by aircraft size
Tracking: Excellent real-time tracking

Ocean Freight

Best For: Large volumes, heavy items, non-urgent shipments

Transit Time: 15-45 days
Cost: Lower per kilogram
Capacity: Very large (containers)
Tracking: Good container tracking

Express Shipping

Best For: Time-critical deliveries

Transit Time: 1-3 business days
Cost: Premium pricing
Service: Door-to-door with tracking

Drop Shipping

Best For: E-commerce, integrated fulfillment

Service: Complete fulfillment solution
Benefits: Inventory management, faster delivery

2. Packaging Your Shipments

Essential Packaging Principles

Use sturdy, appropriate-sized boxes
Provide adequate cushioning (2-3 inches on all sides)
Seal packages securely with quality tape
Label clearly with complete addresses
Protect against moisture and handling

Packaging by Item Type

Fragile Items: Double-boxing, bubble wrap, "FRAGILE" labels
Electronics: Anti-static materials, original packaging when possible
Liquids: Leak-proof containers, absorbent materials
Heavy Items: Heavy-duty boxes, reinforced bottoms

3. Documentation Requirements

Essential Documents

Commercial Invoice: Required for all international shipments
Packing List: Detailed inventory of contents
Bill of Lading/Air Waybill: Shipping contract
Certificate of Origin: May be required for certain destinations

Documentation Best Practices

Complete all fields accurately
Ensure consistency across all documents
Include proper HS codes
Keep copies of all documents
Verify destination country requirements

4. Customs and Duties

Understanding Customs

Customs clearance is required for all international shipments. The process involves:

Documentation review
Valuation of goods
Duty and tax calculation
Inspection (if required)
Release for delivery

Duties and Taxes

Calculated based on declared value and HS codes
Vary by country and product type
May include import duties, VAT, and handling fees
Recipient typically responsible for payment

Tip: Work with experienced customs brokers or freight forwarders to ensure smooth clearance and accurate duty calculations.

5. Tracking and Delivery

Tracking Your Shipment

Use tracking number provided in confirmation
Monitor progress through carrier's website
Set up email/SMS notifications
Contact carrier for delivery issues

Delivery Options

Standard Delivery: Regular delivery to address
Signature Required: Secure delivery with recipient signature
Hold for Pickup: Collect from carrier facility
Scheduled Delivery: Arrange specific delivery time

6. Cost Optimization

Ways to Reduce Shipping Costs

Consolidate multiple shipments
Choose appropriate service level
Optimize packaging (right size, weight)
Negotiate volume discounts
Use dimensional weight calculations
Consider slower but cheaper options

Understanding Shipping Costs

Shipping costs typically include:

Base shipping rate
Fuel surcharges
Dimensional weight charges
Additional services (insurance, signature, etc.)
Customs duties and taxes (international)

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Delayed Shipments

Check tracking for updates
Contact carrier for status
Verify address and contact information
Check for customs delays
Consider weather or holiday impacts

Damaged Packages

Document damage with photos
Keep original packaging
File claim promptly
Contact carrier immediately
Consider insurance for future shipments

Lost Packages

Verify tracking information
Check with recipient
Contact carrier's lost package department
File claim if package confirmed lost
Review insurance coverage

Quick Reference Checklist

✓ Choose appropriate shipping method
✓ Package items securely
✓ Complete all required documentation
✓ Verify addresses and contact information
✓ Declare accurate values
✓ Include proper labels and markings
✓ Obtain tracking number
✓ Consider insurance for valuable items
✓ Keep copies of all documents
✓ Monitor shipment progress