Expanding your customer base is a key milestone in business growth. While many companies start by serving local markets, expanding globally is often the natural next step when a product gains traction. International shipping opens the door to thousands of new customers and unlocks significant growth potential.
One of the most critical decisions in this process is selecting the right shipping carrier. The carrier you choose can directly affect delivery speed, shipping costs, customer satisfaction, and the overall efficiency of your supply chain. With a wide range of carriers offering different services, coverage areas, and pricing models, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs and know what to look for in a reliable logistics partner. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the best carrier for your international shipments.
What is International Shipping?
International shipping is the process of transporting goods across borders and is vital to global trade, allowing businesses to access international markets and customers. It involves various shipping methods—air freight for speed and high-value goods, ocean freight for cost-effective bulk transport, and land freight for shorter distances.
Key steps include customs clearance, where goods are inspected and duties are paid, as well as proper documentation, such as the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Export Declaration. Businesses must also comply with international regulations to avoid delays or penalties. Insurance protects shipments from loss or damage, while effective logistics management ensures the smooth handling, storage, and delivery of goods throughout the supply chain.
How to Ship Freight Internationally?
Shipping freight internationally involves several steps to ensure the goods are transported smoothly and efficiently. Here’s a concise guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Choose the Right Shipping Method
Selecting the appropriate shipping method is the first step in ensuring efficient international shipping. Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive or high-value goods due to its speed and efficiency. Ocean freight is more cost-effective for large or bulk shipments, though it takes longer. Land freight is commonly used for regional cross-border deliveries.
2. Select a Freight Forwarder
Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder can significantly simplify the shipping process. They handle logistics coordination, documentation, and compliance with customs regulations, ensuring a smoother experience from origin to destination.
3. Prepare Shipping Documentation
Proper documentation is essential for international shipping. Key documents include:
- Bill of Lading (BOL) – a contract between the shipper and carrier.
- Commercial Invoice – outlines the transaction and value of goods.
- Packing List – an itemized list of the shipment’s contents.
- Export Declaration – Required for Customs Clearance.
4. Package Your Goods Properly
To prevent damage during transit, goods must be securely packed using suitable materials and labeled correctly. Packaging should be tailored to the transportation mode and expected handling conditions.
5. Calculate Costs
It’s essential to consider the total shipping cost, which includes freight charges, insurance, customs duties, and any applicable surcharges, such as the Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF). A clear understanding of all expenses helps avoid budget surprises.
6. Arrange Customs Clearance
Familiarize yourself with the customs requirements of both the exporting and importing countries. Submitting accurate documentation ensures compliance and helps prevent delays or penalties during the clearance process.
7. Insure Your Goods
Purchasing marine cargo insurance is recommended, especially for high-value or fragile items. Insurance protects against potential loss, theft, or damage during transit.
8. Track Your Shipment
Most carriers and freight forwarders offer real-time tracking services. Monitoring your shipment allows for timely updates and enables you to respond quickly to any delays or issues.
9. Coordinate Final Delivery
The final step involves planning the last-mile delivery to the recipient’s location. This may require additional logistics arrangements, especially for inland transport or remote destinations.
How Long Does International Shipping Take?
Depending on the size of your package or freight and the shipping mode, international shipments can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. The fundamental tradeoff when shipping freight is time versus money. Air cargo is notorious for its fast international delivery but is very expensive. On the other hand, moving freight over the sea on cargo barges can take more time but save you money. Usually, the international shipping process consists of five essential components:
- Export Haulage – The freight is moved from its origin to the destination to the next warehouse, port, or facility firm, where it will depart to the border.
- Export Customs Clearance – When the freight reaches the border of the exporting country, it passes the process of clearance before moving to the next stage.
- Transportation – After your load has successfully left the country of origin, the process of transportation begins. This process can vary in time depending on the mode of transportation, freight company, and customer preferences for expedited or standard shipping.
- Import Customs Clearance – When the freight reaches the border of the importing country, it passes another process of clearance. This clearance is an essential part of the shipping process, as you must ensure that your freight complies with the customs policies of the country you are entering.
- Import Haulage – After successfully clearing the importer country’s border, your freight is moved from the border to its final destination. This process is also referred to as last-mile delivery
Factors to Consider When Choosing an International Shipping Carrier
Selecting the right international shipping carrier is essential to ensure your goods arrive safely, on time, and at a reasonable cost. Below are key factors to consider when evaluating potential carriers:
1. Cost and Pricing Structure
Compare freight rates, customs fees, fuel surcharges (such as the Currency Adjustment Factor, or CAF), and any additional charges across different carriers. Look for transparent pricing models and be wary of hidden or unexpected fees.
2. Shipping Methods and Service Options
Different carriers may specialize in specific transportation modes, such as air, ocean, or land. Select a carrier that offers shipping methods that best suit your needs. Additional services, such as express delivery, door-to-door shipping, or warehousing, can also add value.
3. Transit Times
Review estimated delivery times for each carrier’s international services. If speed is a priority, consider carriers that offer expedited options, keeping in mind that faster shipping often comes at a higher cost.
4. Geographical Coverage
Ensure the carrier has robust coverage in the countries and regions to which you ship. While some airlines excel in specific markets, they may not have a global reach, which can limit your shipping flexibility.
5. Reliability and Reputation
Research the carrier’s track record for reliability in handling international shipments. Read customer reviews, ratings, and testimonials to assess their performance, delivery consistency, and claims handling.
6. Customer Service
Responsive and knowledgeable customer support is crucial in international shipping. Choose a carrier that provides timely updates, easy communication channels, and helpful assistance when issues arise.
7. Tracking and Technology
Shipment tracking is a must for international logistics. Look for carriers that offer real-time tracking tools and use advanced logistics platforms for better visibility, accuracy, and coordination throughout the shipping process.
8. Insurance and Liability
Understand the insurance coverage options available through the carrier. Ensure your goods are adequately insured against potential loss or damage. Also, review the carrier’s liability policy to know what is and isn’t covered during transit.
9. Customs Handling Expertise
A carrier with in-depth customs knowledge can help navigate complex regulations, reduce clearance delays, and ensure compliance in both exporting and importing countries, saving you time and potential penalties.
Choosing a reliable and capable shipping partner is a strategic decision that can directly impact your global operations, customer satisfaction, and bottom line. Take the time to carefully evaluate each factor to find a carrier that meets both your logistics needs and business objectives.
