What You Need to Know for Global Shipping
Shipping globally from the U.S. can grow your customer base—but only if you do it right. With international shipping comes more rules, paperwork, and decisions. This simple guide breaks it down—no jargon, no fluff—just the essentials to save you time, money, and stress.
💼 Why Ship Worldwide?
Selling internationally helps you reach more customers. Global buyers value American-made products. A reliable freight forwarding partner like Shipping Support ensures your goods arrive on time, intact, and in full compliance with regulations.
🚚 How to Choose the Right Shipping Method
✈️ Air Freight
Fastest option available
Ideal for small or urgent shipments
More expensive than ocean freight
🚢 Ocean Freight
Best for heavy or bulk shipments (furniture, machinery, equipment)
More cost-effective than air
Includes options like 20ft, 40ft, and 40HC containers, flat racks, breakbulk, and RORO
🚛 Road & Rail (Intermodal)
Essential for inland moves within the U.S. or between U.S., Canada & Mexico
Often paired with air/ocean shipping to complete the journey
Tip: Most successful exporters use a combination of these methods to keep costs low and timelines tight.
📦 Pack It Right
Poor packaging leads to damage, delays, or rejected shipments.
Use strong boxes with proper padding
Clearly mark labels and fragile items
Leverage ISPM-15 certified wood crates for international compliance
📑 Key Export Documents
Commercial Invoice: Lists the items, value, and buyer/seller info
Packing List: Confirms weights and quantities
Bill of Lading (BOL): Proof goods have been picked up
Certificate of Origin: Verifies the item’s origin country
💡 Tip: Match item descriptions and values across all documents. Mismatched data causes customs delays.
🛃 Customs Compliance
Every package crossing a border must clear customs.
Make sure you provide:
✅ Accurate item descriptions & values
✅ Correct HS/HTS codes
✅ Complete, consistent paperwork
Mistakes = Delays, Fines, or Holds
Our network of licensed customs brokers ensures your paperwork is right the first time.
📉 How to Keep Costs Down
Global shipping can get pricey—unless you’re proactive:
Consolidate shipments when possible
Book early to secure space & better rates
Use trusted freight forwarders with global partnerships (like us)
Choose the right carrier & method based on freight type
💰 Need help? Contact us atShipping-Support.com for a custom freight strategy.
🔍 Track Every Shipment
Visibility = peace of mind.
We provide:
📍 Live shipment tracking
📸 Photo documentation
📲 Alerts when things change
🛡️ Protect with Insurance
Shipping has risks—bad weather, theft, or damaged cargo.
Carriers often offer limited liability (e.g., $500 for an entire ocean container). That’s not enough.
➡ Always consider cargo insurance. We can help with that too.
👥 Work with a Freight Forwarding Partner You Trust
What do freight forwarders (like us) actually do?
✅ Book reliable carriers
✅ Handle documentation
✅ Clear customs
✅ Provide end-to-end updates
✅ Offer guidance on packaging, labeling, and compliance
⚠️ Watch for These Issues
Port congestion
Weather-related delays
Incomplete documentation
Incorrect labels or packaging
Global unrest or trade disruptions
We plan for all of the above—so you don’t have to worry.
📘 INCOTERMS® Explained
INCOTERMS® (International Commercial Terms) are rules created by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to define who is responsible for shipping, insurance, and customs duties in global trade.
Here are a few examples:
EXW (Ex Works): Buyer picks up at seller's door and handles everything
FOB (Free on Board): Seller delivers to port; buyer takes over
CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): Seller covers freight & insurance to the destination port
DAP (Delivered at Place): Seller delivers to buyer’s location, without paying duties
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Seller pays everything—including duties & taxes
🚀 Choosing the right INCOTERM can save you thousands.
Need help? Our experts atShipping-Support.com can guide you.
✅ Quick International Shipping Checklist
✅ Use proper packaging
✅ Label every box clearly
✅ Prepare accurate documents
✅ Choose the right freight method
✅ Confirm country-specific import rules
✅ Track your shipment
✅ Buy cargo insurance
✅ Partner with a professional freight forwarder
🔚 Final Thought
Global shipping doesn’t have to be complicated.
With the right people, documents, and process, you can expand your reach and protect your bottom line.
📦 Get expert help at every step.
Visit Shipping-Support.com or call us at +1-301-821-3370.
Shipping Support LLC – Simple. Fast. On Your Side.
🌎 FAQ: Global Shipping Support
Q. How long does international shipping take?
Ans. Air Freight: Typically a few days Ocean Freight: Anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks depending on the route and destination
Q. Do I need a customs broker?
Ans. Yes. A licensed customs broker ensures your documentation is compliant, duties are handled correctly, and shipments clear without unnecessary delays or fines.
Q. Should I get cargo insurance?
Ans. Absolutely. Standard carrier liability is limited—ocean carriers, for example, typically only cover up to $500 USD per container. Cargo insurance protects the full value of your goods in case of loss, damage, or delay.
Q. How do I find the right freight forwarder?
Ans. Check reviews, request referrals, and ask about their experience with your type of cargo and target routes. Look for a provider who offers personalized service, real-time tracking, and end-to-end support.
✅ Final Thoughts on International Shipping
You’ve just learned the essentials of shipping globally:
✔️ Pack it right
✔️ Prepare accurate documents
✔️ Partner with the right logistics team
✔️ Track everything and insure what matters
📦 Ready to streamline your shipping?
Let Shipping-Support.com be your trusted partner for international air, ocean, and over-the-road freight.
📞 Call us 24/7 at +1-301-821-3370 or request a quote online.
From A to Z—we handle it all, so you don’t have to.
