Ocean Freight
Trust International Sea & Air Shipping for reliable, efficient sea freight of your household goods, backed by decades of experience.
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Start Your International Moving Journey
When life changes, and you need to move from the United States overseas, you may wonder how to bring a lifetime of memories from your old home to your new one. Ocean freight services from International Sea & Air Shipping are a cost-effective solution that gets you from door to door.
The Benefits of Choosing Ocean Freight
If you need to move personal belongings overseas, you can choose to ship them by air or by sea. Ocean freight can take longer, but it has a few advantages:
- It is typically more cost-effective, especially if you have many belongings.
- It may be your only option if you need to move very large or heavy items.
- Ocean freight generally emits less carbon and uses less fuel than air freight.
What to Expect From the Ocean Freight Container Shipping Process
Every move is unique, but in general, here’s what you can expect from shipping sea freight cargo:
- You book space on a vessel for your cargo.
- You complete and show the insurance paperwork and all the required shipping documents.
- Your cargo is packaged, and the containers with your items are packed onto the vessel.
- The vessel departs and heads for the destination port.
- During the customs clearance process, customs officials review your documents.
- The ship is received at the port, and workers unload the containers.
- Movers carry your shipment from the containers to your new property.
How International Sea & Air Shipping Simplifies Your Move
International Sea & Air Shipping is your logistics partner for your international move. We understand that starting over in a new country is a big step, and we do everything we can to take the stress off your shoulders and ensure your items reach their destination securely and on time.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Expertise: We specialize in door-to-door international moving from the U.S. With 75+ years of experience and over 600 global agents, we are a trusted and award-winning name in international shipping and door-to-door moving. We have helped many individuals and families move, and we’re ready to assist you, too.
- Comprehensive door-to-door relocation services: We offer sea and air shipping and a suite of services that include full packing and crating, customs paperwork and clearance support, specialty item handling, and local delivery and setup. We take on more of your moving tasks so you can focus on building your new life.
- Specialization in complex moves: We offer specialty handling for fine art, machinery, cars, pianos and other items that require extra care. Our custom crating protects your valuables, and we use only the best materials to wrap all your items. We can accommodate many special requests, as well.
- Moving support: We can help you navigate complex shipping regulations, and we customize your services to ensure you get the support you need.
Selecting the Right Ocean Freight Company
Here’s what to look for in a reputable ocean freight company:
- Strong communication: Work with a company that prioritizes communication to give you peace of mind during the shipping process. At International Sea & Air Shipping, we pride ourselves on transparent communication and a professional approach.
- Reliability: Look for licensing and an established history of great service.
- Comprehensive services: You will want services that make moving easier for you. For example, International Sea & Air Shipping offers door-to-door international moves and simplified paperwork. We’ll even unpack and set up your items at your destination.
- Insurance and tracking: Ensure you are covered in case of an unexpected event and can always see your shipment’s status. With International Sea & Air Shipping, you enjoy worry-free moves with our full All-Risk Marine insurance. We also provide you with a reference number so you can track your shipment from any device at any time.
What Should I Know Before I Pack?
Moving is a big step, so make sure you consider:
Required Documents
You will generally need:
- A packing list: You will need a list of the goods you are shipping for customs clearance.
- Bill of Lading (B/L): This legal document outlines the details of your shipment. Both you and the carrier sign it, and it acts as a receipt and contract.
- Commercial invoice: This document serves as proof of the transaction and outlines the value of the items shipped.
- Certificate of origin: Some countries require this document to verify the origin of goods.
In addition to the above, you may need other items, depending on your specific situation and your country of destination. Incomplete or incorrect documents can lead to delays and penalties, so always verify what paperwork you need before you pack. Keep copies of important documents in one folder for easy reference.
Timing
Shipping by sea takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the ports involved. This can be an advantage if you need to settle into your new space or find a new, permanent home at your destination. The longer time frame does mean you need to be strategic, however. You can ship some smaller essentials by air or bring them with you personally.
Your Budget
Ocean freight costs less, but the final amount will depend on destination port fees, any specialty items you have, the types of containers you choose and the weight of your shipment. Compare estimates and budget for the total cost of the move, which may include ocean shipping, moving yourself and your pets, any legal requirements and the cost of a new home.
Contact Us for Concierge Moving Services
Move overseas and arrive refreshed and ready to build a new life. With International Sea & Air Shipping, it is possible. Contact us for a free quote from a trusted name in international moving.
FAQs
What’s the transit time for Ocean Freight?
From time to time, whether your cargo is shipped from the port of origin to the port of destination, and which pipeline service you choose to use When importing goods, it takes close to a few weeks or more than a month. The transportation of ordinary goods worldwide takes about two months in general.
How secure is ocean shipping of personal goods?
Freight shipping by ocean is typically safe when it comes to personal effects and household goods, assuming those are correctly packed and secured in the container. Many companies provide insurance and specially designed containers to protect the items during transit.
Can I track my shipment?
Yes, you can still track it. Most ocean freight carriers do offer tracking, which lets shippers see where their shipment is from the time it departs to when it arrives.
What if my goods are damaged during transportation?
In many cases if your merchandise is damaged when shipped, you can file a claim through the marine insurance that was purchased for your goods. Most agencies also offer methods for disputing damage claims.
