Service Beyond North America
Access to global markets is increasingly important for many companies. Moving freight to destinations outside of North America, however, can be more complex.
Depending on your freight's destination, you may be required to complete additional documentation, such as commercial invoices or Shipper's Export Declarations (SED). Many countries also have additional requirements specific to their own customs laws and freight movement policies.
If you're not familiar with the process international shipping requirements, contact your carrier for assistance. Your carrier can refer you to a freight forwarder and/or a broker.
A freight forwarder facilitates the export of goods out of the country to the shipment's destination, while a broker helps you import goods into a country. Your broker will help clear your goods with customs and arrange for payment of taxes and duty fees. Many brokers also serve as freight forwarders.
Reimer Express, and other carriers, strive to make the process as easy as possible for their customers. They will move your shipment to the port, reserve space on the steamship, have your goods loaded on a container, and facilitate delivery.
You can negotiate the starting and ending points of your responsibility for the freight move with the consignee (receiver). You may choose to ship door-to-door, port-to-port, or any other combination. If you ship door-to-port, for instance, you pay your carrier only for taking the freight from your pickup point to the port. After that, responsibility for payment lies with the consignee.
Proper packaging takes on additional importance when shipping goods overseas. Because freight moves by ships and in containers, your goods may be subjected to movement and stress that would not occur over land. Make sure your freight is secured to protect it from potential damage. Be aware that condensation or leakage can also occur. If your goods must be kept dry, package them accordingly.
Look for a full-service carrier when shopping for international transportation service. Be sure to choose a carrier who will help you address the issues and tell you what documentation is required for your destination.
Reimer Express' International Customer Service Centre can answer any questions you may have about shipping internationally. Call 1-800-INTL-REX (1-800-468-5739) for an experienced international service representative.
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