International shipping of merchandise is a complex task that requires a good understanding of different factors to be successful and avoid risks of resource loss. Therefore, various questions are expected surrounding this process, especially if you are interested in starting a business with a global reach.

Once you decide to commercialize outside your country, it is important to consider the challenges it comes with; as you may know, shipping locally is not the same as shipping internationally. That is why it is crucial to check all the requirements for this type of shipping and the ways to do it. 

As mexican custom brokers with years of experience, at Azafra, we want to offer you information that can be helpful for you and your company. Hence, in today’s article, we will explain the different options for international shipping and the factors you need to consider beforehand so that you can make an optimal decision based on your needs.

If you are interested in exploring this topic more and getting a clear understanding of international commerce, logistics, and merchandise shipment, keep reading the content we create, especially for you. 

What to consider to ship internationally?

Before establishing the best shipping method for your merchandise, it is crucial to consider different aspects that can vary depending on your business’s needs and the packages you intend to ship. 

Hereunder, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when shipping internationally to find the best method and to improve the efficiency of your logistics processes. 

1.- Shipping speed

One of the main aspects you need to consider is the shipment time. This will be a determining factor in choosing the adequate method to transport your merchandise, especially when you need to send it to other continents. 

International shipping is a complex and slow service due to all the factors involved, such as customs processes, the preparation of documents for importation and exportation, the inspection of merchandise, and more. 

As we mentioned, you must also pay attention to the specific countries you are sending your products to because the distances vary and affect the package’s arrival time at its destination.

This is why it is crucial to choose a shipping method and company that can comply with speed and security needs. This way, the delivery is completed in time and form to avoid delays for customers that may result in economic losses. 

2.- Shipping rates

Just as the distance of shipments affects delivery time, it also directly influences the cost of transportation and the charges for handling and storing goods. Some options may offer you less expensive alternatives for certain destinations, depending on the shipping method and service providers.

To avoid inconveniences and losses for your business, compare the available rates and ask for the possible additional fees that may apply during your shipping processes, such as customs duties, handling fees, or fuel surcharges. 

3.- Destination

Additionally, the destination of your merchandise is an essential factor not only for the shipping rates and speed of the delivery but also for the legal aspects you need to take into consideration before planning a shipment.

Some countries have legal restrictions on particular products and require specialized documentation to accept the entrance of merchandise into their territory. Therefore, it is recommended to be informed about the regulations and requirements of certain countries with the help of custom brokers in Manzanillo or other entities. 

Also, make sure to know if the carriers you are interested in have the capability to ship your cargo successfully to these specific destinations. 

4.- Reliability and tracking 

Many businesses’ success depends on delivering their merchandise in optimal conditions; hence, the reliability of the shipping carrier plays an important role in determining whether you are choosing the best company and shipping method. 

Obtain information about the additional services they provide and opt for a company and method that can offer you tracking data to monitor your package’s journey. This will ensure that your items, especially those with high value, arrive safely at their destination.

Shipping methods 

Now that you know the different considerations you require to find the best way to ship internationally, we will discuss the various methods available to send your products worldwide safely and successfully.

Each of them has its own advantages, but once you identify your shipment’s needs and specific characteristics, you will be able to choose the best option for you. 

1.- Air freight 

Air freight is characterized by its fast deliveries, which makes it ideal for urgent international shipments. Therefore, it is often used to transport valuable merchandise and emergency supplies, such as perishable goods, making it more expensive than other shipping alternatives.

This method is especially used to send packages of small or medium size because of its infrastructure. Cargo planes have limited space, which restricts the merchandise sizes and weight. On that account, if you need to send large amounts of packages or large cargo, you may want to look into other viable options. 

2.- Sea freight 

On the other hand, sea freight is perhaps the most adequate method for large merchandise. Cargo ships are designed to withstand heavy packages and are characterized by their wide space, which makes them a good choice for those who want to send bigger packages to different parts of the world.

Likewise, they have the advantage of having an extensive reach for international shipments; however, custom procedures must be taken into account for the cargo to comply with the legal requirements of entry to the destination country. 

Unlike air freight services, this method is used for non-urgent shipments since it can take weeks or months for the packages to arrive.

3.- Postal services

Shipments through postal services are the preferred option for small businesses and e-commerce businesses starting with international shipments. This method allows you to handle deliveries of small packages without investing large amounts of economic resources.

Its reach, like the previous options, is wide for different countries worldwide. However, the delivery time of your merchandise may vary depending on the destination, which is why it is recommended for non-urgent shipments.  

Additionally, it is important to consider that this method provides limited and less reliable tracking services, which may affect the monitoring of the merchandise during the shipping process. 

4.- Courier services

As postal services, this alternative is also an excellent option for shipping small packages, making them ideal for smaller businesses starting in the market. Their ability to handle door-to-door deliveries ensures that your products reach your customers quickly and efficiently, essential for maintaining a positive customer experience.

One significant advantage of using courier services is the assistance they provide with customs procedures. Courier companies have extensive experience with international shipping regulations and can help ensure that all necessary documentation is in order, reducing the risk of delays at the border.  

This support allows you to save time and minimize the hassle associated with cross-border shipments. However, it’s important to note that this type of service is generally more expensive than traditional postal services, but its benefits of reliability, speed and better tracking options justify the cost.

As you can see, finding the best way to ship internationally requires extensive research and observation of your commercial and delivery strategies’ specific needs. We hope that this article will help you better understand shipping methods and the considerations before choosing one. 

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