Production

Navigate the Global Market with Logistical Confidence

What is international shipping and how does it work?

International shipping is the process of transporting goods from one country to another by air, sea, or land. 

The process of international shipping involves a number of steps and can be complex, particularly when compared to domestic shipping.

Who are the Key Stakeholders in shipping my goods &

Who is responsible for What?

  1. The shipper (the person or company sending the goods) contacts a shipping company or freight forwarder to arrange for the transportation of their goods. This can be organised both in your local port or if you are regularly importing from a specific location it might be more cost effective to use specialists from that region. 
  1. The shipper prepares the goods for shipping by packing them in appropriate containers and attaching any necessary documentation, such as a commercial invoice or packing list.  
  1. The shipper delivers the goods to a port, airport, or other terminal, where they are loaded onto a vessel or plane for transport.
  1. The shipping company or freight forwarder is responsible for transporting the goods to the destination country and clearing customs on behalf of the shipper.
  1. Once the goods arrive at the destination port, airport, or terminal, they are cleared through customs and delivered to the consignee ( This could be You, your Customer or a 3pl receiving on your behalf
  1. The consignee  is responsible for paying any applicable customs duties and taxes on the imported goods.

Whats the Lingo for international Shipping? 

( INCO ) International Commercial Terms are several standardized trade terms created by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Designed to define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers within international trade. 

Who is responsible for transporting the goods?

Who is responsible for Paying customs duties and taxes and obtaining insurance? 

Incoterms simplify the communication terms of a trade deal and avoid misunderstandings.

There should always be reference to this on the contracts or invoices. 

What are all the Inco Terms?

  1. EXW (Ex Works)
  2. FCA (Free Carrier)
  3. FAS (Free Alongside Ship)
  4. FOB (Free On Board)
  5. CFR (Cost and Freight)
  6. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
  7. CPT (Carriage Paid To)
  8. CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To)
  9. DAT (Delivered At Terminal)
  10. DAP (Delivered At Place)
  11. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Which Items need further research when shipping ?

Alcoholic beverages: There may be specific rules and regulations for shipping alcoholic beverages internationally, including restrictions on the type and amount of alcohol that can be shipped and requirements for obtaining permits or paying taxes. It's important to research the specific requirements of the destination country and choose a shipping method that complies with these rules.

Timber, Plants or Wooden Products: Wood and so many variable products with this raw material, as wood is considered a hazardous material by some countries, so it may be subject to certain regulations or restrictions on import or export. 

Wood can also be prone to damage during shipping, so it's important to use additional packaging materials to protect it and prevent it from breaking or splintering. Wood is also sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, so it may be necessary to use climate-controlled packaging or shipping methods to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme conditions.

Livestock; Shipping live animals internationally involves coordinating with veterinarians, airlines, and local authorities and can be a complex process. Some countries have strict requirements for importing animals, including quarantine periods, vaccination requirements, and documentation. 

Batteries: Shipping batteries internationally can be risky, if they are not handled properly. It's important to research the specific regulations that apply to shipping batteries, including any packaging and labeling requirements. This is the same as when you fly, and battery packs, you need to be mindful when booking shipping for any products with batteries. 

Medicines: Shipping medicines internationally can be subject to specific rules and regulations, as some countries have restrictions on the import or export of certain types of drugs. We do not suggest going at this alone, ask for help and advice. 

Food products; Shipping internationally involves a number of considerations to ensure that the products are safe and of high quality when they reach their destination. This is both exporting from Australia and Importing into Australia.

  • Temperature control: Many food products are perishable and can spoil or degrade if they are not kept at the appropriate temperature during transport. It's important to use refrigerated storage and transportation and temperature-controlled packaging to maintain the freshness and quality of the products.
  • Food safety: Food products must be handled and transported in a way that prevents contamination and preserves their safety for consumption. This may involve following specific food safety guidelines and using clean and sanitary equipment and facilities.
  • Packaging: Proper packaging is crucial for protecting food products during shipping and preventing damage or spoilage. It may be necessary to use moisture-proof, leak-proof, or shatter-proof packaging materials, depending on the specific needs of the products.
  • Labeling: Food products must be labeled with accurate and complete information about their contents, including any allergens or special ingredients. It's also important to include information about the storage and handling of the products, as well as any expiration dates.
  • Documentation: Shipping food products internationally may require obtaining specific permits or documentation, such as health certificates or import/export licenses. It's important to research the specific rules and regulations that apply to the products and the destination country.

Automobiles: Shipping a car internationally can be a complex process that involves coordinating the transportation of the vehicle as well as obtaining the necessary documentation and permissions. It's also a good idea to insure the vehicle against damage or loss during transport.

Artwork, antiques high value Jewellery : Usually fragile and expensive, shipping these items also can come into some trouble with the value aspect, there is specific services for this and We Assist Co recommends usually using specific Art and Valuable cargo Transport companies. 

Hazardous materials; This niche, we also recommend having some help from a professional with experience dealing in these materials, We Assist Co hase experience in importing from China chemicals and Hazardous materials. Some of the items you can will need to be mindful of are below. 

  • Chemicals; Such as acids, bases, corrosives, flammables, and reactives. These materials can react and cause fire, or explosion if they are not handled or appropriately transported.
  • Explosives: Materials that are prone to explosion or detonation, such as fireworks, flares, or blasting agents, must be handled and transported with extreme caution. In Australia, with so much Mining, we have a lot of importing of these materials. 
  • Radioactive materials; can harm people or the environment if they are not adequately contained and shielded during transport.
  • Toxic and infectious substances: This category includes materials that are poisonous or capable of causing disease, such as pesticides, herbicides, and biological agents.
  • Gases: Gases, such as compressed or liquified gases, may be flammable or toxic and must be handled and transported with care.
  • Flammable liquids: Materials easily ignite or burn quickly, such as gasoline or alcohol, can pose a risk of fire or explosion if they are not handled or appropriately transported.

What if an Item doesn't ship to my country ? 

At We Assist Co, we have a team of experts with extensive knowledge and experience in logistics and shipping. We have developed strong relationships with a wide range of logistics service providers and shipping companies worldwide, allowing us to offer our clients various options.

Our team can work with you to understand your specific needs and preferences and help you find the best solution for your business. Whether you are looking to ship a small package or manage the logistics for a large-scale operation, we have the resources and expertise to help you.

I want to Launch a new product or business, what do I do ? 

So if you are launching a new business or product line, which involves shipping products internationally, We Assist co recommend research, planning and in depth due diligence, are key to ensuring viability and long term success. 

By taking the time to thoroughly research your product line and the specific rules and regulations that apply to shipping internationally this might be your local port and then future ports as you project growth into new markets. 

This pre investment can avoid, delays or fines and ensure that your shipments are handled and transported safely. 

Production planning and forecasting can also help you choose the most suitable and cost-effective shipping method and keep your customers satisfied. 

If you are nervous or need to focus on other aspects of your business though know its the right time to diversify your business, We Assist co can help, you navigate the complexities of the global market and achieve your business goals.

Share

Production
min read

Navigate the Global Market with Logistical Confidence

What is international shipping and how does it work?

International shipping is the process of transporting goods from one country to another by air, sea, or land. 

The process of international shipping involves a number of steps and can be complex, particularly when compared to domestic shipping.

Who are the Key Stakeholders in shipping my goods &

Who is responsible for What?

  1. The shipper (the person or company sending the goods) contacts a shipping company or freight forwarder to arrange for the transportation of their goods. This can be organised both in your local port or if you are regularly importing from a specific location it might be more cost effective to use specialists from that region. 
  1. The shipper prepares the goods for shipping by packing them in appropriate containers and attaching any necessary documentation, such as a commercial invoice or packing list.  
  1. The shipper delivers the goods to a port, airport, or other terminal, where they are loaded onto a vessel or plane for transport.
  1. The shipping company or freight forwarder is responsible for transporting the goods to the destination country and clearing customs on behalf of the shipper.
  1. Once the goods arrive at the destination port, airport, or terminal, they are cleared through customs and delivered to the consignee ( This could be You, your Customer or a 3pl receiving on your behalf
  1. The consignee  is responsible for paying any applicable customs duties and taxes on the imported goods.

Whats the Lingo for international Shipping? 

( INCO ) International Commercial Terms are several standardized trade terms created by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Designed to define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers within international trade. 

Who is responsible for transporting the goods?

Who is responsible for Paying customs duties and taxes and obtaining insurance? 

Incoterms simplify the communication terms of a trade deal and avoid misunderstandings.

There should always be reference to this on the contracts or invoices. 

What are all the Inco Terms?

  1. EXW (Ex Works)
  2. FCA (Free Carrier)
  3. FAS (Free Alongside Ship)
  4. FOB (Free On Board)
  5. CFR (Cost and Freight)
  6. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
  7. CPT (Carriage Paid To)
  8. CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To)
  9. DAT (Delivered At Terminal)
  10. DAP (Delivered At Place)
  11. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Which Items need further research when shipping ?

Alcoholic beverages: There may be specific rules and regulations for shipping alcoholic beverages internationally, including restrictions on the type and amount of alcohol that can be shipped and requirements for obtaining permits or paying taxes. It's important to research the specific requirements of the destination country and choose a shipping method that complies with these rules.

Timber, Plants or Wooden Products: Wood and so many variable products with this raw material, as wood is considered a hazardous material by some countries, so it may be subject to certain regulations or restrictions on import or export. 

Wood can also be prone to damage during shipping, so it's important to use additional packaging materials to protect it and prevent it from breaking or splintering. Wood is also sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, so it may be necessary to use climate-controlled packaging or shipping methods to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme conditions.

Livestock; Shipping live animals internationally involves coordinating with veterinarians, airlines, and local authorities and can be a complex process. Some countries have strict requirements for importing animals, including quarantine periods, vaccination requirements, and documentation. 

Batteries: Shipping batteries internationally can be risky, if they are not handled properly. It's important to research the specific regulations that apply to shipping batteries, including any packaging and labeling requirements. This is the same as when you fly, and battery packs, you need to be mindful when booking shipping for any products with batteries. 

Medicines: Shipping medicines internationally can be subject to specific rules and regulations, as some countries have restrictions on the import or export of certain types of drugs. We do not suggest going at this alone, ask for help and advice. 

Food products; Shipping internationally involves a number of considerations to ensure that the products are safe and of high quality when they reach their destination. This is both exporting from Australia and Importing into Australia.

  • Temperature control: Many food products are perishable and can spoil or degrade if they are not kept at the appropriate temperature during transport. It's important to use refrigerated storage and transportation and temperature-controlled packaging to maintain the freshness and quality of the products.
  • Food safety: Food products must be handled and transported in a way that prevents contamination and preserves their safety for consumption. This may involve following specific food safety guidelines and using clean and sanitary equipment and facilities.
  • Packaging: Proper packaging is crucial for protecting food products during shipping and preventing damage or spoilage. It may be necessary to use moisture-proof, leak-proof, or shatter-proof packaging materials, depending on the specific needs of the products.
  • Labeling: Food products must be labeled with accurate and complete information about their contents, including any allergens or special ingredients. It's also important to include information about the storage and handling of the products, as well as any expiration dates.
  • Documentation: Shipping food products internationally may require obtaining specific permits or documentation, such as health certificates or import/export licenses. It's important to research the specific rules and regulations that apply to the products and the destination country.

Automobiles: Shipping a car internationally can be a complex process that involves coordinating the transportation of the vehicle as well as obtaining the necessary documentation and permissions. It's also a good idea to insure the vehicle against damage or loss during transport.

Artwork, antiques high value Jewellery : Usually fragile and expensive, shipping these items also can come into some trouble with the value aspect, there is specific services for this and We Assist Co recommends usually using specific Art and Valuable cargo Transport companies. 

Hazardous materials; This niche, we also recommend having some help from a professional with experience dealing in these materials, We Assist Co hase experience in importing from China chemicals and Hazardous materials. Some of the items you can will need to be mindful of are below. 

  • Chemicals; Such as acids, bases, corrosives, flammables, and reactives. These materials can react and cause fire, or explosion if they are not handled or appropriately transported.
  • Explosives: Materials that are prone to explosion or detonation, such as fireworks, flares, or blasting agents, must be handled and transported with extreme caution. In Australia, with so much Mining, we have a lot of importing of these materials. 
  • Radioactive materials; can harm people or the environment if they are not adequately contained and shielded during transport.
  • Toxic and infectious substances: This category includes materials that are poisonous or capable of causing disease, such as pesticides, herbicides, and biological agents.
  • Gases: Gases, such as compressed or liquified gases, may be flammable or toxic and must be handled and transported with care.
  • Flammable liquids: Materials easily ignite or burn quickly, such as gasoline or alcohol, can pose a risk of fire or explosion if they are not handled or appropriately transported.

What if an Item doesn't ship to my country ? 

At We Assist Co, we have a team of experts with extensive knowledge and experience in logistics and shipping. We have developed strong relationships with a wide range of logistics service providers and shipping companies worldwide, allowing us to offer our clients various options.

Our team can work with you to understand your specific needs and preferences and help you find the best solution for your business. Whether you are looking to ship a small package or manage the logistics for a large-scale operation, we have the resources and expertise to help you.

I want to Launch a new product or business, what do I do ? 

So if you are launching a new business or product line, which involves shipping products internationally, We Assist co recommend research, planning and in depth due diligence, are key to ensuring viability and long term success. 

By taking the time to thoroughly research your product line and the specific rules and regulations that apply to shipping internationally this might be your local port and then future ports as you project growth into new markets. 

This pre investment can avoid, delays or fines and ensure that your shipments are handled and transported safely. 

Production planning and forecasting can also help you choose the most suitable and cost-effective shipping method and keep your customers satisfied. 

If you are nervous or need to focus on other aspects of your business though know its the right time to diversify your business, We Assist co can help, you navigate the complexities of the global market and achieve your business goals.

Share

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