The USA is the UK’s no. 1 export partner – accounting for more than a third of goods exports in 2022. In a sea of options for shipping companies UK to USA, finding a reliable and cost-effective partner can seem daunting, especially when it comes to heavy and oversized cargo.
Whether you’re a small shipper or a seasoned UK freight forwarder looking for a stateside partner, there are some key factors to consider in your search.
America's East Coast import volume is on the rise relative to West Coast ports. If you’re shipping goods into the region, working with a local customs broker in NJ can help you clear imports quickly and smoothly.
When it comes to shipping goods internationally, there’s a lot that can go wrong. And as waves of disruption continue to crash down on global supply chains, one of the most important things to consider is whether you need ocean cargo insurance coverage.
If you’re managing ocean shipments to a consignee or from a shipper, door-to-door international shipping service is often the most convenient and hassle-free option. But plenty can go wrong during the journey, so you want to align with the right partner. Most often, that will be a freight forwarder, but some shippers may book door-to-door service direct with the steamship line. That can lead to problems.
Following years of record profits in the aftermath of the global pandemic, the container shipping industry has found itself in a precarious state.
A flood of new vessel orders – combined with plummeting cargo volumes – have extended a drop-off in global shipping rates, which on average have plunged more than 80% since their peak in late 2021.
Transatlantic container shipping rates, while trending downward, remain in a state of flux – and can vary widely depending on market conditions, fuel prices, global economic trends and more. It’s important for shippers to understand these factors to secure cost-effective transportation both today and in the long term.
Lots of paperwork is required to send an international shipment. But one form that's not required may be the most important.
The export cargo shipping instructions form is exactly as the name implies. It's an exporter’s instructions to its freight forwarder on what is being shipped and how they want it shipped. You might also hear this document referred to as a shipper's letter of instruction or bill of lading instructions.
It’s possible to ship lithium batteries – and equipment containing them – but the restrictions are getting tighter.
From toothbrushes to Teslas, lithium batteries have come to power countless items that support everyday life – and that power is growing. The global lithium-ion battery market is expected to surpass $135 billion in the next 10 years.
An international shipment goes through many stages. There’s loading, drayage, maybe a ride on the rails, and then the ocean crossing. On the other side there’s Customs, more land transportation and then, finally, unloading.
So many chances for something to go wrong!
Ocean shippers can and should get the best container rate they can get. But you will get the most cost savings when you think in terms of reducing ocean shipping costs per ton – in other words, shipping the same volume of freight in fewer containers. If you can max out your payload on every load, you can ship 25% fewer containers and realize up to a 6-figure yearly savings, depending on how many containers you ship.
“I have 10 pallets of product to ship in a container from New Jersey to Poland. Can I get a freight quote fast? I can provide specific details later.”
Believe it or not, quote requests like this are not unusual. But to get an accurate ocean freight shipping quote in a timely manner, you'll want to provide freight forwarders accurate details – and as much as you have.
