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Freight from the USA
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U.S. Sea freight Price Calculator
Shipping Boxes, Crates and Pallets (LCL)
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The website is a platform that offers affordable international shipping solutions for both commercial goods and household items.
The platform supports LCL Sea freight, which allows users to ship boxes, crates, and pallets from the USA to overseas destinations. The website also offers a real-time online sea freight calculator, enabling users to calculate international shipping costs in real-time regardless of their location.
3. How does it work? A step-by-step guide.
4. Why should I pay the 75% deposit?
5. How can I find a cargo delivery address?
6. What is the Express Release Bill of Lading (BOL, B/L)?
8. What is a Cubic Meter and w/m?
9. Should I palletize my boxes?
10. Can I get marine insurance?
11. Do you guarantee transit time?
12. Are there any hidden costs in your quote?
12A. What are DESTINATION CHARGES?
12B. What is SED?
12C. How to ship a partial cargo?
12D. US CBP inspection
14. How can I cancel my shipment?
15. What if I do not pay your invoice?
16. What documents should I submit?
17. I am not in the USA. Can I ship remotely?
18. PayPal payments are limited to up to $750
19. There is no transaction limit
20. Why are your international shipping costs so low?
LCL, or "Less than Container Load," is a method for international shipping cargo that doesn't fill an entire 20- or 40-foot sea container. It is ideal for boxes, crates, and pallets. If you're a first-time shipper moving household goods or personal belongings from the United States, we recommend reading the complete guide. For more details, please visit the dedicated LCL page on the website.
You CANNOT use LCL for the following commodities:
To ship LCL, all items must be packaged in boxes or crates. The boxed items should be palletized by the shipper or at the CFS (Container Freight Station - a seaport receiving terminal). Unboxed or uncrated items cannot be shipped LCL.
No motorized vehicle requiring DMV registration (cars, motorcycles, mopeds, jet skis, ATVs, snowmobiles, etc.). This is due to U.S. Customs regulations that do not recognize any LCL warehouse (CFS) as an inspection site.
Items that cannot fit into a 40-foot container will be considered oversized and cannot be shipped LCL.
Dangerous goods or items of excessive length (longer than 3.65m / 12ft) and other special or irregular commodities are subject to surcharges. They can be accepted for global transportation from the USA only after approval and are subject to surcharges on top of regular LCL freight rates.
No foodstuffs, wine, and drugs: No foodstuffs, including wine and drugs (any edible item), edible animal byproducts, supplements, etc., are subject to detailed regulations. Violations of these regulations may result in detention, confiscation, destruction, fines, or even criminal indictments. Proper documentation, permits, and incurred fees are the shippers' responsibilities.
No perishable.
No live animals.
For more information on restricted commodities, please visit this link.
LCL stands for Less Than Container Load, referring to the international shipping of goods packed in boxes, crates, or pallets. Adequately packaged loads can be self-delivered by shippers to terminals OR picked up.
Using our online calculator and considering the prices to ship a load from the U.S. abroad, you can either deliver the load to the nearest terminal or request that we pick it up "at your door."
If you deliver a load to the nearest terminal, consider the critical distinction between United States terminal types marked WITH or WITHOUT an asterisk (*) in our online calculator.
Facilities in the United States differ by classification - some are direct ocean carrier terminals (called CFS), while others are domestic LTL warehouses. These differences affect pricing and logistics when shipping goods from the U.S. to overseas destinations.
Terminals HIGHLIGHTED in green and listed WITHOUT asterisks (PHILADELPHIA, PA, for example) are direct ocean carriers' facilities that are professionally called Container Freight Stations or CFS.
Freight rates for loads self-delivered directly to CFSs are based on their overall chargeable volume, measured in cubic meters or cubic feet. The weight of the load delivered directly to CFSs is not a pricing factor unless its density exceeds the limit, typically equal to 2206 lbs (or 1000 kg) per cubic meter. Regular commodities are most likely to remain below the limit. You estimate weight for Customs and statistical purposes only.
Self-delivery directly to a CFS is the most cost-effective way to ship overseas goods in boxes, crates, or pallets from the United States. There are no additional expenses for loading your cargo onto the vessel that affect the international shipping cost.
If you are unable to self-deliver your items to a terminal, you can arrange for a local moving company to do so on your behalf. You do not have to deliver in person; anyone you trust can do it on your behalf.
USING A THIRD-PARTY ON DELIVERIES TO CFS: Due to changes in FedEx and T-Force detention and re-delivery policies for LTL companies, effective Monday, October 3rd, 2022, CFSs will no longer be allowing deliveries or pickups from these two companies. This change has not impacted other FedEx divisions, such as FedEx Ground. Please consider an alternative to deliver the load to a CFS. IF NOT POSITIVE, CONTACT CFS BEFORE ARRANGING A THIRD-PARTY DELIVERY.
Terminals WITH asterisks (*) and in lowercase that are not highlighted (Allentown, PA*, for example) are local warehouses of domestic LTL companies. We refer to such terminals as Line Haul terminals, or LH. Loads delivered to these terminals to be line-hauled to a CFS for further exporting from the U.S. incur additional line-haul costs on top of standard sea freight rates, unlike those delivered to CFSs.
Please note that, unlike direct deliveries to a CFS, where your "ticket" for delivery is a Dock Receipt received in our email with instructions, the "key document" at an LH terminal is a domestic LTL BOL attached to our instructions.
For delivery to an LH warehouse, the same as at CFS, you may ask someone to bring your items on your behalf.
After all, we should be able to arrange a PICKUP of your load at your location.
We will determine pickup prices using the ZIP code (postal code) you entered into our online freight calculator.
Pickup costs vary depending on the type of commodity and the location of pickup, whether you are transporting commercial commodities or moving overseas household goods or personal belongings. Selecting the wrong kinds of goods or pickup locations may result in a price change.
Are you having difficulties finding a ZIP (postal) code? Use the ZIP Code Lookup.
As a reminder, domestic Line Haul and Pickup expenses are based on dimensional weight and freight class.
THE SEVEN STEPS THAT YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF
STEP 1 – Book your LCL shipment on our website
The first and absolutely necessary step to initiate a shipment with us is to book it via a quote received on our website. We do not provide price information over the phone or calculate quotes for customers to avoid confusion and ensure accuracy. To obtain an instant quote, please use our online calculator. Select your destination country and follow a few simple steps to obtain it.
Watch the 3-minute video on YouTube to see how to calculate international shipping costs with our online calculator, or access the guidelines in the PDF file. Ensure that you understand what is included in quotes.
Estimating the number of units, dimensions, and weight: When calculating international shipping costs using our calculator, it can be challenging to provide the exact sizes, weights, and quantities of units you will ship internationally. Do not get stuck on that. That is OK. Just roughly estimate it.
The actual volume, weight, and number of units are most likely to be different from the volume, weight, and number of units that you submitted at the time of quoting and booking. Once the load is delivered to the ocean carrier's terminal (CFS), CFS will calculate and confirm the overall volume, weight, and the number of items delivered. We will provide you with a proof document from the CFS. See step #4.
STEP 2 – Please pay a deposit
Upon submitting your online booking request, you will receive an email with a unique Customer Reference number for your shipment. The format of the Customer Reference number will look like US200105CL.
Besides the information you submitted at the time of booking, the email will contain a web link that provides you with options to pay a deposit. This deposit equals 75% of the estimated international shipping cost, based on the information you provided during the quoting and booking process. Please consider this email our formal invoice for your deposit. To initiate your shipment with us, please pay the deposit.
The deposit will be credited toward our final invoice, which will reflect the international shipping cost, depending on the actual weight and measurement, as verified at the time of delivery.
Please review the Payment Options and our Return Policy.
STEP 3 – Receive our instructions in the email. Submit your documents online. Deliver cargo to the terminal, OR meet a pickup driver (if a pickup is requested)
After making a deposit, the payer will receive an email from us confirming the payment. Please consider the email as the payment receipt.
After that, the shipper should receive our email with instructions, typically within 24 business hours. The instructions vary depending on the service requested.
Follow the instructions. Deliver your loads adequately packed in boxes, crates, or on pallets to the assigned terminal, OR meet a pickup driver (if a pickup is requested).
IMPORTANT: You must complete and submit all necessary documents to have your load released for export from the United States before they are delivered to a terminal or tendered for pickup.
STEP 4 – Wait for your cargo departure from the US. We will keep you updated.
Once cargo is delivered to the sea carrier terminal (CFS), we will send you a copy of the weight/measurement (w/m) verification. If you see any discrepancy in the document, you can dispute it directly with the CFS.
If necessary, the CFS will palletize all smaller items. We will provide you with proof of the palletizing.
As long as all documents are in order, we confirm the release of your export from the United States to the carrier and email you a web link to your Shipper Letter of Instructions (SLI). If any revisions to the SLI are necessary, please inform us, and we will make the required changes accordingly.
Then you should wait for our final invoice, less the deposit already paid.
The invoice will be issued on/a few days after the ETD (Estimated Time of Departure). It will be generated based on your rated BOL. Sometimes, we may generate the invoice earlier based on a proof of your B/L.
If there are any delays with the departure, we will update you via email.
If an insurance certificate was requested at the time of booking, the invoice will contain an attached PDF file with an insurance certificate in the consignee's name.
STEP 5 – Receive your express release sea freight Bill of Lading
Once your load is confirmed on board the vessel, typically around ETD, the sea carrier generates a B/L. It includes a breakdown of associated freight costs. Then, we invoice you accordingly.
The cost will be based on the verified weight/measurement (w/m), not the w/m you provided when you quoted and booked your shipment. In other words, the price depends on the actual w/m you shipped rather than what you estimated to be shipped. I.e., as accurately as you entered w/m of your items when quoting, the more our invoice will correspond with the quote.
The carrier freight cost breakdown may also reflect unaccounted fees not included in the quote (if any), such as charges related to palletizing, fumigation, dimensional weight verification, etc.
In other words, you pay for what you ship, not what you estimated to ship. If you have overestimated your W/M, you pay less. If you have underestimated your W/M, you pay more. That is why we request a 75% deposit, but 100%.
If you have made a full or partial payment via PayPal, upon receipt of your final payment, we will require a response to our email regarding your payment.
We will email you your Express Release BOL upon payment toward our invoice (and to your PayPal payments confirmation email, if necessary). Consider the B/L as the title for your export from the USA.
Verify all the information on the B/L. Ensure that all the information is correct. Re-ensure that the contact information of your consignee and the notify party (if different) is accurate.
If you notice any errors or require amendments, please get in touch with us promptly. Incorrect information in your B/L may result in severe problems and additional expenses when you recover your import.
Provide the B/L to your consignee. Your consignee will need it to reclaim your imported goods upon arrival at the destination.
STEP 6 – Meet your goods at the destination. Arrival Notice.
After your shipment departs from the United States, you can track it on the ocean carrier's website.
Several days before ETA the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) of your shipment, the ocean carrier destination agent should contact the consignee/notify party regarding your cargo delivery from the U.S. with an Arrival Notice.
IMPORTANT: If you do not receive an Arrival Notice with your estimated time of arrival (ETA), we strongly recommend contacting the agent to inquire about your arrival status. The agent contact information is on your B/L, in the block "For Delivery / Pickup Please Apply to." Email them a copy of your express release B/L, reconfirm your consignee contact details, and ask for further instructions.
It is advisable not to contact the agent too early. Typically, the agent will receive information about the arrival just a few days before it arrives. Therefore, if you contact the agent well in advance, email or fax them a copy of your B/L, confirm your consignee's contact information, and wait for an Arrival Notice.
STEP 7 – Import recovery at the destination. Destination (local) charges.
Regardless of the mode of transportation, any import worldwide is subject to destination charges (also called local charges). Local charges apply at destinations and are not included in freight charges.
The charges are NOT included in the quotes generated by our online calculator. The consignee pays it at the destination. Typically, they relate to 1 - Destination country government and customs-associated fees. I.e., duty and taxes (if any), harbor or seaport fees, fee on filing entry, etc.; 2 - Destination terminal(s) handling charges (THC) and paperwork turnover; 3 – Delivery of importing goods to the consignee, if a "delivery to door" is required."
Neither a sea carrier nor a US freight forwarder can affect the charges. AMID Logistics - a U.S. freight forwarder - is not affiliated with local charges.
The destination agent listed on your B/L should guide the consignee through import recovery procedures.
If you would like to estimate local expenses and obtain details about import recovery procedures in advance, you may request the contact information of a prospective destination agent from us before processing a booking. TO GET THE INFORMATION FOR YOU, WE WILL NEED AT LEAST YOUR QUOTE REFERENCE NUMBER OBTAINED WITH OUR ONLINE CALCULATOR.
You may also want to verify with the embassy of your country or consult a customs broker in the country for specific regulations on importing goods.
Most of the time, consignees do not need to be present during import recoveries. Follow the agent's instructions, provide the necessary information remotely, pay the applicable fees, obtain the import release, collect your goods, or arrange for delivery to your overseas location through the agent or hire a cartage company.
If you have already calculated an international shipping cost using our online calculator, submitted a booking request via a quote, and received our email regarding the booking request, you are welcome to reply to the email and ask any questions.
However, if this is your first shipment with us and you want to initiate it, please follow the web link in the email and pay the required deposit to start the process. With repeat customers, the initiation process varies, but the overall process remains the same.
Typically, this deposit equals 75% of the estimated price calculated based on the weight/measurements (w/m) information provided by you in your quote and booking. The deposit will be applied to the final price in our invoice. Please review the payment options and return policy.
We understand that providing the exact sizes, weights, and numbers of the units can be challenging when quoting and booking online. Do not be frustrated. That is OK. Just roughly estimate everything.
When you deliver a load for export from the USA, the volume, weight, and quantity of delivered units may differ from the measurements and numbers provided during online booking. Upon delivery to the CFS, the CFS will calculate and reconfirm the number of your shipped units, as well as the overall volume and weight.
Also, you will receive our final invoice, less the deposit already paid, not upon arrival of your consignment to the destination, but when it departs from the United States. We will invoice you when your BOL (the title of your exporting goods) is generated. Sometimes, we may invoice you upon proof of your BOL. Find out more about the BOL.
Please note: Your invoice will be based on the actual weight and measurements of the items shipped, but on the estimated price calculated when quoting and booking.
The invoice may also reflect unaccounted fees from the consolidator that were not included in the initial booking (if any), such as expenses related to palletizing, fumigation, and GRI, among others. In other words, you pay for what you have shipped, but not what you had estimated to be shipped. If you have overestimated your weight or measurements, you will pay less. If you have underestimated your weight or measurements, you will pay more. That is why we request a 75% deposit, but 100%.
You can learn about the unaccounted fees that may increase international shipping costs by following this link.
We collaborate with numerous international and domestic less-than-truckload (LTL) cargo transportation companies to ship commodities overseas from the USA. Different transportation companies have different terminals within a city zone. Terminals located in city areas are listed on our website. You should see the addresses of terminals in the price quotes obtained in our calculator. However, the addresses occasionally change. Therefore, your cargo delivery address must always be reconfirmed in an email with our instructions.
Upon receiving your booking request and deposit, we will search for a suitable terminal in the area you have selected. Then, we will reconfirm the address and email you the instructions. With our instructions, you can deliver the cargo to the provided address. You will have the terminal phone number. You can call the terminal in advance to inquire about working hours, directions, and other relevant information.
Important: International shipping from the USA overseas is a complex process, and each shipment is unique. To eliminate confusion, you should not accept verbal information as a guide to action (particularly about a terminal location). All commitments MUST be documented in an email.
By default, shipping from the USA with AMID Logistics is on express release. The EXPRESS RELEASE will be stated on your B/L Express = Telex release means that upon arrival at the destination, consignees (recipients of the goods) do not need to provide a set of original BOLs to facilitate import recovery. Shipments recovered on express release should be released upon providing a copy of the B/L received in a PDF file. No originals are required. Find more about the B/L at this link.
Several countries worldwide, particularly Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, and certain African countries, do not accept express releases. This should be specified at the time of issuing the BOL. However, sets of original bills of lading will most often be generated overseas. In such cases, issuing original bills of lading during global cargo transportation is still not required.
Very few countries in the world do not accept express release and do not allow printing a set of originals overseas. Your BOL states that a SET OF ORIGINAL BOLs IS REQUIRED, and the carrier informs that their agent cannot print the set of originals overseas. Then, we will request that they mail the set of BOL directly to the consignee. They may refuse to send it to the consignee and mail it to us. Then, upon receipt of the set of original BOLs, we will send the set of originals to the party responsible for international shipping. USPS First Class Mail within the United States is free. Expedited mail must be prepaid.
If, for any reason, a shipper or consignee insists on a set of originals being sent to a country that does not accept express releases and the carrier agrees to issue such a set, a $100 fee will apply in addition to the ocean fee for issuing the originals. The shipper/consignee is responsible for the postage. It must be prepaid. Issuing a set of originals to shipments on express release does not mean the set of originals is required.
After a BOL is issued, amendments may become quite complicated and may not always be possible, especially if the loads arrive at their destination. Upon receipt of your BOL, carefully reviewing all the information is strongly suggested. If any data needs to be changed, please contact us immediately and request an amendment.
Please remember that the information you enter at the booking time will be automatically transferred to your B/L. You will have several opportunities to verify and correct the information you enter while submitting documents online and receiving our responses and updates.
After your B/L is issued, any amendments may be subject to an amendment fee from the ocean carrier. This fee varies from $70 to $250 or more. AMID Logistics' processing fee for amendments, which is $50 or more, may also be added to the amendment fee.
If you need amendments after your items arrive, we suggest you work with your ocean carrier agent first. Request that the agent reissue your BOL overseas. It may be possible. If you experience difficulties with the agent, you may contact us. We will attempt to work on these amendments on your behalf. However, there is no guarantee. Additionally, you should expect to incur additional fees depending on the circumstances surrounding the amendments.
Please note that amending a B/L is not guaranteed after arrival and may take an uncertain amount of time.
LETTER OF INDEMNITY:
If a set of original bills of lading is required, but needs to be amended or lost, the ocean carrier may request a letter of indemnity. Here is a link to a sample letter of indemnity for international shipping from the United States.
A cubic meter measures volume equal to the space one meter wide, one meter long, and one meter high.
One meter = 3.28 feet.
One cubic meter = 35 cubic feet.
Here is the webpage about cubic meters for global cargo transportation from the USA by sea.
W/m means weight or measurement, whichever is greater. W/m represents the cargo density limit, typically per Cubic Meter.
Find more about w/m in respect of global cargo transportation from the USA by sea.
Palletized and shrink-wrapped loads have a much higher probability of arriving without damage or loss. When shipping cargo from the USA LCL, it is highly recommended that all items be palletized. If you send more than 3-5 boxes, CFS will most likely not accept loose boxes for international shipping. It must be palletized anyway. Shippers must be aware of the costs associated with palletizing. It includes:
The cost of pallets and labor varies depending on the ocean carrier warehouse (CFS). Typically, it is $35 to $50 per pallet, including the cost of certified pallets.
Chargeable volume is increasing. It depends on how the items will fit into a pallet.
Please find out more about palletizing for transporting items overseas.
When quoting and booking on our website, customers can request that we obtain a marine insurance certificate on their behalf. It is essential to understand the following:
The 'All risk' policy covers any possible loss or damage to your payload, including fire, water damage, theft, partial loss, breakage, and other similar events. It is the most encompassing coverage available.
The 'Total loss' policy only applies to complete losses. That means you can get a premium only if your consignment is entirely lost or destroyed. It does not cover partial loss or damage.
By default, coverages obtained on behalf of the shipper are under the 'All risk' policy. However, THE 'ALL RISK' POLICY APPLIES TO SHIP PROFESSIONALLY PACKED GOODS ONLY. I.e., 'All risk' policies apply to goods in the original manufacturers' packaging or professionally packed by certified parties that can provide proof of the professional packing. IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND!: NOT PROFESSIONALLY PACKED GOODS TURN AN 'ALL RISK' POLICY INTO A 'TOTAL LOSS' POLICY.
For more information, please refer to this web page about marine insurance.
If your shipment is time-sensitive, you may ask for the nearest vessel schedule upon receipt of a quote.
Typically, vessels depart and arrive as scheduled. As soon as a load is in carriers' possession, they always do their best to ship it as soon as possible to free storage space.
However, delays may occur. The reasons for delays are not just severe weather conditions. Your multimodal delivery transit time depends on various factors, including the cutoff for delivery and documents at CFS, trucking or rail traffic, and the conjunctions of hubs and seaports, among others, during your global cargo transportation from the United States to the place of delivery overseas.
Please note that once a carrier accepts a payload, a freight forwarder is unable to take any action. We forward updates to customers as soon as they are received. If there are significant delays, we do our best to identify the cause and explain it to our customers. Please be patient.
Shipping sea freight from the USA via transit hubs: If a port of discharge in your B/L differs from the place of delivery, then the ETA may not be the ETA to the place of delivery but to the port of discharge, where your export should be trans-shipped to the place of delivery (the final destination).
There are different modes of transit. Loads can be reloaded on another vessel, or ground transportation can be done by rail, truck, or both. Your load will require additional time to reach the delivery location.
Ground transportation from a port of discharge to a landlocked city can take 10-15+ additional days. If it is a hub-seaport, for example, from Europe to Africa or Asia to Oceania, it may take 25 days or more to reach its destination.
U.S. CBP inspections: In addition to the routine delays caused by various factors during transportation, we would like to highlight the potential uncertainties related to quarantines imposed by the United States Customs and Border Protection. Such delays are infrequent. However, if the CBP flags a container for examination, the delay may be uncertain. Until the hold is released, it cannot be loaded onto a vessel.
Furthermore, the exam will likely result in additional expenses, which will be equally divided among all owners who share the container. No one can help with that. All complaints should be directed to the Customs and Border Patrol.
Sea freight cannot guarantee transit times. If you ship by sea, you may experience delays, and in some cases, these delays can be significant.
There are NO hidden costs in the price quotes obtained in our online calculator. Quotes are all-inclusive and based on the weight/measurement information provided and options selected when quoting-booking.
LCL refers to international cargo transportation between Container Freight Stations (CFSs) in the country of origin and the country of destination. CFS means a bonded freight terminal under Customs supervision. Cargo received by CFS is not considered to be within the country's commerce zone unless Customs releases it. CFS is not a seaport. It can be near a seaport or in a landlocked city. If CFS is in a landlocked city, sea freight costs include inland trucking from or to the CFS.
Here is an approximate payment structure in multimodal cargo transportation utilizing LCL for shipping from the U.S.:
*Unless subject to U.S. export restrictions.
Your invoice, less the deposit paid at booking, will be based on the actual weight and measurements of the cargo you have shipped, rather than the estimated international shipping cost calculated at the time of quoting and booking. The invoice may also reflect unaccounted fees from the carrier that are not included in the initial booking (if any). We explain them below.
Your rated B/L, which includes a breakdown of the charges, will verify the surcharges associated with your cargo transportation from the USA.
In other words, you pay for what you have shipped, not what you estimated to be shipped. If you have overestimated your W/M, you pay less. If you have underestimated your W/M, you pay more. That is why we request a 75% deposit, but 100%. This billing practice is a standard industry practice.
The only exception that may lead to a discrepancy due to GRI (General Rate Increase) or a difference in carrier rates that occurred between the shipment's booking and departure from the US. Such discrepancies happen exceptionally rarely. If it does happen, we will inform our customers as soon as possible and address the issue on a case-by-case basis. Note that minor discrepancies of up to +/- $25 may be ignored unless a customer requests clarification.
SHIPPERS MUST BE AWARE OF GENERAL STANDARDS IN THE INTERNATIONAL CARGO TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY. They must understand what is covered when obtaining a price quote. That is why, if you are a first-time international shipper, we strongly recommend reading these FAQ and reference sections on our website before requesting a booking.
Below is a recap of charges that MAY NOT be covered in price quotes obtained in our calculator.
I. Pickup. Pickup rates depend on the type of pickup site and the kind of commodity. When a shipper requests a quote or booking, they must select the appropriate pickup site type and the type of commodity being shipped. Otherwise, the price may change.
Residential or business locations with limited access to pickups are strictly curbside services. A pickup driver will load from a driveway, front porch, garage, or easily accessible loading area. Inside pickups are not permitted. Additional expenses may apply if pickup conditions or areas fall outside the regular range. The following fees may apply: liftgate on pickup, attempted pickup, debris removal, and waiting time, among others.
You can find more information on residential or business pickups with limited access on this webpage.
II. Price difference due to the discrepancy in weight/measurements (w/m) provided at the booking request and the actual w/m of cargo tendered to the CFS. When quoting and booking, it is challenging to accurately predict the exact weight and measurement (i.e., the number of items, their dimensions, and weight). The actual w/m of your items will likely differ from those provided in your booking request.
After the ocean carrier warehouse (CFS) accepts your payload, the CFS sends us a Weight and Measurement (W/M) verification, which includes the actual dimensions and weight of your items. Our final invoice will reflect the W/M verified by the CFS, but not the W/M estimated at the time of booking.
If you disagree with the verified weight and measurement (W/M) for any reason, we will provide you with a copy of the verification document. Then, you can contact the terminal and resolve the issue directly with them.
III. Extra-volume expenses due to palletizing your loose items.
International shipping of loose items is not a safe option. Exporting things should always be palletized. If you ship more than 3-5 items, warehouses will palletize your items, regardless of whether you request palletization of your loose items. As a result, the chargeable volume of your load will increase.
Additionally, the cost of pallets and labor will be factored into the freight. Typically, this fee ranges from $35 to $75+ per shrink-wrapped pallet, inclusive of the pallet cost.
You can find more information about palletizing for cargo transportation from the U.S. on this web page.
IV. Dimensional weight and freight class reassignment by LTL truckers (applies to shipments that require line-haul or pickups).
Pickup and line-haul costs are based on Actual cargo volume or Dimensional weight, whichever is greater.
Our system helps you determine the freight class based on density, one of the four key characteristics that determine the classification. However, the shipper must consider the remaining characteristics and adjust the class if necessary. You may also call the NMFTA directly at (703) 838-1810 to reconfirm the class by commodity.
The shipper is responsible for declaring the freight class. Our pickup and line-haul price quotes are based on the class the shipper declares. An incorrect class declaration may result in changes to the price schedule.
This web link provides more information about the dimensional weight and freight class for shipping commodities from the USA.
V. Optional $35 fee for filing SED (U.S. Shipper Export Declaration). According to U.S. Customs regulations, everything exported out of the U.S. must be declared to the U.S. CBP by filing a SED in AES at ace.cbp.dhs.gov
The most frequent exemptions from filing SED are:
Commodities of value declared less than $2500.
Domestic transportation (for example, to Hawaii). However, SED is required for export to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Shipments without SED (if not exempt) cannot be released for export.
Our online booking form provides options for filing SED:
Shippers can file the SED by themselves. We must then receive ITN BEFORE the load is delivered to a warehouse (CFS) for international shipping from the USA.
OR
We can file the SED and obtain an ITN on the shippers' behalf based on the commodity description provided in a commercial invoice or valued packing list, for a fee of $35 for up to two Harmonized Tariff numbers and $15 per additional Harmonized Tariff number.
If you are requesting us to file the SED on your behalf, then WE MUST HAVE FROM YOU:
A valued packing list or commercial invoice, which contains (1) commodity description, (2) value of your merchandise in USD, and (3) estimated weight and volume.
U.S. federal tax ID (EIN) or not a U.S. resident, a copy of a foreign passport.
IMPORTANT NOTE FROM U.S. CUSTOMS: Social Security Numbers (SSN) WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED as a valid USPPI ID as of December 3rd, 2009:
According to the U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations, as well as the Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR), Social Security Numbers (SSNs) will no longer be accepted as a valid U.S. Principal Party in Interest (USPPI) ID as of December 3, 2009. Any Authorized Agent that files on behalf of customers using an SSN as the USPPI ID needs to notify their customers that they need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). USPPIs can obtain an EIN by visiting www.irs.gov/businesses/small and selecting "Employer ID Numbers (EIN)."
OBTAINING THE EIN FOR SED FILING: We found that some of our customers who do not have an EIN can get it for international shipping by requesting an EIN for the Sole proprietor online at irs.gov/businesses/small to satisfy banking requirements or local law. In this case, consider the following steps outlined in the PDF file.
For more information, refer to the U.S. Federal Code 15 CFR Part 30 at this link.
VI. Set of the original Sea Freight BOL (if required).
Most shipments with us are on express releases.
Express = telex release = surrender means that providing sets of original BOLs to recover the import overseas is not required. Cargo shipping from the USA on express release should be released overseas upon providing a copy of the express release BOL received from us in a PDF file. No originals are required.
However, several countries worldwide, particularly Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, and Certain African countries, do not accept express release bills of lading. Consolidators should specify that upon issuing a BOL. We will mail you a set of original BOLs for ladings by USPS First Class Mail within the USA or Canada at no additional cost. Expedited or global mail must be prepaid. If you request a set of original B/L to countries that DO accept express release, a $50 fee will be added to the postage.
VII. U.S. CBP Inspection: The possibility of quarantine enforced by the United States Customs and Border Patrol (CBP).
CBP inspections are infrequent. CBP can inspect an entire container or a particular shipment. Consolidators usually inform shippers if a whole container is inspected. However, when inspecting individual shipments, CBP may instruct consolidators not to notify exporters. Consolidators will only update the sailing schedule until the payload is confirmed on board. In such situations, exporters are informed about inspections through an inspection surcharge, which is reflected in their freight breakdown.
If the CBP flags a container or a payload for examination, neither the freight forwarder nor the carrier can affect it. It cannot be released for export from the United States until Customs completes its inspection and approves the release.
Expenses incurred due to the examination will be added to the carrier freight breakdown. If CBP inspects a whole container, all owners who share the container will share the inspection expenses equally. If CBP inspects a particular shipment, it is on the shipper's account.
Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid these expenses. Any complaints should be directed to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.
We understand the frustration that can arise from these unforeseen circumstances. However, it is essential to acknowledge that CBP inspections are beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and patience in such situations.
VIII. DESTINATION CHARGES. ALL INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENTS, INCLUDING SEA SHIPMENTS, ARE SUBJECT TO DESTINATION CHARGES. Destination charges (also known as local costs) apply overseas. Therefore, they are not considered freight charges. They vary depending on the import regulations of the destination country, the port of entry, the ocean carrier, and their destination agents. The local costs are NOT INCLUDED in the international shipping cost of quotes obtained in our calculator and are on account of the consignee (the receiver of imported goods). As a U.S. Freight Forwarder, AMID Logistics does not connect to the charges in any way.
The following information is intended to explain the expenses to inexperienced, first-time intl shippers in this article.
Destination charges can be assessed only on or after the day of entry into the targeted country's Commerce Zone. Consignees must clear their import with Customs and pay all expenses related to the release(s) directly to the parties involved in the import recovery.
In general, they include (but are not limited by): 1 - Destination Country Government (Customs) related charges, i.e., duty and taxes (if any), harbor fees, fee on entry filed by a Customs Broker, etc.; 2 - Terminal(s) handling charges (THC) and other fees related to cargo de-consolidation; 3 - "Door delivery" costs (if consignee requests a "door delivery.")*
*LCL does not include "door delivery" overseas. Cleared with Customs and released by the CFS, the consignee must pick up the import from the CFS. Most agents and terminals offer delivery services for an additional fee. Otherwise, the consignee may hire a local cartage company to arrange for the pickup of released goods from the terminal and have them delivered "to the door" of the consignee.
NOTE THAT A PART OF OR ALL LOCAL CHARGES MAY BE REQUIRED TO BE PAID AT A PORT OF ENTRY, NOT AT THE FINAL DESTINATION. Depending on the customs regulations of the targeted country, all or part of the expenses must be paid at the port of entry. The cargo will continue traveling to the place of delivery, where customs will clear it. Otherwise, it may be transferred to the place of delivery on bond and required to be cleared with customs at a bonded warehouse (CFS). Also, note that destination charges may sometimes be divided into separate invoices related to particular parties involved in import recovery.
The charges are outside the control of U.S. Freight Forwarders and are payable directly to parties related to import recoveries at the destination. As a U.S. Freight Forwarder, AMID Logistics does not connect to destination charges in any way. Ocean carriers' agents should guide consignees through the complexity of import recovery procedures at destinations. Most of the time, the agents are also customs brokers. However, the agent may ask you to clear your goods with Customs in certain circumstances. Additionally, in the event of issues with your import recovery, we recommend that your first step be to consult an independent customs broker licensed in the country.
Such expenses apply to any import in any country, whether commercial or personal goods.
For commercial shipments, local costs depend on the commodity.
Most countries do not charge a duty or tax on household goods and personal belongings. However, they are still subject to all other expenses. If an import is exempt from paying the duty for a personal LCL consignment, total destination charges may vary from $250 to $600 or more (in the local currency). For sizable shipments 6-12+ cubic meters, it may be comparable to FCL (full container load) - $600-$1000 or more.
When you export from the US, you may want to check in advance with the embassy of that country or ask a customs broker about government (customs) regulations.
Typically, importers do not have to be present in person to recover imports. Follow instructions from your agent. Provide all necessary information and documents remotely over the phone, fax, or email; pay applicable fees to get the release on your goods; and, if you wish, arrange delivery of your goods "to your door" directly with the agent or use any local cartage company of your choice.
IMPORTANT: Until the import is recovered, all operational expenses will be debited to the consignee, with recourse against the consigner for unpaid invoices.
IX. DOOR DELIVERIES OVERSEAS. "Door deliveries" overseas are not included in quotes obtained with our online calculator. Cargo will be shipped to a bonded warehouse (CFS) located within the greater city area, as specified on the 'Place of Delivery' on your B/L. Cleared with Customs and released by the destination CFS, the cargo must be picked up by the consignee.
Typically, overseas agents offer delivery services for an additional cost. Alternatively, the consignee can arrange for a local cargo transportation company to pick up and deliver the goods "to the door."
X. Other specific expenses may apply to irregular items. It all depends on the commodity, transportation conditions, import regulations, and other factors.
XI. Partial cargo. You combine two or more deliveries/dock receipts into one consignment.
Combining two or more deliveries or dock receipts into one load/BOL is referred to as "Partial Cargo."
Certain limitations apply to partial cargo, which must be approved when booking such a shipment. Read about Shipping Partial Cargo on this web page.
Please contact AMID Logistics in advance for more information on partial cargo.
Yes, arranging for international charity shipping from the U.S. is possible. However, it is essential to note that after the donation arrives at the targeted country, the consignee (the recipient) may be unable or unwilling to pay the associated destination charges to recover the donation.
In some countries, particularly in South Africa and landlocked nations that receive donations via South Africa, officials may refuse entry of goods if the commodity is described as a charity, donation, free aid, used, second-hand, etc. It is essential to note that such goods may be subject to stricter regulations, which should be taken into consideration in advance.
Exporting second-hand clothes, books, and other items from the USA to or via South Africa is prohibited. Shippers must obtain an import permit from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC).
If you plan to make a donation overseas, please carefully consider the following situations.:
The recipient of your charity may not pay local charges, even if you have transferred the money to pay for the release.
You should get approval from the officials before sending a charity abroad. Any delay may result in customs penalties and carrier fees.
Suppose the donation cannot be released upon arrival. In that case, you will be responsible for all expenses associated with returning or destroying your donation.
Suppose you are shipping a donation from the USA, and the ocean carrier is aware that you are donating. Still, they have had a negative experience with charity shipments in the past. In that case, they might tell you that your charity must be delivered on a DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) basis with all overseas charges prepaid. In this event:
Present a commercial invoice to the overseas agent before engaging in your international charity activities. This estimates total local expenses but may not be free or quick.
Actual destination charges may differ from the estimate and are typically prepaid based on the estimation plus 15-30%.
If the destination charges exceed the initial estimate, the consignee must pay an additional fee, or the donation will be destroyed.
In conclusion, we appreciate your kindness and generosity in support of international charity efforts. However, we strongly suggest that a better-planned approach to charity delivery from the U.S. could help minimize any potential complications for all parties involved. We kindly advise you to consider making your donations prudently and thoughtfully.
For more detailed information, please refer to our return policy.
As soon as a load are confirmed on board the vessel for the departure from the U.S. and the ocean carrier has generated their B/L (typically on/in a few days after the ETD - Estimated Time of Departure from the U.S. as stated on your documents), a few days after the ETD, we will email to a party responsible for the shipment invoice, less the deposit paid. PAYMENT IS DUE UPON RECEIPT OF THE INVOICE.
Shipments with a short sailing time of less than 10 days may be invoiced in advance based on proof of the B/L.
If you do not receive our invoice within a few business days after the estimated delivery time (ETD), please do not hesitate to contact us to clarify.
We may email a few reminders. If our invoice is not paid after the final reminder, we will consider such a shipment a "Risky shipment." The late payment fee will apply. The late payment fee is 3% of the past-due amount per day, starting from our second reminder, or $200, whichever is greater.
Then, several days after the past-due penalty was applied, but the invoice remains unpaid, we will cancel the express release. Due to the cancellation of the express release, the consignee cannot recover the imported goods unless they receive the original B/L. Expedited mail with the set of originals is $200, plus the carrier's fee for issuing the set of originals. We will not take any responsibility for any storage, demurrage, or additional expenses associated with the release delays at any point during its transit to the place of delivery. If initially requested, insurance will be canceled, and the paid insurance premium will apply toward the unpaid balance.
Please note that disputing an invoice does not extend the payment due date. All disputing correspondence must be written in email and kept as evidence of the dispute. WE DO NOT DISCUSS INVOICES OVER THE PHONE.
If not paid within 30 days from the day of arrival, the shipment may be considered abandoned. It will be requested to be reconsigned, destroyed, or auctioned to cover the remaining unpaid balance, storage, demurrage, and other associated costs. The U.S. and officials overseas will be notified, and additional fines will be levied.
UNLESS OUR INVOICE IS PAID, WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ASSIST THE SHIPPER, CONSIGNEE, OR ANY THIRD PARTY WITH ANY ISSUES.
When delivering from the U.S. a regular commodity, most of the time, you will need to provide the following:
A. A Commercial Invoice is required if you ship commercial cargo from the USA abroad. Typically, it is an invoice from a U.S. merchant to a foreign buyer or a purchase receipt from a foreign buyer to a U.S. merchant. A commercial invoice should describe the exporting of goods from the USA and the value in US dollars. Please email us a copy of this document in PDF format.
If a commercial invoice is unavailable, a proforma commercial invoice can be submitted as a valued packing list. Proforma commercial invoices should be sufficient to obtain the freight release and clearance to depart from the United States. However, customs in overseas countries occasionally request a more specific document. Therefore, we recommend always providing copies of original invoices or purchase receipts if transporting commercial cargo from the U.S.
B. If moving household goods or personal belongings from the USA, a Valued Packing List is required, which is an inventory list detailing the value of goods in US dollars. Shippers in valued packing lists describe the commodity and assign a value to it.
However, customs in overseas countries can reconsider the assigned value to a fair market value on the day the goods enter the country's commerce zone.
C. If the declared value of exporting goods, whether commercial or for personal use, exceeds US$2500, it must be declared to the U.S. CBP by filing a U.S. Shippers Export Declaration (SED).
Shippers can file the SED by themselves and provide the ITN in advance. Otherwise, we can file SED on behalf of the shipper for a fee of $35. Find more about SED on this web page.
D. You may need to provide copies or numbers of some identification documents, such as a copy of your passport, tax ID, license, or permit, etc. However, international shipping cargo containing a general commodity should not be complicated.
E. Basically, the above is all you will need in most cases.
However, depending on the commodity and the targeted country, other documents may be required.
As U.S. freight forwarders, we guide shippers through the necessary documentation to release cargo from the USA. However, it is the consignee's responsibility to provide a sufficient set of import documents. Therefore, we always recommend that you contact the consulate or a customs broker in the country to which you are exporting, to determine if there are any special requirements, limitations, or restrictions for international shipping your particular items from the U.S.
Please note that all necessary documents must be provided before or on the day of cargo delivery to a warehouse (CFS).
For more information about other export and import paperwork, please visit this web page.
Yes, you can. Refer to this web page. Here is in short:
If you are shipping from the USA remotely, then follow these simple instructions depending on whether your vendor (seller) provides free delivery within the USA or not:
If yes, your vendor (seller) provides free deliveries within the USA. First, get a price quote on our website. Then, schedule your international shipment as self-delivered to the ocean carrier terminal (CFS), i.e., schedule one online via Option A in your price quote. After receiving your booking request and deposit, we will email your vendor our instructions so they can deliver your order to the CFS. We will copy these instructions for you.
These instructions contain an OCEAN CARRIER TERMINAL ADDRESS (1) assigned to your shipment and CARRIER BOOKING NUMBER (2).
Ask your vendor to follow our instructions. Ask your vendor to include the carrier booking number as the key reference number on all documents related to the delivery, and proceed with the delivery to the provided address.
Your cargo will be recognized at the CFS by the CARRIER BOOKING NUMBER, accepted, and shipped to you. PLEASE DO NOT CONFUSE THE CARRIER BOOKING NUMBER WITH OUR INTERNAL CUSTOMER REFERENCE NUMBER!
Please note that CFSs are listed on our website in uppercase, highlighted, and WITHOUT an asterisk (*), ATLANTA, GA, for example. Delivery loads to CFS are the most cost-effective way to ship from the U.S. overseas. However, deliveries to LH terminals, listed WITH an asterisk (*), Akron, OH*, for example, will be subject to a line-haul price added to the ocean freight.
If not, your vendor (seller) does not provide free deliveries within the USA, then when getting a price quote on our website, select YES, PICKUP REQUIRED. Then, book it via the quotation. It will include a pickup option. We will pick up your order from your vendor for further shipping from the USA.
By default, we will email all information and documents to your consigners (shipper, seller). IF YOU ARE THE CONSIGNEE (RECIPIENT) AND WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE COPIES OF OUR EMAIL, PLEASE NOTE THIS IN THE 'COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS' FIELD OF OUR ONLINE BOOKING FORM (THE LAST BLOCK OF THE FORM).
Upon your authorization, we may also contact your vendor on your behalf. Retrieving and providing general information is free of charge. Resolving time-consuming and complex issues will incur fees estimated at $60 per hour, with a minimum of $60.
Payments via PayPal/Credit Cards are limited to US$750 ON THE TOTAL COST PER SHIPMENT.
We accept credit card payments via PayPal up to US$750 per shipment. Shipments exceeding US$750 in TOTAL must NOT be paid with PayPal. Please use one of the following available payment options: a U.S. bank check (we accept drafts of U.S. bank checks, so mailing the original check is not necessary), bank wire transfers, direct deposits, Western Union, or MoneyGram. Ask us for details.
We reserve the right to refund unauthorized payments via PayPal, less than the non-refundable PayPal transaction fee and a $50 unauthorized transaction fee, without notice.
If we authorize a PayPal transaction, but the transaction is not covered by PayPal seller protection, we reserve the right to refund such a transaction, less the non-refundable PayPal transaction fee.
A CONFIRMATION TOWARD PAYMENTS VIA PAYPAL/CREDIT CARD: If a shipment was paid with PayPal, to secure funds transferred to our account via PayPal, as soon as a load is confirmed onboard a vessel and a sea B/L is generated by the carrier, before providing the B/L, we will need a reply from the email associated with the payer PayPal account. The email will appear like this:
"We have received the notification of your payment. Thank you. Your goods are on the way.
However, seeing that this was fully or partially paid via PayPal before we will email you the B/L, you NEED TO DO THE FOLLOWING:
1. Hit REPLY to this email and keep the original email.
2. In the body of your reply email, as the first line, type the following:
"I have read and agree with the conditions on all my payments done by PayPal, as stated below."
GENERAL CONDITIONS ON PAYMENTS DONE VIA PAYPAL:
I clearly understand that the B/L serves as the title and proof of ownership transfer of my shipped goods to the consignee, as I have consigned them. It is the final document received from Amid Logistics, LLC.
I confirm that after receiving the B/L, they will enter the commerce zone of the targeted country. The service provided to me by Amid Logistics, LLC, is completed as agreed. PayPal and any other financial institutions or parties concerned about my PayPal transactions associated with this shipment must consider this email as confirmation of the completion of the service provided by Amid Logistics, LLC to me. This email serves as the receipt for all my PayPal payments, bearing my virtual signature.
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For more information, please visit our website.
After replying, please wait for our email with the Bill of Lading (B/L).
You should receive it a few days after your ETD (Estimated Departure Time). If, for some reason, you do not receive the B/L as expected, please do not hesitate to contact us.
With this B/L, upon your goods' arrival in the commerce zone of the targeted country, the consignee can proceed with recovering your import. Work with the carrier agent on recovery and, if necessary, with other parties involved in the import process. For more details, please refer to the FAQs on our website.
PLEASE NOTE: If you disagree for any reason, you may repay all your PayPal transactions by a U.S. Bank check or transfer funds to our bank account. Please inform us by replying to this email. Then, upon receipt of repayment(s), we will notify you and fully refund your PayPal transactions, less any non-refundable PayPal transaction fees.
If we do not receive a PayPal payment confirmation email or a re-payment via U.S. Bank check or wire, the issuance of the BOL will be suspended. The shipment will be considered risky, and additional penalties will apply. Refer to Risky Shipments and our General Terms and Conditions.
For shipments with the overall costs above $750, we accept U.S. bank checks, business and personal checks, money orders, direct bank deposits, wire transfers, and Western Union transactions.
We accept drafts of U.S. bank checks online. After submitting a draft online, it is unnecessary to mail the original check. We will deposit the draft.
We may proceed with a shipment upon receipt of a scanned or faxed copy of the check or money order to accelerate it. However, this copy can be the payer authorization for electronic funds transfer. In the event of a delay in receiving the original check or money order in the mail, typically later than 7 (seven) calendar days after receiving the copy, we reserve the right to process the fund transfer based on the amount and the bank information received in the copy of the check or money order.
Our online calculator integrates direct rates from well-known, reliable non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs) - cargo consolidators. We consistently monitor market trends to ensure our international shipping costs remain competitive for our clients. As a U.S. Freight Forwarder, we work on a service fee that is separate from the carrier's freight in our quotes and invoices. That is why our prices are among the most affordable in the industry.
LCL is for experienced exporters. However, small and mid-sized businesses prefer to hire freight forwarders to handle international logistics. So they can focus on their core business.
We also offer this service to ordinary customers. Inexperienced exporters can benefit from sending their goods overseas using LCL. However, we advise them to read this article before participating in this venture. It should ensure that they have a clear understanding of the process and associated expenses.
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