What is Cross-Border Shipping?
Cross-border shipping is the process of shipping goods from one country to another. It can be a complex and time-consuming process, as there are a number of factors to consider, such as:
Documentation: You will need to provide documentation such as a commercial invoice, customs declaration, and bill of lading.
Shipping regulations: You will need to comply with the shipping regulations of both the sending and receiving countries.
Customs clearance: You will need to clear your goods through customs in the receiving country.
What is Needed for Cross-Border Shipping?
The following documents are typically needed for cross-border shipping:
Commercial invoice: The commercial invoice is a document that lists the details of the shipment, including the goods being shipped, the quantity, the value, and the terms of sale.
Customs declaration: The customs declaration is a document that provides information about the shipment, such as the value of the goods, the country of origin, and the purpose of the shipment.
Bill of lading: The bill of lading is a document that serves as a receipt for the goods and evidence of ownership. It also lists the terms of shipping, such as the mode of transportation and the payment terms.
Customs Broker Information
A customs broker is a licensed professional who can help you with the customs clearance process. They can help you with the documentation, filing the necessary paperwork, and negotiating with customs officials.
USMCA Form
The USMCA Form is a document that is required for shipments between the United States, Mexico, and Canada. It provides information about the shipment, such as the value of the goods, the country of origin, and the purpose of the shipment.
What Needs to be on a Cross-border Shipping BOL?
The bill of lading (BOL) is a document that is used to track the movement of goods during shipping. It is a legal contract between the shipper and the carrier. The BOL must include the following information:
Shipper: The name and address of the person or company that is shipping the goods.
Consignee: The name and address of the person or company that is receiving the goods.
Description of goods: A description of the goods being shipped, including the quantity, weight, and dimensions.
Freight terms: The terms of shipping, such as the mode of transportation and the payment terms.
Customs Broker: The name and phone #
Signature: The signature of the shipper or their authorized representative.
Cross-border shipping can be a complex process, but it is important to understand the requirements and to have the necessary documentation in order to ensure a smooth and efficient shipment.
Here are some additional tips for cross-border shipping:
Plan ahead: Allow plenty of time for the shipping process, as it can take longer than domestic shipments.
Insure your shipment: Insure your shipment against loss or damage in transit.
Our trained logistics staff at TFWWI Grand Rapids will get you quotes from multiple carriers allowing you to compare rates and services from different carriers before making a decision. We’ll also help to track your shipment to see its progress and to ensure that it arrives on time.