Cross Border Packing And Distribution Logistics

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Regardless of which courier service you choose, distribution logistics will dictate that goods be packed a certain way when they are going across an international border. Your courier company will likely have specific requirements, and will be able to give you the details of what they require. From a general standpoint, though, just remember that cross border shipments are more expensive, and that space is at a premium. You'll also need to factor in extra time not only for shipping, but also for items to clear customs. Your carrier's distribution logistics will ensure the lowest costs for them, as well as their customers.

Rules that should be followed include ensuring that space is utilized to the utmost on each pallet, and that pallets be easily stackable. Specifically, to meet this requirement, you should never pyramid stack goods on a pallet. If your goods are in crates, rather than on pallets, the crates should be rated for industrial use, and should be uniform throughout the shipment. In addition, for any shipments going across the border into Canada or Mexico, certain rules should be followed for customs purposes. Mark all pallets and containers with the shipment's contents, and ensure that all containers are easily accessible for customs officials to open and inspect without damaging them.

Some courier services deal more with international shipments than others. Those companies in major metropolitan areas near the border, or those who have offices or distribution centers near the border, will be the most experienced with these types of shipments. It is recommended to utilize one of these companies and their suggestions for packing, as their distribution logistics dictate that they have learned over time the most efficacious ways of making these shipments. These companies will are required by law, and will in turn require their customers, to follow the best practices for marking, documenting, and packing cross border freight.

If you send goods across the border with any regularity, you will want to be consistent with the way in which you pack, mark, and document your goods. In this way, the shipping company will grow to trust you as a customer, and will need to spend less time inspecting your shipment for best practices vis a vis distribution logistics. This will save you money, and speed your shipment across the border. In this way, they can pre-plan the way in which they pack their trucks before they even get to your facility.

About the Author:
Chris Ellis is a consultant for trucking service and Warehousing companies.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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