What are some of the common mistakes and pitfalls to avoid when shipping internationally?

It will be good to get the consignee to provide their address. It is essential to find out if the consignee is used to receiving international shipments to know if the information they will provide can be relied upon. Using other tools is best for comparison only. So when the difference is spotted, one can probe the difference further.

Algunos de los errores más comunes es que ante el envío de muestras sin valor comercial, no se incluye la factura comercial o no se emite Certificado de Origen ( según el destino), dificultando de esta forma el ingreso de la mercancía en el país de destino.

This is something similar that we are facing while receiving shipments. We are always asking client to ask us complete address for shipment and required documentation as well. Wrong address is causing delays and holding shipment at customs. However, if the client giving wrong contact number and P.I.C to shipping company, this is always ending with extreme costs. The best way for shipper to meet receiver, shipper & shipping company in contact in e-mails. So even there is a time difference between parties, this way will be helpful to get best info before the incident occurs. And the key point is, do not leave your shipment to last minute. Because hurry causes mistakes even you copy info from a file.

Let the third party check the documents before closing time. Double check invoice, packing list and B/L. In some country I avoid express BL

Actually I think the main cause of most mistakes in documents is drafts and templates which are kept to save time and are filled out several times for every new project. The other issue can be due to lack of details needed for packaging. For instance when there's no need for an open top container, the shipping agency insists on it while the manufacturer would easily give you details for carrying the cargo. Also shipping agencies and companies must be aware of new laws and regulations of customs in countries they are doing business in otherwise the delays and exit ban of the cargo leads to unsatisfied clients.

Almost every country asking for same documents under different formats and names. In this case, shipper need to ask receiver for full required documents in order to prevent any problems. Because customs is very risky even with a misunderstanding. Incorrect documentation may cause additional problems for forthcoming shipments for all parties. There is a blacklisting risk for illegal trafficking which all parties never interested in. It also brings fines for delays, occupation in bonded area and incorrect documentation.

In addition to trade agreements and regulations, consider customs documentation requirements. Accurate and complete paperwork is crucial to prevent delays or rejections at customs. Verify the specific forms, certificates, and declarations needed for your shipment. Stay informed about any changes in customs procedures to maintain smooth cross-border transactions. Furthermore, be aware of labeling and packaging standards to ensure compliance with destination country specifications. Adhering to these aspects not only facilitates a seamless shipping process but also fosters a positive relationship with customs authorities. Stay proactive in staying updated on any alterations in trade procedures to navigate international shipments effectively.

You may follow international regulations in order to see any embargo between source country and receiving country. However some countries made merchandise agreements to reduce costs in order to improve import-export.

It would also be good business practice to include due diligence on customs compliance during sale contract negotiations. This would bring customs compliance awareness for the customers as a value added service and prevent non-compliance for both sides. With such due diligence on customs compliance, exporting requirements and importing requirements could be aligned and the necessary steps could be taken making use of any preferential regulations for all stakeholders and a smooth and compliance supply chain.

This is a very important point, packaging, labeling and content must match with packing list and commercial invoice. You need to avoid sending products which is out of conformance for government of received country.

If new to export, when exporting from the United States you should use a freight forwarder licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission. A freight forwarder acts as your agent and will protect your interests, whereas an ocean carrier (vessel operating or non-vessel operating common carrier - VOCC or NVOCC) is your vender with their primary interest being there success. Check the FMC website for a list of freight forwarders- “OTI LIST” and direct the freight forwarder to act as a freight forwarder not an NVOCC.

Every time there is someone tells you we are in this business since long time, we are the cheapest one, we are the fastest one, etc. In this business, old is not gold, cheap is not cost effective, quick doesn't means your deadline. Sender must check all circumstances and decide according to their needs. Key note is, always create a right schedule and do not leave your shipments to last minute.

Always plan your shipments, create a checklist for above itemized lines and follow the steps. Meet your receiver company, custom clearance company and shipping company before you made the shipment. Of course refrain from early shipments if you are sending for a mobile end-user because of possible schedule changes. but do not leave it to last minute because customs always may take time. Remember, you are sending an unknown box to a governments territory and they are right to know what it is.

Incoterms agreements within the sale contract should also be considered as an important factor. The wrong incoterms would cause confusion within the supply chain for each stakeholders and raises enquiries from authorities. When both the consignor and consignee understands the incoterms as per ICC, the alignment would cover most of the points in the supply chain for a smoother transaction.

Not factoring in risk management from the onset. Things often go wrong. Sometimes it could be damage in transit or theft. In any case, you need to be prepared for such eventualities before they happen.