International Shipping: In-the-Know Shipping
Getting international shipments to a foreign country is a challenge for even the most experienced event manager. From experience, I know that shipments can get lost in the customs fray once it reaches the country of destination. The worst is having your trade show staff stuck at a booth with no merchandise because there was a mix up or a mistake in shipping.
The following are some common snares that can hinder a successful shipment and how to avoid them, so your shipment winds up at your event on time, every time.
PLANNING TOO LATE
International shipping takes longer than domestic as there are more things to consider: ocean and air travel, customs and any regulatory laws that the country of destination may have. Contacting a freight carrier early, such as Transit Air Cargo, with the dates of the show, what you are shipping and from where the shipment is originating, helps with planning ahead for your freight. TAC can look up shipping deadlines and the International Team is experts in getting freight through customs. Waiting too long to plan a shipment overseas will impede a smooth trade event experience.
Create timelines for yourself and your event team. Adhere to these time parameters as you prepare your cargo. One day late is a deal breaker when speaking in terms of international shipping and trade shows.
IMPROPERLY CRATING AND PACKAGING
Not packaging your international shipment properly can lead to a disaster when setting up your booth. Broken merchandise or banners, items lost or stolen has been the downfall of shows that could have been great if only the cargo was packed properly.
Custom crating is one of the most effective and secure ways to transport fragile material. Transit Air Cargo has a diverse line of quality trade show crating and packaging solutions. Trade show crates have compartmentalized construction and vibration stability engineering. The durability of a crate takes the worry out of shipping overseas; after all, your freight is going to be touched by a lot of hands on its journey to the trade show.
NOT HAVING A CHECKLIST(S)
When I am planning an event, domestic or international, checklists are my best friend. With international shows, checklists become even more crucial to peace of mind and overall organization of the event. As deadlines are tighter and there are more forms to fill out for international shipping, a checklist is imperative.
A separate (check)list should be your shipment’s inventory list. This list establishes what is going and what has arrived, so there is no discrepancy. An inventory list is a good insurance policy. It is also good to provide the inventory list to your logistics carrier.
GUESSING INSTEAD OF LEARNING
Sometimes, if we have planned enough shows, we begin to think we know what it takes, what is involved and what to expect. While trade shows are all similar, many have nuances that can be overlooked, especially the international shows.
Because International shipping requires more attention to detail, using your resources becomes even more important. Read your exhibitor prospectus for important dates, such as advanced warehouse and different electrical requirements as each country is different. Also, read up on international custom laws for what you cannot ship to a particular country. Remember, your freight carrier, especially Transit Air Cargo that has been in business for over 25 years, can answer your logistical questions when it comes to timelines, packing information and customs procedures.
With priority planning and following the above suggestions, your international shipments will make it to your trade shows without a hitch.
For more information visit: http://www.transitair.com/services/international-shipping.
