If you have a lot of goods or possessions to transport around the world, packing them into a container and sending them via truck, train or ship is an excellent idea. It is also a very cost-effective option.
Containers were specifically designed to be easy to transport, space-effective and easy to transfer between different modes of transport. You can buy or hire shipping containers in several different sizes – according to how much you have to put in there. Whether you are moving to a new house across the world or looking to export goods to another country, shipping units are a great option for moving your cargo.
There are, however, some objects that are prohibited from containers. They are not suitable for everything and countries are usually very thorough in inspecting their contents to ensure that nothing which is prohibited gets through.
Flammable Substances
Highly flammable substances are not allowed in cargo due to the potential for causing damage to other items, as well as the shipment in its entirety. These substances include batteries, household cleaners, solvents, aerosols, fireworks, oils, fertilisers and nail polish (and remover). For an extensive list of toxic or flammable substances and objects that aren’t allowed you should speak to your relative company.
Living Things
For obvious reasons, living things are not allowed to be transported. Many journeys are long – often taking weeks, and conditions are not appropriate for people, animals or plants. It is highly unlikely that any of them would survive such a journey.
In addition, some countries have strict rules about plants and animals which have come from foreign countries. Some consider non-native plants and animals to be a potential health risk to the country as it is possible that they can transport dangerous parasites and germs into their territory.
If you are hoping to transport animals or plants to another country you must speak to the relevant authorities to find out what their particular regulations are.
Illegal items
Every country has its own set of laws about certain items that are illegal. In general, these include drugs, arms, certain medications and ammunition and you must find out exactly what the local laws are about these items.
If you want to avoid running into any problems, you must ensure that any items that you are transporting are completely legal for the whole trip.
Some Food Products
Cargo transport can take sometimes months, so perishable food is a no-no. Fresh, refrigerated or frozen produce, for example, are not suitable.
Other Items
There are also other items which although not prohibited, shouldn’t be transported in shipping units. If they are sitting in a steel box for possibly weeks, they run the risk (albeit low) of being damaged or lost whilst being transported and moved around.
You should, therefore, try to avoid objects such as irreplaceable, treasured possessions, important documents, other items that could be damaged by extremes of temperature, expensive jewellery or money.
For many people, shipping their items is an excellent and very cost-effective option. And for many pieces, there is no problem with sending them in a freight box. However, it is important that you check what is and isn’t allowed, to ensure that you have no difficulties in transporting your cargo around the world. If in doubt, your shipping company will be able to clarify things for you.
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