Shipping Modular Milk Cooling Units: A Guide

1. Assessing Your Cargo

Cargo Dimensions and Weight

Accurately determine the length, width, height, and weight of each unit. Obtain precise specifications, including the center of gravity and any fragile components. Classify your cargo as OOG (Oversized/Out-of-Gauge) or FCL (Full Container Load) based on these measurements. This is crucial for selecting the appropriate shipping method and carrier.

• Accurately measure length, width, height, and weight of each unit.
• Determine center of gravity.
• Identify fragile components.
• Classify cargo as OOG or FCL.
• Obtain precise specifications.

2. Choosing Your Shipping Method

OOG (Oversized/Out-of-Gauge) Cargo

Flat Rack Containers

Ideal for units exceeding standard container height or width but fitting within length restrictions. Flat racks offer greater flexibility in securing your cargo.

Breakbulk Shipping

Necessary for exceptionally large or heavy units that cannot fit within standard containers. Breakbulk shipping requires specialized handling and securing procedures.

FCL (Full Container Load) Cargo

Only viable if your units are small and lightweight enough to fit within a 40ft High Cube container, and their weight and fragility allow for standard container securing methods. This option is generally more cost-effective than OOG shipping.

Container Types:

• 20ft Standard
• 40ft Standard
• 40ft High Cube
• 45ft High Cube

(Diagram/Illustration of container types and dimensions would be included here)

• Determine cargo dimensions and weight.
• Select appropriate container type (20ft, 40ft, 40ft HC, 45ft HC, Flat Rack).
• Decide between FCL or OOG shipping.

3. Selecting a Carrier

Carrier Types and Suitability

Choose a carrier with experience in handling OOG/Heavy Lift Cargo and a proven UK import/export record. Consider established liner companies for larger shipments and NVOCCs (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers) for smaller ones. Information on rates may be obtained from Shipping International. Carefully evaluate insurance options and the carrier's global network reach to ensure seamless transportation.

• Choose a carrier with experience in handling OOG/Heavy Lift Cargo.
• Verify UK import/export record.
• Obtain quotes from multiple carriers.
• Evaluate insurance options.
• Assess carrier's global network reach.

4. Packaging and Securing Your Cargo

Packaging Materials and Techniques

Use appropriate materials such as dunnage, lashing straps, and corner protectors to safeguard your units. Consult the carrier or a specialized packing company for optimal securing techniques. Consider climate control during transit to maintain the integrity of your equipment.

Load Bearing Calculations

Accurate load bearing calculations are essential for safe and secure transport. Ensure proper weight distribution to prevent instability and potential damage during transit.

• Use appropriate materials (dunnage, lashing straps, corner protectors).
• Consult carrier or specialized packing company.
• Consider climate control during transit.
• Perform accurate load-bearing calculations.
• Ensure proper weight distribution.

5. Documentation

Required Documents

Prepare comprehensive documentation, including: a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, weight and dimension certificates, and any necessary permits or licenses for refrigeration equipment. Accurate and complete documentation is vital for smooth customs clearance.

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin
• Weight and dimension certificates
• Permits/licenses for refrigeration equipment
• Harmonized System (HS) codes

6. Customs Clearance

Import and Export Procedures

Ensure all necessary customs documentation is prepared and submitted well in advance. Consider engaging a customs broker to navigate the complexities of import and export procedures. Correctly identify the Harmonised System (HS) codes for modular milk cooling units to avoid delays.

• Prepare and submit necessary customs documentation.
• Consider engaging a customs broker.
• Correctly identify HS codes.

7. Transportation

Inland Transportation

Arrange inland transportation to and from the ports. OOG cargo often requires specialized vehicles capable of handling oversized and heavy loads. Plan this carefully to avoid delays.

• Arrange inland transportation to and from ports.
• Use specialized vehicles for OOG cargo.

8. Insurance

Cargo Insurance

Obtain adequate cargo insurance to protect your investment against potential damage or loss during transit. Choose a policy that covers the full value of your shipment.

• Obtain adequate cargo insurance.
• Ensure policy covers full shipment value.

9. Tracking Your Shipment

Shipment Monitoring

Utilise tracking systems provided by your carrier to monitor your shipment's progress throughout its journey. This allows for proactive issue resolution and informed decision-making.

• Utilize carrier's tracking system.
• Monitor shipment progress.

10. Important Considerations

Port Restrictions, Weight Distribution, Weather Conditions, Liability

Check for any port limitations or restrictions regarding OOG cargo handling before finalising your shipping arrangements. Maintain even weight distribution to prevent instability and potential damage during transit. Account for potential weather-related delays and disruptions. Flexible scheduling can mitigate the impact of unforeseen circumstances. Clearly define liability in case of damage or loss with your carrier and any involved third parties. A well-defined agreement protects your interests.

• Check for port restrictions.
• Maintain even weight distribution.
• Account for weather conditions.
• Clearly define liability.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Shipping Costs, Transit Times, Potential Challenges

Shipping costs vary depending on factors such as cargo dimensions, weight, shipping method, distance, and insurance. Transit times depend on the chosen shipping route and method. Potential challenges include port congestion, customs delays, and unforeseen weather conditions.

Shipping International Contact Information

Shipping International is a logistics expert in the UK. Their website is shippinginternational.co.uk, email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and phone number is 0330 027 0450.