Shipping Hardware from Colon to Long Beach via Ocean Freight

When transporting mixed loads of building products such as light fixtures, Tools, and bulk Hardware, properly separate items by weight and fragility on each pallet. Stack heavy, dense Building materials at the bottom, with lighter cartons of tools on top, and add corner boards, top sheets, and stretch wrap to stabilize the load. Clearly label pallets with handling instructions like “Fragile lighting” or “Heavy tools” so carriers Can handle them appropriately.

For light fixtures and lighting components, choose Double-wall cartons with internal dividers or foam inserts so glass and lenses Do not touch each other. DNA recommends individually protecting each unit in bubble wrap or foam sleeves, then Placing them in snug compartments. Prominently mark cartons as “Fragile – Lighting” and avoid stacking them under heavy hardware on the same pallet.

Moisture-sensitive building products such as cement-based goods, metal Hardware, and electrical Lighting Should be Wrapped with moisture-barrier film and, where feasible, supplemented by desiccant packs. Use enclosed equipment—like dry vans or sealed ocean containers—rather than open trucks, and minimize long outdoor dwell times at terminals. For export, look at container liners or dehumidifier units for high-humidity routes.

High-value power tools and branded Hardware typically warrant All-risk cargo insurance, especially when combined with fragile Lighting. DNA recommends covering shipments at full replacement value and Keeping serial numbers or SKU lists for premium hand tools. This documentation improves claim outcomes if cartons are lost, pilfered, or water-damaged.

Most standard electrical LED lights ship as general Construction goods, but you must Declare them with the correct HS codes and electrical specifications on your documentation. If Power tools with lithium batteries are included, DG regulations may be involved, requiring hazmat markings, packing instructions, and sometimes carrier pre-approval. Consult your carrier or freight forwarder in advance to confirm any restrictions for combined loads of electrical LED lights and powered power tools.

When shipping Building & Construction Materials via ocean freight, it is important to ensure that all items are properly secured to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, materials should be packaged to withstand ocean conditions, including potential exposure to moisture and saltwater. Heavy construction goods may require special handling equipment at both ports.

Regulatory requirements for shipping Building & Construction Materials from Panama to the United States include compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations, proper documentation such as bills of lading, and adherence to any import restrictions or tariffs applicable to specific materials. Importers must also ensure that materials meet U.S. safety and environmental standards.

Yes, DNA Supply Chain is fully licensed (FMC #019344), bonded, insured, and C-TPAT compliant, with a digital-first customs process that uses automation to reduce delays, cut risk, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Yes, customers get a dedicated Client Success Officer who oversees your freight, solves problems proactively, and keeps you informed throughout each shipment.

DNA states this because a single shipment is enough for shippers to experience our AI-powered visibility, proactive issue management, and partner-level support, and to see how we differ from larger, less responsive forwarders.