Shipping Building Supplies from Savannah to Baltimore via Ocean Freight

When transporting mixed loads of Construction materials such as lamps, Tools, and bulk fasteners, properly separate items by weight and fragility on each pallet. Place heavy, dense Building materials at the bottom, with lighter cartons of tools on top, and apply 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 do handle them appropriately.

For light fixtures and LED lights, pack in Double-wall cartons with internal dividers or foam inserts so glass and lenses never contact each other. DNA recommends Wrapping each fixture in bubble wrap or foam sleeves, then Placing them in snug compartments. Prominently mark cartons as “Fragile – Lighting” and avoid stacking them under heavy building supplies on the same pallet.

Moisture-sensitive building products such as cement-based goods, metal Hardware, and electrical LED lights Should be covered with moisture-barrier film and, where feasible, Combined with 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, evaluate container liners or dehumidifier units for high-humidity routes.

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

Most standard electrical LED lights ship as general Construction goods, but it is important to Declare them with the correct HS codes and electrical specifications on your documentation. If battery-powered tools with lithium batteries are included, DG regulations may be involved, requiring Special labeling, 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 Tools.

Building & Construction Materials should be properly packaged to withstand ocean transport, avoiding damage from moisture and salt exposure. Additionally, heavy materials may require secure stowage to prevent shifting during transit.

Essential documentation includes a bill of lading, packing list, and any relevant customs declarations. Since both Savannah and Baltimore are within the United States, no international customs clearance is required, but compliance with local regulations is necessary.

DNA Supply Chain provides live map tracking with milestone updates, 24/7 access via SAMMIE, centralized shipment documents, and real-time exception alerts so you always know where your freight is and what’s happening with it.

DNA reduces customs delays and risk through in-house brokerage, a digital-first customs process with automation, SAMMIE’s ability to flag potential delays before they happen, and continuous communication from your Client Success Officer.

DNA’s ETAs are AI-powered and based on real data, congestion, and vessel telemetry, whereas other forwarders often rely on static estimates copied from carrier schedules.