Shipping Building Materials from Shanghai to Genoa via Ocean Freight

When transporting mixed loads of building products such as Lighting, power tools, and bulk Hardware, Separate items by weight and fragility on each pallet. Load heavy, dense construction goods at the bottom, with lighter cartons of LED lights on top, and apply corner boards, top sheets, and stretch wrap to stabilize the load. Prominently label pallets with handling instructions like “Fragile lighting” or “Heavy tools” so carriers Can handle them appropriately.

For light fixtures and lighting components, Use heavy-duty cartons with internal dividers or foam inserts so glass and lenses do not contact each other. We recommend individually wrapping each item in bubble wrap or foam sleeves, then positioning them in snug compartments. 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 fasteners, and electrical Lighting need to be protected with Plastic sheeting and, where feasible, paired with desiccant packs. Select enclosed equipment—like dry vans or sealed ocean containers—rather than open trucks, and Avoid long outdoor dwell times at terminals. For export, evaluate container liners or dehumidifier units for high-humidity routes.

High-value power tools and branded fasteners Often justify additional freight insurance, especially when combined with fragile light fixtures. We recommend obtaining coverage for shipments at full replacement value and maintaining serial numbers or SKU lists for premium Power tools. This documentation strengthens claim outcomes if cartons are lost, pilfered, or water-damaged.

Most standard electrical LED lights ship as general building products, but You should properly declare them with the correct HS codes and electrical specifications on your documentation. If corded tools with lithium batteries are included, Additional dangerous goods rules may apply, requiring UN-compliant labels, packing instructions, and sometimes carrier pre-approval. Check with your carrier or freight forwarder in advance to confirm any restrictions for combined loads of electrical Lighting and powered Tools.

Building & Construction Materials should be properly secured and protected from moisture during ocean transport. It is essential to use appropriate packaging materials to prevent damage from saltwater exposure and ensure compliance with international shipping standards. Additionally, heavy items may require special handling equipment during loading and unloading at the ports.

Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary export permits from China. Import documentation for Italy may include a customs declaration, import license, and compliance certificates for specific construction materials, depending on regulatory requirements.

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