Safe shipping of your critical Clothing & Textiles cargo
Costa Rica
United States
The ocean route from San Jose to Tacoma provides a cost-effective solution for transporting clothing and textiles, allowing for bulk shipping that maximizes efficiency. This route is particularly advantageous for apparel manufacturers looking to distribute garments across the West Coast, ensuring that products reach their destination with minimal handling. Additionally, ocean freight offers a lower environmental impact compared to air transport, aligning with sustainability goals increasingly prioritized in the fashion industry.
San Jose's logistics infrastructure is robust, featuring major shipping ports and distribution centers that facilitate seamless loading and unloading of textiles. Tacoma, with its deep-water port, is equipped to handle large volumes of fabric and garments, providing access to extensive rail and road networks for further distribution. Both cities boast advanced warehousing capabilities, ensuring that apparel can be stored efficiently before reaching retail outlets or consumers.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with Costa Rican customs regulations and submit complete electronic export declarations before cargo acceptance.
All inbound cargo must comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements, including timely filing of the Importer Security Filing (ISF) for ocean shipments.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
Moderate - Standard Precautions
Plan for potential disruptions during the Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season (June-November) by scheduling sailings outside peak storm months and adding buffer days for weather-related delays. Expect extended transit times due to North Pacific Winter Storms (November-March) and secure vessel space well in advance during the Western New Year period (December 20-January 5) to avoid rollovers. Additionally, maintain communication with carriers for real-time updates and flexible routing options during these critical periods.
When shipping apparel, water resistance Is essential, even though the items are low-fragility and lightweight. We recommend using double-bagged parcels for garments, combined with ...
Although apparel are low-fragility, poor loading can cause Soiling. We advise keeping fabric cartons on pallets during handling to avoid contact with dirt. In cross-docks and wareh...
For bulk fabric rolls moving internationally, most shippers prefer using Dry containers with Good door seals to protect against humidity and leaks. When shipping bulk textiles, loa...
During warehousing, apparel should be stored in temperature-stable, dry areas away from Direct sunlight. We recommend using garment racks for hanging fashion items and shelving for...
Because fashion products are often seasonal, Appropriate cargo insurance Is essential. Insure shipments based on agreed valuation and keep SKU-level manifests that clearly describe...
For moisture-sensitive garments, select an inner Poly bag for each unit or bundle, then place items in Sturdy cartons. Add moisture absorbers for longer or ocean shipments, and ensure cartons are fully closed and taped to keep out humidity and splashes.
Most fabric can move in general-purpose containers or regular parcel cartons, as long as they are Kept dry. For Fabric rolls, most carriers recommend palletized or racked loading to prevent edge damage, and in humid lanes, adding moisture-control liners is advisable.
High-value branded apparel benefit from limited transfers, Clear labeling, and Palletization to avoid creasing. Instruct handlers to keep apparel off the floor, avoid rough surfaces, and not to crush lightweight fashion cartons.
Yes. Many countries require accurate tariff classification and clear fabric breakdown, plus Country of origin on documents for Textiles and apparel. Some trade agreements and quota systems still affect certain fabric categories, so check with your customs agent before exporting large volumes.
Insuring fashion products is strongly recommended, especially for high-value items or large wholesale orders. Cargo insurance can cover Theft and relies on accurate Invoices to validate claims, so always keep detailed records of what fabric were shipped and their declared value.
The required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary certificates of origin or compliance specific to textiles, as well as customs declarations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Yes, Clothing & Textiles must comply with U.S. regulations, including labeling requirements, safety standards, and tariffs under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Importers should ensure that all products meet these criteria to avoid delays at customs.
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.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your San Jose → Tacoma shipping needs.
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