Shipping Major Appliances from Hamburg to Atlanta via Ocean Freight

Getting Home appliances for freight necessitates careful steps. Disconnect water, gas, and power; drain hoses and internal water from washers, dishwashers, and fridges; and fasten doors, cords, and loose shelves. Most carriers recommend using the original packaging when available, or reinforced boxes and pallets for protection. Clearly Label units as “Fragile – Appliance” and “Keep Dry” due to moisture sensitivity.

You can in some cases combine Countertop appliances with food prep equipment, but only with proper separation. Place heavier cast-iron pieces at the bottom, add a rigid layer, then lighter countertop appliances above. Individually cushion glass lids, ceramic bakeware, and appliance attachments, and avoid overloading any single carton to keep weight manageable and prevent crushing.

Because white goods are heavy and relatively high value, extra insurance Is strongly recommended beyond basic carrier liability. Most brokers recommend declaring the full replacement value for fridges, ranges, washers, and premium food prep equipment. Verify that your policy covers humidity damage, as many kitchen gadgets contain electronics that can fail after contact with water or high humidity.

Store domestic appliances in a Dry area, raised on pallets and away from exterior doors or damp walls. Keep kitchen gadgets, kitchenware, and other boxed items off bare concrete floors, and add pallet covers or top sheets if humidity is high. Avoid outdoor staging or open docks during rain, and do not shrink-wrap warm appliances immediately after use, as trapped condensation can damage electronics.

International shipments of powered kitchen appliances may be subject to Energy-efficiency rules in the destination country. Most exporters ensure that major appliances comply with local voltage, plug type, and certification requirements (such as CE, UKCA, or other regional marks). Include accurate product descriptions and HS codes for food prep equipment on commercial invoices and packing lists to reduce customs delays and potential fines.

Household appliances require careful handling during loading and unloading to prevent damage. They should be securely packed and loaded in a manner that minimizes movement during transit. Additionally, appliances may need to be protected from moisture and temperature fluctuations during the ocean journey.

Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary certificates of conformity or compliance with U.S. regulations for household appliances. Importers should also be aware of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes for accurate classification.

Our SAMMIE platform offers AI-powered ETAs, “hot” shipment flagging, instant delay alerts, live map tracking for every container globally, and centralized, searchable storage for BOLs, invoices, and customs forms.

DNA Supply Chain offers domestic and cross-border trucking for cross-country hauls and final-mile delivery, with hands-on support from dedicated Client Success Officers and proactive alerts from SAMMIE to solve problems before you spot them.

Customers receive support from experienced Client Success Officers—no scripts, no outsourced call centers—who get ahead of your needs and respond like partners rather than vendors.