Shipping Large Appliances from Houston to Oakland via Ocean Freight

Preparing Home appliances for freight Requires Thorough preparation. 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 Heavy-duty cartons and pallets for protection. Clearly identify units as “Fragile – Appliance” and “Keep Dry” due to moisture sensitivity.

You Can sometimes combine Countertop appliances with Cookware and bakeware, but only with Careful packing. Place heavier cast-iron pieces at the bottom, add a rigid layer, then lighter countertop appliances above. Individually Wrap glass lids, ceramic bakeware, and appliance attachments, and avoid overloading any single carton to keep weight manageable and prevent crushing.

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

Store Home appliances in a Dry area, raised on pallets and away from exterior doors or damp walls. Keep Countertop appliances, Cookware, 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 Electrical home appliances may be subject to Energy-efficiency rules in the destination country. We recommend that White goods 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 to prevent damage during transit. They should be securely packed and cushioned to withstand the vibrations and movements of ocean freight. Additionally, appliances with glass components should be packed with extra protection to avoid breakage.

Shipping household appliances within the United States typically requires a bill of lading and a commercial invoice. Since both Houston and Oakland are in the U.S., customs documentation is generally minimal compared to international shipments, but it's essential to ensure compliance with any local regulations regarding safety and environmental standards for appliances.

Yes, we offer periodic performance reviews and account check-ins so you can review metrics and discuss needs or questions live.

You can assign roles and permissions so finance can access billing while operations focuses on tracking, without unnecessary overlap.

SAMMIE improves visibility by giving you real-time tracking, proactive alerts, and immediate visibility across departments and to your clients, all in one dashboard.