More than 10 years of experience in international White Goods transport
United States
Sri Lanka
The ocean route from Oakland to Colombo offers significant advantages for transporting large appliances. This maritime pathway enables the movement of bulky kitchen and domestic appliances efficiently, capitalizing on the vast cargo capacity of container ships. Additionally, the route benefits from established shipping lanes, reducing potential delays and ensuring reliable transit for essential home goods. The cost-effectiveness of ocean freight also supports competitive pricing for consumers in Colombo.
Oakland's port is equipped with advanced container handling facilities and logistical support, making it a key hub for exporting white goods. It features extensive warehousing and distribution options that streamline the loading process for appliances. In Colombo, the port boasts modern infrastructure with specialized handling capabilities for large appliances, ensuring safe and efficient unloading. Both ports are well-connected to regional transportation networks, facilitating smooth distribution to retailers and consumers.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Shippers must ensure compliance with U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and any applicable sanctions programs when routing cargo via Oakland.
Imports are subject to Sri Lanka Customs rules, including timely electronic manifest filing.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Oakland to Colombo, anticipate the Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season (June-November) by scheduling sailings outside peak storm months and building in buffer days. Expect potential delays due to North America Winter Storms (December-March) and the Southwest Monsoon (June-September), which can cause port congestion. Book vessel space well in advance during the Christmas Retail Peak (October-December) and Diwali Export Peak (late September-mid November) to avoid tight capacity. Engage carriers for real-time updates and flexible routing options throughout these critical periods.
When shipping white goods, Proper packaging is critical for heavy, moisture-sensitive units. Most carriers require keeping large appliances in their factory packaging if intact, wi...
Heavy large appliances Require controlled handling to avoid damage to both the freight and handlers. Carriers typically require using forklifts for tall kitchen appliances, ensurin...
Choosing an appropriate container or pallet setup for White goods is key in preventing transit damage. Most shippers prefer high-quality pallets for heavy domestic appliances, ensu...
Because many home appliances and Food prep equipment are moisture sensitive, staging needs to prioritize a dry, climate-aware environment. Best practice is keeping palletized large...
Heavy, medium-fragility white goods Benefit from carefully set insurance values and clear documentation. Our team suggests insuring large appliances at full replacement cost, inclu...
Getting Home appliances for freight demands methodical work. Disconnect water, gas, and power; drain hoses and internal water from washers, dishwashers, and fridges; and fasten doors, cords, and loose shelves. Our team suggests using the original packaging when available, or reinforced boxes and pallets for protection. Clearly mark units as “Fragile – Appliance” and “Keep Dry” due to moisture sensitivity.
You can in some cases combine Countertop appliances with kitchenware, but only with adequate cushioning. Place heavier cast-iron pieces at the bottom, add a rigid layer, then lighter kitchen gadgets 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. Our team suggests declaring the full replacement value for fridges, ranges, washers, and premium countertop appliances. Verify that your policy covers humidity damage, as many small appliances 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 small appliances, bakeware, 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. Our team suggests that kitchen 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.
When shipping household appliances from Oakland to Colombo, essential documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any relevant certificates of conformity or compliance with Sri Lankan regulations.
Yes, household appliances should be properly secured and cushioned to prevent damage during transit. Additionally, it is important to ensure that any refrigerants in appliances comply with international shipping regulations to avoid issues at customs in Colombo.
Using DNA, you receive live map tracking with milestone updates and 24/7 access via SAMMIE, while other forwarders often provide only basic carrier links and manual updates that can be delayed or incomplete.
Our clients say that SAMMIE makes managing shipments simple, puts accurate real-time location, status, and ETAs at their fingertips, and significantly reduces the time and effort required to manage many shipments.
DNA offers international freight forwarding by ocean, air, and land, along with customs brokerage, warehouse support, and access to our AI-powered SAMMIE visibility platform.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Oakland → Colombo shipping needs.
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Our team specializes in the Oakland to Colombo trade lane.
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