Shipping Single-use Items from Colon to San Jose via Ocean Freight

For moisture-sensitive assorted consumer products, begin by using sturdy, double-wall cartons sized closely to the contents. Line each box with a moisture-barrier bag and seal it before closing the carton. Most shippers recommend separating plastic tableware and other fragile miscellaneous items with dividers or bubble wrap, then filling voids with paper or foam so nothing moves. Finally, Wrap the palletized load with stretch film, including a top sheet, to reduce exposure to humidity and light rain during handling.

Yes, you can ship disposables with heavier Other goods, but you need to control how they are combined. Place heavier cartons at the bottom of the pallet and lighter boxes with plastic tableware on top. Inside each carton, include inner boxes or dividers so sharp or rigid items do not deform softer plastics. We recommend limiting stack height and marking “Do Not Crush” when mixed cartons contain fragile plastic tableware or thin packaging materials.

For medium-weight mixed cargo, select double-wall boxes that can handle stacking in trucks or containers. Smaller, well-filled cartons generally perform better than oversized boxes with lots of empty space. For shipments that include containers, pack separately sharp-edged items so they do not cut into neighboring Miscellaneous items. On pallets, Use corner protectors and strapping to keep the load square and stable, especially for mixed consumer goods moving through multiple hubs.

In most cases, in-flight products shipped with other General merchandise only require standard commercial documentation, but accuracy is important. Shippers should list each product group separately on the commercial invoice and packing list, indicating quantities and weights for items like plastic tableware. Use clear, non-technical descriptions and add handling marks such as “Keep Dry” or “Fragile” where appropriate. If any component of the travel kits (for example, aerosols or batteries) is regulated, verify with your carrier for additional dangerous goods documentation and packing rules.

Store packaging supplies and other Miscellaneous items in a clean, dry area away from direct sunlight and open dock doors. Keep cartons on pallets or shelving rather than directly on the floor to avoid moisture wicking into boxes, especially for moisture-sensitive disposables. Our team recommends maintaining good airflow and using dehumidifiers or desiccant where humidity is high. Rotate stock so older boxes and plastic goods are used first, ensuring they retain enough strength for safe stacking and transport.

The documentation typically required includes a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary import permits or certificates specific to the mixed consumer goods being shipped. Additionally, customs declarations must be accurately completed to comply with both Panamanian and Costa Rican regulations.

Yes, seasonal weather patterns, particularly during the rainy season from May to November, can impact ocean conditions, potentially affecting the stability of shipments. It is advisable to monitor weather forecasts and sea conditions during these months for safe handling and transport.

DNA offers in-house customs brokerage that handles classification, documentation, and clearance across U.S. and global ports with accuracy and speed, supported by SAMMIE’s delay flagging and ongoing updates from your dedicated Client Success Officer.

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.