Shipping Consolidated Goods from Hamburg to Cartagena via Ocean Freight

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

Yes, you can ship single-use items with heavier general merchandise, but you should control how they are combined. Place heavier cartons at the bottom of the pallet and lighter boxes with Plastic products on top. Inside each carton, add inner boxes or dividers so sharp or rigid items do not deform softer plastics. Most carriers recommend limiting stack height and marking “Do Not Crush” when mixed cartons contain fragile plastic tableware or thin packaging materials.

For medium-weight assorted products, select export-strength 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 Packaging materials, isolate sharp-edged items so they do not cut into neighboring variety goods. On pallets, apply corner protectors and strapping to keep the load square and stable, especially for mixed consumer goods moving through multiple hubs.

In most cases, travel kits shipped with other assorted consumer products only require standard commercial documentation, but accuracy is important. Exporters should list each product group separately on the commercial invoice and packing list, indicating quantities and weights for items like Packaging supplies. 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, check with your carrier for additional dangerous goods documentation and packing rules.

Store containers and boxes and other variety goods 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 single-use items. We recommend 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.

Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary certificates of origin or compliance, as well as customs declarations for both German and Colombian authorities.

Seasonal considerations include potential weather disruptions during the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November, and may affect shipping schedules and port operations.

With one shipment, SAMMIE can demonstrate the visibility, reliability, and partnership benefits it delivers.

DNA Supply Chain captures our belief that success in business, like in life, depends on a foundation built on strong bonds, shared values, and trust, which we bring to every client relationship.

Our system was developed after a high-stakes wake-up call in 2017, when a critical container for a client’s first shipment with Marriott was delayed by 10 days, prompting us to build a more accurate, visibility-focused solution.