Shipping Variety Goods from Puerto Barrios to Chicago via Ocean Freight

For moisture-sensitive mixed cargo, Start 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. 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, 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 single-use items 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 products on top. Inside each carton, add 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 assorted products, Choose 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 Packaging materials, isolate sharp-edged items so they do not cut into neighboring Miscellaneous items. On pallets, add 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 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 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 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. 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.

The documentation required includes a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary certificates of origin or compliance with U.S. regulations. Importers must also provide customs declarations and may need to obtain an Importer of Record (IOR) status.

Yes, seasonal weather conditions can impact ocean freight, particularly during hurricane season (June to November) which may cause delays or require rerouting. Additionally, port congestion can occur during peak shipping seasons, affecting cargo handling and scheduling.

Our ocean freight solutions include port-to-door service that covers customs and final-mile delivery.

Our ground transportation solutions include U.S. and Mexico cross-border coverage.

Our brokerage team supports ISF, AMS, and ACE filings for your shipments.