Shipping General Merchandise from San Jose to Colon via Ocean Freight

For moisture-sensitive mixed cargo, first 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 plastic 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 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, include 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, use 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, pack separately sharp-edged items so they do not cut into neighboring variety goods. 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 assorted consumer products 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, verify 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 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.

Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary customs declarations. It is important to ensure compliance with both Costa Rican and Panamanian customs regulations.

Yes, seasonal weather patterns, particularly during the rainy season, can affect ocean conditions and handling of shipments. It is advisable to monitor weather forecasts and potential disruptions during these periods.

The SAMMIE system helps by combining live carrier data, independent port tracking, an AI rules engine, and human verification to provide real-time visibility, predictive alerts, and exception management.

In our operations, it means every move we make by land, air, or sea is guided by purpose, careful planning, decisive action, and precise, attentive execution.

Interested clients can hear his story by listening to podcast episodes such as “David Rosendorf – Turning Setbacks Into Success” on The Rich Equation Podcast and “We Talk with Shipping & Logistics Magician David Rosendorf of DNA Supply Chain Solutions” on The Launch Pad Podcast.