Shipping Office Materials from Colombo to Norfolk via Ocean Freight

Moving moisture-sensitive office materials Requires moisture barriers. Our team recommends bundling paper and notebooks in Poly bags, using Dry, sturdy cartons, and including desiccant packs for longer or ocean shipments. Always Choose enclosed transport and avoid exposure to rain or damp storage areas.

Small office devices should ideally be shipped in the OEM packaging with molded inserts. If that is not available, Use a heavy-duty box, wrap the unit in foam wrap, and Fill all voids with cushioning so the item cannot shift. Mark the box as “Handle With Care” and Avoid stacking heavy cartons on top.

You can palletize mixed loads of office materials and light office equipment, but you must Build the pallet carefully. Position heavier cartons (e.g., copy paper, office equipment) at the bottom, lighter stationery on top, and secure the load with Corner boards and stretch wrap. Keep moisture-sensitive paper away from pallet edges and Use a top sheet or pallet cover if there is any risk of humidity or light rain during handling.

For small parcel shipments of low-value office materials, carrier default liability may be sufficient, but for bulk pallets or office equipment, our team recommends Purchasing cargo insurance. It can cover handling damage that standard carrier liability may not fully reimburse, especially for higher-value office equipment or large volumes of paper products.

Office materials should be stored in clean, climate-moderated areas away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture. Keep pallets off the floor on racking or pallets, avoid stacking beyond recommended heights to prevent crushing, and verify that cartons of moisture-sensitive stationery are not placed near dock doors or damp walls. For office equipment, prevent storage in areas with extreme temperature swings that could affect electronics or lubricants.

Office supplies should be packed securely to prevent damage during transit, considering the potential for humidity and saltwater exposure during the ocean journey. It's important to use moisture-resistant packaging materials and ensure that items are protected from shifting within containers.

Items shipped from Sri Lanka to the United States must comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations, including proper documentation such as commercial invoices and packing lists. Certain office supplies may also be subject to specific import restrictions or tariffs, so it's crucial to verify compliance with U.S. import regulations prior to shipping.

Shippers can join the “One Test Run Challenge” by giving us a single shipment, which we use to demonstrate what visibility, reliability, and real partnership feel like, with a dedicated page available to get started.

Access to SAMMIE comes with every ocean, air, land, and customs service at no extra cost.

Our team leverages SAMMIE’s AI-driven rate and route optimization to recommend optimal carriers and lanes based on current conditions and prices.