More than 10 years of experience in international Packaged Food shipping
United States
Honduras
The ocean route from Chicago to Puerto Cortes offers significant advantages for transporting packaged food. This method ensures the preservation of quality for shelf-stable products, as it minimizes exposure to temperature fluctuations that can affect processed and dry foods. Additionally, shipping via ocean freight allows for the transportation of large quantities, making it cost-effective for distributors looking to meet the demand for ambient food in Central America. The established maritime connections also facilitate streamlined logistics, enabling timely deliveries to meet market needs.
Chicago boasts a robust infrastructure with major shipping ports and well-connected rail networks, ensuring efficient cargo access and timely loading of packaged groceries. Puerto Cortes, as one of the key ports in Honduras, is equipped with modern facilities that handle various types of cargo, including processed food, making it an ideal destination for imports. Both locations benefit from experienced logistics providers who specialize in managing the complexities of international shipping, ensuring a seamless flow of goods from origin to destination.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Shippers must ensure compliance with U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and any relevant sanctions programs administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
Imports are subject to Honduran customs valuation rules and can be subject to duties, taxes, and applicable trade agreement preferences.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Chicago to Puerto Cortes, be mindful of winter storm disruptions (December-March), as snow and ice can cause delays. Secure vessel space and inland transport capacity well in advance of the Christmas retail peak (October-December) to avoid tight bookings. During the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November), build in buffer days to manage potential weather-related delays. Additionally, anticipate increased congestion during the back-to-school surge (late July-September) and adjust lead times accordingly.
When shipping ambient food, Proper packaging Is essential for medium‑fragility items. We recommend using Double-walled cartons with cell partitions for ambient food. For moisture-s...
Medium-weight cartons of packaged groceries Should be handled as “this side up” freight, especially where Bottled drinks are packed with Dry food. Our team recommends clearly marki...
Using suitable shipping container for Food Helps product integrity and Regulatory compliance. For parcel shipments of Dry food and snacks, our team suggests outer shippers with inn...
Even for shelf-stable dry food, You must comply with Food safety regulations in both origin and destination markets. Ensure all Packaged groceries have clear labeling, batch or lot...
Before pickup and during cross-docking, stage Packaged food in Cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from Chemicals. Moisture-sensitive Dry food must be kept off the floor on shelv...
Moisture-sensitive shelf-stable food Requires A sealed inner barrier such as Foil pouches inside sturdy outer cartons. We recommend adding silica gel and using clear handling labels on all processed food shipments, especially when moving through humid or coastal routes.
You are allowed to ship Snacks and beverages together if Each item is Individually protected and Liquids are placed at the bottom of the carton. Our logistics team recommends using separate inner boxes for liquid items so that any leak does not Soak surrounding dry food.
Most international shipments of packaged groceries Require Commercial invoices listing full product descriptions, HS codes, and values. Depending on the destination and type of Food, you May also need manufacturer declarations and origin documentation, especially for animal-derived ingredients.
For shelf-stable food with medium fragility and mixed Snacks and beverages, We recommend All-risk cargo insurance that includes Leakage, breakage, and contamination. Be sure to accurately declare values of your beverages and record how goods are packed, as insurers may Review packaging quality when processing claims.
Most processed food and standard Bottled drinks Can be shipped in Ambient conditions as long as you Avoid extreme heat and freezing. Our team recommends checking manufacturer guidelines on heat sensitivity, especially for sensitive beverages, and Routing shipments to minimize exposure to very hot or very cold environments.
Packaged food must be stored in a dry environment and protected from moisture during ocean transport. It is essential to ensure that the cargo is properly sealed to prevent contamination and to maintain the integrity of the products throughout the journey.
Shipments of packaged food to Honduras must comply with both U.S. export regulations and Honduran import regulations. This includes obtaining necessary permits, ensuring that the food products meet health and safety standards, and providing proper documentation such as Certificates of Origin and sanitary certificates.
We deliver a DNA Expert ETA, which is an arrival estimate that is more accurate and proactive than carrier estimates, powered by SAMMIE’s data and human verification.
For customers, it means that whether you are our smallest shipper or largest enterprise, you receive the same honesty, responsiveness, and care that define DNA Supply Chain Solutions.
A single shipment is enough because we believe that with one shipment we can prove our visibility, reliability, and partnership approach in a tangible way.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Chicago → Puerto Cortes shipping needs.
Talk to a logistics expert
Our team specializes in the Chicago to Puerto Cortes trade lane.
1-786-949-7330Join hundreds of companies who trust DNA Supply Chain for their logistics needs. Transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and dedicated support.