Shipping Packaged Groceries from Cleveland to Charlotte via Ocean Freight

Moisture-sensitive shelf-stable food demands waterproof protection such as laminated liners inside sturdy outer cartons. Most shippers recommend adding silica gel and using moisture-warning labels on all ambient food shipments, especially when moving through humid or coastal routes.

You are allowed to ship dry food and bottled drinks together if every unit is securely packed and beverages are placed at the bottom of the carton. Our logistics team recommends using cell partitions for beverages so that any leak does not contaminate surrounding Snacks.

Most international shipments of packaged groceries will require itemized invoices listing full product descriptions, HS codes, and values. Depending on the destination and type of beverages, you could be asked for manufacturer declarations and certificates of origin, especially for beverages.

For shelf-stable food with medium fragility and mixed dry food and bottled drinks, most shippers choose all-risks freight insurance that includes damage from moisture and breakage. Be sure to accurately declare values of your snacks and note your packing methods, as insurers may evaluate packaging quality when processing claims.

Most processed food and standard beverages are shipped in standard dry vans as long as you keep them within labeled storage temperatures. Our team recommends checking manufacturer guidelines on temperature limits, especially for oil-based dry food, and scheduling moves to minimize exposure to very hot or very cold environments.

When shipping packaged food, it is important to ensure that the cargo is properly secured to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, maintaining appropriate temperature controls is essential, even for shelf-stable food, to prevent spoilage or degradation of quality. Proper ventilation is also necessary to avoid moisture buildup in containers.

Shipments of packaged food within the United States must comply with the regulations set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This includes ensuring that all food products are properly labeled, meet safety standards, and are stored and transported in a manner that prevents contamination. No additional customs documentation is required since both locations are within the same country.

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.