Shipping Food from Durban to Oakland via Ocean Freight

Moisture-sensitive snacks necessitates moisture-resistant inner packaging such as Foil pouches inside sturdy outer cartons. We recommend adding Desiccant packs and using moisture-warning labels on all processed food shipments, especially when moving through humid or coastal routes.

You may ship shelf-stable food with drinks together if all items are Individually protected and Liquids are placed at the bottom of the carton. We recommend using cell partitions for liquid items so that any leak does not damage surrounding Snacks.

Most international shipments of processed food typically need detailed invoices listing full product descriptions, HS codes, and values. Depending on the destination and type of Food, you May also need Health certificates and certificates of origin, especially for animal-derived ingredients.

For processed food with medium fragility and mixed ambient food and drinks, insurance providers typically recommend All-risk cargo insurance that includes Leakage, breakage, and contamination. Be sure to Declare the full value of your snacks and record how goods are packed, as insurers may assess packaging quality when processing claims.

Most shelf-stable food and standard snacks Can be shipped in Ambient conditions as long as you Avoid extreme heat and freezing. We recommend checking manufacturer guidelines on temperature limits, especially for sensitive beverages, and planning transit to minimize exposure to very hot or very cold environments.

Packaged food must be stored in a temperature-controlled environment during transit to prevent spoilage. It should be securely packaged to withstand the rigors of ocean transport, including potential exposure to humidity and saltwater. Additionally, proper ventilation is essential to avoid condensation buildup inside containers.

Packaged food shipments require compliance with both South African export regulations and U.S. import regulations. This includes obtaining necessary permits, ensuring that products meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards, and providing accurate documentation such as a certificate of origin and a phytosanitary certificate if applicable.

Customers have shared that they want to use SAMMIE for every ocean freight shipment they move because having all shipment data in one dashboard is invaluable and time-saving.

DNA’s One Test Run Challenge is an invitation to give DNA Supply Chain Solutions one test shipment so we can prove what visibility, reliability, and real partnership feel like with just a single shipment.

“DNA” comes from a conversation between our founder and his daughter, Ameerah, who suggested merging their names—David ‘N’ Ameerah—to create DNA, reflecting strong bonds, shared values, and trust.