More than 20 years of experience in international Food shipping
Ecuador
United States
The ocean route from Guayaquil to Charlotte is ideal for transporting packaged food, as it allows for the efficient movement of bulk shipments over long distances. This method not only reduces transportation costs but also ensures the integrity of dry and shelf-stable products during transit. Additionally, the ocean route minimizes the risk of damage associated with faster, more strenuous transport options, making it a preferred choice for ambient food logistics.
Guayaquil boasts a robust port infrastructure, equipped with modern facilities for loading and unloading cargo efficiently, which is crucial for the timely dispatch of processed food. On the other end, Charlotte's well-developed distribution networks and access to major highways facilitate seamless delivery to regional markets. Both locations support a strong supply chain ecosystem, enhancing the overall logistics for packaged groceries and ensuring that products reach consumers in optimal condition.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exports of agricultural and seafood products require compliance with Ecuadorian and destination-country health regulations
All inbound cargo are subject to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) clearance and must be accompanied by accurate commercial documentation.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
Be mindful of potential disruptions during the Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season (June-November) by scheduling sailings outside peak storm months and allowing for buffer days. Expect increased congestion and longer transit times during the South America fruit export peak (January-May, September-December) and soy harvest export peak (February-June), necessitating early bookings and flexible routing. Additionally, account for the impact of North America winter storms (December-March) on delivery schedules, ensuring ample lead time and alternative routing options to mitigate delays.
When shipping ambient food, appropriate protection is critical for medium‑fragility items. We recommend using reinforced shipping boxes with cell partitions for Snacks. For moistur...
Medium-weight cartons of packaged groceries must be handled as orientation-sensitive freight, especially where Bottled drinks are packed with shelf-stable food. Our team recommends...
Using suitable shipping container for processed food supports product integrity and Regulatory compliance. For parcel shipments of shelf-stable food, our team suggests RSC cartons ...
Even for shelf-stable dry food, shippers must comply with applicable food laws in both origin and destination markets. Ensure all beverages have clear labeling, batch or lot number...
Before pickup and during cross-docking, stage ambient food in clean, dry, odor-free areas away from Chemicals. Moisture-sensitive shelf-stable food must be kept off the floor on Pa...
Moisture-sensitive shelf-stable food demands moisture-resistant inner packaging such as Foil pouches inside sturdy outer cartons. Most shippers recommend adding silica gel and using “Keep Dry” labels on all processed food shipments, especially when moving through humid or coastal routes.
You are allowed to ship dry food and bottled drinks together if all items are Individually protected and beverages are placed at the bottom of the carton. Our logistics team recommends using Dividers for liquid items so that any leak does not damage surrounding Snacks.
Most international shipments of packaged groceries will require detailed invoices listing full product descriptions, HS codes, and values. Depending on the destination and type of Food, you could be asked for manufacturer declarations and Proof of origin, especially for animal-derived ingredients.
For shelf-stable food with medium fragility and mixed dry food and bottled drinks, insurance providers typically recommend All-risk cargo insurance that includes damage from moisture and breakage. Be sure to accurately declare values of your Packaged groceries and record how goods are packed, as insurers may assess packaging quality when processing claims.
Most processed food and standard beverages Can be shipped in Ambient conditions as long as you keep them within labeled storage temperatures. Our team recommends checking manufacturer guidelines on Maximum storage temperature, especially for sensitive beverages, and planning transit to minimize exposure to very hot or very cold environments.
Packaged food must be securely packed to prevent damage during transit. It is essential to comply with temperature control requirements, even for shelf-stable food, to ensure product integrity. Additionally, proper ventilation in shipping containers is necessary to avoid moisture buildup.
Shipments of packaged food must comply with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice requirements. Importers must ensure that all food products are labeled correctly and meet the applicable safety standards. Additionally, documentation such as a phytosanitary certificate may be required for certain food products.
Our team manages ground transportation including full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and drayage services, with U.S. and Mexico cross-border coverage, scalable capacity, GPS tracking, and digital documentation.
Our customs brokerage includes tariff classification and valuation as part of our in-house expertise.
Our network includes partnered facilities in key logistics hubs, including locations near important ports for strategic storage and fulfillment.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Guayaquil → Charlotte shipping needs.
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