Protected shipping of your critical Ambient Food freight
China
India
The ocean route from Shekou to Nhava Sheva is ideal for transporting ambient food products, ensuring they remain in optimal condition throughout the journey. With a distance of 4264 km, this maritime pathway allows for the bulk shipment of processed food items, reducing costs and enhancing supply chain efficiency. The stability of ocean transport minimizes the risk of damage, making it a reliable choice for shelf-stable groceries. Additionally, this route benefits from established shipping schedules, providing predictability for inventory management.
Shekou boasts a modern port facility equipped with advanced loading and unloading equipment, facilitating the efficient handling of dry food cargo. The infrastructure supports a variety of container sizes, ensuring flexibility in shipping options. At the destination, Nhava Sheva is one of India's busiest ports, with extensive warehousing capabilities and customs processing facilities designed to expedite the flow of goods. These features contribute to a seamless transition from ocean transport to local distribution, enhancing the overall logistics process for packaged groceries.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with Chinese customs regulations, including accurate Harmonized System classification and value declaration.
All imports are subject to Indian Customs valuation, classification under the ITC (HS) code, and payment of applicable duties and GST
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Shekou, China to Nhava Sheva, India, expect delays during the East Asia Rainy Season (May-October) and the Western Pacific Typhoon Season (June-November). Add extra buffer days for port operations and secure flexible routing options to mitigate weather-related disruptions. During the Diwali export peak (late September–mid November), book vessel space well in advance to avoid capacity shortages. Additionally, account for customs slowdowns during the Western New Year holiday period (December 20-January 5) and adjust cut-off times accordingly to ensure timely deliveries.
When shipping ambient food, appropriate protection Is essential for medium‑fragility items. Our team suggests using reinforced shipping boxes with cell partitions for shelf-stable ...
Medium-weight cartons of packaged groceries must be handled as “this side up” freight, especially where beverages are packed with shelf-stable food. Our team recommends clearly mar...
Using suitable shipping container for processed food Helps product integrity and safe transit. For parcel shipments of shelf-stable food, our team suggests master cartons with inne...
Even for shelf-stable dry food, shippers must comply with Food safety regulations in both origin and destination markets. Always ensure all beverages have clear labeling, batch or ...
Before pickup and during cross-docking, stage ambient food in Cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from strong odors. Moisture-sensitive shelf-stable food must be kept off the flo...
Moisture-sensitive shelf-stable food demands A sealed inner barrier such as poly bags inside sturdy outer cartons. Most shippers recommend adding silica gel and using moisture-warning 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 Each item is properly cushioned and beverages are placed at the bottom of the carton. Our logistics team recommends using cell partitions for liquid items so that any leak does not contaminate surrounding dry food.
Most international shipments of packaged groceries will require Commercial invoices listing full product descriptions, HS codes, and values. Depending on the destination and type of snacks, you could be asked for manufacturer declarations and certificates of origin, especially for animal-derived ingredients.
For shelf-stable food with medium fragility and mixed dry food and bottled drinks, We recommend comprehensive cargo cover that includes damage from moisture and breakage. Be sure to accurately declare values of your snacks and record how goods are packed, as insurers may evaluate packaging quality when processing claims.
Most processed food and standard beverages Can be shipped in non-refrigerated transport as long as you keep them within labeled storage temperatures. Our team recommends checking manufacturer guidelines on temperature limits, especially for sensitive beverages, and scheduling moves to minimize exposure to very hot or very cold environments.
When shipping packaged food via ocean freight, it is essential to ensure that the cargo is kept at stable temperatures and protected from moisture to maintain product quality. Additionally, proper packaging is crucial to prevent damage during transit, and compliance with both Chinese and Indian food safety regulations is necessary.
The shipping of packaged food requires specific documentation including a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary health certificates or import permits as mandated by Indian customs regulations to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
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.
We encourage you to take the DNA “One Test Run Challenge” with a single shipment so we can demonstrate our visibility, reliability, and partnership-focused approach.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Shekou → Nhava Sheva shipping needs.
Talk to a logistics expert
Our team specializes in the Shekou to Nhava Sheva 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.