Shipping from Germany to USA-Step by Step Guide

Worldwide shipping of goods is an expensive business, especially during the peak season. The route between Germany to the USA is termed the busiest when it comes to a profitable trade. The industry mainly depends on the accessible ocean and air cargo port services located within both these countries. When shipping from Germany to the United States, an important tip is to book early transit of goods, ensuring business owners negotiate at low-cost rates. Let us analyze further and find the easiest way to dispatch products from German freight port to USA freight port: 

Before we get into the details, here are some valuable tips to remember before shipping any goods from Germany to the USA:

Advanced booking: Always look for discounts and cut the delays by booking your freight in advance. Sending packages or large goods via the sea route is the safest and also cheap. 

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Keep it Off-Peak: Shipping during the off-peak season is more profitable since seasonal perks are added to the shipping and transit during the busy period. 

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Know what you pay for: Most of the time, customers and business owners are filled with surprise with the change in the custom prices from port to port. Keep track of all the documents you need at the customs, compare prices with various suppliers and package dealers to book at the best rate. While booking, keep an eye on the details like the service door-to-door and includes other benefits. Research well to avoid last-minute budget jumps. 

Cost to Ship from Germany to the USA

It costs an average of $2,191 to ship a 40-foot container from Germany to the USA during peak season. The final cost depends on several factors:

Weight and Size

Heavier and larger packages cost more to ship. The average prices based on weight and size are:

• Sea freight LCL (200kg/1cbm) - $757
• Air freight (200kg/1cbm) - $1,480
• Express delivery (50kg/0.2cbm) - $416

Location

Shipping costs are lower if loading and unloading occur at ports. Prices increase if goods are shipped to or from central locations in Germany or the USA.

Speed

Faster shipping options cost more:

• Express: 1-4 business days
• Air freight: 7-15 days
• Sea freight: 43-47 days

When to Ship for Lowest Cost

Ship outside peak season and watch for rate drops in the last two weeks of each month when shipping companies aim to fill capacity.

Required Shipping Documents

Proper documentation is essential for smooth shipping between Germany and the USA. Key documents include:

• Commercial Invoice
• Certificate of Origin
• Safety Data Sheets
• Booking Confirmation
• Shipper's Instructions
• Bill of Lading
• Letter of Credit

These documents verify the goods, facilitate customs clearance, and protect all parties in case of damage, loss or disputes.

Best Shipping Ports

In Germany, the best ports are Hamburg, Bremerhaven and Bremen. In the USA, top ports are Los Angeles, New York and Houston.

Compare rates across shipping companies for the best price.

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