I'm shipping goods abroad for the first time. What do I need to know before I start a process?

For the shipping of a full container load (FCL):

1. Loading address - the location where the cargo will be picked up.

2. Discharge address - the location where the cargo must be delivered.

3. Type of container.

4. Commodity Description – as much information as possible regarding the cargo (weight, volume, regime requirements, other characteristics).

5. Loading date - the day on which the goods will be packed and ready to ship.

6. Rate idea - if any.

7. Contact details for loading and discharging.

8. Shipping instructions (Shipper’s Company Name, Consignee’s Company Name - for preparing the shipping documents).

For the shipping of a LCL Consolidated Shipment:

1. Loading address - the location of the cargo pick-up.

2. Discharge address - the location where the goods must be dumped off.

3. Container Type.

4. Commodity Description – Provide as much information as possible regarding the shipment (weight, volume, regime requirements, other characteristics).

5. Loading date - the day when the goods will be packaged and ready to ship.

6. Rate idea - if any.

7. Contact details for loading and discharging.

8. Shipping instructions (Shipper's Company Name, Consignee's Company Name – for preparing shipping documents).

9. Packing Type.

For the shipping of a hazardous cargo:

1. Loading address - the location of the cargo pick-up.

2. Discharge address - the location where the goods must be dumped off.

3. Container Type.

4. Commodity Description – Provide as much information as possible regarding the shipment (weight, volume, regime requirements, other characteristics).

5. Loading date - the day when the goods will be packaged and ready to ship.

6. Rate idea - if any.

7. Contact details for loading and discharging.

8. Shipping instructions (Shipper's Company Name, Consignee's Company Name – for preparing shipping documents).

9. MSDS file or UN number of the cargo.

For the shipping of a bulk cargo:

1. Charterers' name/background/recently fixed vessel's names.

2. Laydays/cancelling.

3. Delivery place.

4. Cargo name, quantity, and packaging, if any.

5. When will the shipment be ready at the loading port?

6. Loading/discharging rates (metric tons per day).