Shipping Simplified: Germany to Hong Kong for Large Items

Moving large items from Germany to Hong Kong can seem like a daunting task. Whether you’re relocating furniture, musical instruments, or sporting equipment, navigating international shipping regulations and finding the right service provider can be overwhelming. But fear not! This guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to ensure your large items arrive in Hong Kong safely and efficiently.

Truck with larger container

What is myGermany?

myGermany is a German company specializing in international package forwarding and logistics. They act as an intermediary, allowing you to shop online at German retailers and have your purchases shipped to your location in Hong Kong. They handle pick-up within Germany, consolidation (combining multiple packages for cost savings), customs clearance in Hong Kong, and even offer additional services like packing and insurance for your peace of mind.

Understanding Your Options

There are two primary methods for shipping large items from Germany to Hong Kong:

  • Ocean Freight (Sea Cargo): This is the most cost-effective option for large shipments, especially when dealing with items exceeding 100 kg. Ocean freight typically involves transporting goods via containerized cargo ships. You have the option to select either Full Container Load (FCL) or Less Than Container Load (LCL) services.
  • FCL: Ideal for large shipments that fill an entire container. Provides a more secure and faster transit time.
  • LCL:  ideal for smaller shipments that are combined with other goods in a shared container space. Costs less than FCL, but transit times might be longer.
  • Air Freight: While significantly faster than ocean freight, air cargo is generally more expensive. This option is best suited for items that are time-sensitive or too valuable to risk potential delays or damage during sea travel.

Considerations to Keep in Mind When Selecting a Shipping Service

Before selecting a shipping company, consider the following factors:

  • Cost: Compare rates offered by different providers for both ocean and air freight, considering FCL and LCL options for ocean freight. 
  • Transit Time: How quickly do you need your items to arrive in Hong Kong? If time is of the essence, air freight might be the better choice.
  • Item Size and Weight: Different shipping methods have weight and size limitations. Ensure your chosen service can accommodate your specific cargo.
  • Service Inclusions: Some companies offer additional services like packing, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery. Evaluate your needs and choose a service that fulfills them.
  • Reputation and Reviews: Research the reputation of potential shipping companies by reading online reviews and testimonials.

Packing Tips for Large Items

Proper packing is crucial for the safe transport of large items. Below are several important factors to bear in mind:

  • Disassemble if Possible: Whenever feasible, disassemble furniture or equipment into their constituent parts. This can significantly reduce the overall size and weight of your shipment, potentially lowering your shipping costs. Disassembling furniture also allows for more efficient packing within the confines of boxes, minimizing wasted space and preventing items from shifting during transport. For instance, you can remove legs from tables, detach cushions from sofas, and disassemble bookshelves. 
  • Use Sturdy Boxes: Invest in high-quality packing boxes specifically designed to handle the weight and potential impact of heavy items. Regular cardboard boxes might not be sufficient for large and weighty cargo. Opt for double-walled corrugated cardboard boxes that can withstand the rigors of international shipping. Look for boxes with a high weight capacity rating to ensure they can support the weight of your packed items.
  • Employ Ample Padding: Generously apply cushioning materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam padding to protect your items from bumps, vibrations, and potential jostling during transit.  Create a protective nest around your item within the box. Fill any empty spaces within the box with additional padding to prevent items from shifting and colliding during transport. 
  • Clearly Label Boxes: Clearly mark each box with its contents on multiple sides. This will aid in identification and proper handling during customs clearance and delivery. You can also include arrows indicating the appropriate upright position for boxes that should remain vertical during transport. Fragile items should be prominently labeled with “Fragile” markings to ensure careful handling.

Additional Resources

myGermany:  This website offers package forwarding services from Germany to various destinations, including Hong Kong. They can assist you with the entire shipping process, from pick-up in Germany to customs clearance in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department

International Air Transport Association (IATA): The IATA website provides valuable resources and information on air cargo regulations.

Conclusion:

By understanding your shipping options, considering relevant factors, and employing proper packing techniques, you can ensure your large items reach Hong Kong safely and efficiently. Don’t hesitate to leverage resources like myGermany or consult with experienced shipping companies to navigate the process with ease. With careful planning and the right partner, transporting your large items from Germany to Hong Kong can be a smooth and stress-free experience.

FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions

Can myGermany Pick-Up unpacked items in Germany & Pack it for international shipment?

Yes. We can pick up unpacked items with our dedicated driver. If your items are already packed (crates, pallets), we can use gathered trucks, which will be more cost effective. We can either ship directly to you, or get it into our warehouse where we check packaging and import/export conditions. We do pack, secure and support with export and customs formalities.

Can myGermany ship via Air, Sea, Road or Rail?

Yes. We do collaborate with several carriers and are able to provide you different shipping options via Air, Sea or Road. Best is to have the items in our warehouse where we understand packaging and export conditions in order to quote the international shipment.

Can myGermany handle the entire Pick-up process in Germany?

Yes. We handle the whole communication, payment and pick up if demanded. Please mind that articled need to be packed by the seller. Please also note that some articles are not in condition for an international transport, myGermany will check that upfront.We charge a 20,00 € standard fee for the Pick up Service (if higher pick-up costs occur, we will discuss with you before executing the pick up).

How do Freight Forwarding Services work?

myGermany can pick up your goods, consolidate them, pack them (e.g. build wooden crates or sea crates), prepare the shipping documents and then ship them via sea, air, rail or road.

We have a warehouse with ramp, forklift, high shelves and our employed carpenters can build packaging with ISSP certified wood.

Once we have the goods in our warehouse, we will discuss the packing and shipping options with you. Most of the time we still need to define or involve the customs agent in the receiving country. Once we agree, we find the appropriate aircraft or ships and book your goods onto them. You pay and advance and we initiate and control the shipment.

Taxes and customs duties in the receiving country are to be paid by you.

What are the Different Modes of freight transportation used?

We use Air, Road, Rail and Sea.
We collaborate with large carrier and cargo companies in order to find the perfect shipping option for you!

What Types of Cargo can be shipped through freight forwarding?

Almost everything which can legally be sent, please check here allowed goods.
And here some samples.

Do freight forwarders provide Customs Clearance Services?

Yes. We provide Export and Import Clearance Serices. We generate the export papers and also link you to customs brokers in your country, if needed.

Please check our Customs Clearance Services or Contact us.

What Documentation is required for freight forwarding?

We need
–  packaging list
– commercial or pro forma invoice
– eventually export declaration
– eventually export and import certificated (e.g. certificate of origin)
– eventually master safety data sheet (MSDS)
– eventually dangerous goods

myGermany will support / generate all of these.

What happens if there are Delays or Disruptions in the shipment?

If carriers face any issues, myGermany is informed and will handle it. Whatever is needed, we support to create, procure or submit it.

Delays will be actively communicated to you.

How can I Insure my cargo during transportation?

We can insure new items easily against damages and loss, it will be an additional cost.
Used items can be insured for loss only.

The insurance value is linked to the export value and cannot be higher than the export value.

Please contact us for details.

Can I consolidate Multiple Shipments into one Freight Container?

Yes you can. We gather your items here in our warehouse, store it until we have all things here to be shipped, and can consolidate/prepare/secure it in pallets, crates or containers to be shipped to you.

What Safety Measures are taken to Protect my cargo?

We have been working in the freight business since 2012 and employ freight packing specialists as well as carpenters to build sea chests.

We have shipped many things safely packed and demonstrably well kept, from antique old grandfather clocks, to pallets with glass vases, to entire kitchens and cars.

We use lashing straps, styrofoam, sea chests, inflatable container bags, hammer & nail to secure your goods.

Check here a few examples.

How do I file a Claim for lost or Damaged Cargo?

You contact us and we do coordinate or submit the claim to the carrier.
Please check here.

Can I schedule Specific Delivery times for my Freight?

Yes you can. Please contact us.

Do freight forwarders offer Warehousing & Distribution services?

Yes, we do.
Check our Warehouse Services.
Check our Fulfillment Services.

What are the typical Transit Times for different Shipping Routes?

If we ship by air, it is faster than by ship, but it is also more expensive. Basically, the farther away and heavier/larger the goods, the more expensive the shipping.

We work with DHL, DSV, DBSchenker, FedEx, UPS etc. and can often access standard routes for air and sea, which are accordingly cheap.

Basically: SEA / AIR / STREET
North America West Coast 30-40d / 2-8d / na
South America East Coast 20d / 2-9d / na
Europe 5-10d / 2-5d / 2-9d
Africa 20d / 4-12d / na
Asia 30-40d / 4-12d / na
Australia 27-35d / 4-8d / na

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