Shipping heavy items internationally: A guide to streamline the process

Vietnam’s export rates saw a rise in 2024, with manufactured and processed goods accounting for 84.7% of its total exports¹. Some of the key products sold included machinery, wood products, and textiles. 

Incidentally, many of these products fall under heavy goods shipping, underscoring the importance of efficient bulk shipping services for global trade to flow smoothly². 

If you’re engaging in international trade for these goods, you’ll want to secure a stable and effective shipping method for long-term success. Read on to discover the essential considerations for bulk shipments and why DHL Express delivery can ensure a streamlined experience when shipping from Vietnam.

What is heavy goods shipping?

Heavy goods shipping involves the transportation of items that go beyond the typical dimensions and weight limits of standard parcels. Often, these bulk shipments also necessitate specialized handling due to their weight, size, and fragile nature. 

For many businesses, particularly when dealing with valuable machinery, specialized equipment, or high-value components, the inherent cost of these goods often justifies opting for express shipping services. These premium services ensure the secure and timely transit of such items.

Types of goods involved

Heavy goods shipping encompasses a range of items essential for various industries. Here are some common examples:

• Machinery like industrial printers and CNC machines.
• Industrial equipment like hydraulic presses and specialized robotics.
• Construction materials like steel beams, precast concrete, and large pipes.
• Energy sector equipment, including transformers and wind turbine blades.
• Aerospace components and aviation equipment, such as jet engines and fuselage sections.
• Heavy electrical equipment like large generators and high-voltage switchgear.
• Large appliances like commercial-grade refrigerators, ovens, and laundry machines.
• Railway components ranging from locomotives to railway carriages.
• Agricultural implements and structures like tractors and irrigation systems.
• Medical equipment, such as MRI and CT scanners.
• Telecommunication equipment like cellular towers and satellite dishes.

Key markets reliant on heavyweight shipping

Major global trading nations like China, the United States, South Korea, and Japan rely significantly on the efficient movement of heavy goods to sustain their economies. Notably, these are also key export markets for Vietnam, with the following export turnovers in 2024¹:

• United States: US$98.4 billion
• China: US$50.8 billion 
• South Korea: US$21 billion
• Japan: US$20.1 billion 

Given these substantial trade volumes, reliable bulk shipping services are indispensable for maintaining Vietnam’s international trade flow, supporting its diverse industries, and effectively fulfilling market demands.

What is the best way to ship heavy items? 

If you’re seeking a fast and dependable solution for international bulk shipments, express shipping stands out as one of the best options, offering enhanced stability and reliability in the logistics process.

Stability

Unlike sea freight, which can be susceptible to disruptions caused by weather anomalies and port congestion, express shipping's primary reliance on air and land transportation offers greater resilience. 

Consequently, express shipping services, such as DHL Express, can ensure your valuable bulk shipments are delivered with minimal delays. Our swift and efficient services help your parcel arrive safely and on time, allowing your business operations to remain on schedule and minimizing disruptions.

Speed

As part of express shipping, time-definite deliveries are a premium option that guarantees delivery by a specified time, even for substantial bulk shipments. 

We provide such options, including services like DHL Express 9:00, 10:30, and 12:00, which assure you that your cross-border bulk shipments will be delivered by the indicated time on the next possible business day. 

This speed is crucial for business continuity, enabling you to maintain smooth production lines, meet critical deadlines, and fulfill your customers’ demands. 

Cost

Express shipping often features a transparent, all-in-one pricing structure, offering cost stability. This is unlike freight forwarding, which can involve unexpected hidden costs for services like export documentation and airport handling. 

With upfront costs, your business won’t encounter unforeseen price increases during the shipping process, empowering you to plan your shipping expenses with greater confidence.

Customs

Navigating customs regulations is a critical aspect of smoothly shipping heavy items internationally. This often involves accurate documentation, proper Harmonized System (HS) goods classification, and adherence to the destination country’s trade regulations. 

The customs expertise offered by express shipping providers can significantly streamline this complex process. For instance, DHL Express’ MyDHL+ platform guides businesses through the necessary steps and documentation required for efficient customs clearance, minimizing potential delays and ensuring compliance. 

End-to-end Visibility

Shipment tracking is vital, providing peace of mind for your business and customers as you can monitor your bulk shipments throughout the entire shipping journey. 

For example, MyDHL+ provides real-time visibility and transparency, empowering you to estimate delivery times accurately. This enhanced tracking enables better operational planning and proactive communication with your customers regarding their DHL heavy parcels.

Customer service

Even with the best planning, challenges like customs clearance issues or unexpected delays can still arise when shipping bulky items internationally. In such cases, access to responsive and knowledgeable customer service is crucial. 

Express shipping addresses this need by providing dedicated support. At DHL Express, our team of certified specialists possesses the expertise to help you navigate any hurdles encountered during the process, ensuring a smoother experience for your shipments. 

How to prepare and ship heavy items internationally

1. Choose the right shipping service partner

Selecting the right shipping partner is a critical first step toward a seamless bulky item shipping experience. With the necessary expertise, they provide invaluable support in navigating shipping requirements and challenges.

For example, DHL Express possesses significant experience in international shipping and a robust global network that ensures your bulk shipments will be handled effectively. With our services, you can expect your items to arrive safely at their final destinations, regardless of size or weight. 

2. Understand and comply with shipping regulations

Adhering to shipping regulations is essential, especially when dealing with heavy and bulky items for international shipping. Pay attention to the following areas to avoid delays and penalties and to ensure the safety of your cargo:

• Prohibited and restricted items: Be aware of goods that cannot be shipped or require special permits, such as certain chemicals or wildlife products.
• Weight and size limitations: Ensure your bulk shipments comply with the maximum allowable dimensions and weight specified by the shipping provider and destination country.
• Hazardous material handling: If shipping dangerous goods, adhere strictly to regulations regarding packaging, labeling, and documentation to ensure safety.

3. Package for transportation

Proper packaging is paramount to protect bulky items and ensure their integrity throughout the journey. Consider these guidelines for packing bulky shipments:

• Use durable crates made of wood or reinforced cardboard to withstand the rigors of international transit.
• Include adequate cushioning with bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts to absorb shocks.
• Secure items within the container using straps, bracing, or dividers to prevent internal shifting.
• Apply waterproof covers or linings, especially for items sensitive to moisture, to protect against rain and humidity.
• Affix clear and durable labels with complete sender and recipient information, handling instructions, and necessary customs declarations.
• Tailor your packaging approach to the unique shape and size of non-standard items.
• Ensure even weight distribution within the packaging to prevent instability and damage during transit.
• Secure against theft with strong tape on all openings and use tamper-evident seals or locks for high-value bulk shipments.

4. Ensure accurate documentation for customs 

Accurate and complete documentation provides customs authorities with essential information about your shipment, ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations and facilitating timely clearance. Here are the key documents you'll typically need for your DHL heavy parcel:

• Commercial invoice: Details the transaction, including the goods description, value, buyer, and seller.
• Bill of lading: Serves as a receipt for the shipment, a contract of carriage, and a document of title.
• Packing list: Provides a detailed inventory of the package contents, including weights and dimensions.
• Export license: Depending on the nature of the goods and the destination country, this may be required for legal bulk shipments.
• Certificate of origin: Certifies the country where the goods were manufactured, which may affect applicable tariffs.
• Insurance certificate: This protects against loss or damage during international shipping.

DHL Express: Your partner for bulk shipments

Shipping heavy items internationally demands meticulous preparation and the support of experienced partners. While it’s a significant undertaking, DHL Express offers the expertise, global reach, and comprehensive international shipping solutions to ensure your valuable cargo is handled safely and effectively. 

Streamline your bulk shipping experience while focusing on your core business – open a business account with us today.