Despite careful packaging and trusted carriers, shipments often face unforeseen challenges, especially in e-commerce. From rough handling to unpredictable weather, many risks can jeopardize the safe delivery of your goods. For businesses, losing a shipment can result in not just financial losses but also the erosion of client trust and long-term relationships.

You may assume that standard shipping insurance has you covered, but in reality, it’s the opposite. For instance, most freight bookings only reimburse $2 per pound for damaged goods. If you’re shipping high-value items, that coverage barely scratches the surface. As a business person, you can easily imagine losing a shipment worth thousands of dollars and getting a payout in pennies. That doesn’t even cover the cost of a single unit.

These challenges are all too common, but the good news is there are ways to protect your shipments. 

When Are Shipments at Risk?

Shipping goods to another city, let alone another country, isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Every shipment goes through a complex process that often involves multiple handlers, carriers, and checkpoints. This journey naturally creates risks and exposes your goods, many of which are beyond your control.

Physical Damage: 

First and foremost, the damage caused by rough handling. Packages are being dropped, improperly stacked, or crushed during transit by the authorities (This often occurs due to high workloads and operational pressures). Thousands of containers due to this mishandling are lost or damaged at sea each year.

Extreme weather, such as storms, heavy rain, or extreme heat, poses a major threat to shipments. Water damage from leaks or flooding can destroy entire loads. Perishable goods are particularly vulnerable to temperature changes if refrigerated containers fail.

Theft and Pilferage:

Cargo theft remains a significant concern, especially for high-value items like electronics, luxury goods, or pharmaceuticals. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, theft from trucks is one of the most reported cargo crimes in the U.S.

Lost Shipments:

Logistics errors, misrouting, or delays at ports can result in goods being lost or delayed indefinitely. In 2022 alone, the rise in shipping volumes led to higher incidents of mismanaged freight, leaving businesses scrambling to locate their goods.

These risks aren’t just theoretical; they happen every day and impact businesses of all sizes. By understanding these challenges, you can identify weak points in your shipping process and take proactive measures to protect your goods. In the next section, we’ll look at practical steps you can take to ensure your shipments are safe, secure, and on track.

How to Protect Your Shipments (with a Focus on Customs Brokerage in USA)

Once you’re aware of the risks, proactive steps can make a significant difference in ensuring your shipments arrive safely. Whether you’re shipping within the USA or across international borders, these strategies can help you avoid delays, damage, and unexpected costs.

Prioritize Proper Packaging

Strong packaging is the foundation of shipment protection. Use durable boxes, protective padding, and waterproof liners to guard against damage during transit. Invest in custom packaging designed to withstand rough handling for fragile or high-value items. Properly sealed packages prevent damage and make a good impression at customs inspections.

Double-Check Your Documentation

Incomplete or incorrect paperwork is a top cause of shipment delays in the USA. Do your paperwork and make sure that invoices, bills of lading, and product descriptions are accurate and complete. For international shipments, include all necessary customs forms to meet border security requirements. A licensed customs broker like Clearit USA helps you to keep everything in order before your goods are shipped.

Work with Trusted Carriers

Select carriers with proven experience in shipping to and from the USA. Look for ones that provide tracking services so you can monitor your shipment in real-time. Reliable carriers also reduce the risk of lost or mishandled goods.

Partner with a Customs Broker

Customs processes can be complex, especially with evolving trade regulations in the USA. Clearit USA Customs Broker can manage the clearance process and ensure compliance with evolving border security requirements. They can also help identify potential duty exemptions or tariff reductions under shipping agreements.