Key Shipment Details
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Mode of Transport | Sea Freight |
| Origin | Shenzhen, China |
| Destination | Los Angeles, USA |
| Commodity | Gold Leaf Marble |
| HS Code | 6802911000 |
| Packaging | 8 Wooden Crates |
| Weight | 4,905 kg |
| Volume | 6.68 CBM |
Gold leaf marble is a premium material used in high-end construction and interior design projects. Known for its luxurious aesthetic and durability, this shipment involved transporting 8 wooden crates of gold leaf marble slabs from Shenzhen, China, to Los Angeles, USA. This case study highlights the importance of meticulous packaging, detailed documentation, and efficient logistics to ensure the cargo’s safe and timely delivery.
Why Sea Freight for Gold Leaf Marble?
Cost-Effectiveness: Sea freight offers significant savings for heavy and bulky items like marble.
Secure Transport: Enclosed containers and robust packaging protect delicate goods from damage.
Efficient Handling: Specialized equipment ensures safe loading and unloading of heavy crates.
Logistics Workflow
1. Cargo Preparation and Packaging
Given the weight and fragility of marble slabs, proper preparation was critical:
Custom Wooden Crates: Each slab was packed in reinforced wooden crates to prevent movement and damage.
Cushioning Layers: Foam padding and moisture-resistant wrapping protected the marble from scratches and environmental factors.
Clear Labeling: Each crate was labeled with product details, the HS Code (6802911000), and handling instructions such as “Fragile” and “Keep Dry.”
2. Export Documentation and Customs Clearance
To ensure seamless export processing in Shenzhen, the following documents were prepared:
Commercial Invoice: Detailed product descriptions, weights, and declared values.
Packing List: Included crate dimensions and weight specifications.
Bill of Lading (B/L): Served as proof of shipment.
Customs Declaration: Completed with the accurate HS Code to avoid delays.
3. Sea Freight Transportation
The shipment was loaded into a 20-foot container:
Route: Shenzhen Port → Pacific Ocean → Port of Los Angeles
Transit Time: Approximately 20-25 days.
Container Handling: Crates were secured with heavy-duty straps to prevent shifting during transit.
4. Customs Clearance in Los Angeles
Upon arrival at the Port of Los Angeles:
Inspection: U.S. Customs reviewed the shipment against the provided documentation.
Duty Calculation: Duties were assessed based on the HS Code (6802911000) and declared value.
Release: The shipment cleared customs within 48 hours.
5. Final Delivery
After customs clearance, the container was transported to the client’s warehouse:
Local Transport: Delivered via specialized trucking services.
Timeline: Delivered within 2 days of customs release.
Condition: The gold leaf marble slabs arrived intact and ready for installation.
Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
| Fragility of the Marble | Used reinforced crates and internal padding for maximum protection. |
| Heavy Weight of Cargo | Leveraged specialized equipment for safe handling and loading. |
| Customs Compliance | Prepared detailed and accurate documentation to avoid clearance delays. |
Advantages of Sea Freight for Heavy Goods
Cost Savings: Ideal for transporting heavy and bulky items over long distances.
Reliable Schedules: Regular shipping routes ensure predictable delivery timelines.
Safety Measures: Containers provide protection from environmental and handling risks.
Sustainability: Sea freight has a lower carbon footprint compared to air transport.
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Procurement Guides
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Why Choose Tonlexing for Sea Freight?
Custom Packaging Solutions: Tailored to protect heavy and fragile goods.
Seamless Compliance: Expertise in export and import regulations ensures hassle-free clearance.
End-to-End Support: From pickup to final delivery, we manage every step of the process.
Real-Time Updates: Stay informed with tracking at every stage of the shipment.
This shipment of gold leaf marble slabs from Shenzhen to Los Angeles demonstrates the reliability and cost-effectiveness of Tonlexing’s sea freight solutions. With secure packaging, efficient customs clearance, and timely delivery, we ensure your cargo arrives in pristine condition.
Contact Tonlexing for your sea freight needs and explore our additional resources to optimize your logistics and procurement strategies.
