Spare parts for a vessel in international trade can often move under "ship's spares in transit" arrangements. Handled correctly, they reach the vessel without import duties and without waiting for a full customs entry.
Handled badly, the same parts can be held in a warehouse while documents are corrected, sometimes until after the vessel has sailed.
What usually needs to be right
- Vessel name, IMO number and the port and date of call
- A consignee marked "for the vessel" or care of the ship's agent
- Commercial invoice and packing list that match the boxes exactly, by piece count and weight
- Shipping marks on every package that match the documents
Requirements differ by country and port, so the ship's agent should confirm them in advance. We prepare the invoice, packing list and shipping marks for every consignment and coordinate with the agent before dispatch.