International Shipping Guide

At Al Basmah International Shipping, we aim to simplify the international shipping process for our clients by providing a comprehensive guide that explains the steps for shipping from the United Arab Emirates to the Gulf countries, the Middle East, and worldwide. Whether you are shipping personal belongings, commercial goods, or furniture, this guide covers everything you need to understand the process, from preparation to delivery, including required documents, tips to avoid delays, and how to track your shipment. With our integrated services covering air, sea, and land freight, we are here to ensure a seamless and reliable shipping experience. Contact us via WhatsApp (+971 55 764 3821) or visit our website albasmuh.com for personalized support.

International Shipping Guide: Step by Step

1. Identifying the Shipment Type and Requirements

  • What Are You Shipping?
    • Documents: Such as contracts or official papers requiring expedited shipping.
    • Small Parcels: Gifts, clothing, or small commercial products (up to 30 kg).
    • Furniture or Large Goods: Household furniture, appliances, or commercial cargo.
    • Sensitive Items: Such as non-perishable food or medications (may require refrigerated shipping).
  • Tip: Check the destination’s customs restrictions (e.g., prohibited items like flammable materials or weapons). Contact us via WhatsApp (+971 55 764 3821) to confirm the eligibility of your items for shipping.

2. Choosing the Shipping Method

  • Air Freight:
    • Suitable for: Documents, urgent parcels, and small shipments (up to 30 kg).
    • Delivery Time: 1-3 days for Gulf countries, 2-7 days for the Middle East, 4-10 days for global destinations.
    • Example: Shipping documents to Riyadh or a small parcel to Cairo.
  • Land Freight:
    • Suitable for: Furniture, appliances, and medium-sized goods to Gulf countries and some Middle Eastern countries.
    • Delivery Time: 2-7 days for Gulf countries, 5-10 days for Jordan or Iraq.
    • Example: Transporting household furniture to Doha or Kuwait.
  • Sea Freight:
    • Suitable for: Containers, large furniture, and heavy commercial cargo.
    • Delivery Time: 7-14 days for Gulf countries, 10-20 days for the Middle East, 20-40 days for global destinations.
    • Example: Shipping a 20-foot container to Egypt or Europe.
  • Tip: Choose the shipping method based on urgency and budget. Request a quote via albasmuh.com to determine the most suitable option.

3. Preparing the Shipment

  • Packaging:
    • Use sturdy packaging materials (e.g., reinforced cardboard or wooden crates) to protect fragile shipments.
    • Request Al Basmah’s packaging service for an additional fee (50-200 AED depending on size).
  • Documentation: Prepare the following documents:
    • Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value and contents of the shipment.
    • Packing List: Itemizing the shipment’s contents.
    • Certificate of Origin: Required for some destinations (e.g., Gulf countries).
    • Special Documents: Such as prescriptions for medications or permits for sensitive items.
  • Tip: Ensure the sender and recipient’s details (name, address, phone number) are accurately provided to avoid delays.

4. Requesting the Shipment

  • How to Book:
    • Online: Visit albasmuh.com and fill out the shipping request form.
    • Via WhatsApp: Contact us at (+971 55 764 3821) with shipment details (weight, size, destination).
    • Office Visit: Stop by our headquarters using Google Maps.
  • Request a Quote: Provide shipment details (weight, size, type of goods, destination) for an accurate cost estimate.
  • Tip: Opt for insurance for valuable shipments (1-3% of the shipment’s value) to ensure compensation in case of damage or loss.

5. Customs Clearance

  • What is Customs Clearance?: The process of completing legal procedures to allow the shipment to enter the destination country.
  • Required Documents:
    • Commercial Invoice and Packing List.
    • Certificate of Origin (if required).
    • Special permits for certain items (e.g., medications or electronics).
  • Al Basmah’s Role: We provide customs clearance services for a fee (100-500 AED depending on the destination).
  • Tip: Check the destination’s customs regulations in advance (e.g., duties on furniture or electronics). Contact us for guidance.

6. Tracking the Shipment

  • How to Track:
    • After shipment confirmation, you will receive a tracking link via email or WhatsApp.
    • Enter the tracking number on our website albasmuh.com to monitor the shipment’s status.
  • Updates: We provide real-time updates (e.g., “Received,” “In Transit,” “Delivered”).
  • Tip: In case of delays, contact us via WhatsApp (+971 55 764 3821) to check the shipment’s status.

7. Receiving the Shipment

  • Delivery Options:
    • Door-to-Door: Delivery directly to the recipient’s address.
    • Port-to-Port: The recipient collects the shipment from the port or airport at the destination.
  • Customs Fees: The recipient is responsible for customs duties as per the destination’s regulations.
  • Tip: Ensure someone is available to receive the shipment at the specified address to avoid delays.

Tips to Avoid Delays

  1. Check Customs Restrictions: Ensure the shipment does not contain prohibited items (e.g., flammable materials or weapons).
  2. Prepare Documents in Advance: Provide all required documents to expedite customs clearance.
  3. Choose the Right Shipping Method: Use air freight for urgent shipments or land/sea freight for large shipments to save costs.
  4. Proper Packaging: Protect fragile shipments with sturdy packaging to avoid damage.
  5. Continuous Tracking: Monitor your shipment regularly via the tracking link to address any unexpected issues.

Why Choose Al Basmah for International Shipping?

  • Extensive Coverage: We ship to Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain), the Middle East (Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon), and over 200 global destinations.
  • Integrated Services: From packaging and customs clearance to delivery and tracking.
  • Customer Support: Our team is available via WhatsApp (+971 55 764 3821) to answer your inquiries.
  • Competitive Pricing: We offer promotions such as a 20% discount on group shipments and free shipping for promotional parcels (up to 5 kg).

How to Get Started

  1. Request a Quote: Visit albasmuh.com or contact us via WhatsApp (+971 55 764 3821).
  2. Prepare Your Shipment: Ensure proper packaging and documentation.
  3. Track Your Shipment: Use the tracking link to monitor the shipment until delivery.
  4. Visit Us: Stop by our headquarters via Google Maps to discuss your shipping needs.

Important Notes

  • Customs Restrictions: Regulations vary by destination. Check requirements before shipping.
  • Delivery Time: Delivery times are approximate and may be affected by customs or weather conditions.
  • Insurance: We recommend opting for insurance for valuable shipments to protect your investment.
  • Updates: Follow our accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for additional tips and the latest offers.

Conclusion

With Al Basmah International Shipping, international shipping becomes a simple and reliable process. Our comprehensive guide is designed to assist you at every step, from preparing your shipment to receiving it at the destination. Whether you’re shipping to the Gulf, the Middle East, or anywhere in the world, we are here to provide integrated shipping services with the highest quality standards. Contact us today via WhatsApp (+971 55 764 3821) or visit albasmuh.com to get started. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest tips and offers. Thank you for trusting Al Basmah International Shipping!