Sample Shipments - Flegenheimer International

header_shrimp Samples are probably one of the most critical variables to an importer’s success in marketing their commodities. All future sales and distribution often rest on how samples are delivered to clients. While sample shipments are often small and relatively insignificant in terms of size and value, many contingent sales rest on their viability and expediency of delivery. Since one sample shipment can represent millions of dollars in sales to an importer it is important that your samples are handled properly. Flegenheimer International can handle all the logistics once your sample arrives at LAX. We will clear all appropriate government agencies, arrange for airport pick up, arrange for chilled or frozen storage if needed and coordinate delivery. We can also arrange for your sample to be broken down and delivered to multiple customers anywhere in the US.

Confusion often arises as how US Customs classifies samples. Despite the fact they are small and carry little or no value they still qualify as a commercial shipment. The same paperwork which applies to larger shipment and full containers applies to sample shipments. This includes: commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill, certificates required by CBP and FDA prior notice. Importers must declare each product in the sample and list it on the commercial invoice. There may be one box containing ten different types of seafood yet each item must be broken down on the invoice with weights and values for each.

In short ensuring samples are properly handled is smart business when it comes to importing your perishable commodities. Let one of our import specialists assist you with your next sample shipment.