International Shipping

[Tyler S.]

All,

My team is in the middle of logistical planning for the Formula ATA competition in Italy this fall. I've been reading through the forums and have found a lot of useful information, but I was hoping people could fill in some cracks.

I know there's a lot to consider in the design and construction of a crate that needs to survive an overseas haul. Is it typical for teams to design and build their own crate, or do teams usually outsource this to a professional company? Also, when I think shipping, three companies come to mind: FedEx, UPS, and DHL. Does anyone have a strong opinion of one over another in regards to price, quality, reliability, etc.? Any other company recommendations? Any general suggestions? All information is greatly appreciated.

-Tyler

[Tyler S.]

All,

My team is in the middle of logistical planning for the Formula ATA competition in Italy this fall. I've been reading through the forums and have found a lot of useful information, but I was hoping people could fill in some cracks.

I know there's a lot to consider in the design and construction of a crate that needs to survive an overseas haul. Is it typical for teams to design and build their own crate, or do teams usually outsource this to a professional company? Also, when I think shipping, three companies come to mind: FedEx, UPS, and DHL. Does anyone have a strong opinion of one over another in regards to price, quality, reliability, etc.? Any other company recommendations? Any general suggestions? All information is greatly appreciated.

-Tyler

[Leibi]

Hi Tyler,

there are some pictures of our crate for Michigan on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.320656301306126.71261.251958831509207&type=3).
We found a sponsor (company, which builds suchs export crates the whole day) to build the crate for us. You need special impregnated wood for the crate.

Regards,
Leibi

[bob.paasch]

We also use a crate company to build our crates for us. The wood used has to be certified pest free to go into the EU. The crates are reasonable, usually less than $500. IMHO, it's not worth the potential holdup in EU customs to build your own.

In past years, we have used Stevens Global Logistics to ship our car from the US to Europe and back. We ship airfreight, the airlines have their own set of requirements with respect to hazardous and flammable materials, especially liquids. Make sure your carnet is accurate, any mistakes can result in problems in customs.