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Sea freight shipping is an affordable and environmentally-friendly shipping alternative for shipping items internationally for multiple reasons. Here’s what you should keep in mind when deciding if sea freight is the best shipping alternative for your company.

Your Costs

The costs for shipping items via sea freight are some of the most affordable shipping rates available. When shipping internationally and or with large and heavy items, the average cost of sea freight shipping can be as much as four to six times cheaper when compared to other types of shipping methods.

If you have a small shipment that doesn’t require an entire container, you can group your items with other shippers’ goods to reduce your expenses even more.

Your Shipping Options

Another advantage of sea freight is that there are minimal restrictions about what items you can ship. Sea freight can accommodate heavy or oversized items that can’t be transported using other shipping methods.

Since ships are designed to safely transport dangerous or volatile cargo, they’re an excellent option for safely shipping items that are potentially dangerous. Your items will be sealed and locked to ensure they’re not a danger to the ship’s crew during their travels.

Your Potential Destinations

Sea freight allows you to ship items across the globe. If you need to ship items to a destination that’s difficult to reach, sea freight is a reliable shipping method that ensures that your items get there safely.

Your Ideal Environmental Impact

If you like to utilize practices that minimize your impact on the environment, sea freight is generally regarded as one of the most environmentally friendly shipping methods.

Ships have lower carbon footprints and fewer gas emissions than other shipping methods. New technology continues to make new ships even less detrimental to the environment.

Get Started with Sea Freight Shipping

Ready to start using sea freight shipping to transport your goods? Contact AMR Group at 702-800-6385 or request a rate online today.

Trade shows are essential for new and established businesses to connect with customers and network with other companies. Choosing the right trade show shipping company makes all the difference in a stress-free trade show. Instead of worrying about your materials making it to the right booth on time, use these tips to choose a shipping company you can trust.  

Tips for Choosing the Right Trade Show Freight Forwarders

Not All Shipping Companies Are Equal
A company that focuses on trade show shipping knows the ins and outs of the process. They should also have experience shipping all over the world and be able to offer you over one kind of shipping service to meet your needs. The right trade show freight forwarders will offer:

• Air Freight: Send items with a short turnaround.
• Sea Freight: Ideal for large items in situations where you have plenty of time. 
• Truckload & LTL Shipping: Gets your products from ports to the final destination.
• Warehouse Storage: Never worry about where to put your goods between shows.
• Shipment Tracking: Check to see where your cargo is and when it’s expected to arrive.

Once you’ve picked the right trade show shipping company, you can focus on your business and the show, rather than stressing about where your products are and if they’ll arrive in time. 

Mitigate Drayage & Marshal Yard Fees
Two factors that your shipping company won’t have direct control over are drayage (materials handling between the truck and your booth), and fees from waiting in the marshaling yard to unload the truck. 

A local union will usually perform drayage, and experienced trade show shipping companies will have standing face-to-face relationships with the union. Good relationships can prevent misunderstandings during the last leg of shipment and make sure your products get to the booth without delay or incident. 

Long-standing shipping companies delivering multiple truckloads may get the standard marshal yard fees discounted or waived. You can rely on an experienced shipping company to navigate these fees and processes.

Experience and Outreach
A shipping company with thousands of events served in over sixty countries has more than just experience. They also have a wide network of partners working for you to make sure your shipment arrives safe and on time, as expected. Experienced agents can move your shipment with efficiency across the globe, so you don’t have to deal with paperwork and multiple points of contact. When a shipping company is working worldwide, you can trust they’ll know where your cargo is and when it should arrive.

Focus on Customer Service 
When your business is counting on high quality displays to connect with customers and businesses, expect 24-hour-customer-help via both phone and email. A staff agent should be on-hand to make sure your shipment gets to the right booth and provide support for you and your team. No matter where in the world your trade show might be. 

AMR Group is a top choice for exhibitors looking to hire trade show freight forwarders for both domestic and international trade shows. Contact us at 702-800-6385 to discuss your needs, or request a free, online quote.

As a beginner, tradeshow shipping can be a daunting task. You need to find a tradeshow and event logistics partner, familiarize yourself with shipping regulations and ensure your cargo gets to the desired destination in time. Although overseeing tradeshow & events logistics can be quite difficult, you can still get all your exhibition materials delivered successfully. Here’s what you need to know in order for your first tradeshow shipping to go on smoothly.

1. Have All Important Information
Before shipping your goods, get your facts right about all the important details concerning your tradeshow and shipping. Know all the deadlines to ensure you meet them and avoid penalties and fines. These include stipulated move-in and move-out dates, as well as the stipulated times for both advance warehouse shipments and those to be shipped directly to the show.

Knowing your dates lets you know how much time you have so you can prepare materials and shipments adequately. Also, familiarize yourself with shipping regulations to ensure you acquire the right permits; although this can be handled by your tradeshow & event logistics partner. Make sure you have the contacts of your carrier’s customer care, general contractor and the show decorator, just in case problems arise.

2. Have a Packing List of All the Necessary Items
Prepare a packing list for all the necessary items you are going to need for your tradeshow, and ensure you pack them all. Don’t forget to include staples and staplers, markers, shrink wrappers and scissors to help you unpack and set up your booth much faster.

Use packaging materials that stand out, and label your event pieces appropriately for easy identification. Also, carry along your shipping information so it can be easy to track your cargo in case of any delays.

3. Ship to An Advanced Warehouse
You have two options when shipping your materials in preparation for your tradeshow: shipping to an advance warehouse or shipping directly to the show site. If your materials arrive early, you can ship them to an advanced warehouse where they’ll be kept until the day of the show. When shipping to the show site, your materials are delivered directly to the venue.

It is recommended to always ship to an advanced warehouse. You’ll have more time to rectify any issues with your freight and prepare for your exhibition. Goods shipped to an advanced warehouse are also prioritized when unloading and are attended before those shipped to the show site directly.

4. Material Handling/Drayage Costs
Material handling/drayage refers to the transit of goods to and from the tradeshow venue. When budgeting for your tradeshow, ensure you factor in drayage costs which may vary depending on the type of shipment, time and the amount of handling needed. Drayage cost not only includes transportation, but also clearing and storage if empty cartons after you have set up your booth.

To avoid incurring high costs, ensure your shipment’s details are correct and that you observe the stipulated dates and deadlines for deliveries and move-ins. Also, you can ship small boxes on a pallet, or consolidate all your materials and avoid shipping in multiple small boxes.

Contact Our Tradeshow & Event Logistics Company Today

It goes without saying that the success of your shipping depends on the tradeshow & event logistics partner you work with. AMR Group has all the needed expertise and professionalism to successfully deliver your exhibition materials globally. Contact us today to get a customized shipping rate and learn more about how we can help you.

Even the most experienced business travelers are often challenged when it comes to planning for tradeshows. Hundreds of companies from different countries attend these events, so you must put your best foot forward to avoid wasting time and money. Here are practical travel tips for your next tradeshow.

Charge All Electronics Before Traveling
Nowadays, you want to stay connected with friends and business partners at all times, because anything can happen. You can’t risk being inaccessible when people need you most. Charge your gadgets before leaving the house.

Pack Wisely
Check the weather forecast as well. The weather will dictate which type of clothes you need. In addition, remember to check to see if there is a dress code for the tradeshow.

Packing a mobile pantry is also a great decision. Tradeshows often mean long days for exhibitors. Keeping snacks on-hand will help you stay focused and energized throughout the day. Better yet, bring snacks for your entire booth team! They will love you for it. Keep in mind that for international shows you should try to carry these items in your luggage instead of shipping.

Plan for Transportation Fare
Traveling to convention centers from airports can be tricky. A cab is an excellent means of transportation, but it can be expensive. Public transit systems, such as buses or trains, are cheaper and often safer, as there are more people around. Apps like Uber and Lyft are also ideal because they are often cheaper than taxis and their apps offer security features to ensure you have a safe ride.

Ship Your Exhibit Materials Early
The best thing you can do to prepare for a tradeshow is ship your event items early, so they arrive before you do. AMR Group is one of the leading tradeshow logistics companies in the world. We have a secure international connection of agents and partners and are ready to assist with all of your shipping needs. Contact us today at 702-800-6385 to learn more.

Customs bonds and ATA Carnets are two options for saving money on your shipment to the U.S. Both options serve as a security for payment of fees, duties and taxes, as well as compliance with U.S. law. The bond is meant to protect the U.S. government in case an importer fails to pay penalties and duties after the release of goods or when they are in CBP custody. It also speeds up the clearance. Obtaining a customs bond may be a vital part of international tradeshow shipping to the U.S.

If you don’t properly prepare for the bond, you could face serious problems. It is crucial to ensure that it meets specific minimum requirements. Your shipment cannot clear U.S. customs if the bond is not executed correctly.

Types of Customs Bonds

Single Entry Bond
This type of customs bond covers only one custom entry. The bonds are calculated on the value of duties, merchandise, taxes, and fees. Typically, the cost of this type of bond is based on the total value of the merchandise.

Continuous Bond
This bond covers all entries made by the importer at U.S. ports of entry. $50,000 is the minimum liability charge for a continuous bond. The validity of these bonds is 1 year. If you have either high value items or plan to ship multiple times to U.S. shows this option may be best.

Important tip: If you are a regular shipper, develop your account relationship with CBP. Having a clean record with customs will help speed up clearance in some cases.

Why Importers Need a Customs Bond

When importing, you are only sure of taxes and duties. The government requires you to have a bond, so it guarantees your taxes and duties are paid even when your company can’t pay due to extreme events, such as bankruptcy. Bonds cover all shipments traveling by truck, air or water. If you are not covered, you may encounter severe delays or face fines.

How to Choose a Bond Provider for Your International Tradeshow Shipping Needs

Not all customs bonds are created equal, whether your volume suggests a Single-transaction Bond or a Continuous Bond. The insurance carrier sets the cost of your bond, not customs. If you are planning for international tradeshow shipping, it is advisable to purchase bonds through reputable and highly knowledgeable providers. Doing so will not only allow you to obtain competitive rates, but will also give you peace of mind.

Choosing a bond depends on how often you import goods. A Single-transaction Bond is an excellent choice if you occasionally import (less than 3 times annually). The best investment for those who ship frequently is the Continuous Bond.

Understanding customs bonds and ATA Carnets can be complicated, which is why it’s beneficial to work with an international tradeshow shipping company, as they can handle all documentation for you. Contact us today at 702-800-6385 to get a quote.

Deadlines are crucial in tradeshows, and you need to be able to trust your materials will be delivered in time for the event. However, unforeseen circumstances may occur, and your shipment may be delayed due to factors like inadequate paperwork, port congestion or airfreight capacity issues. For successful tradeshow shipping, below are tips on what to do in case of delays, and how to avoid them in the future.

What to Do When Your Tradeshow Shipping Material Delays

1. Consult Your Show Management about Your Options
In case of delay, contact your show management team to find out what options are there for last-minute situations such as yours. Ask the management if they allow direct deliveries to the venue on the morning of the tradeshow. By talking to the show management team, you get to know how long you have, so you can arrange for the materials to be delivered smoothly.

2. Contact Your Carrier
Delayed delivery of your display materials may be due to a variety of reasons, a few examples include inadequate paperwork at customs, or there may be congestion or traffic problems at the port. The best way to know is by contacting your carrier about the situation and what you need to do to resolve it. For paperwork, you can email the required documents while congestion and capacity delays will need to be addressed by your carrier directly. Communicating with your carrier helps you know the progress of your cargo and what steps are being taken to correct the situation.

3. Wait
Sometimes, customs may take longer than expected. In such a situation, and others like lack of airfreight capacity, the only option you have is to wait for your exhibition materials to be cleared before they can be delivered. Therefore, it is important to ship your items as early as possible. A tradeshow shipping company like AMR Group will be able to help ensure the process goes smoothly.

4. Find Alternative Displays
When waiting is not an option, display alternatives are your best bet. Ask your show management team if you can find temporary or rental displays to use during the event. You can also have your graphics printed and set up on banners. If you are out of time to wait, it may be best to reach out to the official show exhibit builder. You can usually find out who this is by reviewing your exhibitor manual or asking show management.

How to Avoid Tradeshow Shipping Delays

Most delays occur due to flaws in shipping preparations. Here’s how you can avoid the inconvenience of delayed deliveries.

• Provide all necessary documentation required for your tradeshow shipping company and ensure they are accurately filled out.
• Clearly label your goods and provide accurate details on the size, material and intended use.
• Provide the right address, zip code and booth number to avoid your materials goods being delivered to the wrong destination.
• Give a time allowance. When planning for delivery, set an earlier delivery date (but not too early), so you are not “down to the wire” if there are delays.
• Work with an experienced international freight forwarder. It eases your shipping process as the freight forwarder will take care of the shipping requirements on your behalf.

If you are looking for an international tradeshow shipping partner who’s both reliable and experienced, contact AMR Group today at 702-800-6385 for all your shipping needs and ensure your goods are delivered on time!

Hurricanes, snow storms, typhoons, and flooding can wreak havoc on your international tradeshow shipping plans. As we’re right in the middle of extreme weather season, here are some best practices for shipping during storms.

International Tradeshow Shipping in Extreme Weather

Today, shipping disruptions from extreme weather are 30% higher than they were just 7 years ago, and they can have a serious impact on your ability to do business, including exhibiting at tradeshows. As extreme weather events become more widespread, it pays to take steps to be prepared and lessen their impact.

How to Prepare for Inclement Weather

• Keep in mind the damage from a storm or other disaster is not isolated to where it occurs. These kinds of disasters can have a ripple effect that can reach thousands of miles away from the impact area. Damage can occur to roads, airports and seaports, delaying delivery of your exhibit items.
• Stay in communication with your tradeshow and events freight forwarder. If severe weather conditions are predicted during the time your shipment is in transit, discuss what alternative methods and routes are available for getting your goods to the venue on time.
• If it’s not your initial method of transportation, determine if air freight is a viable option.

Ultimately, every time you ship freight, there is some degree of risk. It can be devastating, not to mention expensive, if you’re forced to exhibit without your exhibit materials. That’s why choosing the proper freight forwarder with extensive experience in tradeshow exhibit shipments is so important. Your freight forwarder is an integral member of your tradeshow team, one whose role is to “steady the ship” when problems occur and be available to assist when you need them.

Since 2011, AMR Group has been handling the international tradeshow shipping needs for businesses big and small. We ship to more than 60 countries and have an international network of partners who are dedicated to tradeshow and event shipping. We can help you track extreme weather events, make recommendations for the best shipping options and provide you with the peace of mind that comes with having your exhibit materials in the right hands. Contact us at 702-800-6385

Connecting with the right target audience is as important goal when picking out tradeshows and events to exhibit at. Tradeshows help build a strong contact email database and boost sales for your company because everyone who is at the trade show is there to seek out services your business offers. You just need to know how to take full advantage of tradeshows and make them worth your time. Here are a handful of suggestions. 

Do Your Research
Most importantly, do your research. Look at the different tradeshows throughout the year, and make sure you’re selecting the right ones for your business. Understand what the tradeshow is, which companies are attending or have attended in the past (oftentimes, big names in your industry will increase the turnout) and whether those in attendance are your major target audience. If the event doesn’t check off all your requirements, look for another event that does. 

Consider Using Associated Hotels
While associated hotels may cost more, it may be beneficial to stay at one for the various networking benefits, as many attendees will book a room closest to the tradeshow venue. You’ll find you’re more likely to mingle and sell products during the after-event cocktail hour than on the busy tradeshow floor. 

Dress for the Event 

If you’re selling custom toys at a comic convention, you probably don’t want to show up in a tuxedo (unless, of course, it’s a custom tuxedo designed after a popular comic book character). That being said, we recommend dressing appropriately for the particular event and industry.

Register Early
There are two advantages of registering early. First, you will have a better selection of booth locations. Select a booth that is clearly visible, has high foot traffic and is large enough (or small enough) for your signs and presentation materials. This way, you won’t need to settle for a booth that doesn’t fit your needs. Second, it is typically less expensive if you register early. Early bird specials can save you hundreds of dollars.

Each of these points will help you maximize your tradeshow potential. However, you need to make sure your tradeshow displays and presentation material arrives at the correct location on time and in one piece. This is where AMR Group comes in. As a trusted event logistics & global freight forwarder, we work with you to make sure all of your tradeshow materials arrive on time and within budget. Contact us at +1-702-800-6385 to learn more.