The Cheapest Way to Ship Frozen Turkey from the USA to Overseas

As we all know, Thanksgiving is around the corner, and the day's showstopper is the frozen Turkeys. According to the USDA, international turkey shipments have increased by 25% in the past five years, particularly during the Thanksgiving season.

Whether you're a retailer looking to ship turkey to overseas markets or a family sending a gift to loved ones within the USA, shipping frozen turkey can be complex.

But how can one ship turkey from the USA to overseas cheaply and easily?

This can be done with help of an international freight forwarder, who is well-known for shipping perishable goods across the globe.

In this blog we'll break down the best and cheapest ways to ship your turkey overseas while keeping it frozen and delicious throughout the shipment process.

Factors affecting shipping cost

The cost of Shipping frozen turkey overseas may vary depending on various factors. Below is the breakdown:

• Weight and volume
  • The mass and quantity of the shipments plays an important role when it comes to cost. 
  • Because the carriers often change based on the weight and volume of the goods, which includes both the physical weight and the area of the package. 
  • For instance, Shipping a 20-pound turkey will cost more than a 10-pound turkey, even if they're shipped the same distance.
  • Key takeaway: The heavier and bulkier the shipment, the higher the shipping cost.
• Distance
  • Just like weight and volume, the distance will also play an important role when it comes to cost.
  • Because the carriers often have zone based pricing and the prices may increase and decrease depending on the distance. 
  • For instance, shipping a turkey from the US to India will be significantly more expensive than shipping within the USA.
  • Key takeaway: Longer distance means higher shipping costs.
• Chosen Shipping Method (Air, Sea, or Land)
  • The mode of transportation used for shipping a turkey will make considerable changes in the cost. 
  • Because, each mode of transportation has its own pros and cons.( to know more read). 
  • Air and ocean freight is used for shipping the turkey internationally (from the USA to Mexico), whereas the land freight is normally used for shipping the turkey within the USA, they also act as a middle man for international shipments.
  • Key takeaway: The mode of transport significantly affects the cost and speed of delivery.
• Packaging and temperature control
  • Specialized packaging and temperature control is very essential for perishable goods. 
  • Because they tend to keep the goods fresh and delicious throughout the transit. Doing so is going to increase the cost of your shipment.
  • For instance, the turkey will be packed with high quality packing materials. The frozen turkey will be packed with dry ice and placed inside insulated boxes. 
  • These insulated boxes will be transported via reefer containers(to know more, read) via ocean freight or air freight. 
  • Key takeaway: Specialized packaging and temperature-controlled transportation are crucial for frozen turkey.
• Customs duties and taxes
  • The money for customs clearance and taxes solely depends on the destination country import authorities and the nature of the goods.(Household goods, specialized cargo, heavy and bulk machinery, perishable goods, dangerous goods, commercial goods, etc).
  • For example, shipping frozen turkey from the USA into Africa may involve customs duties like tariffs and value-added tax (VAT). The specific rates can vary based on factors like the country of origin, the type of turkey (e.g., organic, free-range), and any applicable trade agreements.
  • Key takeaway: Import duties and taxes vary widely depending on the destination country and specific product classifications.
• Cargo Insurance
  • Cargo Insurance is a mandatory factor for all the shipments. The cargo insurance cost depends upon the value of the commodity and the level of coverage required. 
  • For example, your shipment of frozen turkey is lost or damaged during transit, and if the shipment is insured, you can cover the financial loss (the coverage depends upon the type of insurance you choose) 
  • Key takeaway: Insurance protects against loss or damage during transit.

By carefully understanding the above factors, businesses or individuals can optimize their shipping costs and ensure that their frozen turkey shipment arrives at the destination safely and efficiently.

How Air7Seas can cost-effectively ship your turkey overseas?

For over 37+ years we have been a leading international freight forwarding company in the USA, with a proven track record of successfully shipping over 50K+ perishable goods from and to the USA. We ensure the safe, cost effective and timely delivery of your frozen turkey shipments.

Here is a small gist of how air 7 seas can help you:

• Optimized shipping strategy 
  • We can combine multiple perishable goods that require the same temperature and have the same destination into one large shipment. 
  • This will allow us to negotiate volume discounts with carriers, reducing shipping costs.
  • Our experienced logistics team will find the best route for shipment, which will help to reduce the transit time and the fuel commission, leading to lower cost.
  • Our strong partnership with carriers helps to secure competitive rates (click) and priority service. 
• Temperature-controlled expertise
  • We normally ship perishable goods in reefer containers, this helps to maintain the optimal temperature, ensuring your turkey reaches its destination safe and fresh.
  • We have advanced real time tracking technology to monitor temperature and location, doing so enables proactive issue resolution and avoids any potential losses. 
  • Our expert packing technique makes sure that there is no thermal loss and helps to protect your frozen turkey fresh and safe. 
  • This move will reduce the need for any additional packaging material and associated costs.
• Effortless customs clearance
  • Our customs team will have continuous contact with the customs broker to provide a smooth clearance process, avoid any delays and penalty fees.
  • We prepare all necessary documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance and minimize potential fees and fines.
  • We stay up-to-date with the latest import/export regulations to avoid penalties and delays.
• Risk mitigation and cargo insurance
  • We offer comprehensive insurance coverage to protect your shipment against loss, damage, or delay, providing financial security.
  • We assess potential risks and implement preventive measures to minimize losses, saving you money in the long run.

By using air7seas as your international freight forwarder, you will be able to achieve cost effective and reliable frozen turkey shipping.Our commitment to excellence, coupled with our extensive experience, enables us to deliver unparalleled service and cost-effective solutions.

Wrapping it up

So, there you have it! Shipping a frozen turkey overseas doesn't have to be a turkey shoot. With the right knowledge and a reliable freight forwarder, you can ensure your Thanksgiving traditions reach loved ones across the globe. Let's make your Thanksgiving wishes come true!