How to ship a barrel or bulk boxes from the Dominican Republic to the USA

Barrels, boxes or a pallet: which is right for you?

• Barrel (tanque): The classic choice for families. A 55-gallon fiber or plastic barrel holds a lot, is hard to damage, and seals tight.
• Boxes (cajas): Good for lighter, mixed items. Use strong double-wall boxes of the same size so they stack well.
• Pallet: For several barrels or many boxes, a shrink-wrapped pallet is the safest and cheapest way to move volume.
• Full container (FCL): For a business or a big move, a 20' or 40' container gives you the lowest cost per item.

Our recommendations for shipping bulk from RD to the US

1. Ship by ocean, not air. For barrels and heavy boxes, LCL (shared container) ocean freight costs far less than air. Air only makes sense for small, urgent items.

2. Consolidate. One pallet with three barrels usually costs less than three barrels shipped separately. We combine your cargo with other customers' in the same container.

3. Pack tight and seal it. Fill empty space so nothing shifts, wrap fragile items, put liquids in sealed bags, and close the barrel with its locking ring or a security seal.

4. Label everything. Write the sender and receiver name, full U.S. address and phone number on every barrel and box, plus a number (1 of 3, 2 of 3...).

5. Make a detailed packing list. List every item with its quantity and value. "Clothes" isn't enough; "20 shirts, 5 pairs of shoes" is. Vague lists are the #1 reason cargo is held by U.S. Customs.

6. Know the size and weight. Measure and weigh before you book. Price depends on volume and weight, and you'll get an accurate quote.

7. Ship from the right port. Most U.S.-bound cargo leaves from Caucedo or Río Haina, with direct service to Miami, Port Everglades, New York/New Jersey and other U.S. ports.

What you can and can't ship to the USA

Usually OK: clothes, shoes, household goods, sealed and labeled packaged foods (coffee, candy, spices, canned goods), documents, books, crafts, and personal items.

Not allowed or restricted: fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, cheese and dairy, plants, seeds and soil, weapons and ammunition, flammable items (gas, paint, aerosols), medications without a prescription, cash, and counterfeit goods. Cigars, rum and alcohol are allowed but are subject to duties and limits.

U.S. Customs: what to expect

Every shipment entering the United States must be declared to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The U.S. no longer gives duty-free treatment to low-value shipments, so even personal barrels can owe duties, and commercial goods always need a proper entry. Have ready: the receiver's full name, address and ID or tax number, the packing list with values, and the commercial invoice if you are selling the goods. Puente Freight prepares the paperwork and coordinates customs clearance and delivery for you.

Why ship with Puente Freight

Puente Freight ships from the Dominican Republic to the USA by ocean (LCL and FCL) and air. We pick up in Santo Domingo, Santiago and across the country, consolidate your barrels and boxes, handle export and U.S. customs paperwork, and deliver door to door. Tell us how many barrels or boxes you have, their size and weight, and the U.S. city, and we'll send you a quote.