FAQs

Three easy ways:

Online enquiry
Get approximate pricing from our website. Get a quote here

Phone: +44 (0)1623 441445
Speak to shipping experts for detailed quotes

Email: help@transpakship.com

We’ll confirm pickup details, contents, destination, and provide sailing dates with estimated delivery times.

Yes! Free consultations available for all shipments — from single barrels to complete household moves. We’ll help you choose the right service and avoid common shipping mistakes.

Contact options: Phone, email, or live chat on our website.

Standard timing: Book 7-14 days ahead for best availability

Peak seasons (November-January): Book 3-4 weeks ahead

Rush service: Same-day and next-day collection available (additional fees apply)

Essential details:

• Collection address and preferred date
• Destination country and recipient information
• Weight and dimensions estimate
• Contents description for customs
• Special requirements (insurance, fragile items)

Yes, we sell both plastic and metal barrels in various sizes. We stock new and pre-used options to suit different budgets and requirements. Contact us with your specific needs for pricing and availability.

Yes, with restrictions:

• Sealed, non-perishable, commercially packaged items only
• Must comply with destination country import rules
• Allowed: Tinned foods, dried goods, spices, tea, coffee
• Not allowed: Fresh produce, homemade items, opened packages

Unsure about specific foods? We know every destination’s import requirements.

Essential labeling:

• Paint or permanent marker directly on containers
• Include sender and recipient names, addresses, phone numbers
• Add company details for commercial shipments
• Paper labels often don’t survive ocean transit

Follow these guidelines:

• Use stackable, rectangular containers
• Seal properly with strong tape or stretch wrap
• Keep individual items under 30kg
• Avoid bulging or irregularly shaped packages
• Never tape loose items to container exterior

Depends on your service:

• Door-to-door: We handle all customs procedures
• Door-to-dock: Recipient arranges customs clearance
• Port-to-port: Local customs broker required

We always explain exactly what’s included before you book.

Standard requirements:

• Detailed packing list with item values
• Valid photo ID (passport or driving license)
• Proof of address

Often required:

• Purchase receipts for valuable items
• Insurance documentation
• Destination-specific import forms

Commercial shipments need:

• Commercial invoices, certificates of origin, EORI numbers

We provide complete documentation checklists for your destination.

• Commercial exports UK to EU: Yes, EORI required
• Personal shipments: No EORI needed
• UK imports: May be required depending on shipment type

Need help? We assist with EORI registration and commercial documentation.

Typical transit times:

• Caribbean: 14-21 days from UK
• West Africa (Ghana): 20-30 days from UK
• Other destinations: Custom timing by route

Remember: These are estimates. Actual times depend on sailing schedules, weather, and customs processing.

We provide:

• Confirmed sailing dates when booking
• Real-time tracking updates via email/SMS
• Port arrival notifications
• Online tracking portal access

Check our Sailing Schedule page for current vessel movements.

Yes, quotes have validity periods:

• Standard quotes: 30 days
• Peak season: 14 days
• Commercial rates: Custom validity

Secure your rate by booking within the quoted timeframe.

Yes, additional fees may apply for:

• Home addresses (vs commercial locations)
• Remote or rural areas
• Difficult access locations
• Special delivery requirements

We confirm all delivery costs upfront — no surprises.

Strongly recommended for shipments over £500.

Insurance protects against:

• Theft during transit
• Physical damage from handling
• Total loss due to vessel incidents
• General Average emergency costs

Small premium for significant protection and peace of mind.

In maritime emergencies, all cargo owners share emergency costs. With proper marine insurance, you’re fully protected from these unexpected charges.

If damage occurs:

1. Report immediately to us or local agent
2. Keep all packaging and damaged items
3. Document with photos
4. We guide you through claims process
5. Most claims processed within 14-21 days

Primary routes:

• Caribbean: All major islands plus Guyana, Belize, Suriname
• West Africa: Ghana (Tema Port, Accra) with expanding coverage
• Worldwide: Custom arrangements for global destinations

Yes! We serve:

• Individuals: International moves, gifts, family support
• Small businesses: Product exports, inventory transfers
• Large enterprises: Complete logistics solutions

Each shipment type receives appropriate handling and documentation.

Depends on timing:

• Before collection: Easy to add items and update paperwork
• After collection: May require separate shipment
• After sailing: Limited modification options

Contact us immediately for any required changes.

For damage:

• Keep all packaging and contents
• Notify us immediately
• Document with photos
• We arrange inspection and claims

For lost shipments:

• We investigate with carriers and authorities
• Full tracking history reviewed
• Insurance claims processed for total loss

Contact our shipping experts:

• Phone: +44 (0)1623 441445
• Email: help@transpakship.com
• Live Chat: Available on website for instant answers

Business Hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-6PM, Saturday 9AM-1PM

Emergency support: After-hours contact for urgent shipping issues. Call:

Remember: Every international shipment is unique. This FAQ covers common situations, but we’re always available for personalized guidance tailored to your specific shipping needs.