Question 1

What is an NVOCC and why does it lower my ocean freight cost?

Accepted Answer

A Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) is a licensed ocean transportation intermediary that issues its own house bill of lading and buys space from vessel operators under volume contracts. Because ShipLilly consolidates cargo volume across multiple ocean carriers, shippers gain access to contract rates, more sailing options and a single point of accountability.

Question 2

Should I ship FCL or LCL?

Accepted Answer

As a general rule, Less than Container Load (LCL) is cost-effective for smaller shipments that do not fill a container, while Full Container Load (FCL) usually becomes more economical once your cargo approaches roughly half of a 20-foot container, and it reduces handling and transit risk. We compare both options on every quote.

Question 3

Which documents are needed to clear U.S. customs?

Accepted Answer

A typical U.S. import requires a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, correct HTS classification, a customs bond, and for ocean shipments an Importer Security Filing (ISF 10+2) submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded at the foreign port. Some products also require agency permits such as FDA or USDA.

Question 4

How does a Foreign Trade Zone save money on duties?

Accepted Answer

Goods admitted into a U.S. Foreign Trade Zone are considered outside U.S. customs territory. Duties are deferred until goods enter the U.S. market, are not paid on goods re-exported, and may be reduced when the finished product carries a lower duty rate than its components.

Question 5

Which trade lanes does ShipLilly specialize in?

Accepted Answer

ShipLilly specializes in international transportation solutions connecting Miami and the United States with Mexico, Panama, Venezuela, the wider Latin American region and China, with bilingual English and Spanish support.

Question 6

Can ShipLilly store and fulfill my e-commerce orders in the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After import, cargo can be received into our Miami warehouse for storage, pick and pack, kitting and distribution to marketplaces, retailers or direct to consumers.