By Martina Kao    Photo：CANVA

As the number of pet owners grows around the world, the demand for pet supplies and pet food increases year by year. Especially in the multinational market, many brands and suppliers choose to export large quantities of goods to other countries via full container shipping. FCL ocean shipping is not only cost-effective but also ensures the safety and quality of the goods, making it an ideal mode of transportation. However, when transporting internationally, adequate preparation is required in terms of cargo classification, packaging, customs regulations, etc. to ensure a smooth delivery process.

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Types of pet supplies and pet food

1. Types of pet products

Pet supplies cover a variety of commodities needed for pet life, mainly including the following categories:

• Basic supplies

For example, pet beds, cages, collars and leashes are indispensable items in daily life, providing pets with comfortable living conditions.

• Cleaning supplies

Such as combs, shampoo, urine pads, etc., these items are used to keep pets clean and healthy, and are especially valued by pet owners.

• Entertainment products

Including various toys, chew bones, climbing frames, etc., which can help pets reduce stress and promote activity. This is one of the fastest growing categories in the market.

2. Types of pet food

Pet food directly affects the health of pets and can be divided into the following categories according to different needs:

• Dry food

Common types of dry food include general dry food and specially formulated dry food designed for specific health issues, such as weight loss or allergy-allergy formulas.

• Wet food

These products include canned foods and pureed meats, which generally have a higher moisture content and are suitable for pets who need to increase their water intake.

• Nutritional supplements

Such as vitamins and supplements, used to provide additional nutrition or support specific health needs.

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Give an example

If you are importing wet pet food (e.g. canned food) into the United States, you need to pay special attention to the following:

• Ingredient regulations: The United States prohibits preservatives and additives commonly used in certain countries, such as unapproved preservatives such as ethoxyquin.

• Labeling requirements: A detailed ingredient list must be provided in English and the label must include an accurate nutritional analysis.

• Quarantine and inspection: During transportation, canned foods may be required to provide quarantine certificates from the source to prove that their raw materials are not contaminated by animal diseases.

• If pet food contains meat ingredients, you need to confirm on the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) website that the meat contained in the imported or exported pet food comes from a qualified factory. Or consult the Animal and Plant Quarantine Service directly.

If the above regulations are not met, the food may be seized or destroyed upon import. Therefore, exporters must study the relevant US regulations in detail and prepare all required documents before shipping.

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Things to note before shipping

1. Product classification and packaging

Goods need to be properly classified and packaged according to their nature, and different ingredients will have different packaging regulations. For example, food packaging needs to be sealed to prevent moisture and separated from non-food items to prevent odor penetration or contamination. Food packaging should be prevented from deformation or damage.

2. Document preparation

Make sure all necessary documents are complete, including customs declaration, packing list, inspection and quarantine certificates, etc. The more detailed the description, the easier and faster it will be to process. In some countries, the requirements for imported food are more stringent and require special attention.

3. Whether it complies with the regulations of the importing country

Different countries have different regulations for importing pet food, ingredient labeling or additive restrictions. For example, when exporting to the United States, you need to pay attention to the main requirements of FSMA for pet food.

4. Temperature control of pet food

If pet food needs to be stored at a constant temperature to avoid spoilage, it is important to pay attention to whether there is the necessary temperature storage equipment to help preserve the product during transportation.

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Things to note when shipping

1. Cargo clearance and inspection

After arriving at the destination, the goods should be cleared and inspected as soon as possible to ensure that the goods are correct and meet local standards. And watch out for issues like customs clearance delays, shipping breakdowns or bad weather conditions to avoid spoilage of pet food.

2. Ensure proper conditions of goods in storage

Food needs to be kept in a low temperature, moisture-proof environment, and supplies should be avoided from being squeezed or damp to ensure that the quality is not affected. For example, items that are susceptible to moisture or deformation, such as pet beds and climbing frames, require enhanced packaging. Fragile items, such as glass or electronics, should be bubble wrapped and securely secured.

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Freight forwarding services

International freight forwarders can assist with the following:

• Document processing and customs clearance services

This includes preparation and submission of required customs documents and assistance with expedited customs clearance.

• Warehousing and distribution

Provide suitable warehousing conditions for food and supplies, and arrange last-mile delivery services.

• Cargo insurance and tracking

Provide insurance services for the goods and provide full tracking and updates.

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International shipment of pet supplies and food is important for the stability of cross-border supply chains. By making adequate preparations before and after delivery and choosing a professional freight forwarder, you can effectively reduce risks and improve efficiency. As market demand continues to rise, the field of pet supplies and food will be full of possibilities for innovation and development in the future, providing relevant industry players with opportunities worthy of attention and active investment.

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