When it comes to exporting hardwood lumber, finding a freight forwarder that understands both the logistics of full container load (FCL) shipping and the unique requirements of wood packaging is critical.
Texas International Freight provides international solutions designed to move dimensional lumber safely, efficiently, and in compliance with global standards.
Whether your destination is Europe, Asia, the Middle East, or Latin America, our team offers end-to-end support to keep your supply chain moving.
Why FCL Shipping is the Best Choice for Hardwood Lumber
FCL, or Full Container Load shipping, allows you to book an entire container for your cargo.
For hardwood lumber exporters, this is the preferred method because a 40’ container can hold approximately 12,000 board feet of dimensional lumber, perfect for 8’, 10’, and 12’ pallets.
Compared to less-than-container load (LCL), FCL offers greater security, predictable transit times, and better cost efficiency, especially when shipping overseas.
Port Handling and Terminal Services Across Global Gateways
From Houston to Hamburg, from New Orleans to Ningbo, port handling and terminal fees are unavoidable.
What makes Texas International Freight different is our ability to provide transparent cost breakdowns at every stage.
With strong relationships at major export gateways, we ensure your containers are loaded, staged, and processed without costly delays.
No hidden charges, just clear logistics support tailored to your shipping lane.
Inland Drayage and Multimodal Transport
Getting your lumber to the port is as important as getting it across the ocean.
Our drayage and inland trucking services are designed to move your cargo safely from mills or warehouses to international terminals.
For larger volumes, we coordinate rail and multimodal solutions that align with your sailing schedule.
By combining first-mile and last-mile logistics, Texas International Freight keeps your supply chain consistent from origin to destination.
Customs Brokerage and Global Forwarding Expertise
Every country has its own customs requirements, and errors in paperwork can cost time and money.
Our customs brokerage services simplify the process.
We handle export declarations, bills of lading, and phytosanitary documents to ensure compliance with ISPM-15 regulations for wood packaging.
Whether your shipment is heading to Rotterdam, Dubai, or Shanghai, we prepare the documentation and coordinate with international agents to keep your cargo moving smoothly.
Export Packaging and Cargo Protection for International Transit
ISPM Palletization and Compliance
When shipping lumber, compliance with ISPM-15 standards is non-negotiable.
We supply and prepare heat-treated pallets that meet the international phytosanitary requirements for wood products.
Shrink Wrap, OSB Top Plates, and Dunnage
Our packaging team uses marine-grade shrink wrap with the seam located at the top of the pallet to resist water penetration.
OSB or similar top plates provide added stability, while ISPM-compliant dunnage keeps loads secure during long ocean voyages.
Desiccants for Moisture Control
Hardwood lumber is vulnerable to humidity during transit.
To protect it, we place 150 pounds of desiccants in each container, 10 pounds per pallet under shrink wrap and the balance distributed inside the container.
This helps maintain product quality from origin to final delivery.
Container Surveys and Load Documentation
We provide professional container surveys before loading, giving you assurance that your shipment starts its journey in optimal condition.
Photographic documentation of the load is supplied for your records, supporting both insurance claims and client transparency.
End-to-End Documentation and Worldwide Support
International shipments require multiple layers of paperwork, from commercial invoices to packing lists, certificates of origin, and export declarations.
Texas International Freight acts as your single point of contact, ensuring that every document is prepared accurately and delivered on time.
Our documentation support helps avoid costly delays at foreign ports and ensures compliance with varying international regulations.
Why Partner with Texas International Freight for Global Lumber Shipping
Based in Houston, one of America’s busiest gateways for global trade, Texas International Freight has extensive experience with lumber exports, heavy machinery, and project cargo.
We combine regional expertise with international reach, making us the ideal choice for companies new to exporting as well as seasoned global suppliers.
What sets us apart is our dedication to:
- Transparent pricing and service breakdowns
- Full compliance with international shipping standards
- Custom packaging and moisture protection for sensitive cargo
- End-to-end logistics, from inland trucking to final destination
Our track record includes shipments to Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
That makes us a reliable partner for international hardwood lumber exporters.
Request a Custom FCL Quote for Your Next International Shipment
Whether you are a small sawmill exporting for the first time or a large enterprise supplying construction markets overseas, Texas International Freight provides solutions tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to request a custom international shipping quote for your FCL hardwood lumber shipment.
Our team is ready to guide you through every step, from packaging and documentation to customs clearance and final delivery.
FAQs
How much lumber fits in a container?
A standard 40’ container typically holds around 12,000 board feet of hardwood dimensional lumber, depending on pallet size and stacking method.
Is ISPM-15 compliance required for all destinations?
Yes.
Most countries require ISPM-15 heat-treated pallets and dunnage for wood products to prevent the spread of pests.
What are the most common ports for hardwood exports?
Popular destinations include Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Antwerp in Belgium, Hamburg in Germany, Jebel Ali in the UAE, Shanghai in China, and Santos in Brazil.
How do desiccants protect lumber?
Desiccants absorb excess moisture during ocean transit.
They prevent mold, warping, or deterioration of the wood.
Can Texas International Freight handle both trucking and ocean freight?
Yes.
We provide integrated logistics solutions including trucking, container shipping, and customs brokerage for seamless international freight management.
Conclusion
Shipping hardwood lumber worldwide requires attention to detail, compliance with international regulations, and specialized packaging to maintain quality.
With Texas International Freight, you get a full-service partner who understands every step of the process.
From inland trucking to ocean freight, documentation, and cargo protection, we deliver peace of mind and reliable results.
Ship your hardwood lumber with confidence.
Request your international FCL quote from Texas International Freight today.
