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Industries // Import and Export
Your Easy Guide to Shipping Large Items to the Caribbean Islands
Published July 8, 2025
Written by EA Support Team
Read Time Approximately 5 minutes
Contents:
- Best Ways to Ship Large Items to the Caribbean
- Preparing Your Shipment for the Caribbean
- Beyond Standard Shipping: Reliable Solutions for Special Deliveries
- Caribbean Shipping Cost Guide: What You Need to Know
- Caribbean Customs and Shipping Regulations
- Key Facts for Easy Caribbean Shipping
- Discover Why Florida Works Best for Caribbean Shipping
Shipping items to the Caribbean, while possible, can still be challenging since it consists of over 7,000 islands. Whether you’re shipping interstate or internationally to the islands of the Caribbean Sea, we’ll make it easy for you. Here, we’ll break down all the important things to consider, delivery options, and useful tips to help ensure your packages arrive safely at their desired destinations.
Smartest Ways to Ship Large Items to the Caribbean
When it comes to shipping to the Caribbean, ocean freight is often the go-to choice, especially for large, bulky items like furniture, vehicles, and construction materials. You can opt for a Full Container Load (FCL) if you’re shipping a significant amount, or Less than Container Load (LCL) for smaller shipments. It’s a cost-effective and reliable option, making it ideal for most island deliveries.Â
On the other hand, if time is a priority, air freight is a better choice. It’s perfect for smaller, high-value, or urgent shipments, though it does come with a higher cost. With access to major Florida ports and airports like Port Everglades, PortMiami, and Port Canaveral, getting your shipment to the Caribbean can be fast and efficient.
Getting Your Shipment Caribbean-Ready
Island life is undeniably beautiful, but the salt air, high humidity, and tropical weather can be tough on your belongings. That’s why smart packing is essential when shipping to island destinations. Using moisture-proof wrapping and custom crating helps protect items from heat, humidity, and the corrosive effects of sea air.Â
It’s also important to ensure that everything is securely packed to withstand both ocean and air transport. For luxury, fragile, or high-value items, opting for white-glove handling provides an added layer of care, ensuring that your valuables arrive in perfect condition. A little extra attention during packing can make all the difference when shipping to paradise.
When Standard Shipping Isn’t Enough
For high-value or fragile items, white-glove service offers:
- Custom crating for luxury furniture, art, or décor
- On-site installation in your home, yacht, or business
- Real-time tracking and personal support
It’s perfect for those who want peace of mind and a smooth, hands-free experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship to the Caribbean?
The cost of shipping to the Caribbean can vary, but with the right planning, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s what affects the price:
- Size & Weight: The bigger and heavier your shipment, the higher the cost, especially for items like furniture, vehicles, or equipment.
- Destination Island: Every island is different. Shipping to popular ports like the Bahamas or Puerto Rico is often more affordable than smaller, remote islands.
- Freight Method: Ocean freight is the most budget-friendly for large shipments. Air freight is faster but typically more expensive.
- Port & Customs Fees: Local duties, taxes, and port handling fees can impact the final price, each island has its regulations.
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Navigating Customs and Regulations in the Caribbean
If you’re planning to ship goods to the Caribbean, whether for personal use or business, you need to understand the customs and regulations that come with island shipping. Each Caribbean nation has its own rules, paperwork, and import taxes, and being prepared can save you time, money, and frustration.
The good news? The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is working to simplify and harmonize customs procedures across the region, making it easier for people and businesses to trade and transport goods smoothly.
What You Should Know About Caribbean Customs:
- Harmonization Efforts: Â Many Caribbean islands are part of CARICOM, which is working to create unified customs processes. This means fewer surprises and more consistent regulations across member nations.
- Import and Export Procedures: Each island has its own customs laws. You’ll typically need to fill out specific forms, declare your goods, and pay applicable duties before your shipment is released. Missing documents can lead to delays or extra fees.
- Duties and Taxes: Customs duties and taxes apply to most imported goods, and the rates can vary depending on the island and the type of product. It’s essential to research or work with a logistics expert who knows the local rules.
- Prohibited and Restricted Goods: Not everything can cross borders freely. Items like weapons, illegal substances, and certain agricultural products may be strictly controlled or completely prohibited. Always double-check before shipping.
- Transshipment Rules: If your shipment is passing through one island on its way to another destination, transshipment regulations will apply. These rules govern how goods can be stored, handled, and moved while in transit.
- Documentation Matters: One of the biggest causes of shipping delays is incomplete paperwork. Be sure to prepare bills of lading, invoices, customs forms, and any required permits before your shipment leaves.
- Staying Compliant: Customs rules can change, so it’s important to stay updated—especially if you’re shipping regularly. Non-compliance can result in costly fines, delays, or seizure of goods.
Working with experienced logistics providers who specialize in Caribbean shipping and customs clearance can save you headaches. From documentation to duty calculation, Elite Anywhere can guide you through the process and ensure everything moves smoothly.
Quick Facts for Smooth Caribbean Shipping
-  Hurricane Season Alert: The Caribbean’s hurricane season runs from June to November—shipping outside this window can help avoid weather delays.
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- Bundle & Save: Consolidated shipping (combining shipments) is a smart way to cut costs when you don’t need a full container.
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- Local Know-How Matters:Â Working with trusted local delivery agents ensures your goods make it safely from port to final destination.
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- Go Door-to-Door: Choosing door-to-door service saves you the hassle of dealing with island port pickups and paperwork.
Why Florida Is the Perfect Hub for Caribbean Shipping
- Closer to the Islands: Florida’s location means faster, more affordable shipping to the Caribbean.
- Logistics Powerhouse: With major ports, expert freight forwarders, and warehousing, Florida is built for smooth international shipping.
- Strategic Port System: With its world-class ports, close proximity to the Caribbean, and efficient logistics, Florida is the ideal gateway for fast, reliable shipping to the islands.
- Climate Stability and Weather Resilience: Florida’s mild climate and strategic location offer a stable environment for storing and shipping sensitive goods while minimizing weather-related disruptions to keep supply chains moving smoothly.
Bringing your life, business, or dreams to the Caribbean should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With the right planning, expert guidance, and trusted logistics, your shipment can arrive safely, smoothly, and stress-free, so you can start enjoying island life without missing a beat.
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Ship Large Items to the Caribbean With Confidence
From full container loads to white-glove delivery for fragile goods, Elite Anywhere makes shipping to the Caribbean stress-free. Get expert packing, real-time tracking, and customs support — so your items arrive safe and sound, every time.