Buying and/or shipping medical equipment overseas is a challenging task. This is because the equipment is usually very delicate and valuable. Many shipping companies won’t even attempt to ship medical supplies and equipment because of this, but if you need to do so, you’ll want to make sure you’re doing it right. Below, we give you several tips for buying and shipping medical supplies internationally.
The transportation of medical equipment requires a great deal of planning and expertise. Medical devices need to meet specific protocols to avoid delays and damage. Moreover, it is important that the equipment be shipped to a country with appropriate documentation.
Here are some of the important factors to consider when shipping medical supplies. All of these factors contribute to a safe shipment of medical equipment. Once you have finalized your decision to send medical equipment, you’ll need to choose the right transport company for your needs.
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1. Never Attempt International Shipping of Your Medical Supplies without a Professional
As one of the area’s premium medical equipment suppliers, it’s your job to provide much-needed equipment and supplies to medical facilities all over the world. Your products are valuable, which means you should never trust their international transport to anyone but a professional shipping company that deals specifically in this type of shipment.
Look online for companies that specialize in overseas medical supply shipments and that have the credentials and experience to back up their claims. Contact each one individually to inquire about their services and prices. Remember, you aren’t looking for the cheapest one, you’re looking for the one that guarantees the safe and timely delivery of your products.
2. Evaluate the Equipment You’re Shipping
Before any packing can begin, you need to evaluate the equipment you’re shipping. First, look at each piece of equipment closely and take note of any scratches, dings, or marks you see. Knowing exactly what kind of condition it’s in when it leaves your facility will help you identify if any damage has occurred during shipping.
Next, make note of exactly what each piece of equipment is and how many of each you are shipping. This will help you ensure that every piece of equipment reaches its destination and that nothing is lost during shipping.
3. Consider Packaging Carefully
You’ll be responsible for packing your medical equipment, which can eat into your budget significantly depending on how you plan to ship the items. For instance, if you’re planning to ship via maritime shipping, you’ll want to invest in vapor or waterproof packing as this will deter corrosion on metal medical equipment. You may need to purchase custom packaging for the equipment, but doing so will help ensure it arrives unscathed at its destination.
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4. Obtain the Proper Insurance
When all is said and done, it doesn’t matter how well you package your equipment or how well you prepare for its journey, something can always happen en route to cause damage. The only way to recoup the loss is to have adequate insurance beforehand.
The amount and type of coverage will be up to you, and it will depend on the value of the equipment as well as your budget. It’s a good idea to spend as much as you can for insurance coverage, but if your budget is tight, an average policy will do.
5. Overseas Medical Equipment Shipping is a Time-Consuming Process
The ultimate goal of shipping your medical equipment internationally is to get it there safely. As such, there is no way around spending a great deal of time preparing it for shipping and monitoring its progress during shipment. Consider it an investment in your business, and do the things necessary to ensure your products make it to their destination in good condition.
Buying and/or shipping medical equipment internationally can be a time-consuming, challenging process. Following the tips above will help ensure your items make it from Point A to Point B with the least amount of hassle or damage.
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