Learn how to ship apparel from China to the US with GOH containers. Our guide covers costs, container specs, loading checklists, and insurance to ensure your garments arrive wrinkle-free.
Client: A New York-based fashion retailer importing high-end suits and dresses from Guangzhou, China.
The Challenge:
The client was shipping their valuable garments flat-packed in cartons. This practice led to significant "hidden costs" at their US distribution center, including high fees for unboxing, steaming, and re-pressing each item. They needed a logistics partner who could deliver their new seasonal collection floor-ready, preserving the pristine quality of the garments and cutting down their time-to-market.
Our Solution:
The ZBAO LOGISTICS team designed a seamless, end-to-end Garment on Hanger (GOH) shipping solution built on precision and expertise.
- Custom GOH Configuration: We analyzed the client's product mix and recommended a 40' double-tier GOH container to maximize their shipping capacity for suits and dresses. The container modification was professionally coordinated and approved by the ocean carrier.
- On-Site Quality Assurance: Before a single hanger was loaded, our team in Guangzhou performed our strict pre-loading GOH checklist. We ensured every bar was secure, the container was clean and dry, and all hardware was robust and ready for transit.
- Supervised Loading & Securing: We oversaw the entire loading process, ensuring each of the 44 bars was loaded evenly, respecting the 120kg weight limit per bar. All garments were carefully hung and secured to prevent movement and potential damage during the ocean voyage.
- Risk Mitigation & Transparency: We arranged for comprehensive cargo insurance for the full value of the shipment. A final photo of the perfectly loaded container was taken and shared with the client before the doors were sealed, providing complete peace of mind.
The Results:
- 90% Reduction in Pressing Costs: The client virtually eliminated the need for expensive post-delivery steaming and re-pressing services in the US.
- 5 Days Faster to Market: Garments arrived in immaculate, boutique-ready condition, allowing them to be on the retail floor within 24 hours of delivery.
- Enhanced Product Integrity: Zero damage was reported, maintaining the premium quality and value of their high-end apparel.
"Working with ZBAO LOGISTICS on our GOH shipment was a total game-changer. Their expertise is unmatched. Our products arrive perfectly, saving us thousands in handling fees and getting them to our customers faster than ever before."
- Sourcing Manager, NY Fashion Retailer
Frequently Asked Questions about GOH Shipping
Frequently Asked Questions about GOH Shipping
1. Can I modify a container for GOH myself to save money?
Absolutely not. Ocean carriers strictly prohibit unauthorized or self-made container modifications. Attempting to do so can result in heavy fines, mandatory removal of the setup at the destination port at your own expense, and denial of any claims for damaged cargo. At ZBAO LOGISTICS, we handle all GOH conversions through official, carrier-approved channels to ensure compliance and safety.
2. What's the difference between single-tier and double-tier GOH containers?
It's all about matching the container to your products.
- Single-Tier: Uses one level of bars. It's ideal for long, heavy garments like trench coats or long dresses.
- Double-Tier: Uses two levels of bars, effectively doubling the hanging capacity for shorter items like suits, jackets, shirts, and trousers. We can even design hybrid-tier systems for mixed-garment shipments.
3. Is special insurance needed for GOH shipping?
While not "special," we strongly recommend all-risk cargo insurance for every GOH shipment. The cost of restoring fallen or wrinkled garments at the destination (e.g., in the US or Europe) can be extremely high. A proper insurance policy provides crucial financial protection and is often easier to claim against than with the carrier directly.
4. What are the most important things to check when using a GOH container?
Our pre-loading checklist is extensive, but here are the top three priorities:
- Bar & Weld Integrity: Ensure all hanging bars are secure, straight, clean, and the welding points are solid.
- Correct Supplies: Confirm you have enough strong ties, the bar diameter fits your hangers, and desiccants (for moisture control) are placed inside if needed.
- Load Balancing: Never exceed the stated weight limit for each bar, and distribute the garments as evenly as possible.
5. Is GOH shipping available for air freight too?
Yes, it is! For urgent or smaller collections, we can arrange GOH shipping by air using specialized containers (like LD3 or M1 ULDs). Another creative solution we offer is a "GOH-in-a-box," where we use a custom-welded metal rack inside a reinforced carton, which can be shipped via air freight or LCL sea freight.
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Ready to Ship Your Apparel the Right Way?
Let ZBAO LOGISTICS handle the complexities of your fashion supply chain. We ensure your garments arrive floor-ready, saving you time, money, and headaches.
[Contact Us for a Custom GOH Quote Today!]