Ship Crate From the USA to Germany
Introduction: Ship Crate from the USA to Germany
Expediship is a professional international shipping company offering fast and affordable box, luggage, and parcel shipping services from the USA to Germany.
We handle business shipments, personal effects, gifts, and product samples — safely, efficiently, and with full customs support.
Ship pallets, crates, barrels, boxes, luggage, and totes with confidence through our door-to-door delivery service.
Other Shipping Services from the USA to Germany
- Ship a Pallet from the USA to Germany
For large quantities of business goods, donation items, or tradeshow materials that do not require the full enclosure of a crate, our pallet shipping service is a more cost-effective solution. Pallets are ideal for multiple boxes of commercial goods, tradeshow booth materials, and bulk donations. Learn more: Pallet Shipping from the USA to Germany - Ship Luggage and Personal Effects from the USA to Germany
If you are relocating to Germany and shipping personal belongings alongside your business equipment, our luggage shipping service handles personal effects with full German customs Form 0350 support for duty-free import. Learn more: Luggage Shipping from the USA to Germany
Ship Boxes from the USA to Germany
For smaller, lighter shipments — gift boxes, product samples, care packages, or small business parcels — our box shipping service is the fastest and most affordable option. Learn more: Box Shipping from the USA to Germany
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https://expediship.com/contacts/
Who Ships Crates from the USA to Germany?
A shipping crate is the highest level of protection available for international freight. Crates are used when standard boxes or pallets are not sufficient — for high-value, oversized, fragile, or irreplaceable items that cannot risk damage during a transatlantic journey. ExpediShip ships crates from the USA to Germany for businesses, collectors, families, and institutions. Here are the most common situations:
- Shipping Business Equipment and Machinery to Germany
US companies exporting industrial equipment, manufacturing machinery, precision instruments, medical devices, laboratory equipment, or technology hardware to Germany frequently use crate shipping. Custom-built wooden crates provide the structural strength and internal cushioning needed to protect heavy or complex equipment during international air freight. Germany is one of the world’s leading industrial nations, and ExpediShip regularly ships business crates to German companies and facilities. - Shipping Heritage Items, Family Heirlooms, and Antiques to Germany
Many German-Americans have family heirlooms, antiques, historical artifacts, or personally significant objects that they want to ship from the USA to Germany — for safekeeping, for a family member, or as part of an estate. These items are often irreplaceable and require the highest level of packaging protection. ExpediShip ships heritage crates with custom internal padding, shock-absorbing materials, and professional handling from pickup to delivery. - Shipping Fine Art and Collectibles to Germany
Artists, galleries, collectors, and auction houses in the USA regularly ship fine art, sculptures, antique furniture, and high-value collectibles to Germany. Crate shipping provides the maximum protection for valuable and fragile art objects, and ExpediShip can advise on insurance options and the Antique Declaration required for items over 100 years old. - Shipping Fragile or Oversized Personal Items
Some personal items — pianos, large sculptures, custom furniture, specialist scientific equipment — are too large or fragile for standard box or pallet shipping. A custom wooden crate is the right solution. ExpediShip can arrange custom crate fabrication at your US pickup location before shipping to Germany.
Shipping Cost & Transit Time for Shipping crate from the USA to Germany
Our prices are highly competitive — that’s why so many customers choose Expediship for shipping crate from the USA to Germany. We offer affordable rates with reliable, professional service, guiding you step by step through the entire shipping process for crate shipment
Delivery to Germany typically takes around 5 business days, not including customs clearance time, which may vary depending on Germany government processing.
Below are estimated starting prices for shipping Crate from the USA to Germany. Final cost depends on box size, pickup address, and delivery city.
| Weight Range | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 150–200 lbs | From $3/lbs |
| 201–300 lbs | From $2.8/lbs |
| 301–400 lbs | From $2.5/lbs |
| 401–500 lbs | From $2.0/lbs |
| 501–600 lbs | From $1.8/lbs |
| 601–700 lbs | From $1.5/lbs |
| 701–800 lbs | From $1.3/lbs |
| 801+ lbs | From $1.11 — for larger shipments, please contact customer service for an exact quote. |
Note: Prices are estimated starting rates for air freight shipments. Expediship offers door-to-door service with full tracking and customs guidance.
Customs Rules for Shipping Business Equipment in a Crate from the USA to Germany
Germany applies EU customs rules to all goods imported from the USA. Business equipment and machinery shipped in crates are classified as commercial imports and are subject to German customs duties and 19% VAT, unless a specific exemption applies.
- Standard Commercial Import (Permanent Import)
If your business equipment is being permanently imported into Germany — purchased by a German company, transferred to a German subsidiary, or sold to a German customer — standard German customs duties and 19% VAT apply. The duty rate depends on the product type and its HS (Harmonized System) code. Rates typically range from 0% to 6.5% for most industrial and commercial goods. ExpediShip will help you identify the correct HS codes and prepare an accurate commercial invoice. - Temporary Import for Business Use
If your equipment is being temporarily imported into Germany — for example, for a demonstration, testing, repair, or short-term business use — and will return to the USA within 24 months, you may qualify for the EU temporary admission procedure (Verfahren der vorübergehenden Verwendung). Under this procedure, import duties and VAT may be partially or fully suspended while the goods remain in Germany. An ATA Carnet can also be used for certain types of professional equipment imported temporarily for business purposes. - Intracompany Transfers
If you are transferring business equipment from a US company to its German subsidiary or branch, the transfer is still subject to German customs duties and VAT, as the goods are crossing the EU customs border. The customs value is typically the fair market value of the equipment, not necessarily its original purchase price. - EORI Number Requirement
All businesses importing goods into Germany (and the EU) must have a valid EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number. If your German recipient company does not already have an EORI number, they must register for one before importing. ExpediShip can advise you on this process.
Shipping Heritage Items, Family Heirlooms, and Antiques from the USA to Germany
Germany has a deep cultural and historical heritage, and many families with German roots in the USA have heirlooms, antiques, artworks, and personally significant objects that they wish to ship from the USA to Germany. ExpediShip treats every heritage crate shipment with the same professionalism and care that the items deserve.
- Antiques Over 100 Years Old: Customs Duty Exemption
Under EU and German customs regulations, genuine antiques that are over 100 years old are generally exempt from import customs duties when imported into Germany from the USA. To claim this exemption, you must attach a signed Antique Declaration to the shipment — a document certifying that the items are at least 100 years old, their approximate date of manufacture, and whether they are being imported for personal use or sale. However, even if antiques are exempt from customs duty, 7% reduced German VAT may still apply to antiques and works of art imported into Germany (compared to the standard 19% rate for most other goods). For very high-value antiques, this can still represent a significant cost — consult with ExpediShip and a German customs broker for specific advice on your shipment. - Family Heirlooms and Personal Heritage Items (Not for Sale)
Family heirlooms — furniture, photographs, documents, ceramics, textiles, and other personally significant objects — that are being shipped from the USA to Germany for personal use (not for commercial sale) are treated as personal effects. If you are relocating to Germany, these items may qualify for the personal effects duty-free exemption under German customs Form 0350, provided they have been owned and used for at least 6 months. if you are sending heritage items to a family member in Germany without relocating yourself, the items will be assessed as a gift or personal donation. The standard gift customs rules apply (€45 duty-free threshold, 19% VAT above that). - Protecting Heritage Items for the Journey
Heritage items, antiques, and family heirlooms require specialized packing. ExpediShip recommends:
Custom-built wooden crates with internal foam or timber bracing matched to the specific shape of the item.
Museum-quality bubble wrap and acid-free tissue paper for fragile or painted surfaces.
Climate-controlled handling where available for sensitive materials (old documents, textiles, paintings).
Comprehensive insurance covering the full replacement or assessed value of the item.
Photographic documentation of the item before packing, for insurance purposes.
Never ship irreplaceable heritage items in a standard cardboard box. A custom wooden crate is the correct solution for any item that cannot be replaced.
Types of Crates Used for Shipping from the USA to Germany
- Wooden Crates (Timber Crates)
The most common type of shipping crate for international freight. Custom-built from solid timber or plywood to match the exact dimensions and weight of the contents. Provides maximum structural protection for heavy or fragile items. All wooden crates used in international shipping must comply with ISPM-15 regulations (heat-treated or fumigated to prevent pest transfer) and must carry the official IPPC stamp. Non-compliant wooden crates will be refused at German customs. - Aluminium Crates
Used for high-value, precision, or sensitive equipment that requires a lightweight but extremely strong container. Aluminium crates are reusable, weatherproof, and do not require ISPM-15 treatment. Commonly used for laboratory instruments, medical devices, and high-end audio-visual equipment. - Open-Top Crates
Used for very tall or oversized items that cannot be loaded from the side, such as large sculptures, machinery with vertical elements, or tall furniture. The top of the crate is open during loading and sealed before shipping. - Crate-in-Box
A cardboard outer box with an internal timber frame for additional structural support. Used for medium-weight items that are too fragile for a standard cardboard box but do not require a full timber crate.
How ExpediShip Packs a Crate for Germany
Assess the item: dimensions, weight, fragility, and value determine the crate type and internal packing.
Build the crate: custom-fabricated to the item’s measurements, with internal bracing to prevent movement.
Internal padding: foam inserts, bubble wrap, timber bracing, and shock-absorbing materials matched to the item.
Seal and strap: the crate is sealed, banded with steel or plastic strapping, and marked with handling instructions (FRAGILE, THIS SIDE UP, etc.).
Labeling: full shipping label, commercial invoice, and customs documents attached to the outside.
Documentation review: all customs documents reviewed before shipping to ensure smooth German customs clearance.
How to Prepare a Crate Shipment from the USA to Germany : Step-by-Step Guide
Crating is one of the most secure and reliable methods for both domestic and international shipping, especially when transporting fragile, high-value, or oversized items. Unlike standard boxes, wooden crates provide a rigid structure that protects cargo from impact, compression, and handling damage during transit. This is particularly important for international shipments, where goods may go through multiple transfers, long transit times, and customs inspections.
When preparing a crate shipment, selecting the correct crate is the first and most important step. A strong and properly sized crate protects your goods and ensures safe transport.
Use solid wood crates or plywood crates for heavy or fragile items
For international shipping, use ISPM-15 certified (heat-treated) wood
Choose the right size to minimize empty space inside
Recommended crate sizes (based on shipment type):
Small crate: up to 48 × 40 × 36 inches (121 × 102 × 91 cm)
Medium crate: up to 60 × 48 × 48 inches (152 × 122 × 122 cm)
Large crate: up to 72 × 48 × 60 inches (183 × 122 × 152 cm)
Custom crates: for oversized items (furniture, sculptures, machinery)
Keep at least 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) space on each side for padding
Ensure the crate has a pallet-style base (forklift accessible)
Avoid weak or damaged wood
Before placing items into the crate, proper internal protection is critical.
Wrap items with foam, bubble wrap, or blankets
Protect fragile areas like corners, edges, and surfaces
Use anti-scratch and moisture protection if needed
Disassemble items (like table legs, frames) when possible
For high-value items, consider custom foam inserts
Items must not move during transit — this is one of the most important steps.
Use blocking and bracing (wood supports) inside the crate
Fill empty spaces with foam, padding, or air cushions
Use straps or tie-downs for heavy items
Ensure zero movement when shaking the crate
For machinery, consider bolting to the base
The crate structure must be strong enough to handle long-distance transport.
Use screws or nails (not just staples) to secure panels
Reinforce edges with metal brackets if needed
Seal all sides tightly
For international shipping, ensure the crate is fully enclosed
Optional: use water-resistant lining or wrap
Clear labeling ensures smooth handling and customs clearance.
Attach shipping labels on at least 2 sides
Add handling labels:
“Fragile”
“This Side Up”
“Do Not Stack” (if needed)
For international shipments:
Attach commercial invoice + packing list
Include HS code and item description
Place documents in a waterproof pouch
Before shipment, do a final check to avoid delays or damage.
Verify weight and dimensions (important for billing)
Check crate stability (no loose panels or movement)
Ensure forklift access on all sides if required
Take photos for records and insurance
Confirm pickup details and carrier requirements
Insurance Options for Shipping Boxes, Pallets, Crates, or Luggage from the USA to Germany
Every shipment automatically includes $100 of cargo insurance free of charge — if anything is lost or damaged, you are covered up to $100 at no extra cost. Need more protection? Add full coverage for just 3% of the declared value when requesting your quote. For eligibility rules, non-insurable items, and how claims work, see our Shipping Insurance Guide.
We Ship Crates from the USA to All Cities in Germany
- Berlin — Germany’s capital; a frequent destination for art, heritage, and business crate shipments. Home to major museums, galleries, and international companies.
- Munich (München) — a major destination for engineering and manufacturing equipment crates, and for heritage and antique shipments to Bavaria.
- Hamburg — Germany’s largest port city and a major hub for international freight and business imports.
- Frankfurt (Frankfurt am Main) — Germany’s financial capital; a frequent destination for high-value business equipment crates.
- Stuttgart — home of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche; a major destination for precision engineering and industrial equipment crates from the USA.
- Düsseldorf — an important destination for medical device and technology equipment crates, and for art and collectibles.
All other German cities — ExpediShip ships crates to every address in Germany.
Shipping Process
Ship Pallet from USA to Germany
Frequently Asked Questions When Shipping Crate from USA to Germany
A pallet is an open platform used to stack and transport multiple boxes or goods in a single load. A crate is an enclosed wooden or aluminium container that fully surrounds and protects a single item or a set of items. Crates provide significantly more protection than pallets and are used for items that are fragile, high-value, oversized, or irregularly shaped. If your goods can be securely stacked in boxes on a pallet, a pallet shipment is sufficient. If your goods are fragile, heavy, or require structural protection on all six sides, a crate is the right choice.
Yes, genuine antiques that are over 100 years old are generally exempt from German import customs duties. However, reduced 7% German VAT may still apply. To claim the duty exemption, you must attach a signed Antique Declaration to the shipment, certifying the age and nature of the items. ExpediShip will advise you on the correct documentation for antique crate shipments to Germany.
Via air freight, crate shipments typically take around 5 business days from pickup to delivery in Germany, plus customs clearance time. Larger or heavier crates may require ocean freight, where transit time is typically 3 to 5 weeks. Contact ExpediShip for a transit time estimate based on your crate size, weight, and pickup location.
Yes. All wooden crates used in international shipping from the USA to Germany must comply with ISPM-15 regulations. The crate must be made from heat-treated or fumigated timber and carry the official IPPC stamp. ExpediShip uses ISPM-15 compliant timber for all custom crates we build on your behalf.