Chicago Illinois USA North America

Chicago | Air & Sea Freight

Chicago, one of America’s great transport and trade centers, is a powerhouse in international logistics. CargoMaster connects Australia with Chicago through dependable, professional, and cost-effective air and sea freight services designed to move goods smoothly between continents. Whether you’re a business expanding your reach or an individual relocating internationally, CargoMaster provides the experience, flexibility, and reliability to make every shipment a success.

From the bustling Port of Chicago to O’Hare International Airport, the city stands at the crossroads of major freight routes, giving it global influence in import and export operations. CargoMaster leverages this advantage, offering world-class logistics solutions that integrate seamlessly with Chicago’s extensive transport infrastructure. Our services are built around flexibility and value, helping clients move cargo efficiently across borders while minimizing delays and costs.

With decades of experience in international shipping, CargoMaster understands the complexities of global trade. Our team works closely with clients to design logistics strategies that fit both commercial goals and personal shipping needs. From high-volume sea freight to urgent air consignments, every shipment is handled with professionalism and precision.

At CargoMaster, we take pride in offering a full spectrum of logistics services, covering everything from packing, documentation, and customs clearance to final delivery. This integrated approach ensures that every cargo, regardless of size or complexity, is delivered on time and in perfect condition.

Our reputation as one of Australia’s most trusted international freight forwarders comes from consistent performance, customer focus, and attention to detail. With CargoMaster, you gain a partner that understands both the American and Australian markets, ensuring seamless communication, compliance, and coordination at every stage of your shipping journey.

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Import & Export

International trade between the United States and Australia is thriving, and Chicago serves as a key hub in this exchange. CargoMaster’s import and export services are designed to facilitate smooth movement of goods between these two nations, offering fast, secure, and compliant solutions for businesses and individuals. Our experienced logistics professionals ensure that every shipment, from raw materials to retail products is handled according to international standards and delivered without unnecessary delays.

For importers, CargoMaster provides complete coordination from port to warehouse. We manage documentation, customs procedures, and inland transportation to ensure your goods are released and delivered promptly. Whether you’re importing machinery, textiles, electronics, or construction materials, our team makes the process straightforward and stress-free.

For exporters, CargoMaster offers a comprehensive suite of services that includes packaging, labeling, export documentation, and compliance support. We understand that timing is crucial when delivering to international customers, and we work closely with you to align shipping schedules and manage carrier selection for maximum efficiency.

Our long-standing partnerships with major airlines, shipping lines, and local agents enable us to provide competitive freight rates and reliable transit schedules. By leveraging these relationships, CargoMaster ensures cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or speed.

No matter the type of cargo, commercial, personal, or industrial, CargoMaster’s import and export expertise ensures a seamless experience from start to finish. Our deep understanding of customs requirements, freight classification, and global logistics systems keeps your business moving efficiently across borders.

Air Freight

When timing is everything, CargoMaster’s air freight services deliver speed, precision, and reliability. Chicago, home to O’Hare International Airport, serves as one of the busiest air freight hubs in the world, and CargoMaster capitalizes on this to connect your cargo swiftly to destinations across Australia. Our air freight network covers all major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, ensuring efficient delivery no matter your final destination.

CargoMaster offers flexible air freight options designed around your budget and timeline. Whether you need express delivery for urgent shipments or a cost-effective consolidated air service, our team will recommend the most suitable option. Every shipment is closely monitored using real-time tracking systems, providing full visibility from collection to delivery.

Handling a wide variety of goods, including perishable items, dangerous goods, machinery, and commercial stock, CargoMaster applies strict quality and safety procedures to ensure compliance with both Australian and U.S. aviation standards. Each shipment is managed by a dedicated logistics professional who oversees its journey and provides consistent communication.

In addition to standard services, CargoMaster provides door-to-door and airport-to-airport solutions, giving clients the flexibility to choose the level of service that best suits their needs. With years of operational experience, we manage everything from documentation to customs, ensuring smooth and timely transitions.

Businesses and individuals alike rely on CargoMaster for fast and secure air freight between Australia and Chicago. Our dedication to reliability, transparency, and exceptional customer service ensures that your cargo reaches its destination exactly when it’s needed.

Air Freight Charter

When commercial air schedules or cargo sizes don’t meet your needs, CargoMaster’s air freight charter service offers the ideal solution. We specialize in organizing private aircraft charters to transport large, urgent, or sensitive shipments directly from Chicago to Australia or vice versa. From humanitarian aid to industrial machinery and mining equipment, our charter service delivers flexibility and control for mission-critical logistics.

CargoMaster maintains access to a vast global network of cargo aircraft, including turboprops, narrow-body, and wide-body freighters. This allows us to provide customized charter options tailored to your cargo’s specifications, weight, and required timeframe. Whether your freight needs to move immediately or you require dedicated aircraft for ongoing projects, we can make it happen efficiently.

Our team coordinates every aspect of the charter, from aircraft sourcing and route planning to ground handling and customs documentation. With our experience in managing time-sensitive and oversized shipments, we ensure that your freight is transported safely and arrives exactly as planned.

Unlike standard air freight, charter services provide total flexibility. Clients benefit from direct routes, no transshipment delays, and complete control over departure and arrival times. CargoMaster’s charter team is available 24/7 to organize flights, monitor progress, and provide constant updates.

When you choose CargoMaster’s air freight charter service, you choose efficiency without compromise. We combine aviation expertise with personalized service to deliver unmatched reliability, making us the preferred choice for urgent, high-value, or oversized cargo movements between Chicago and Australia.

Sea Freight

For large shipments and cost-effective international transport, CargoMaster’s sea freight services offer a dependable solution. Chicago’s Port facilities provide direct access to global trade routes, and CargoMaster’s expertise ensures that your cargo moves seamlessly from the U.S. to Australia with minimal handling and maximum care.

Our sea freight services are ideal for businesses exporting industrial machinery, construction materials, and bulk goods, as well as for individuals moving personal effects overseas. CargoMaster manages every stage of the shipping process, from packing and documentation to booking and final delivery, allowing clients to focus on their core operations while we handle the logistics.

We offer both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options, giving clients flexibility based on shipment volume and budget. Weekly sailings between the U.S. and Australia ensure consistent scheduling and timely arrivals.

CargoMaster partners with leading international shipping lines, enabling us to offer competitive rates and reliable transit times. We also assist with cargo insurance, customs requirements, and inland transportation to provide a truly end-to-end service.

By combining industry experience with advanced tracking technology, CargoMaster ensures your sea freight shipment remains visible and secure throughout its journey. From Chicago’s inland terminals to Australian ports, we deliver dependable, affordable, and professional shipping solutions tailored to your needs.

20ft & 40ft Sea Containers

CargoMaster provides reliable and flexible 20ft and 40ft sea container shipping solutions designed to meet the needs of businesses and individuals shipping from Chicago to Australia. Whether you’re transporting personal belongings, commercial goods, or industrial cargo, we offer containerized options that ensure your freight arrives safely and securely. Each container is built to withstand long-haul ocean journeys, providing protection against moisture, impact, and temperature fluctuations.

Our 20ft containers are ideal for smaller shipments, household relocations, or compact commercial consignments. Measuring approximately six meters in length, these containers provide an affordable way to ship goods while minimizing wasted space. For larger shipments, our 40ft containers double the capacity, making them perfect for bulky machinery, large-scale exports, and high-volume freight. Both options can be sealed and shipped directly from Chicago’s intermodal hubs to major Australian ports.

CargoMaster also offers specialized equipment such as high-cube, open-top, and flat-rack containers for oversized or non-standard cargo. These containers are designed to handle heavy or irregularly shaped loads that can’t fit into standard dimensions. Our experienced logistics professionals work closely with clients to determine the most suitable container type and ensure it complies with international shipping standards.

We understand the importance of reliability and timing in international trade. That’s why our container shipping services include detailed tracking, transparent communication, and consistent sailing schedules. CargoMaster’s relationships with major ocean carriers guarantee competitive freight rates and dependable transit times between Chicago and Australia’s key ports.

Whether you’re exporting goods to Sydney, importing products to Chicago, or coordinating complex supply chain operations, CargoMaster’s 20ft and 40ft container shipping services deliver the flexibility, security, and professionalism your business demands.

Self-Pack Containers

For individuals or families planning an international move, CargoMaster’s self-pack container service provides a practical and affordable alternative to traditional removals. This option allows you to pack your own 20ft or 40ft container at your own pace, saving time and reducing costs while maintaining control over how your belongings are handled. CargoMaster delivers the container directly to your Chicago address, where you can load it safely and efficiently before we handle transport, documentation, and shipping.

Self-pack containers are perfect for long-distance relocations, vehicle transport, or small business exports. Once packed, our team manages the collection and delivery of your container to the port, taking care of all export and customs formalities. This streamlined service ensures a hassle-free experience without unnecessary intermediaries or hidden fees.

CargoMaster provides detailed guidance on how to prepare, load, and secure your goods, ensuring they remain safe during transit. We also offer access to packing materials and equipment to help clients organize their move efficiently. Every container is sealed, tracked, and monitored from Chicago to its final destination, giving you peace of mind throughout the journey.

Self-pack shipping is a flexible and budget-friendly solution that appeals to individuals seeking greater control over their relocation. It’s an increasingly popular choice for customers moving from the U.S. to Australia because it combines convenience with significant cost savings.

At CargoMaster, we’ve made self-pack container shipping simple, transparent, and dependable. Our dedicated support team assists with documentation, customs requirements, and delivery arrangements to ensure your personal or business belongings arrive securely and on time.

Vehicle Shipping

Moving vehicles between Chicago and Australia requires specialized handling, and CargoMaster’s vehicle shipping services make the process straightforward. Whether you’re transporting a car, motorcycle, boat, or commercial vehicle, we have the expertise to ensure safe, compliant, and cost-effective international delivery. From classic cars to high-performance vehicles, CargoMaster provides tailored shipping options that meet individual requirements.

We offer both Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and containerized vehicle shipping methods. RoRo shipping is ideal for drivable vehicles and provides a fast, economical option where your car is driven directly onto and off the vessel. For extra protection, particularly for valuable or collectible vehicles, container shipping offers complete enclosure and protection from environmental elements during transit.

CargoMaster handles all aspects of vehicle transport logistics, including export documentation, marine insurance, customs clearance, and quarantine compliance. We also provide detailed guidance on Australian import regulations and biosecurity standards to prevent delays or additional costs upon arrival.

Our vehicle shipping services are available from Chicago’s major transport hubs, with secure loading facilities and professional handling teams ensuring that each vehicle is prepared and positioned correctly for international transport. Clients can track their shipment throughout its journey, ensuring full transparency and confidence.

With decades of experience in global vehicle logistics, CargoMaster ensures your vehicle arrives in Australia safely, clean, and ready for the road. Our commitment to precision, communication, and care makes us one of the most trusted names in international car and vehicle shipping.

Specialized & Heavy Freight

Shipping oversized, project-based, or heavy freight from Chicago to Australia requires precision logistics and specialized equipment, something CargoMaster excels in. Our heavy-lift and project cargo services cater to industries such as mining, construction, oil and gas, and energy. We manage the complete logistics chain, including transport permits, crane coordination, and vessel chartering for out-of-gauge cargo.

CargoMaster’s team of professionals has the technical knowledge and hands-on experience to handle complex freight operations safely and efficiently. From disassembled machinery and industrial modules to prefabricated structures, our team develops customized transport solutions that ensure every component arrives intact and on schedule.

We utilize specialized containers such as flat racks, open tops, and platforms, designed to accommodate freight that exceeds standard container dimensions. With partnerships across major carriers and ports, CargoMaster offers multiple routing options to meet project deadlines and budget constraints.

Our expertise extends beyond the vessel. We coordinate inland transport using heavy haulage vehicles and manage loading and unloading operations at Chicago terminals and Australian ports. Each shipment is meticulously planned, with risk assessments and route evaluations conducted in advance to guarantee safety and compliance.

From start to finish, CargoMaster delivers confidence in every heavy freight movement. Our dedication to planning, communication, and execution ensures that even the largest or most complex shipments move smoothly between Chicago and Australia, minimizing downtime and maximizing reliability.

Customs Clearance

Navigating the intricate world of international customs can be one of the most challenging aspects of global trade, but CargoMaster’s customs clearance services make it simple. Our experienced team works closely with U.S. and Australian customs authorities to ensure that all import and export procedures are completed efficiently and accurately. We handle documentation, declarations, and compliance on your behalf, minimizing delays and preventing costly errors.

For shipments departing from Chicago, CargoMaster ensures all export paperwork, including packing lists, commercial invoices, and certificates of origin, meets Australian entry standards. For goods entering the United States, we manage all required import permits, tariffs, and duties in line with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements.

CargoMaster’s customs experts stay up to date with changing international trade regulations, free trade agreements, and tariff structures to ensure our clients always remain compliant. This proactive approach not only helps reduce administrative headaches but also safeguards against penalties and delays.

Our team also assists with biosecurity and quarantine procedures, ensuring that all cargo entering Australia meets inspection and treatment requirements. Whether you’re shipping machinery, food products, vehicles, or personal effects, CargoMaster takes care of every detail so your shipment clears customs smoothly.

With CargoMaster’s end-to-end customs management, you gain peace of mind knowing your cargo is in capable hands. We bridge the gap between Chicago and Australia with professionalism and precision, ensuring your freight moves seamlessly across international borders.

Why CargoMaster

Choosing CargoMaster means choosing an experienced, reliable, and results-driven freight partner. We’ve built our reputation on professionalism, transparency, and exceptional service, offering clients around the world seamless access to air and sea freight solutions between Chicago and Australia. Every shipment we manage is backed by decades of industry experience and a genuine commitment to excellence.

What sets CargoMaster apart is our ability to provide personalized service at every level. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all logistics. Instead, we tailor every solution, whether it’s express air freight, full container shipping, or specialized heavy cargo, to meet your specific needs. Our network of trusted partners across the U.S. and Australia ensures that no matter where your freight originates or ends, it’s always handled with care and precision.

We understand that timing, cost, and communication are critical in international logistics. That’s why CargoMaster offers transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and proactive updates throughout every shipment. Clients can depend on us for consistent reliability, from pick-up in Chicago to final delivery in Australia.

Our commitment extends beyond transportation. CargoMaster also provides end-to-end logistics support, including documentation, insurance, packing, and customs assistance. This all-in-one service approach simplifies your shipping experience and ensures every stage of your freight movement is managed efficiently.

When you choose CargoMaster, you’re not just selecting a freight forwarder, you’re gaining a trusted logistics partner dedicated to your success. With expertise spanning air freight, sea freight, vehicle shipping, and project logistics, CargoMaster stands as a leader in connecting Chicago with Australia through dependable, world-class freight services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much to ship a container to Chicago?
Costs vary by container size and origin city. Contact CargoMaster for a quote.

Do you offer self-pack containers to Chicago?
Yes. We ship self-pack containers from all major Australian cities.

How long does shipping to Chicago take?
Transit time is around 43 days with weekly sailings from key ports.

What size is a 20ft container?
Approx. 5.9m × 2.3m × 2.3m. Fits a 3-bedroom home.

What size is a 40ft container?
Approx. 11.9m × 2.35m × 2.35m. Ideal for furniture and vehicles.

How do I pack a container safely?
Distribute weight evenly, strap items securely, and wrap furniture. Leave space near doors.

Can I ship a car to Chicago?
Yes. We provide secure car shipping with blocking and bracing.

Best way to ship furniture to Chicago?
Use containers. We also offer flat racks, high-cubes, and break-bulk options.

Do you offer removalist services?
We’re freight forwarders, not removalists, but we can recommend trusted providers.

Do you work with shipping companies in the Midwest?
Yes. We partner with top-rated carriers for reliable delivery to Chicago and beyond.

Packing & Moving Tips

Before You Move

• Notify CargoMaster of any changes to your address or item list
• Share contact numbers for both pickup and delivery, keep your mobile on during container drop-off and collection
• Report access issues like stairs, long walks, narrow driveways, or restricted zones
• Consider removals insurance for added peace of mind
• Plan ahead, self-pack moves require careful preparation

Getting Ready to Pack

• Start early to avoid last-minute stress
• Bundle appliance cords and label cartons clearly
• Keep cartons light for easier lifting and stacking
• Consult CargoMaster before loading vehicles into your container
• Number your cartons and create a manifest to track contents
• Use sturdy cartons void grocery boxes
• Empty furniture & lock doors to prevent movement
• Wrap fragile items with butcher paper and bubble wrap
• Ask about our full packing service available at competitive rates
• Defrost fridges and empty drip trays the day before
• Disassemble large items like swings, sheds, and bed frames
• Drain fuel from machinery gas bottles cannot be shipped
• Clean BBQs and lawnmowers before loading
• Use picture cartons and bubble wrap for artwork and mirrors
• Protect glass with flattened cartons or padded sleeves
• Bundle loose items like garden tools and brooms
• Disconnect washing machines and secure the drum
• Tape hardware (screws, bolts) to the item they belong to
• Pack electronics with crushed paper or original packaging

Items Not Allowed in Self-Pack Containers

• Dangerous goods (prohibited by law)
• Fuels & Solvents
• Live plants (may require certification)
• Animals
• Dirty or contaminated items
• BBQ gas cylinders

Final Checks Before Uplift

• Keep your mobile on throughout the move
• Set aside essentials wallets, phones, tickets, keys, and clothes should travel with you
• Reserve parking for the truck by spacing out two or three cars in front of your home
• Disconnect utilities at your old address and reconnect at your new one
• Be present for both pickup and delivery
• Double-check everything is packed and loaded before the truck departs
• Expect possible delays due to traffic, weather, or road closures
• Avoid booking flights on the same day as your container uplift or delivery

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HAZARD LABELS DANGEROUS GOODS (DG)

Hazard Labels for Dangerous Goods (DG)

The international community has established a classification system for easy identification of dangerous goods. These goods fall into nine primary classes, and some classes are further divided to address specific risks. Each class/division has a corresponding label that accurately represents the nature of the hazard. These labels must be attached to the package during transport and remain intact throughout the journey. Take a look at the illustrated examples below to understand how these labels effectively communicate the potential dangers.

Under regulations, labels must be clearly visible on the outside of the package and must stay on the package while in transit.

You can often find labels printed on most inner packages such as:

• aerosol cans
• bottles of bleach
• containers of thinners
• tins of paint
• many other products which are available at supermarkets and hardware stores.

Below are the 9 hazard labels for the 9 classes of dangerous goods.

Class 1 Explosives

Class 1 explosives

This includes items such as:

• explosive substances
• pyrotechnic devices
• ammunition
• fireworks
• detonators.

Class 2 Gases

Class 2 gases

These can be transported as:

• compressed
• liquefied
• refrigerated liquefied
• gas in solution.

This includes aerosols. Class 2 has 3 divisions:

• Division 2.1 - flammable gases such as:
  • butane
  • propane
• Division 2.2 - non-flammable, non-toxic gases such as:
  • oxygen
  • liquid nitrogen
  • compressed air
• Division 2.3 - toxic gases such as:
  • chlorine
  • hydrogen sulphide.

Class 3 Flammable liquids

Class 3 flammable liquids

This includes liquids with a boiling point of 35⁰ C or less, or a flash point of 60⁰ C or less such as:

• petrol
• alcohol
• perfumes
• essential oils
• hand sanitiser
• paints.

Class 4 Flammable solids

Class 4 flammable solids

These are substances that can spontaneously combust and substances, that when they come into contact with water or emit flammable gases. Class 4 has 3 divisions:

• Division 4.1 - flammable solids such as:
  • hexamine solid fuel tablets for camping stoves
  • self-reactive substances
  • desensitised explosives
• Division 4.2 - substances that can spontaneously combust under normal air transport conditions include:
  • camphor
  • sulphur
  • matches
• Division 4.3 - substances that emit flammable gases when they come into contact with water include:
  • sodium
  • zinc particles
  • activated carbon.

Class 5 Oxidising substances and organic peroxides

Class 5 oxidising substances organic peroxides

These substances are not necessarily combustible on their own but can react dangerously with other substances. Class 5 has 2 divisions:

• Division 5.1 - oxidising substances that may not be necessarily combustible, but they may readily yield oxygen and cause other materials to combust, such as:
  • hydrogen peroxide
  • ammonium nitrate
  • potassium chlorate
  • sodium nitrate
• Division 5.2 - organic peroxides are thermally unstable and can emit heat and give off harmful or flammable vapours. They can also be liable to explosive decomposition and react dangerously with other substances. Examples are:
  • acetyl acetone peroxide
  • benzoyl peroxide
  • peracetic acid.

Class 6 Toxic and infectious substances

Class 6 toxic infectious substances

These substances can cause sickness, injury or death if consumed. Class 6 has 2 divisions:

• Division 6.1 - toxic substances that can cause death, injury or to harm human health if swallowed, inhaled or by skin contact, such as:
  • chloroform
  • arsenics
  • cyanides
  • cytotoxic waste
  • barium compounds
  • pesticides
• Division 6.2 - infectious substances that contain or are expected to contain pathogens that can cause disease in humans or animals, including:
  • medical or clinical waste
  • patient specimens
  • genetically modified organisms
  • infectious substances
  • infected animals.

Class 7 Radioactive materials

Class 7 radioactive materials

These are substances that emit invisible ionising radiation that can be harmful to humans and animals. It can cause objects such as aircraft and equipment to become contaminated if not packaged and handled correctly, such as:

• uranium
• radioactive ores
• isotypes
• radium
• cesium
• x-ray equipment
• medical equipment or parts.

Class 8 Corrosives

Class 8 corrosives

These substances can cause irreversible damage if they come into contact with skin and could destroy other freight, or materially damage containers or aircraft. This includes:

• acids
• corrosive cleaners
• battery fluid
• formaldehyde
• hydrofluoric acid.

Class 9 Miscellaneous

Class 9 miscellaneous

These are substances and articles which, during air transport, present a danger not covered by other classes. There are 2 types of handling labels – 1 for lithium battery shipments, and another for all other miscellaneous dangerous goods. This class includes:

• lithium batteries
• battery powered vehicles
• battery powered equipment
• first aid kids
• environmentally hazardous substances
• dry ice
• magnetised materials
• asbestos.

Handling labels

In addition to hazard labels, trained staff must attach handling labels where needed. Staff must use these 4 handling labels with the appropriate hazard labels:

Cargo aircraft only

This label is used to show that the load cannot be carried on a passenger aircraft.

Cyrogenics

This label is used on liquefied gases, such as the ones in Class 2.

This way up

This label ensures a load is placed the correct way up and can be used for non-dangerous goods.

Magnetised material

This label ensures that the load is kept away from the aircraft compass detector unit while being loaded and unloaded.

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CargoMaster International Freight Forwarder Australia

At CargoMaster we strive to deliver cost effective freight forwarding services to business, government and private individuals.

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