San Diego California USA North America

San Diego | Air & Sea Freight

CargoMaster, your trusted international freight forwarder connecting Australia with San Diego, California. For over 35 years, CargoMaster has been helping Australians ship goods safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively to destinations across the United States. Whether you’re moving household goods, commercial inventory, or specialized industrial cargo, we offer personalized logistics solutions designed to make global shipping simple and stress-free.

San Diego, renowned for its dynamic economy, deepwater port, and thriving technology and defense sectors, attracts significant trade and business from around the world. CargoMaster’s experience in U.S. logistics means we understand the local infrastructure, customs processes, and delivery networks required to ensure your cargo moves seamlessly from Australia to Southern California. Our mission is to make every shipment, big or small, a success story built on precision and reliability.

With operations across all major Australian ports, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, CargoMaster provides direct access to major sea and air routes. Our team coordinates the entire shipping process, from documentation and packing to transport insurance and customs clearance. We work with international carriers and agents who share our commitment to professionalism and efficiency.

Whether you’re a business exporting high-value goods or a family relocating to California, CargoMaster delivers dependable logistics support. We tailor every service to your schedule, your budget, and your priorities. Our clients trust us because we treat every shipment with the same attention to detail, ensuring your goods reach San Diego safely, on time, and in perfect condition.

At CargoMaster, we believe in simplifying global transport. Through innovation, integrity, and hands-on service, we make international freight forwarding to San Diego a smooth, transparent, and affordable process for everyone.

Anchorage Austin Chicago Cincinnati Dallas Denver Fort Worth Hawaii Houston Indianapolis Las Vegas Los Angeles Miami New York Philadelphia Phoenix San Antonio San Francisco San Jose Seattle St. Louis

Import & Export

CargoMaster provides comprehensive import and export services for shipments between Australia and San Diego. Our expert team manages every aspect of international trade logistics, including documentation, permits, customs procedures, and quarantine requirements. We handle all types of cargo, commercial freight, project cargo, and personal effects with accuracy and efficiency, helping clients avoid delays and unnecessary costs.

Exporting from Australia to San Diego requires detailed compliance with both Australian export controls and U.S. import regulations. CargoMaster takes care of all formalities, ensuring each shipment meets international standards. Our team coordinates directly with port authorities, shipping lines, and airlines to secure space, schedule routes, and optimize delivery times. This hands-on approach guarantees reliable transit every time.

For importers, CargoMaster assists with all inbound cargo requirements, including bonded warehousing, duty management, and domestic delivery. We provide advice on tariff classifications and documentation to simplify customs entry and reduce financial exposure. Whether you’re importing industrial machinery, consumer goods, or perishable items, CargoMaster ensures your shipment arrives in compliance with every rule and regulation.

We understand that global trade moves fast, and businesses rely on speed and accuracy. That’s why our import and export services are built around flexibility and communication. Our clients enjoy full visibility of their cargo’s journey through detailed tracking and transparent updates.

By combining decades of freight forwarding experience with strong international partnerships, CargoMaster connects Australia and San Diego with seamless import and export logistics that empower global trade and economic growth.

Air Freight

When speed is crucial, CargoMaster’s air freight services to San Diego deliver unmatched reliability. We provide both express and economy air freight options for shipments over 150kg, ensuring flexibility for every schedule and budget. Our fast transit times, from as little as 3 to 5 days, mean your goods arrive quickly, safely, and ready for delivery throughout Southern California.

CargoMaster partners with major international airlines to offer consistent weekly departures from Australia’s leading airports. Whether you’re shipping electronic components, fashion goods, perishables, or urgent business documents, we guarantee careful handling and efficient delivery. Each consignment is tracked throughout its journey, providing real-time visibility and peace of mind.

Our air freight services are designed to suit the needs of businesses and individuals alike. For commercial clients, we coordinate consolidated shipments and time-critical deliveries to minimize costs while maintaining speed. For private customers, we provide full-service support for sending personal items and household effects via air cargo.

We also offer temperature-controlled solutions for pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, and other sensitive goods requiring specialized handling. Every shipment is prepared and packed according to strict international standards to ensure safety in transit.

With CargoMaster managing your air freight to San Diego, you can count on efficiency, communication, and care, three pillars of service that define our commitment to excellence in global transport.

Air Freight Charter

For oversized, high-value, or urgent shipments, CargoMaster’s air freight charter services offer the ultimate in flexibility and control. Our team can arrange dedicated aircraft charters to and from San Diego, ensuring rapid, secure transport when commercial flight schedules don’t align with your requirements. We manage the entire process, from aircraft selection and route planning to ground handling and delivery coordination.

Chartering a flight is ideal for industries where timing is critical, such as automotive, oil and gas, mining, and defense. CargoMaster works with an extensive network of international operators to access a variety of aircraft, from small cargo planes to heavy-lift freighters. Each charter is customized to meet the unique dimensions, weight, and urgency of your shipment.

We oversee every stage of the operation, including loading supervision, customs processing, and post-arrival handling in San Diego. Our logistics specialists ensure safety, compliance, and speed, giving clients confidence in every aspect of their charter service.

CargoMaster’s charter solutions are available for both one-off urgent shipments and long-term contracts. Whether you’re moving time-sensitive medical equipment, humanitarian aid, or commercial inventory, we provide fast, precise, and reliable air transport services.

With decades of aviation logistics experience, CargoMaster is recognized as one of Australia’s most capable air charter coordinators, ensuring critical cargo reaches San Diego exactly when and where it’s needed.

Sea Freight

CargoMaster’s sea freight services between Australia and San Diego provide an economical and efficient way to move large volumes of goods. We offer flexible options, including Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), and break-bulk shipping for oversized cargo. Our goal is to deliver safe, cost-effective ocean transport tailored to your cargo requirements.

With weekly sailings from major Australian ports to the Port of San Diego, we make it easy to schedule your shipment. CargoMaster coordinates everything, from container booking and packing to customs documentation and marine insurance. Our team ensures your cargo is properly secured for long-distance ocean travel.

Sea freight is ideal for non-urgent or heavy goods such as furniture, construction materials, and vehicles. CargoMaster partners with leading international shipping lines to guarantee space availability and competitive rates. Each shipment is tracked throughout the voyage for full transparency.

We also provide specialized equipment options, including open-top and flat-rack containers, to handle project cargo and heavy machinery. These allow for safe loading and transport of freight that exceeds standard dimensions.

With CargoMaster, sea freight to San Diego becomes a straightforward process backed by experience, precision, and personalized service. Our long-term relationships with carriers ensure consistent reliability for clients across all industries.

20ft & 40ft Sea Containers

CargoMaster supplies both 20ft and 40ft containers to accommodate all types of freight headed for San Diego. Our 20ft containers are ideal for smaller shipments or dense cargo, while 40ft containers provide ample space for larger consignments or bulky machinery. Each container is built to international standards, ensuring maximum strength and weather protection throughout the voyage.

We guide customers in selecting the right container for their needs. CargoMaster also provides expert packing advice and can arrange professional loading services to maximize space efficiency and safety. Containers can be delivered directly to your location for convenient loading.

Our services include secure sealing, accurate documentation, and real-time tracking from port to port. Whether you’re shipping personal belongings or industrial freight, our 20ft and 40ft containers offer unmatched flexibility and protection.

CargoMaster also offers specialized units such as high-cube and open-top containers for out-of-gauge cargo. This ensures that even the most irregularly shaped items can be shipped safely and securely to San Diego.

With over three decades of industry experience, CargoMaster makes container shipping efficient, transparent, and reliable, delivering your goods from Australia to California without hassle.

Self-Pack Containers

For clients who prefer hands-on control, CargoMaster’s self-pack container option offers flexibility and cost savings. This popular service allows you to pack your own shipping container at your own pace before we manage the international logistics. It’s the perfect choice for individuals relocating overseas or businesses seeking a budget-conscious freight solution.

CargoMaster delivers the empty container to your premises for loading. Once packed and sealed, we transport it to the nearest port for export processing. Our team handles all logistics thereafter, including documentation, customs, and delivery to San Diego.

Self-pack containers are available in both 20ft and 40ft sizes, accommodating household goods, vehicles, or mixed cargo. This option offers full control over how your belongings are arranged, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring peace of mind.

We also provide guidance on packing techniques, weight distribution, and customs documentation to make the process simple and stress-free. Whether you’re shipping to San Diego for relocation or trade, CargoMaster ensures a smooth experience from start to finish.

With self-pack containers, you enjoy affordability, convenience, and the confidence that comes from working with one of Australia’s most experienced freight forwarders.

Vehicle Shipping

CargoMaster provides expert vehicle shipping from Australia to San Diego, specializing in cars, motorcycles, trucks, and industrial transport equipment. Whether you’re sending a single personal vehicle or managing a commercial shipment, we offer both roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and containerized transport solutions.

Our experienced team handles every aspect of vehicle export, including pre-shipment inspections, quarantine cleaning, documentation, and marine insurance. Each vehicle is carefully prepared and secured to prevent movement during transit.

CargoMaster’s partnerships with international carriers ensure dependable sailings and professional handling from departure port to arrival in San Diego. We coordinate customs clearance, import compliance, and final delivery to your specified destination.

Whether it’s a luxury car, a motorcycle collection, or construction vehicles, CargoMaster ensures your shipment is transported safely, efficiently, and within budget. Our vehicle shipping services are designed for complete transparency and reliability.

For peace of mind, every shipment is covered by comprehensive insurance options and tracked from start to finish. CargoMaster makes vehicle shipping to San Diego easy, affordable, and worry-free.

Specialized & Heavy Freight

CargoMaster is renowned for handling specialized and heavy freight shipments to San Diego with unmatched precision. Our team has decades of experience managing project cargo, mining machinery, construction equipment, and industrial parts that require tailored logistics.

We provide a variety of transport options, including flat racks, open-top containers, and break-bulk services, depending on cargo size and weight. Every project is carefully planned to ensure safety, compliance, and cost control.

Our logistics experts coordinate directly with engineers, surveyors, and site managers to guarantee accurate load planning and on-site support. We also arrange specialized equipment for loading, lifting, and securing heavy cargo.

Large-scale freight projects benefit from CargoMaster’s end-to-end management, including route optimization, marine insurance, and full documentation support. Our priority is always safety, reliability, and efficiency.

By combining technical knowledge with global logistics expertise, CargoMaster ensures that your specialized and heavy shipments reach San Diego safely, on schedule, and in perfect condition.

Customs Clearance

CargoMaster streamlines the customs clearance process for both imports and exports, ensuring your shipment meets all U.S. and Australian border requirements. Our experienced customs brokers manage every step, from preparing documentation to calculating duties and taxes.

We understand that customs procedures can be complex, which is why we offer professional guidance on tariff codes, valuations, and compliance obligations. Our team stays up-to-date with changes in both countries’ regulations to avoid costly delays.

CargoMaster also provides bonded warehousing, quarantine inspection coordination, and temporary import/export processing for specialized shipments. Every clearance is handled with accuracy and efficiency.

Clients receive real-time updates throughout the clearance process and detailed records for full transparency. Our experience minimizes risk and ensures your goods move swiftly through border control.

With CargoMaster managing your customs clearance, you can ship to or from San Diego with confidence knowing every legal and regulatory detail is handled correctly.

Why CargoMaster

Choosing CargoMaster means choosing experience, reliability, and excellence in international freight forwarding. For over three decades, we’ve built our reputation on personalized service, competitive rates, and proven global logistics performance.

Our team combines industry knowledge with advanced technology to deliver freight solutions that are efficient, secure, and transparent. Every shipment, whether air, sea, or specialized cargo is treated with the utmost care and professionalism.

We believe in communication and accountability at every stage. Clients benefit from real-time tracking, expert advice, and proactive problem-solving to ensure consistent satisfaction.

CargoMaster’s partnerships with major carriers, customs agencies, and port operators worldwide make us one of Australia’s most trusted freight forwarders. From export paperwork to final delivery, we manage it all seamlessly.

When shipping to San Diego, choose CargoMaster for a service that combines global reach with local expertise making international shipping easier, faster, and more affordable than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship goods from Australia to San Diego?
Shipping from Australia to Southern California typically takes around 43 days, though this may vary depending on the specific route and schedules. CargoMaster ensures reliable and frequent sailings from major Australian ports such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, offering dependable service to Southern California.

Does CargoMaster provide self-pack containers to San Diego?
Yes, CargoMaster offers self-pack international shipping containers to Southern California from various Australian cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin, and Townsville. With over 35 years of experience, CargoMaster is a trusted provider of self-pack container services for shipments to Southern California.

Can CargoMaster help with shipping vehicles to Southern California?
Absolutely! CargoMaster specializes in shipping vehicles securely from Australia to Southern California. By utilizing professional blocking and bracing techniques, CargoMaster ensures that vehicles are safely packed into containers to protect them from any damage during the transport process.

Does CargoMaster offer international moving services to Southern California?
CargoMaster specializes in international freight forwarding and self-pack container services for relocations to Southern California. While CargoMaster does not provide traditional removalist services, we can connect you with trusted removalists in Australia. Additionally, we provide expert services for shipping heavy machinery, equipment, and complex cargo to Southern California.

What are the dimensions of a 20-foot shipping container?
A standard 20-foot shipping container typically measures about 5.9 meters in length, 2.3 meters in width, and 2.3 meters in height. It offers a cargo capacity of approximately 30 cubic meters, making it suitable for shipping the contents of a typical three-bedroom home.

What is the best way to ship furniture to San Diego?
The best way to ship furniture to Southern California is through shipping containers. CargoMaster offers a variety of container options, including standard, high-cube, flat racks, and open-top containers for specialized cargo. Reach out to CargoMaster to choose the most appropriate shipping solution for your furniture, ensuring it arrives safely and on time.

How much does it cost to ship a container from Australia to San Diego?
The cost of shipping a container from Australia to Southern California depends on several factors, including the departure city, container size, and type of cargo. CargoMaster offers a range of options, including 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot high-cube containers. For an accurate, competitive rate tailored to your specific shipment, contact CargoMaster for customized solutions to Southern California, USA and beyond.

Does CargoMaster collaborate with shipping companies in the USA?
Yes, CargoMaster works with reliable, AAA-rated shipping lines to ensure top-quality service for your shipments to Southern California and across the USA. Our network of trusted partners guarantees safe, timely delivery of your goods, and CargoMaster provides expert guidance and tailored solutions for each shipment.

What are the dimensions of a 40-foot shipping container?
A 40-foot shipping container typically measures approximately 11.9 meters in length, 2.35 meters in width, and 2.35 meters in height. It offers a cargo capacity of around 60 cubic meters, making it perfect for larger shipments like furniture, vehicles, or industrial goods.

How should I pack a container for international shipping?
Properly packing your container is crucial for safe transit. CargoMaster recommends evenly distributing the weight, securing items with ratchet straps, and wrapping furniture in blankets or plastic for protection. To avoid spills upon opening, pack goods securely, away from the doors. CargoMaster also provides expert packing advice to ensure your shipment arrives in pristine condition, no matter the destination.

For reliable, expert shipping solutions, reach out to CargoMaster today! Whether you’re shipping personal items, vehicles, or machinery, CargoMaster is here to make your international shipping process smooth, cost-effective, and stress-free.

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

Sydney Melbourne Canberra Brisbane Perth Darwin Adelaide Cairns Hobart Townsville Mackay Port Hedland Karratha Broome

Addition Information

(Click the + plus symbol to expand, – minus symbol to collapse)

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.

SAVE TIME SAVE MONEY

CargoMaster International Freight Forwarder Australia

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

Africa Asia Europe Ireland Middle East New Zealand North America Pacific Islands Papua New Guines South America United Kingdom