Seattle Washington USA North America

Seattle | Air & Sea Freight

CargoMaster, Australia’s trusted international freight forwarder connecting businesses and individuals to Seattle and the wider Pacific Northwest. With more than 35 years of experience, CargoMaster has built a reputation for delivering dependable, cost-effective, and efficient global shipping solutions. Whether you’re exporting commercial goods, moving household items, or transporting large machinery, our dedicated team ensures your cargo reaches Seattle safely and on time.

Seattle is one of the most dynamic cities in the United States, known for its vibrant tech industry, bustling ports, and international trade links. Its position as a gateway between the U.S. and Asia makes it an ideal hub for imports and exports. CargoMaster bridges the distance between Australia and Seattle with expertly managed freight solutions that simplify the logistics process, no matter the size or type of shipment.

From our offices across Australia, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, and Darwin, we coordinate seamless shipping operations designed to suit your timeline and budget. We cater to private customers, small enterprises, and multinational corporations, providing consistent service quality supported by global carrier partnerships.

Our extensive network and industry knowledge ensure efficient handling of freight from pick-up to final delivery. CargoMaster’s team of professionals is equipped to manage complex logistics, offering guidance at every stage of the shipping process, including packaging, documentation, and customs clearance.

When shipping internationally, trust matters. With CargoMaster, you gain a logistics partner that understands global compliance, timing precision, and customer communication, all critical to the success of your shipment to Seattle, Washington State.

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Import & Export

Navigating the import and export process can be daunting, but CargoMaster simplifies it through a combination of expertise, technology, and strong international partnerships. Whether you’re importing goods into Seattle or exporting from Australia, we handle every detail with accuracy and efficiency.

Our export services ensure your shipment complies with Australian regulations, covering export declarations, certificates of origin, and customs documentation. We coordinate with shipping lines, airlines, and logistics providers to ensure your cargo moves seamlessly from warehouse to port or airport. For imports, our team assists with customs entry filings, tariff classifications, and local delivery coordination in Seattle and across Washington State.

CargoMaster supports a variety of industries, including technology, construction, retail, automotive, and manufacturing. We adapt to the unique demands of each sector, offering tailored logistics plans that reduce risk and enhance operational efficiency. Whether you’re exporting mining equipment or importing consumer goods, our import/export experts keep your cargo moving without unnecessary delays.

Our team also offers guidance on packaging standards, insurance, and quarantine requirements to prevent issues at customs. This proactive approach minimizes risks and ensures compliance with both Australian and U.S. border agencies.

With CargoMaster managing your international logistics, you gain a reliable partner focused on transparency, timeliness, and professionalism. We make the global supply chain simple, connecting your business from Australia directly to Seattle’s economic gateway.

Air Freight

When time is crucial, CargoMaster’s air freight services to Seattle deliver speed, reliability, and precision. Designed for shipments over 150 kilograms, our air freight solutions ensure your goods arrive at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) within three to five days from most Australian airports. This fast, direct service is ideal for urgent business deliveries, high-value cargo, or time-sensitive products.

We offer both consolidated and express air freight options, allowing flexibility depending on your budget and schedule. For companies operating in fast-paced industries like technology or healthcare, our express service guarantees priority handling and minimal transit time. Every air shipment is carefully monitored, ensuring real-time visibility from departure to delivery.

CargoMaster’s partnerships with leading airlines and ground handlers ensure dependable service across every stage of transport. We manage all air freight documentation, cargo insurance, and compliance with both Australian export and U.S. import requirements. Whether your goods are destined for downtown Seattle or the surrounding regions of Tacoma and Bellevue, we coordinate final delivery with precision.

For delicate or temperature-controlled goods, we offer tailored packaging solutions to safeguard your cargo. From medical supplies to electronic components, our air freight network ensures your shipment maintains its integrity and arrives safely.

With CargoMaster’s air freight to Seattle, you gain a fast, secure, and efficient transport solution backed by decades of international logistics experience.

Air Freight Charter

For shipments that can’t wait for scheduled services, CargoMaster offers bespoke air freight charter solutions to Seattle. When time, size, or special cargo requirements call for dedicated transport, our team coordinates a private charter tailored to your exact specifications.

Aircraft charters are ideal for oversized freight, urgent deliveries, or critical supplies that demand immediate dispatch. CargoMaster works with a global network of operators to secure the right aircraft for your shipment, managing everything from loading arrangements to landing permits and customs coordination.

Our charter solutions are designed to support industries that rely on precision and speed, such as aerospace, energy, and emergency response. Whether you’re shipping vital components or humanitarian aid, our logistics experts handle planning, documentation, and insurance, ensuring a seamless journey from Australia to Seattle.

We monitor every stage of the charter process, maintaining communication with the flight crew, ground handlers, and customs officials. This hands-on management guarantees your freight is delivered safely and on schedule.

CargoMaster’s air freight charter service combines flexibility, reliability, and global reach, ensuring that when time is against you, your shipment reaches Seattle without compromise.

Sea Freight

When cost-efficiency and capacity are key, CargoMaster’s sea freight services between Australia and Seattle provide a reliable and economical option for large shipments. Sea freight remains the backbone of global trade, and our extensive experience ensures that your cargo moves across the Pacific smoothly and securely.

We offer both full container load (FCL) and less-than-container load (LCL) services, catering to shipments of all sizes. CargoMaster’s sea freight network connects Australia’s main ports, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth, to the Port of Seattle and Port of Tacoma, forming the Northwest Seaport Alliance.

Every shipment is handled with precision, from container loading and export documentation to marine insurance and customs clearance. Whether you’re moving machinery, vehicles, or bulk commodities, our team tailors logistics to fit your specific freight requirements.

For oversized or non-containerized cargo, CargoMaster provides specialized solutions such as flat racks, open-top containers, and break-bulk handling. We manage complex logistics with precision, ensuring your freight arrives safely and on schedule.

With competitive rates, reliable sailings, and comprehensive support, CargoMaster’s sea freight to Seattle gives you a cost-effective solution without compromising on reliability or service quality.

20ft & 40ft Sea Containers

CargoMaster offers both 20ft and 40ft container options, designed to accommodate a wide range of cargo volumes and weights. Whether you’re shipping a small load of personal belongings or a full commercial consignment, we provide the right equipment to match your needs.

Our 20ft containers are perfect for smaller or medium-sized shipments, while 40ft containers offer double the space, making them ideal for bulk cargo, industrial equipment, or high-volume inventory. Both container types meet international shipping standards and ensure the safety and integrity of your goods during transit.

CargoMaster arranges delivery of empty containers directly to your site for packing. Once loaded, we handle export documentation, secure transport to the port, and manage sea transit to Seattle. Upon arrival, we coordinate unloading, customs clearance, and inland transport to your final destination.

For shipments that require extra height or weight capacity, we also supply high-cube containers. Our logistics team provides guidance on optimal packing, ensuring space efficiency and compliance with shipping regulations.

By using CargoMaster’s container freight services, customers gain access to flexible, scalable, and secure shipping options designed for international success.

Self-Pack Containers

CargoMaster’s self-pack container service is a cost-effective solution for those who prefer to manage their own packing. This option is ideal for families relocating to Seattle or small businesses seeking an affordable alternative to traditional moving services.

We deliver an empty shipping container directly to your premises, allowing you to pack at your convenience. Once sealed, we handle the transport, documentation, and ocean freight to Seattle. This approach gives you full control over the packing process while benefiting from our professional oversight of logistics and customs requirements.

Self-pack containers are available in both 20ft and 40ft sizes. CargoMaster provides detailed instructions on securing your goods for international transit, ensuring they arrive safely and undamaged.

This service is also ideal for long-term relocations, where flexibility and cost savings are priorities. With our support, you can manage your move at your own pace without sacrificing security or compliance.

With CargoMaster, self-pack container shipping combines convenience, affordability, and reliability for anyone planning a move or shipment from Australia to Seattle.

Vehicle Shipping

Transporting vehicles between Australia and Seattle requires expertise and careful handling. CargoMaster provides professional vehicle shipping services, including roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and containerized transport options.

We ship a wide variety of vehicles, cars, motorcycles, trucks, boats, and recreational vehicles, with full documentation and customs support. Every vehicle undergoes inspection, cleaning, and preparation before export to ensure compliance with both Australian and U.S. import standards.

Our team manages all logistics, including loading supervision, marine insurance, and customs clearance at the Port of Seattle or Tacoma. We also arrange inland delivery to your specified location, whether it’s a residence, dealership, or warehouse.

For clients shipping luxury or collector cars, CargoMaster offers enclosed container options for maximum protection. We also handle multi-vehicle and fleet shipments, coordinating schedules to optimize efficiency and cost.

With decades of experience, CargoMaster provides vehicle shipping solutions built on precision, safety, and reliability, ensuring your car arrives in Seattle in perfect condition.

Specialized & Heavy Freight

Not all cargo fits standard dimensions. For oversized, heavy, or complex freight, CargoMaster offers specialized transport solutions designed for precision handling and safety.

We coordinate project logistics involving machinery, industrial components, and large equipment, using flat racks, open-top containers, and break-bulk shipping when necessary. Our team manages everything from route planning and permits to crane coordination and marine survey inspections.

CargoMaster’s specialized freight service is ideal for sectors such as mining, construction, and energy, where heavy equipment and oversized materials need careful management. We ensure every aspect of the shipment, from packing to delivery, is executed according to international safety standards.

We also provide on-site supervision and progress reporting throughout transit. Our experts ensure each shipment meets timing and regulatory expectations at every stage.

With CargoMaster managing your specialized freight, you gain a logistics partner experienced in delivering complex cargo to Seattle safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Customs Clearance

International freight requires compliance with customs regulations on both sides of the Pacific. CargoMaster simplifies this process with professional customs clearance services for all imports and exports between Australia and Seattle.

We manage all customs documentation, including export declarations, import permits, and certificates of origin. Our team ensures your shipment complies with U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements, minimizing delays and preventing costly errors.

CargoMaster also coordinates inspections, quarantine processing, and duty assessments, ensuring that your shipment clears customs quickly and efficiently. Our customs brokers work closely with both Australian and American authorities to streamline the process.

Whether you’re shipping personal goods, commercial products, or heavy machinery, we handle compliance so you don’t have to. Our expertise allows your cargo to move freely through ports and airports without disruption.

With CargoMaster’s customs clearance services, you can trust that your shipment will meet all international regulatory standards, allowing a smooth transition from origin to destination.

Why CargoMaster

CargoMaster stands apart as a trusted leader in international logistics. For over three decades, we’ve helped Australians and businesses around the world move goods safely and efficiently. Our commitment to transparency, reliability, and customer satisfaction drives everything we do.

We offer a complete range of freight services, air freight, sea freight, self-pack containers, heavy machinery transport, vehicle shipping, and customs clearance, allowing customers to rely on a single provider for their entire logistics journey.

Our experienced team understands the challenges of international shipping and tailors every service to your specific needs. We manage each shipment as if it were our own, prioritizing communication, accuracy, and care from start to finish.

Whether you’re shipping to Seattle for business or personal reasons, CargoMaster delivers solutions that balance speed, cost, and safety. Every shipment is tracked, insured, and supported by our global logistics network.

Choose CargoMaster for your next shipment to or from Seattle and experience the confidence of working with an international freight partner that puts you first, every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship goods from Australia to Seattle?
Shipping from Australia to Seattle typically takes about 43 days, but the exact timeframe may vary depending on the route and schedule. CargoMaster ensures reliable, frequent sailings from major Australian ports, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, providing dependable services to the State of Washington.

What are the dimensions of a 20-foot shipping container?
A 20-foot shipping container is approximately 5.9 meters long, 2.3 meters wide, and 2.3 meters high. It offers a cargo capacity of about 30 cubic meters, making it ideal for transporting the contents of a standard three-bedroom home.

Can CargoMaster help with shipping vehicles to Seattle?
Yes, CargoMaster specializes in securely transporting vehicles from Australia to Seattle. Vehicles are carefully packed into containers using professional blocking and bracing techniques, ensuring they remain safe and undamaged during transit.

Does CargoMaster provide self-pack containers to Seattle?
Yes, CargoMaster offers self-pack international shipping containers to Seattle from cities across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin, and Townsville. With more than 35 years of experience, CargoMaster is a trusted provider of self-pack container services to the State of Washington.

How much does it cost to ship a container from Australia to Seattle?
The cost of shipping a container from Australia to Seattle depends on several factors, including the departure city, container size, and type of cargo. CargoMaster provides a variety of container options, such as 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot high-cube containers. Contact CargoMaster for an accurate, competitive quote tailored to your shipment’s needs.

How should I pack a container for international shipping?
Proper packing is essential for safe shipping. CargoMaster recommends evenly distributing weight, securing goods with ratchet straps, and protecting furniture by wrapping it in blankets or plastic. To prevent spills when opening, ensure items are packed securely away from the doors. CargoMaster provides expert packing advice to ensure your shipment arrives in pristine condition.

What is the best way to ship furniture to Seattle?
The most efficient method for shipping furniture to Seattle is using a shipping container. CargoMaster offers various container options, including standard, high-cube, flat racks, and open-top containers for specialized cargo. Contact CargoMaster to find the most suitable solution for your furniture and ensure its safe arrival.

What are the dimensions of a 40-foot shipping container?
A 40-foot shipping container measures approximately 12 meters long, 2.35 meters wide, and 2.35 meters high, with a cargo capacity of about 60 cubic meters. It is well-suited for larger shipments, including furniture, vehicles, and industrial equipment.

Does CargoMaster collaborate with shipping companies in the USA?
Yes, CargoMaster works with AAA-rated, reliable shipping lines to ensure top-quality services for shipments to Seattle and throughout the State of Washington. Our trusted network guarantees safe and timely transport of goods, with expert guidance and tailored solutions for every shipment.

Does CargoMaster offer international moving services to Seattle?
CargoMaster specializes in international freight forwarding and self-pack container services for relocations to Seattle. While CargoMaster does not provide traditional removalist services, we can connect you with reliable removalists in Australia. Additionally, we offer solutions for shipping heavy machinery, equipment, and complex cargo to the State of Washington.

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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Addition Information

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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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