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How to Prepare Your Freight
Shipping preparation, packaging, and delivery instructions
Depending on the type of shipment, you may need directions on preparation, packaging and delivery. Take a look at our various shipping instructions below.
Helpful Answers to Your Questions
+How do I calculate the cubic feet of my shipment?
Charges are based on the total cubic feet or density, whichever is greater. Unless something you are shipping is extremely heavy in relation to the size, all you'll need are the dimensions.
12" x 12" x 12" = 1728
1728 ÷ 1728 = 1cf
To figure cubic feet, multiply (in inches) the length x width x height and divide that total by 1728.
For example, a package that measures 48" long x 40" wide x 36" high:
48 x 40 x 36 ÷ 1728 = 40cf
If you have 5 packages, all with different measurements, use the above calculation to figure each cubic foot measurement, then add all cubic feet totals for your grand total.
12" x 12" x 12" = 1728
1728 ÷ 1728 = 1cf
To figure cubic feet, multiply (in inches) the length x width x height and divide that total by 1728.
For example, a package that measures 48" long x 40" wide x 36" high:
48 x 40 x 36 ÷ 1728 = 40cf
If you have 5 packages, all with different measurements, use the above calculation to figure each cubic foot measurement, then add all cubic feet totals for your grand total.
+When do I need to have my shipment at Hawaiian Express Service for shipping to Hawaii?
Cutoff times vary, but USUALLY by noon the day prior to shipping. For confirmed cutoff times, please contact your local Hawaiian Express Service terminal.
+Is my shipment insured?
Shipments are insured for the "invoice" value of the goods while in our possession. Liability is limited to $1,000 per package while shipment is on board vessel. Additional marine insurance is available via outside agencies.
+How long will it take my shipment to reach my customer?
See our Shipping Schedules for approximate shipping days. The number of days is approximate as there maybe unforeseen delays such as weather delays and schedule changes due to vessel breakdown, etc.
+Are there packaging requirements?
As shipments will be loaded around other cartons, crates and palletized shipments, contents should be protected to prevent damage from normal freight handling practices. Shipping glass requires it to be packed in an "A-frame". See pics below for examples of proper packaging of glass.
Proper "A-frame" packaging examples for shipping glass:


+Is any special documentation required for shipping to Hawaii?
Hawaii-bound freight moves just like any domestic shipping would. The only document required is the standard domestic Bill of Lading.
If, however, you are shipping Hazardous Goods, more documentation is required. Learn about Hazardous Goods shipping.
+How much freight can fit in a container?
When figuring if your freight will fit in a specified container,
please note the DOOR OPENING dimensions as it will need to fit within those specified.
When in doubt, call your local Hawaiian Express Service terminal.
Containers vary in size and the volume they will hold. Hawaiian Express Service can ship 20', 40' and 45' containers. For a list of these containers and their volume, see below:
Containers vary in size and the volume they will hold. Hawaiian Express Service can ship 20', 40' and 45' containers. For a list of these containers and their volume, see below:
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+What is the proper way to palletize freight?
As square on the pallet as possible, without hanging over the edges, and as flat on top as possible. If boxes on the bottom hang off the edge of the pallet, the weight of boxes above it will force the bottom box to crush down.
Remember, when we rate freight, we based it on the total cubic feet. In the picture below, if those top boxes were layed down flat, the shipment would have shipped cheaper:
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Incorrect Pallet | Correct Pallet |
Remember, when we rate freight, we based it on the total cubic feet. In the picture below, if those top boxes were layed down flat, the shipment would have shipped cheaper:

Incorrect Stack