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Important information about using QCS Cargo services

Shipping Policy

Last updated: December 12, 2024

1. Service Overview

QCS Cargo provides air freight shipping services from New Jersey, USA to Caribbean destinations. We offer various service levels to meet your shipping needs, from standard air freight to express delivery.

2. Destinations and Transit Times

We currently serve the following destinations:

DestinationAirportStandard TransitExpress Transit
πŸ‡¬πŸ‡Ύ GuyanaGeorgetown (GEO)3-5 days1-2 business days
πŸ‡―πŸ‡² JamaicaKingston (KIN)3-5 days1-2 business days
πŸ‡ΉπŸ‡Ή Trinidad & TobagoPort of Spain (POS)3-5 days1-2 business days
πŸ‡§πŸ‡§ BarbadosBridgetown (BGI)4-6 days1-2 business days
πŸ‡ΈπŸ‡· SurinameParamaribo (PBM)4-6 days1-2 business days

Note: Transit times are estimates and do not include time for customs clearance. Actual delivery times may vary due to customs processing, weather conditions, or other factors beyond our control.

3. Shipping Rates

3.1 Rate Calculation

Shipping rates are calculated based on:

  • Actual Weight: The physical weight of your package in pounds
  • Dimensional Weight: Calculated as (L Γ— W Γ— H) Γ· 166 cubic inches per pound

We charge based on the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight. This industry-standard practice ensures fair pricing for lightweight but bulky items.

3.2 Base Rates

  • Guyana: Starting at $3.50/lb
  • Jamaica: Starting at $3.75/lb
  • Trinidad: Starting at $3.50/lb
  • Barbados: Starting at $4.00/lb
  • Suriname: Starting at $4.25/lb

3.3 Additional Fees

  • Express Service: +25% over standard rates
  • Door-to-Door Pickup: $25 within NJ area
  • Customs Clearance: $35 per shipment
  • Insurance: 2% of declared value (minimum $5)
  • Oversize Handling: Custom quote for items over 70 lbs or 48" in any dimension

3.4 Volume Discounts

  • 100+ lbs: 5% discount
  • 500+ lbs: 10% discount
  • 1,000+ lbs: 15% discount
  • 3+ packages in one booking: Additional 5% discount

4. Packaging Requirements

4.1 General Guidelines

  • Use sturdy, corrugated cardboard boxes in good condition
  • Seal all seams with strong packing tape
  • Remove or cover old labels and barcodes
  • Include padding (bubble wrap, packing paper) for fragile items
  • Do not exceed 150 lbs per package

4.2 Barrels

  • Standard barrel sizes accepted: 30, 45, and 55 gallon
  • Seal barrel lids securely with barrel rings
  • Place heavier items at the bottom
  • Wrap fragile items individually
  • Do not exceed 200 lbs per barrel

4.3 Fragile Items

  • Mark packages clearly as "FRAGILE"
  • Use double boxing for extremely fragile items
  • Include at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides
  • Consider purchasing additional insurance

4.4 Prohibited Packaging

  • Damaged or worn boxes
  • Plastic bags as outer packaging
  • Paper wrapping as outer packaging
  • String or rope as primary closure

5. Drop-Off Procedures

5.1 Warehouse Location

35 Obrien St, E12, Kearny, NJ 07032
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

5.2 Booking Required

All drop-offs require a booking through our website or mobile app. Walk-ins may experience longer wait times.

5.3 What to Bring

  • Booking confirmation (QR code or booking number)
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Packed and labeled packages ready for shipping
  • Completed customs declaration (if required)

5.4 Drop-Off Process

  1. Arrive during your scheduled time slot
  2. Present your booking QR code to staff
  3. Packages will be weighed and measured
  4. Confirm final charges and complete payment if needed
  5. Receive tracking number and receipt

6. Tracking and Delivery

6.1 Tracking Your Shipment

Track your shipment at any time through:

  • Our website at /track
  • Your customer dashboard
  • Email and SMS notifications (if enabled)

6.2 Tracking Statuses

  • Received: Package has arrived at our warehouse
  • Processing: Package is being prepared for shipment
  • In Transit: Package is on its way to the destination
  • Customs: Package is undergoing customs clearance
  • Out for Delivery: Package is with local delivery partner
  • Delivered: Package has been delivered

6.3 Delivery Options

  • Airport Pickup: Recipient collects from cargo facility
  • Door-to-Door: Delivery to recipient's address
  • Agent Pickup: Authorized agent collects on behalf of recipient

7. Customs and Documentation

7.1 Customs Declaration

All international shipments require accurate customs declarations. You must provide:

  • Detailed description of contents
  • Quantity of each item
  • Declared value in USD
  • Country of origin for each item

7.2 Duties and Taxes

Import duties and taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Rates vary by destination country and item category. QCS Cargo is not responsible for any customs duties, taxes, or fees assessed by destination countries.

7.3 Commercial Shipments

Business shipments may require additional documentation including:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Certificate of origin
  • Import permits (if applicable)

8. Claims and Liability

8.1 Filing a Claim

Claims for lost, damaged, or delayed shipments must be filed within 14 days of delivery (or expected delivery date for lost items).

To file a claim:

  1. Contact our customer service team
  2. Provide tracking number and booking details
  3. Submit photos of damage (if applicable)
  4. Provide proof of value (receipt, invoice)

8.2 Liability Limits

  • Without Insurance: Maximum liability of $100 per shipment
  • With Insurance: Declared value up to policy limits

8.3 Exclusions

We are not liable for:

  • Items improperly packed by the shipper
  • Inherent defects or normal wear
  • Confiscation by customs or authorities
  • Delays due to weather or force majeure
  • Prohibited or undeclared items

9. Cancellations and Modifications

9.1 Cancellation Policy

  • Free cancellation: More than 12 hours before scheduled drop-off
  • $15 fee: Within 12 hours of scheduled drop-off
  • No cancellation: After packages are received at warehouse

9.2 Modifications

  • Free modifications: Up to 24 hours before scheduled drop-off
  • Changes after drop-off may incur additional charges
  • Recipient address changes may delay delivery

10. Contact Us

For questions about our shipping policy or to make a booking:

Questions about our policies? Contact us or call 201-249-0929