As the “Ber” months start tomorrow, Filipinos abroad know it’s time to start filling their balikbayan boxes with love and gifts for their families back home. With Christmas around the corner, ensuring that these boxes arrive on time is crucial.
Pinas Cargo, a leading Dubai-based cargo company, has shared its cut-off schedule for sea cargo shipments to ensure your balikbayan boxes arrive before Christmas. Here’s the cut-off schedule you need to keep in mind:
- Manila Areas: Cut-off on or before October 10, 2024 (Estimated delivery by December 20, 2024)
- Luzon Areas (except inter-islands): Cut-off on or before October 5, 2024 (Estimated delivery by December 20, 2024)
- Visayas, Mindanao, & Luzon Inter-Islands: Cut-off on or before September 10, 2024 (Estimated delivery by December 20, 2024)
Prohibited Items in Balikbayan Boxes
When sending balikbayan boxes, it’s essential to avoid including prohibited items such as illegal drugs, firearms, flammable materials, pornographic content, counterfeit goods, pirated media, endangered species, perishable foods, excessive alcohol and tobacco, and large amounts of undeclared currency. Adhering to these guidelines helps prevent legal issues and ensures the safe arrival of your boxes.
Dos and don’ts when sending balikbayan boxes
Dos: Check the list of prohibited items, pack your items securely, label your box clearly, declare the value of your items, keep an inventory, seal your box properly, and use reputable shipping companies.
Don’ts: Avoid overpacking your box, sending prohibited items, including excessive quantities of certain goods, shipping expired food products, using unmarked boxes, including sharp objects without proper packing, and mixing perishable with non-perishable items.