Shipping to the Bahamas from Florida — Barrels, Boxes and Boats

The Bahamas is the shortest Caribbean run from the US — freight boats and planes leave Florida for Nassau and Freeport constantly, some routes several times a week. Barrels, boxes, pallets and whole containers all move this way, much of it supplying family and small businesses on the Family Islands via Nassau transshipment.

Duty is the Bahamas' price of admission

The Bahamas famously charges customs duty on a wide range of goods at meaningful rates, plus VAT — the islands fund government through the border. Budget the arrival side before you ship: a cheap Florida freight rate on a high-duty load is not a cheap shipment. Your freight company can estimate duty by category if you give an honest packing list.

For the Family Islands, ask whether your quote ends in Nassau or includes the onward boat — that leg decides when your family actually sees the goods. Tracking number on the receipt, as always.