Magellan Logistics helps fashion importers plan garment on hanger (GOH) shipping around their garments, delivery deadlines and receiving facilities. Transporting garments on hangers can reduce creasing and the steaming, pressing and repacking needed on arrival, helping stock move from factory to store with less preparation.
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GOH shipping at a glance
- GOH transports garments already hanging, helping protect presentation during transit.
- String and bar systems offer different loading arrangements. The right choice depends on garment dimensions, fabric, volume and store presentation.
- Confirm that your supplier can prepare hanging garments and that your receiving warehouse can unload them.
- Discuss freight options, documentation and delivery arrangements before booking.
What is garment on hanger shipping?
Garment on hanger shipping transports clothing on hangers rather than folded into cartons. GOH containers are fitted with hanging systems so garments can travel in a position closer to the way they will be displayed on the retail rail.
Basics such as t-shirts and pyjamas often travel flat packed. Fabric-sensitive garments, suits and evening wear may benefit from GOH, depending on their construction and presentation requirements. Keeping garments hanging can reduce destination rework and support preparation of garments ready for retail.
GOH or flat pack: choosing a shipping method
The decision depends on the shipment. Consider the type of garments, how easily the fabric creases, the number of items and the work needed to make them ready for sale. Compare the complete handling and preparation process at both ends, alongside the freight quote.
GOH may suit garments that need to retain their shape during transit. Flat packing may be appropriate where the garments can be folded without affecting their intended presentation. Discuss both options with your supplier and Magellan before committing.
The two GOH systems: string and bar
String system
Knotted lengths of string hang from bars near the top of the container. Garments are bundled and hung from the knots. Assess this arrangement against the garments’ dimensions, fabric sensitivity and required presentation.
Bar system
Garments hang directly from metal bars across the container. The layout can be configured around the garments being shipped. Confirm the proposed arrangement and capacity for your shipment with Magellan.
Choosing between systems comes down to five questions:
- What garments are involved?
- What are their dimensions?
- How prone is the fabric to creasing?
- How many garments are in the shipment?
- How will they be displayed in store?
Before you commit: check both ends of the journey
Can your supplier’s factory handle GOH?
Hanging garments before loading requires floor space. A factory that normally stacks cartons may need different arrangements. Confirm your supplier has room for the trolleys needed to store hanging garments ahead of loading.
Can your warehouse unload the shipment?
Check receiving space, equipment and unloading arrangements before goods arrive. If warehouse space is limited, discuss third-party storage or handling options during planning.
Sea freight and air freight options
For sea freight, discuss a full container load (FCL), where a container is used for your shipment, or less than container load (LCL), where space is shared. Ask Magellan to confirm GOH availability for your route, shipment size and required departure.
If you source from several factories, discuss supplier consolidation and whether GOH and flat pack can be combined in the proposed shipment. For urgent consignments, ask about air freight GOH options and the equipment available for your route.
Documentation to discuss before shipping
Arrange a review of your customs and documentation requirements before departure. Ask Magellan which transport documents, commercial invoice details, packing declarations and any packaging treatment evidence apply to your shipment.
Confirm the requirements for the transport mode, goods and packaging being used. Have your customs broker check the documentation rather than relying on a general checklist as a complete statement of what is required.
Delivery: choosing the right vehicle
Tell Magellan how your premises can receive and unload the shipment. Discuss site access, unloading space, equipment and timing before a delivery vehicle is booked.
For container deliveries, arrangements to discuss include a truck waiting while the container is unpacked, leaving a trailer and container for unpacking, or using a sideloader to place the container on the ground. Suitability depends on the site and shipment. For LCL, confirm the vehicle and handling arrangements appropriate to the consignment.
Planning for additional costs
Ask for a clear explanation of what your quote includes, the time allowed for collection and unloading, and the conditions that could create additional charges.
- Confirm delivery appointments and how changes or unsuccessful deliveries are handled.
- Check the applicable free time for cargo collection and container return.
- Ask how additional vehicle time, depot handling, storage or missed appointments would be charged.
- Discuss any inspection, cleaning or packaging treatment requirements with your broker.
Accurate paperwork and realistic delivery planning can help reduce avoidable delays. Have Magellan confirm the charge names, triggers and allowances that apply to your booking.
Tracking your GOH shipment
Discuss shipment visibility through the MagTrack portal. Confirm the tracking information, reporting options and notifications available for your account and shipment.
Frequently asked questions
What is garment on hanger (GOH) shipping?
GOH transports garments on hangers rather than folded flat. It can help reduce creasing and preparation before garments go on sale.
What is the difference between string and bar systems?
String systems suspend garments from knotted string; bar systems hang garments directly from metal bars. Compare the arrangements against your garment dimensions, fabric sensitivity, shipment volume and required presentation.
How many garments fit in a GOH container?
Capacity depends on the container, hanging arrangement and garment dimensions. Ask Magellan to confirm the loading plan for your shipment before booking.
Can I mix GOH and flat pack garments in one shipment?
Discuss a mixed shipment and supplier consolidation with Magellan. Availability and the loading arrangement need to be confirmed for your route and cargo.
What documents do I need for a GOH shipment into Australia?
Ask your customs broker to confirm the transport, commercial and packing documents, plus any packaging treatment evidence, required for your goods and transport mode before departure.
How can I reduce unexpected GOH shipping costs?
Confirm paperwork, receiving arrangements, appointments and applicable free time before shipping. Ask what additional handling, storage or delivery charges could apply to your booking.
Need help with a GOH shipment?
Getting GOH shipping right starts before loading. Speak to Magellan about your garments, origin, volume, delivery timing and receiving facilities so the team can help plan your shipment.
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