Introduction
For contractors and property owners in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Bahamas, Barbados, and the Cayman Islands, sourcing quality pool products is not always easy. The most reliable way to access Diamond Brite finishes, Pentair, Hayward, Raypak equipment, waterproofing, and water treatment products is to import directly from South Florida.
The process is simple: the client calls us, we prepare the order, and deliver it to a freight forwarder in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Jacksonville. From there, the freight forwarder handles all the paperwork and logistics until the products arrive at your island.
The Typical Import Process from Miami to the Caribbean
Step 1: Quotation & Confirmation
- You send us your list of required products (finishes, filters, pumps, heaters, lights, chemicals).
- We provide a quotation including options for packaging and consolidation.
- You confirm the shipping method: ocean (LCL/FCL) or air (for urgent deliveries).
Step 2: Delivery to Freight Forwarder
- Pools & Surfaces Distributor prepares the order and delivers it to your freight forwarder’s warehouse in Miami, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), or Jacksonville (JAXPORT).
- Proximity to these ports reduces inland transportation costs and shortens pre-shipment times.
Step 3: Documentation & Export Formalities (Handled by the Freight Forwarder)
The freight forwarder takes over and manages:
- Booking space with the ocean carrier or airline.
- Issuing the Bill of Lading (BL) or Air Waybill (AWB).
- Filing the Electronic Export Information (EEI) in the AES system when required. (The U.S. exporter or its authorized agent submits the EEI.)
- Preparing standard export documents: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Shipper’s Letter of Instructions (SLI).
👉 According to U.S. CBP, compliance with export documentation (EEI/AES, BL, SLI) is critical, and using an experienced forwarder minimizes risks of shipment delays.
Step 4: Shipping, Transit & Island Delivery
- Departure from PortMiami, Port Everglades, or JAXPORT, with frequent sailings to Caribbean ports.
- Customs clearance at the destination is handled by the client’s local agent.
- The freight forwarder coordinates final delivery to your project site or warehouse.
H2: Why This Model Works for the Caribbean
1. Strong Logistics Hubs
- Port of Miami trades with 149 countries, with nearly 50% of its trade linked to Latin America and the Caribbean (FY2024).
- Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) has an economic impact of $28.1B (FY2024) and publishes monthly trade statistics.
- Jacksonville (JAXPORT) ranks among the top 10 U.S. container ports, expanding weekly services with global carriers.
- Miami International Airport (MIA) leads the U.S. in international air cargo, making it the fastest option for urgent shipments.
2. Reduced Costs & Faster Delivery
Delivering directly to Miami-area freight forwarders saves time and money compared to sourcing through local Caribbean resellers. Consolidation lowers freight rates.
3. Complete Product Range
We consolidate multiple categories into one shipment:
- Finishes: Diamond Brite, Hydrazzo, Premix
- Equipment: Pentair pumps & filters, Hayward automation & lighting, Raypak heaters
- waterproofing products, pool tiles, grouts, specialty products
4. Compliance & Documentation Support
Freight forwarders handle compliance with EEI/AES filings, BLs, invoices, packing lists, ensuring smooth export processing.
Common Use Cases with Pools & Surfaces Distributor
- Resorts & hotels needing on-time seasonal pool renovations.
- Contractors demanding original Diamond Brite finishes and branded equipment with manufacturer warranties.
- Local distributors consolidating orders for resale on the islands.
Document Checklist for Exports (Typical Requirements)
- Commercial Invoice and Packing List (quantities, weights, HTS codes if required).
- Shipper’s Letter of Instructions (SLI) to the forwarder.
- Power of Attorney (POA) if the forwarder files the EEI in AES.
- MSDS/Safety Sheets for chemicals (when applicable).
- Certificates of Compliance for certain electrical/mechanical products.
FAQs (for SEO-rich snippets)
Q: Can I use my own freight forwarder?
Yes. We deliver to your designated forwarder’s warehouse in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Jacksonville.
Q: Who handles export paperwork?
Your freight forwarder manages EEI/AES filings, Bills of Lading, and other documentation. We provide invoices, packing lists, and coordinate delivery.
Q: Which port is best for my island?
It depends on sailing frequency and carrier schedules. Port of Miami, Port Everglades, and JAX PORT all offer regular services to the Caribbean.
Q: Can I consolidate finishes with equipment?
Absolutely. We combine Diamond Brite finishes , pool tiles, grouts, pool building materials with Pentair, Hayward, and Raypak equipment in a single shipment to save freight costs.
Conclusion + Call to Action
The Caribbean pool industry depends on efficient, reliable imports. The process is simple: client → Pools & Surfaces → freight forwarder (Miami/FLL/JAX) → Caribbean island. With strong logistics hubs, professional freight forwarders, and premium products, your pool projects arrive on time, every time.
👉 Contact Pools & Surfaces Distributor today to simplify your imports and keep your island projects running smoothly.