this article shows the iphone's path from factory to retail. The iphones being shipped on truck in the pic are merely pallets and tarps
https:// www.nytimes.com/2016/12/29/technology/iphone-china-apple-stores.html
2013 article. Apple logistics were "creative" to say the least
https:// www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-09-11/the-iphone-s-secret-flights-from-china-to-your-local-apple-store.html
another article about the hoops jumped through to make an iphone. Seems like a lot that could be streamlined, so there must be a reason.
https:// www.wired.com/2016/04/iphones-500000-mile-journey-pocket/
not just to the US. These phones go globetrotting.
https:// www.wired.com/2016/04/iphones-500000-mile-journey-pocket/