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SEA FREIGHT FROM CHINA

SERVICE FROM CHINA

Efficient Sea and Ocean Freight
Container Shipping Services from China
What is Sea Freight ?

Sea freight, also known as ocean transportation, is an efficient and economical way of transporting goods worldwide. Especially when it comes to large quantities of goods exported from the world’s manufacturing giant China, sea freight is highly favored. In this detailed guide, we will start from the initial planning stage, track every step of the way to the final delivery of goods to your doorstep, and take you to a deeper understanding of all aspects of Chinese shipping.

Maritime transportation is mainly divided into two categories:

Full Container Load (FCL) refers to the transportation of goods in the entire container, suitable for situations with large cargo volumes; LCL (Less than Container Load) is a transportation method where multiple shippers share a container.

LCL (Less than Container Load) is a flexible transportation option that allows customers to transport fewer quantities of goods at a lower cost than full container load. As enterprises continue to seek ways to reduce transportation costs and improve transportation efficiency, this transportation method is gradually gaining more and more favor. Through LCL loading, enterprises can effectively reduce space waste inside containers, thereby reducing carbon emissions and reducing the number of transportation times required for the same quantity of products. In addition, LCL loading can bring faster transportation speed, higher flexibility, and better supply chain visibility to enterprises, further improving their operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Why it’s so important ?

For many enterprises, choosing reliable third-party logistics (3PL) such as Dtfu international shipping as the preferred mode of transportation for products is undoubtedly a wise decision. Especially in complex supply chain networks involving maritime transportation, this choice is particularly important. With the help of professional third-party logistics services, enterprises can more safely and easily complete the legal export of products. By using this integrated transportation solution, enterprises can avoid the hassle of collaborating with multiple companies separately, as third-party logistics companies are already familiar with all relevant standards and processes. This not only saves a lot of time, but also effectively reduces the operational pressure on the enterprise.
After selecting a suitable transportation company, your factory’s products will be safely transported to the designated port in the manner agreed upon by both parties. During this process, please note that the delivery time needs to fully consider the customs clearance situation on both sides of the port to ensure the smooth progress of the entire process.
If your freight volume is limited, LCL (Less than Container Load) may be a cost-effective and efficient solution. In addition, for the sending of small quantities of goods, choosing air freight or express delivery services is also a feasible option – although these methods often have slightly higher prices due to the smaller transportation vehicles used. But considering its speed and convenience, this investment is usually worth it.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of sea freight?

advantage
Compared to other modes of transportation, sea freight has shown higher economic efficiency and has become the preferred choice for many enterprises.
With the support of professional transportation solutions, long-distance transportation of large and heavy items has become easy and cost-effective.
In addition, sea transportation is also one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transportation with minimal impact on the environment.
shortcoming
However, there are also some shortcomings in sea transportation.
Firstly, the delivery time of sea freight is relatively long, which is one of its biggest drawbacks and may not be suitable for customers who pursue fast delivery.
Secondly, for small batches or low production goods, the cost of sea transportation may appear too high and not cost-effective enough.
Applicable scenarios
However, for situations where large items need to be transported or the destination is far away, sea freight is still a worthwhile option to consider.
Compared to other forms of delivery, sea freight not only has lower costs but is also environmentally friendly.
However, please note that depending on the specific shipment and destination, sometimes express delivery or air freight may still be a more suitable choice than LCL (Less than Container Load). When choosing a transportation method, multiple factors need to be considered comprehensively to find the most suitable solution.

How much does shipping cost from China?

To ensure that every customer can enjoy an excellent service experience, we offer diverse rates and service solutions in the field of ocean freight. You can flexibly choose from two main options to meet your specific needs and ensure that you receive the right level of service.

Full Container Load (FCL)

Dtfu International Shipping provides regular flight services, covering major seaports around the world, ensuring the timeliness and reliability of cargo transportation. For each batch of goods, we offer two complete container options to meet the needs of different customers:
Firstly, a 20 foot standard container with an internal capacity of 33 cubic meters is suitable for medium scale cargo transportation.
Next is a 40 foot large container with a capacity of up to 66 cubic meters, which is particularly suitable for transporting large amounts of goods and effectively improving transportation efficiency.
By choosing our container service, you can rest assured to enjoy a safe and reliable delivery experience. From the starting point to the final destination, your container will always remain completely sealed, ensuring that the goods are safely and undamaged upon arrival at the destination.

Less than a Container Load (LCL)

If your cargo volume is relatively small, choosing LCL transportation will be an economical and cost-effective transportation method. This is because only a portion of the container space is needed to transport your goods, without the need to pay for the entire container.
LCL transportation is an effective way to reduce transportation costs. Your product will be loaded together with the goods of other customers in the same container, and you only need to pay for the actual capacity used. This method is very effective in saving shipping costs.
LCL transportation is particularly suitable for situations where the volume of goods is between 0.5 and 15 cubic meters. However, the specific transportation plan may vary depending on the departure port. Therefore, we suggest that you contact us for more detailed information about LCL transportation.
Dtfu International Shipping not only provides full container transportation services, but also offers LCL home delivery services to ensure that your goods can be safely and punctually delivered to their destination. Regardless of the size of your shipment, we can provide you with the most suitable transportation solution.

How many pallets & Boxes can fit into a 20 foot Container ?

When loading a standard 20 foot container, the average loading capacity for most customers is 10 pallets. However, if pallets are stacked in two layers, a 20 foot container can accommodate up to 20 pallets.
Due to the fact that a regular pallet can typically hold approximately 60 boxes, the capacity of a 20 foot container can vary between approximately 600 and 1200 boxes depending on whether pallets are stacked or not. This flexibility makes 20 foot containers an efficient choice to meet different loading needs.

How Many Pallets & Boxes can Fit into A 40 Foot Container?

When loading a standard 40 foot container, most customers are typically able to load an average of 20 pallets in one layer. However, if the pallet stacking method is used to stack the pallets into two layers, a 40 foot container can accommodate up to 40 pallets.
Considering that regular pallets can usually accommodate about 60 boxes, the capacity of a 40 foot container will range from approximately 1200 to 2400 boxes depending on whether pallets are stacked or not. This flexible loading method makes 40 foot containers an efficient solution to meet the diverse needs of customers.

Key Steps in Sea Freight Shipping

Shipping goods from China involves multiple steps. Here is a brief overview:

Step 1: Collecting Goods from the Supplier

The first step is to collect the goods from the supplier and transport them to the warehouse. At this stage, it is crucial to ensure that the goods are properly packaged and able to withstand the harsh conditions during sea transportation.

Step 2: Transport to the Port of Origin

When the goods are ready, they will be transported to the port of departure. At this stage, it is necessary to prepare all necessary export customs declaration documents.

Step 3: Loading and Shipping

Subsequently, the goods will be loaded onto the ship and transported to the destination port. It should be noted that sea freight usually takes several weeks, depending on distance and route.

Step 4: Customs Clearance

After the goods arrive at the destination port, customs clearance procedures must be completed. This includes paying applicable tariffs and taxes, and providing all necessary documents.

Step 5: Delivery to the Final Destination

After completing the customs clearance procedures, the goods will be transported to the final destination. This could be a warehouse, or it could be delivered directly to the customer’s doorstep.

Choosing the Right Incoterms

Incoterms are abbreviations used to define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in transactions. Choosing the appropriate Incoterms is crucial when shipping goods from China by sea, as they can affect the transportation costs and logistics arrangements of the goods. Common terms include:
EXW (factory delivery): The supplier is only responsible for providing the goods at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all other matters, including transportation and customs duties.
FOB (Free on Board): The supplier transports the goods to the loading port and is responsible for export customs clearance, while the buyer is responsible for sea transportation and import customs clearance.
CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight): The supplier is responsible for arranging and paying for transportation, insurance, and the cost of transporting the goods to the destination port, while the buyer is responsible for import customs clearance.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): The supplier is responsible for transporting the goods to the buyer’s designated location and bearing all related costs and risks, including customs duties and taxes.

Selecting the Right Container size

When choosing containers for export from China, it is crucial to choose the correct type. The most common types include:
20’GP (General Purpose Container): This is a standard container with a maximum load capacity of 28000 kilograms.
40’GP (Universal Container): Its size is twice that of 20’GP, and its maximum load capacity can reach 28800 kilograms.
40’HQ (High Container): This type of container is similar to a 40’GP, but has an additional height of one foot, making it suitable for larger volume cargo.

Types of Shipping Containers Beyond Standard Boxes

In addition to common intermodal containers, we can also transport goods through the following methods:
Box – A small square or rectangular container with a lid, stacked on a pallet.
Envelope – a flat paper packaging used for shipping documents, individually sealed and transported.
Bulk cargo – Transport goods separately in multiple separate parts rather than containers.
Drum – a cylindrical container that is moved by a truck with a hook and unloaded on a roller.

Estimating Sea Freight Costs

The cost of shipping goods from China by sea depends on multiple factors, including:
Goods type: Different types of goods may require special handling or packaging, which can affect costs.
Weight and volume: The weight and volume of goods directly affect shipping costs.
Destination: The farther the destination, the higher the cost.
International Business Terminology (Incoterms): The selected Incoterms will determine who is responsible for various costs during transportation.

Choosing a Reliable Freight Forwarder

Choosing a reliable freight forwarder is crucial for cooperation related to China’s maritime transportation. Dtfu International Shipping is such a company that provides comprehensive sea transportation services, covering the entire process of picking up, packaging, customs clearance, and delivery.
Deeply aware of the complexity and time-consuming nature of international shipping, Dtfu International Shipping strives to simplify the service process, making it easy for every customer to handle. We provide you with one-stop services for sea freight agents within China, including customs clearance, document processing, and cargo tracking, ensuring that every step is under control.
Whether transporting small quantities of pallets or full containers, Dtfu International Shipping’s professional team can rely on rich experience to ensure that your goods arrive safely and on time at their destination. We have extensive experience in shipping containers to the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, so you can fully trust us to provide reliable and cost-effective solutions for your international shipping needs.
At Dtfu International Shipping, we always adhere to providing excellent customer service. Our expert team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance at any time. We are well aware of the various pressures that may be encountered during international transportation, so our customer service representatives are always online to provide you with timely assistance and support.
Dtfu International Shipping is not only your shipping agent in China, but also your trusted partner. We promise to provide the highest quality service, and our professional team will ensure that your international shipping needs are meticulously met.
If you have any questions or needs about importing from China to Malaysia, please feel free to contact us at any time. You can provide detailed information about the goods by filling out our inquiry form, or contact us directly, and we will be happy to answer every question for you.

Conclusion

Although sea freight from China may appear complex at first glance, with careful planning and reliable freight forwarding assistance, the entire process can become smooth and cost-effective. Whether you are a small business owner who has entered the import business for the first time or an experienced importer, mastering the basic knowledge of maritime transportation will help you make wise decisions and optimize the supply chain. By gaining a deep understanding of the shipping process, selecting suitable freight forwarders, and carefully planning transportation details, you will be able to ensure that your goods arrive at their destination safely and on time, while achieving effective cost control.

Frequently Asked Questions What is sea freight shipping?

Sea freight is like a global conveyor belt for goods. In short, it means loading your goods into large containers and allowing them to embark on a sea journey until they reach their destination. It’s a bit like sending a child to a summer camp, but with fewer complaints.

Are there surcharges in sea freight?

Indeed, the ocean freight includes several additional charges. These costs cover multiple stages of transporting goods from China, such as safety fees to ensure the safety of the goods, fuel surcharges to cope with fluctuations in fuel prices, document fees for handling relevant documents, and costs incurred during container delivery. These surcharges are an indispensable part of the sea transportation process, ensuring the smooth progress of the entire transportation process.

What is a container yard?

Container yard is an important facility dedicated to storing, loading, and unloading containers in ports. These yards provide a safe and orderly storage environment for containers, ensuring the smooth flow of goods during transportation.

What is FOB?

A: FOB stands for delivery on board the vessel at the loading port. According to the Incoterms, once the seller loads the goods onto the carrying vessel, the responsibility for the goods passes to the buyer. Afterwards, the buyer will be responsible for the relevant matters of the goods at the destination port.

What are the documents needed for shipping from China?

When exporting goods from China, key documents include bills of lading, packing lists, commercial invoices, and certificates of origin. If transporting dangerous goods, a declaration form and customs clearance certificate are also required. These documents play a crucial role in the transportation of goods, ensuring that the goods can safely and legally reach their destination.

What is a bill of lading?

A Bill of Lading (BOL) is a proof of contract between the shipper and the shipping company, indicating that the shipping company has received the goods at the designated port. The bill of lading plays a crucial role in international trade, serving as proof of ownership of goods and ensuring their safety and legality during transportation.

Who issues freight documents?

Freight documents are usually issued by suppliers or freight agents. These documents are important documents during the transportation of goods, containing detailed information about the goods, transportation conditions, and responsibilities of all parties. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth transportation and safe arrival of the goods at the destination.

Is sea freight insured?

Yes, sea freight usually receives insurance coverage. However, this type of insurance liability is usually limited by the maritime carrier. This means that in some cases, there may be risks or losses that are not covered by insurance. Therefore, before transporting goods, it is recommended that you carefully understand the relevant insurance terms and scope of responsibility, so as to make appropriate choices when necessary.

How long will it take for my shipment to deliver?

The length of delivery time is influenced by multiple factors, so there may be significant differences. Depending on the destination port, the delivery time may vary from a few days to several months. To ensure timely delivery, it is recommended that you consider factors such as destination, type of goods, and transportation cost when selecting transportation methods and shipping companies, in order to make the best decision.

Are there any restrictions over imports from China?

Yes, there are corresponding restrictions on all types of transportation, including imports from China. For example, dangerous goods are often subject to strict restrictions. If the carrier allows the transportation of such goods, corresponding declaration forms and customs clearance certificates need to be provided. Therefore, when planning to import goods from China, it is essential to understand and comply with relevant transportation restrictions and regulations to ensure the smooth transportation and compliance of the goods.

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