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In reality:
Nobody will tell you this, but from experience, it is one of the most popular ways of shipping.
Today’s guide explores all the vital aspects of FCL shipping from China – starting with a basic definition, advantages, disadvantages, how it works, etc.
So read on to learn more.
Chapter 1: What is FCL Shipping?
FCL is a logistics term that refers to a full container load. The container can either be 20” or 40”.
The goods in an FCL container all belong to one consignee.
Shipping container
If you have a large enough volume of goods to fill a standard shipping container, you can book FCL.
However, this does not imply that the shipping container has to be full to qualify as an FCL load.
FCL simply means that you (the shipper) have exclusive rights to the container for the period of shipping.
This is whether your goods fill up every square inch of the container or not.
Now, why should you ship FCL or not?
Find out below.
Chapter 2: Advantages and Disadvantages of FCL Shipping
Like most other shipping options, FCL shipping has its pros and cons.
To begin with, shipping FCL has very many advantages.
These include;
· Lower freight rates
FCL shipping offers a cheaper ocean shipping alternative.
When shipping FCL, you pay a flat shipping rate.
Not the per cubic meter charge as is the case with most other forms of shipping.
Per cubic meter charges tend to be quite costly especially when you’re shipping a larger volume of cargo.
· FCL shipping offers shipping convenience
This is in the sense that you can optimize your shipping quantity and packaging.
Doing this can help you to maximize space usage inside the shipping container.
· No damage to goods
In FCL shipping, there is no bumping of products due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes.
So, if you’re shipping fragile items like kitchenware, this is a factor that you should consider.
· Shipping FCL is safer for your goods
This is because, with FCL shipments, there is less handling of cargo.
Handling, in this case, includes loading, temporary storage, consolidation, unloading, and deconsolidation of cargo.
· FCL shipments are traceable
If you need live feedback on the progress of your cargo transportation, then FCL can give you this.
All you need for this is to know the shipping line and have your bill of lading number.
With these, you can easily track the location and estimated time of arrival of your cargo through the carrier’s website.
The disadvantage of FCL shipping
There is one major downside to FCL shipping.
This is that you can only enjoy its cost efficiency if you’re shipping a large volume of cargo.
This has to be Cargo whose volume is between 15-20 cubic meters.
Anything that’s less than the above volume will be costly to ship in a full container.
Thus, for FCL to be a viable shipping option, you need to purchase a large quantity of goods.
Chapter 3: FCL Shipping Rates from China
It may interest you to know this:
FCL shipping rates tend to be lower than an equivalent weight of cargo in bulk.
Well, this is a plus for those seeking for cheaper shipping options to overseas destinations from China.
Note that the difference in cost is mainly because FCL shipping is charged at a flat rate per container.
Also, there are no additional charges,i.e. handling fees in FCL shipping as is seen with loose cargo.
With FCL shipping, you can ship your cargo in a 20”, 40” or a 40 “high container.
Importers from China more commonly use the 20 ft. and the 40 ft. shipping containers.
The containers exterior dimensions are as follows;
Now, as I’ve already mentioned, FCL shipping charges a flat rate per container.
The cost tends to be quite effective given the amount of cargo you can ship using a single container.
So generally, to ship an FCL container from China, the charges range as follows;
20 ft. container ranges from USD 300 – USD 1500
40 ft. container ranges from USD 500 – USD 2000
40 ft. high cube container ranges from USD 1000 – USD 3000
Please note:
These are just estimates on the price.
The actual cost of shipping an FCL container from China ranges widely depending on various factors.
Mostly, shipping volume and destination.
Besides, these costs do not also include the delivery charges, door to door, etc.
As such, to get an actual price estimate, you’ll need to get a quote from a reputable shipping company.
Note that each shipper has different needs.
Therefore, the best way to get an accurate cost estimate is by asking for an FCL shipping quote from a forwarder you choose to work with.
So as I’ve said, the above costs are just estimates on the rates for shipping an FCL container from China.
The overall cost of FCL shipping varies as there are many other small costs involved in the shipping process.
You need to understand these costs very well.
This is especially if you’re estimating the average cost of shipping an FCL container from China to your destination.
Understanding the different costs allows you to estimate the landed cost of your product imports easily.
This way, you can price the products appropriately and with sufficient margins to run a profitable business.
Other Costs in FCL Shipping from China:
Well, the main costs include the container shipping charges, insurances, taxes, and duties.
Also, there are the container cartage costs that is the cost of getting the container from the port to your warehouse.
So for instance;
Let’s say you’re shipping a 40 ft. container from China.
Here, your shipping will charge you approximately USD 2000 and up to USD 3500.
This is the cost of moving your container from the origin port in China to your destination port.
Apart from the shipping company charges, you will have to incur a cartilage cost of about USD 600.
This is the cost of transporting the container from the destination port to your final destination/warehouse.
Insurance, as it is a requirement, will also set you back approximately 2%-4% of your shipment value.
Topping charges are the destination country’s share of taxes and duties.
Here, the rate will depend on the import tariff set by your country.
This, in most cases, is charged on the total value of the shipment.
There is also currency fluctuations and fuel surcharges that may influence your total shipping costs.
The bottom line is that a lot of things influence the cost of FCL shipping from China.
The cost itself is made up of so many small costs that you must consider when a thing of shipping FCL from China.
Chapter 4: FCL Shipping from China Step-by-step Process
We’ve discussed the benefits and downsides of shipping a full container from China.
You also know of the costs that FCL shipping from China involves.
Let us now look at the process that is FCL shipping.
How does it work?
Step 1: Hire a freight forwarder
The first step in FCL shipping is to identify and hire a suitable freight forwarder.
Freight forwarder
Freight forwarder
He is the one that will collect the goods from your supplier, and oversee loading and transportation to destination.
Step 2: Load goods into a container at the factory
After hiring a freight forwarder, the process of shipping begins.
So the first thing the forwarder will do is to check if your goods are packaged and labeled correctly.
Loading shipping container
Loading shipping container
They will then, oversee the loading of the goods into the shipping container.
It could be a 20 ft. or 40 ft. container depending on the quantity of goods.
If you request container loading supervision services, the forwarder will provide the service at this stage.
This is to ensure that no products are lost or damaged during loading.
Step 3: Transport container to the loading port
After loading, the now full or partially full container is transported to a shipping port in China.
Here, the goods will be brought down and cleared through Chinese customs for export.
Transporting shipping container
Transporting shipping container
This means that paperwork and documentation need to be for this process to be successful.
Otherwise, the Chinese customs won’t allow the shipment to leave the country.
Step 4: Load container into a shipping vessel
Once you’ve obtained clearance for export, the container is then loaded into the shipping vessel.
Your forwarder will issue a bill of lading document at this point as you’ll use it to clear the goods at destination.
Once on board, transportation of the container to your destination port commences.
Depending on your destination, you will have to wait a few weeks or months to receive the goods at the destination port.
Step 5: Clear customs at the destination port
When the shipment finally arrives at the destination port, you or a chosen consignee will receive them.
Then, you will begin the customs clearance process where customs will check for compliance before the admission of entry is given.
Customs clearance
Customs clearance
Note that it is at this stage where you’ll pay for customs duties and taxes.
Step 6: Truck container from port to final destination
Once cleared for entry, you can assume full ownership of goods and arrange for transportation to final destination.
You will use trucks for this since you will be transporting a full container.
Transporting container by road
Transporting container by road
Please note;
For each of the above steps, you will have to pay a certain amount of money.
You cater for all of these costs or delegate some to the seller if your incoterm allows.
In the latter’s case, you will only delegate the costs that the incoterm specifies.
Also, the risk obligations will shift from your supplier to you at different points of the shipping process.
This will also happen depending on the incoterm that you’re using.
So again, make sure that you understand the specifications of the incoterm you’re shipping under.
You don’t want to carry on costs and risks that aren’t meant for you unless you want to.
Chapter 5: Loading Time and Renting Options for FCL Shipments
How do you plan to load your goods?
This is a question that is paramount when you’re considering renting a full container for shipping from China.
FCL shipping provides about 4 renting options.
Loading a shipping container
Loading a shipping container
They are;
· Drop and Fill FCL Shipping
The drop and fill option is where the shipping agent drops off the container for you to fill yourself.
The delivery truck just drops the container and leaves.
It doesn’t wait for you to fill the container.
Usually, for shipments from China, the container is dropped off at the supplier’s yard for loading.
You can delegate the loading responsibility to your supplier if you’re allowed to.
Or, you can hire local loaders to load the container for you.
· Live Load FCL Shipping
Live to load in FCL shipping is where a truck drops an empty container and waits for it to be loaded.
As in, loading is done when the delivery truck is on site.
Once loaded, the truck will pick the container and deliver it to a designated location.
It could be at the agent’s warehouse or the loading port.
Note that a live load FCL shipping works well if you’re sure loading time will be within free time.
Free time is the duration within which a truck can wait without charging you.
Most truck deliveries allow a 2-3 hours free waiting time.
If loading exceeds the free waiting time, you will have to pay additional waiting fees.
· Terminal/Warehouse Loading FCL shipping
For this option, you will deliver your packaged goods to the shipping company’s warehouse or loading dock.
The company will ensure the loading of the goods into an appropriate shipping container.
They will then lock and seal the container ready for shipping to your preferred destination.
Loading FCL shipments at the terminal are very cost efficient.
This is because you save up on costs that you could have used on inland transportation and the likes.
· Port Delivery FCL shipping
Port delivery FCL shipping option is usually suitable for shippers with experience in FCL shipping.
Here, you (the shipper) is responsible for obtaining pier access, container cartilage, and loading of the container.
You’re also responsible for returning the container after it’s loaded to the docking yard.
The advantage of the port delivery option is that you won’t have to pay for any port fees or pre carriage costs in China.
These costs are often included in the port delivery service rate.
The downside?
Well, you will be fully responsible for any costs that may accrue during the period of loading and returning the container.
Chapter 6: FCL Shipping Options from China
FCL shipping like other shipping modes also provides a number of delivery options.
These include;
I. Door to door FCL Shipping
Door to door delivery is the most popular method of delivery for FCL shipments from China.
This is especially for shippers transporting to overseas destinations.
So depending on the shipping agreement, your forwarder will deliver your full container from the factory in China to your doorstep.
Door to door shipping
Door to door shipping
They will take care of packing, sea transportation and inland transportation from destination to your doorstep.
They may also help with unloading the container.
This is if you request for a full package door to door delivery.
If you don’t have much experience shipping goods abroad from China, the door to door is viable for you.
II. Door to Port FCL shipping from China
Door to port delivery refers to a service where the forwarder picks your cargo from a factory in China.
He then loads it into a container, transports to origin port, and then oversees its delivery to a port of your choosing.
Port of Shanghai
Port of Shanghai
The forwarder’s responsibility ends at the destination port.
You will take care of any other activities from this point onward.
These include cartilage to final destination and unloading.
III. Port to Door FCL shipping from China
In the port to door option, you’re responsible for getting your goods to the origin port in China.
Your forwarder will then pick the goods from the port and load them into the shipping vessel.
COSCO Shipping Lane
COSCO Shipping Lane
He will then ship the container to the destination and then cart them to your doorstep in the destination country.
IV. Port to Port FCL shipping from China
Port to port FCL shipping option is the most basic option of them all.
It requires that you avail the container at the origin port in China.
The shipping company then transports the goods to the destination port.
From there, you’re again responsible for carting the goods to your final destination.
This option, note, is suitable for those of you with experience in FCL shipping from China.
Because it means that you can handle clearance and cartilage on your own.
So what is the best delivery option for FCL shipments from China?
Well, the right choice for you will depend on so many factors.
Cost, preparedness for loading shipment and prepayments of the recipient at destination country matter a lot.
Whichever method you choose, just ensure that you can track and trace the shipment’s progress.
You can ship anything from small commodities to large consumer goods from China to a destination of your choice.
Some of the countries that you transport FCL shipments from China include;
Shipping from China to any global destination
Shipping from China to any global destination
There are shipping companies spread across China that can safely and reliably deliver your FCL shipments to the Philippines.
It doesn’t matter the kind of goods you’re shipping, FCL shipping services always have you covered.
You can ship anything to the Philippines via FCL.
Be it furniture, electronic equipment, heavy machinery or even small commodities in large quantities.
The only thing that you should be mindful about is the container loading.
This is because loading is the most critical part of the process.
So when shipping from China to Singapore using the FCL option, make sure that your container is loaded correctly.
You can hire container loading supervision services to ensure that no goods are lost or damaged during loading.
You can also book FCL if you want to ship conveniently from China by sea.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re shipping heavy cargo, fragile items, or small electronic devices.
FCL shipping from China to Vietnam has you covered.
Thus, shipping companies in China provide a very stable shipping schedule every week from China.
You can, therefore, ship goods in FCL from China to Jakarta, Belawan, Surabaya and any other city in Indonesia.
The cost of FCL shipping from China to Indonesia is also quite competitive.
For successful FCL shipping from chin to Malaysia, you need to ensure that your forwarder is well versed with the route.
The forwarder also has to have experience in shipping your kind of goods from China to Malaysia.
Besides, you need also to ensure that the company transporting your goods has proper warehousing capabilities.
This is in case you need storage services once your container gets to Malaysia.
As such, when shipping from China to Malaysia, ensure that you follow due process.
First, ensure that you have an IEC (importer-exporter code number).
Secondly, make sure that your documentation is in order.
You need to have a bill of lading document, packing list, bill of entry and a commercial invoice.
You also need a certificate of origin, letter of credit and an import declaration form.
Thirdly, ensure that labeling and marking of the goods and the shipment are as per the requirements of the Indian Bureau of Standards.
If you’re importing fragile items like kitchenware, this is a mode of shipping that I’d recommend anytime for ocean freight.
Other modes of transportation like LCL won’t guarantee the safety of your goods against damage or theft.
So since you need the goods to reach you in good condition, opt for FCL shipping.
This way, you avoid unnecessary headaches due to losses caused by damaged goods.
Or, the long processes that accompany other modes of shipping like LCL.
Shipping FCL helps you save on costs.
It also guarantees the safe and fast delivery of your goods from China to Thailand.
Among the ports that you can use to receive your goods from China include Bangkok, Songkhla,and Laem Chabang.
With this, the only people that will have access to the goods are your supplier and you.
The fewer the people that have access to your cargo from China, the safer the delivery.
So don’t compromise the safety of goods especially if they’re of high value by shipping using less safe options.
Also, maximize safety and convenience by adhering to the regulations of importing to Pakistan.
Besides, it is cheaper and easier to deliver your large volume imports from China to Bangladesh in FCL.
All you need to do when booking FCL shipping is to ensure that your cargo is loaded correctly.
Also, you need to choose a suitable delivery method as you do want to experience last minute inconveniences.
Keep in mind that as an importer, you need to maximize your profits while reducing costs.
One of the ways to do this especially when sea shipping is to load your cargo as FCL.
This way, you cut on freight costs as well as other miscellaneous charges that accompany shipping from China to the UK.
This is because only your cargo is put into the container.
Thus, you can rest easy knowing that no one else will gain access to your goods once shipment commences.
Also, you can easily track the FCL shipment while in transits to monitor delivery progress.
As long as these goods don’t include prohibited or restricted items like television and television equipment.
So when shipping from China to Italy, make sure that the goods you’re importing are not prohibited/restricted goods category.
Otherwise, customs will seize the goods upon arrival at a port in Italy, and you may even be fined or penalized.
A reliable and trustworthy freight forwarder will provide you with efficient FCL shipping from China to France services.
Among the services that you will enjoy are warehousing and distribution, loading supervision and paperwork.
Also, the forwarder can provide customs clearance, insurance, and door to door delivery services.
Therefore, ensure that the forwarder you’re using to ship goods from China to Italy is reliable, trustworthy and professional.
Cost-effectiveness, large volumes, multiple shipping options (door to door, door to port,etc.), all these advantages make FCL shipping the first choice for shipping from China to Latvia.
When you opt for FCL shipping, chose to work with a reliable freight forwarder.
A reliable freight forwarder will ensure effective shipment of your cargo.
Just ensure that as you engage the forwarder, you adhere to all the Latvian customs rules and regulations.
This way, you avoid running into problems during customs clearing.
The difference in transit time is due to several factors some of which include shipping destination, and shipping option.
If you ship FCL, the transit time could be on the lower side.
This is because FCL shipping minimizes additional steps in the loading and unloading of goods.
These steps (i.e., handling and consolidation processes) tend to add additional time to the estimated transit time.
Incoterms, in this case, are the international trade terms that define the obligation of buyer and seller in a shipping contract.
Now, to reduce shipping costs when FCL shipping from China to the Netherlands, you need to choose a suitable incoterm.
There is FOB, CIF, CFR, EX-Works, etc.
You just need to choose an incoterm that is cost efficient and convenient for your current shipping situation.
I’ve written an explainer about incoterms and the best ones to use for FCL shipping from China in chapter 8.
This includes having proper documentation and importing only goods that are permitted by Spain’s customs authorities.
You see, a mistake that most of you make is to ignore the importance of customs regulations.
This is why you get shocked when customs refuses to admit your goods for importation into the country.
To avoid last-minute disappointments when shipping from China to Spain, just comply with the set rules.
Don’t leave this responsibility entirely to your forwarder because you have the biggest role to play here.
The forwarder needs to have the right skills and experience to handle your shipment.
Otherwise, the whole process of shipping will be worrisome.
So, if you want a smooth FCL shipment from China to Estonia, make sure you work with the right forwarder.
Do due diligence when hiring a China to Estonia freight forwarder.
More so, due to the availability of a railway network that provides faster container shipping from China to Russia.
Well yes, to Russia, you can choose to transport your container shipment via rail or ocean freight.
If you want faster delivery, opt for rail shipping.
But if you don’t mind slower transit times, then you can ship FCL by sea from China to Russia.
My recommendation is that you should opt for rail shipping if your destination is rail served.
This way, you reduce on cartilage costs from the station platform to your final destination.
The USA is quite a distance from China.
This means that your shipment will be on the water for a long time before you finally receive it in the US.
As such, it is important to ensure that during shipping, the shipment remains secure from all risks,i.e., damage and theft.
So while FCL shipping from China to the USA is praised for being secure, insurance is still paramount.
At least when a risk occurs, you don’t give up and mourn your losses.
Instead, you claim compensation and continue with business as usual.
Get a logistics operator with the ability to handle a wide range of goods.
Whether you’re shipping general merchandise, chemical industry goods or hazardous goods.
Your freight forwarder should be able to handle any kind of goods that you’re shipping.
When I talk of connections,I mean a good relationship with major carriers, insurance companies, and customs brokers.
The rich connections allow your forwarder to provide you with competitive shipping rates lower than the market.
It also allows the forwarder to secure enough shipping space from shipping companies for you and other customers.
Besides, you also get to enjoy lower customs and insurance brokerage fees.
In China, there are very many seaports from which you can load your FCL shipments to Australia.
These include the ports of Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Ningbo, Dalian, Shenzhen, and Qingdao.
You can choose the port of Brisbane, Freemantle, Darwin, Sydney, or Melbourne as your destination port.
The correct shipping ports for you will largely depend on your destination.
So choose an origin and destination port that provides the shortest shipping distance.
And, that is convenient for your shipping needs.
You can also ship any types of goods as long as they are acceptable by UAE’s customs authorities.
Shipping FCL is even more convenient when you work with a forwarder who has good connections.
This way, you can rest easy knowing that you will enjoy competitive freight rates.
Also, you know that you will never miss out on shipping space even during the peak seasons.
This is so that you can be able to price your products competitively and be able to enjoy a profit margin.
Now, shipping charges tend to make a substantial package of the total product landed costs.
When calculating landed costs, you will realize that the higher the shipping costs,the higher the landed costs.
In this case, it will be difficult for you to price products competitively.
Thus, you won’t be able to enjoy great profit margins.
To avoid this dilemma, try to maintain your shipping charges as low as possible.
First by choosing cost-efficient shipping methods like FCL shipping.
Secondly, by working with an affordable freight forwarder who has good industry connections?
And last but not least, by choosing the right incoterm.
This has led to the coming up of hundreds of freight forwarders offering shipping from China to Brazil services.
It can be challenging to choose the right forwarder for your business when there are too many of them in the industry.
Nonetheless, a forwarder is essential to any shipping process.
Therefore, you just have to ensure that you identify the right one for your business.
Choose a forwarder paying attention to elements like handling capacity, experience, reliability, and network connection.
It doesn’t matter whether the goods can fill up a container or not.
As long as you can pay for an entire container space, you can conveniently ship FCL from China to Saudi Arabia.
Remember that FCL offers a lot of benefits that other shipping options don’t offer.
FCL shipping from China to Saudi Arabia is cost-efficient, secure, faster and flexible for shipping larger volumes.
Loading, paperwork, customs clearance and like processes require the skill and experience of a logistics professional.
So even if you’re an experienced China to Kuwait importer, you can still benefit from the expertise of a qualified forwarder.
He/she will take care of most of the shipping process to ensure smooth shipping of your cargo.
And, to allow you to focus on other essentials of your supply chain.
This is because you can take full advantage of the economies of scale gained by filling a standard shipping container.
Whether it’s a 20 ft.or 40. Container, filling or nearly filling it overall means fewer shipments.
This is if your supply chain is flexible enough to ship larger volumes at longer intervals.
Besides, there are also security benefits to shipping FCL.
It provides less risk of damage and theft during loading and unloading when shipping from China to Kuwait.
Considering its benefits, paying USD 300 to USD 400 to ship FCL from China to New Zealand is reasonable.
Just note the actual cost shipping will vary depending on several factors.
Such as the nature and quantity of goods you’re shipping, the distance of shipping, and the freight forwarder that you choose.
Different freight forwarders offer different shipping rates.
Therefore, you need to identify one that can offer you a favorable cost for shipping from China to New Zealand.
Goods such as computers, textiles, footwear, electronics, ceramics, and toys are in high demand in Lebanon.
If you want to import a product from China to Lebanon, then consider one of these.
They will yield you an excellent profit and will grow your business quite fast.
Besides, shipping from China to Lebanon is a breeze especially using the FCL shipping option.
It is cheap, fast, and secure.
The best part is that the transport infrastructure from China to Lebanon is also great.
If you find the right freight forwarder, shipping from China to Lebanon should be worry-free.
One, the time it takes for the shipment to arrive from China to South Africa.
Two, safe delivery of products that are free from any damage.
And three, smooth customs clearance to pave the way for timely transportation from destination port to final destination.
FCL shipping will ensure the timely and secure transportation of your goods from China to South Africa.
A reliable freight forwarder will ensure that shipping is efficient.
So you need these two things to ensure quality shipping of goods from China to South Africa.
Will the goods get to Kenya on time? How much will I pay for shipping? Is the cost within my budget?
What about customs clearance?
What if my goods get damaged while in transit or during loading?
Well, these are genuine concerns that you must have when shipping goods from China to Kenya.
Especially, if you’re doing it for the first time.
Note however that with FCL shipping you don’t need to worry about all these.
Once you find a reliable freight forwarder to work, you can rest easy knowing that your goods will get to you safely and on time.
Generally, working a reliable freight forwarder helps to ease the worries of FCL shipping from China to Kenya.
There are Port Apapa, PortHarcourt, Port Onne, PortPennington, and the Calabar port.
As part of the shipping process, you will need to have some very crucial documents.
These include form M, commercial invoice, insurance certificate, agency certificate, and a bill of lading.
A certificate of origin and an import permit may also be needed.
Note that the customs clearance procedure in Nigeria is quite strict.
Therefore, for successful shipping from China to Nigeria, you must ensure compliance with the customs regulations of Nigeria.
Don’t get this wrong though because there are certain products that you can’t bring into Ghana from China.
They can land you into problems with customs.
If you insist on bringing goods that not allowed in Ghana from China, you risk two to three things.
You risk paying very high fines, facing penalties by customs and/or lose your goods due to seizure by customs.
I bet you don’t want any of these things to happen.
You should, therefore, ensure that you comply with the customs regulations of Ghana when shipping from China to Ghana.
Also, ensure that your freight forwarder is conversant with these regulations and complies to them fully.
So as the buyer in an FCL shipping transaction, it is important that you trade under terms that are favorable to you.
Understanding international shipping terms (Incoterms) is therefore important in this case.
This way, you to get to know your rights and obligations as the buyer in the transaction.
Thus, you can choose an incoterm that is suitable for your current shipping needs.
Here are some of the best incoterms for FCL shipping from China that you can consider;
He/she is not responsible for the loading of the goods unless you otherwise agree upon it.
Note that here, you, as the buyer, will bear all the costs and risks that accompany transporting the goods from the EX-Works to your desired destination.
With this, the seller is to deliver goods that have been cleared for export to a carrier of your choosing.
The seller is to load the goods if the carrier’s pick up location is on the seller’s premises.
From that point, you will bear all the costs and risks of moving the goods to the final destination.
The port has to be one that you, the buyer, identifies.
Associated risks,i.e., of loss or damage transfer to you when the goods pass the ship’s rail.
The seller will cater for loading costs.
4) CFR (cost and Freight) (…named port of destination)
In CFR, the seller is to cater for the costs and freight needed to deliver the goods to the named port of destination.
The risks of delivery as well as any cost increases are catered by you, the buyer.
This responsibility on increased cost and risks passes on to you when the goods pass the ships rail in the loading port.
Insurance in CFR is your obligation.
5) CIF (cost insurance freight) (…name port of destination)
Like FOB, CIF is also quite popular among traders importing from China.
The incoterm specifies that the seller delivers goods to the named port of destination.
It additionally states that the seller procures insurance against the risk of loss or damage of goods.
It is the seller’s obligation here to contact the insurer and pay the insurance premium.
Remember that insurance is very important when shipping goods across international waters.
6) Delivered at the terminal (DAT) (…named place or port of destination)
A DAT contract sale requires that the seller delivers goods from the destination port or place to a named terminal.
Terminal, in this case, could be a warehouse, quay, container yard, road, and rail or air cargo terminal.
You need to agree on the specific terminal for which delivery should be made.
If possible, you should also agree on the point within the terminal at which you assume risk responsibility.
7) Delivered at Place (DAP) (…named place)
DAP, formerly known as DDU, requires that the seller arranges and delivers goods to the buyer at the named place.
The buyer hence is only responsible for taking care of and paying for customs clearance fees and duties at the destination.
These are the best incoterms for FCL shipping from China.
So as I said, choose a term whose conditions are most favorable to you.
However, as you do this, keep in mind that the best incoterm for you is probably the worst for your seller.
It is, therefore, best if the both of you come to a mutual agreement and ensure that all terms and conditions are clearly defined.
It is an affordable solution for shipping goods from China.
No doubt, ocean shipping takes a lot of time.
Nonetheless, its cost-effectiveness is something which makes it the ideal choice for China importers.
Now, ocean shipping is mainly of two types.
There is FCL shipping that we’re talking about, and then there is LCL shipping.
Between the two modes, which one is suitable for you?
In this chapter, I want to conduct a comprehensive comparison of the two.
I hope that after this, you’ll be able to identify the method that’s most efficient for your shipping needs.
So let’s start with the definitions.
What is FCL and LCL shipping?
As I had already mentioned, FCL shipping is where you fill a container to ship or rent the entire container space.
LCL, on the other hand, is sharing shipping space with other shippers.
FCL shipping allows you to ship large volumes of goods while LCL shipping only allows for small volume shipping.
In LCL, you’re required to consolidate your cargo with that of other shippers.
These have to be shippers that are heading your direction.
So generally with LCL shipping, you only pay for the volume of space you use within the shipping container.
Unlike in FCL where you have to rent out the entire container shipping space.
Advantages and disadvantages of FCL and LCL shipping
When talking about the pros and cons of FCL and LCL shipping, it’s not as simple as sounds.
This is because, between the two, no method is superior.
It all depends on your shipping requirements and needs.
More often though, the size and volume of your cargo will determine the ideal method to use.
Nonetheless, there are a few pros and cons to using each method for shipping.
You can consider these when deciding on the best method to use depending on your current shipping situation.
Allow me to explain them in detail categorically;
1. Cost
Comparing the two, FCL shipping is cheaper when cost is charged per cbm.
This is because here, you will pay a flat rate for using the container.
LCL will need you to pay for the volume of goods you’re shipping thus the cost per cbm will be high.
For small volume shipping, LCL is cheaper than FCL.
Although it is expensive when costing per cbm, LCL shipping is still by far the most cost-efficient for small volume shipping.
This is because you will only pay for the volume you’re using in the shipping container.
2. Stock control
LCL shipping offers flexible shipping.
If you’re an up and coming business, this can be great for you since you can import small volume.
With FCL, you have to fill a shipping container to enjoy its cost efficiency.
Otherwise, you’ll be paying to ship empty space.
This can be very limiting if you’d actually like to ship a volume that’s less than the set load rate.
Note that with FCL shipping, specific volumes are required when shipping.
As a startup, therefore, needing to import a large volume of stock may not be feasible for you.
3. Cargo loading
FCL shipping restricts the number of people that can touch the cargo to be shipped.
Here, only you and the supply touch the goods thus reducing the chances of damage or theft.
Wondering how?
Well, an FCL shipment is often loaded into a container by the supplier who then seals it.
The container will be transported and delivered to you still sealed.
That is if customs doesn’t stop the shipment.
This helps to reduce risks such as damage and theft when goods are in transit.
So, are you’re shipping a large volume of fragile or sensitive goods and are unsure of the method to use?
Well, I recommend that you pay a little extra for a full container.
Because unlike FCL, there’s too much handling of cargo in LCL shipping.
First, shipment is loaded onto a vehicle at the factory.
They are then unloaded into a warehouse by the port and again loaded into a shared container.
When the goods finally land in your destination country, they are unloaded from the container.
Then, they’re again loaded onto a truck before they’re finally delivered to you to unload.
4. Delivery
Honestly, LCL shipping offers convenient delivery options as compared to FCL which is quite restricted.
You see, when you ship FCL, your container will be delivered to you on a truck.
In this case, you can’t put the container on the ground to unload.
Unless if you pay a little extra for a special delivery truck.
This therefore means you’ll have a few hours to unload your cargo from the container.
Remember that a standard shipping container is no less than 6 ft.high.
So to make it in time for the truck to leave, you’ll have to hire a few extra hands to help with the unloading.
Or, hire a forklift.
Well, it’s just quite complicated which is not really the case with LCL.
With the latter, even if deliveries are done using a truck, they often come in pallets.
Unloading pallets are easier.
And, even if your delivery destination has restricted access, you can request for a smaller truck for delivery.
Also, you can request for a tail lift delivery that can drop off your goods to the ground.
This is if you don’t have access to a forklift.
So generally, LCL delivery is a bit flexible compared to FCL.
As you can see from the details above, LCL shipping provides you with options when it comes to delivery.
You can use small or big trucks depending on the size of your shipment and the accessibility of your delivery location.
You can also request for a tail lift delivery to help unload the goods if you don’t have access to a forklift.
Shipping FCL with special delivery requirements, using a smaller truck can be costly.
You may need to have the container unloaded at the delivery port for final delivery to be done in bits.
Remember also that FCL shipments can only be delivered in one way-in a container on the back of a truck.
If this is inconvenient for you, or if a large truck won’t be able to access your location well, that’s just too bad!
5. Delivery time
It is believed that FCL shipping is faster than LCL by a few days.
This is due to the process that handling LCL shipments go through.
Remember that LCL shipments combine cargo from multiple shippers.
As such, there are additional steps in the loading and unloading process of this kind of shipments.
Thus, it is not a viable option for shipping if you’re working on a strict timeline.
So, what option should you use to ship your goods from China by sea?
Well, the answer to this question depends on a lot of factors.
First of all, it will depend on the size of your shipment. And secondly, on your requirements.
At the end of the day, you need to choose a mode that most efficient for you.
My recommendation?
If you’re shipping goods less than 20cbm, choose LCL shipping.
But if the goods are fragile or require special delivery conditions choose FCL.
SWWLS Freight Forwarder specializes in both FCL and LCL shipping.
So if you experience confusion choosing between the two, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be glad to help.
Also, if you want other sea shipping services, we can also help out.
And, if you’re wondering who or what SWWLS Freight Forwarder is and what it does, well wonder no more.
Read the next chapter to find out exactly what is SWWLS Freight Forwarder and what it can offer you regarding shipping from China.
There are a lot of demands that include paperwork, customs clearance, warehousing, distribution, etc.
All of these things are essential to the success of the shipping process.
If you fail to handle any of these things well, you can compromise the whole shipping process.
So to avoid guesswork and ensure the successful shipping of your items from China, do this; partner with a reliable freight forwarder from China.
A forwarder that can guide and help you through every stage of the shipping process is essential.
This way, you’ll be able to overcome the challenges and stresses that accompany shipping from China by sea.
My recommendation? Partner with SWWLS Freight Forwarder; your ultimate supply chain solution for your shipping from China needs.
Let me tell you why SWWLS Freight Forwarder is your ultimate shipping solution.
First of all, SWWLS Freight Forwarder is a well-known professional and reliable freight forwarding and logistics company.
SWWLS Freight Forwarder Capability
We are based in China but provide holistic freight forwarding services from China to over 200 destinations worldwide.
Note that as a service provider, we’ve been in the industry for over 10 years.
Through these years, we’ve been gaining relentless experience that has and continue to help us to serve our clients properly.
As such, SWWLS Freight Forwarder has come to be ranked among the top and reliable shipping agents from China.
Our success, in this case, I must say, we attribute it to a lot of things, but mostly to;
Note that these are things that we continue to provide relentlessly at SWWLS Freight Forwarder to help meet your expectations as a customer.
As part of the SWWLS Freight Forwarder family, I am proud and confident to mention that here, we have a solution for everything.
From pickup and delivery, warehousing and distribution, goods insurance to paperwork and documentation.
We also do customs clearances, provide loading and inspection services as well as handle door to door shipping from China.
As I said, SWWLS Freight Forwarder is your ultimate solution to supply chain management.
With us as your freight forwarding partner, importing from China should be the least of your worries.
What’s more?
At SWWLS Freight Forwarder we don’t give empty promises.
We only provide guarantees of quality for a wide range of services.
To prove this, we have liaised with major carriers in the freight shipping industry.
This liaison allows us access to great shipping discounts as well as enough shipping spaces.
Thus, you can be sure that you’ll never miss shipping space when you choose SWWLS Freight Forwarder as your shipping agent.
Also, you’re guaranteed of getting favorable prices for services that we offer.
So, when shipping from China, will you consider SWWLS Freight Forwarder?
I hope that you will.
Remember, that at SWWLS Freight Forwarder, our primary concern is to ensure that you enjoy world-class services at a pocket-friendly cost.
Our services are comprehensive, reliable, fast and affordable.
All our staff is also trained and very professional, and our shipping infrastructure is undoubted.
So trust us to efficiently handle your shipping from China to your destination anywhere in the world.
Conclusion
FCL shipping allows you to securely ship a considerable amount of goods from China to any destination.
Besides, you also save on shipping costs.
With this mode of shipping, there is a lot to understand.
And, to minimize problems and unnecessary cost, take the time to understand the basics as explained in this guide.
For more insight on FCL shipping, you can call or email us at any moment; we will be glad to help.
Tel:18576695636
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551131221180
Contact Person:Anne
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