Years of Expertise
10
Ocean freight, the backbone of international trade, is the method of transporting large quantities of goods through sea routes. It is the most common mode of transport for international trade, offering a perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and efficiency for moving goods across continents. Understanding the nuances of ocean freight can empower businesses to make informed decisions that optimize their supply chain and logistics strategies.
Types of Shipments
- Full Container Load (FCL): FCL shipping means your goods fill an entire container, either a 20′ or 40′ container. This option is ideal for shippers with enough cargo to fill one or more containers, as it offers the best per-unit shipping rate and provides more control over the shipping process.
- Less than Container Load (LCL): LCL shipping is used when the shipper does not have enough goods to fill a standard container and therefore shares container space with other shippers. This is cost-effective for smaller shipments but may require more handling and could result in slightly longer transit times due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes.
The Shipping Process
The ocean freight process involves several key steps, from the initial booking of cargo space on a vessel to the final delivery of goods. It typically includes:
- Booking: The shipper books space on a ship for their cargo with a freight forwarder like G8TOUS, specifying the type (FCL or LCL), size, and destination of the shipment.
- Haulage: The cargo is transported from the shipper’s warehouse to the port of origin, either by the shipper or through services provided by the freight forwarder.
- Loading: The cargo is loaded onto the ocean freight vessel.
- Transit: The vessel sails from the port of origin to the destination port. Transit times can vary significantly based on the distance, shipping routes, and vessel speeds.
- Unloading and Delivery: Upon arrival at the destination port, the cargo is unloaded, goes through customs clearance, and is then delivered to the final recipient.
G8TOUS simplifies this complex process for our clients, leveraging our expertise to ensure smooth, timely, and cost-effective ocean freight operations. Our extensive network and strong relationships with carriers globally allow us to offer flexible, reliable services that meet the diverse needs of our clients.
