Shipping from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Bergen, Norway: CIF Transportation Options

When shipping goods from China to Norway, one popular route is from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to the Port of Bergen (Bergen Havn). This article provides insights into the shipping options, estimated transit time, and best practices for packaging your goods.

Shipping Options

1. Full Container Load (FCL)

• Container Sizes: 20FT and 40FT.
• Service Type: CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), which includes the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges up to the destination port.
• Transit Time: Approximately 38 days by sea.
• Ideal For: Businesses shipping large quantities of goods that fill an entire container.

2. Less than Container Load (LCL)

• Description: For shipments that do not require a full container, your goods are consolidated with other shipments.
• Service Type: CIF port-to-port shipping.
• Transit Time: Also about 38 days by sea, though extra time might be needed for consolidation and deconsolidation at the ports.
• Ideal For: Smaller shipments or businesses looking to reduce costs by sharing container space.

Packaging Guidelines

Proper packaging is critical for ensuring your goods arrive safely after a long sea journey. Here are the best practices for packaging:

1. Use Sturdy Packaging Materials

• Outer Packaging: Choose strong corrugated cardboard boxes, wooden crates, or metal containers depending on the nature of your cargo.
• Pallets: For bulk goods, use pallets made of durable wood or plastic to allow easy handling.

2. Protect Against Moisture

• Sea freight exposes goods to high humidity. Use:
  • Plastic wrapping or waterproof liners.
  • Desiccants or silica gel packets inside packages to absorb moisture.

3. Cushion and Secure Goods

• Use bubble wrap, foam padding, or air cushions to protect fragile items.
• Secure heavy goods with straps, shrink wrap, or netting to prevent shifting during transport.

4. Label Clearly

• Label all boxes with:
  • Sender and receiver information.
  • “Handle With Care” or “This Side Up” for fragile items.
  • Weight and volume details for easier handling.

5. Follow International Standards

• Comply with ISPM-15 regulations for wooden packaging to prevent pests.
• Ensure your packaging meets IMO (International Maritime Organization) requirements for hazardous goods, if applicable.