Shipping Molds from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Finland (Hämeenlinna Port) via Sea Freight (20FT/40FT FCL and LCL) with CIF Terms
When shipping molds from China’s Guangzhou or Shenzhen ports to Hämeenlinna, Finland, businesses have several shipping options depending on the quantity and nature of the cargo. The most common methods include Full Container Load (FCL) for large quantities, and Less than Container Load (LCL) for smaller or mixed shipments. Both options typically follow a shipping route with a transit time of approximately 43 days.
Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
Full Container Load (FCL)
For large shipments of molds, the Full Container Load (FCL) option is ideal. You can choose either a 20-foot (20FT) or 40-foot (40FT) container depending on the volume and dimensions of your shipment. A 20FT container can accommodate around 10 to 15 tons of cargo, while a 40FT container can carry 20 to 30 tons.
FCL shipments are generally more cost-effective for larger, bulk shipments, and the goods are shipped directly from the port of origin to the destination port without sharing space with other shipments. The main advantage of FCL is the reduced risk of damage, as the molds are transported in a dedicated container, and there’s no need to handle goods as much as with LCL.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
For smaller or mixed shipments, Less than Container Load (LCL) is a viable option. In LCL shipping, your goods share container space with other shipments, and the freight cost is calculated based on the volume or weight of your goods. While LCL shipping is more cost-effective for small shipments, the transit time may be slightly longer due to the need for consolidation and de-consolidation at various ports.
LCL shipments typically go through a port-to-port transit route and may require additional coordination with the shipping company to ensure that the molds are handled carefully during the transfer process.
Shipping Route and Transit Time
Both FCL and LCL shipments from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Hämeenlinna, Finland, take approximately 43 days of sea travel. The journey generally follows this route:
- Departure from Guangzhou/Shenzhen: The cargo departs from either Guangzhou or Shenzhen port, two of China’s busiest and most efficient ports for international shipping.
- Sea Transit: The vessel makes stops at major international ports on the way, typically including transshipment hubs such as Singapore, the Suez Canal, and the ports of Northern Europe.
- Arrival at Hämeenlinna Port: After navigating the Baltic Sea, the vessel reaches Hämeenlinna, a well-connected port in Finland, ready for unloading and onward transportation to the final destination.
Cargo Packaging for Molds
When shipping molds, proper packaging is essential to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. Mold components are typically large, heavy, and sensitive to impact, so packaging needs to provide both protection and stability during transit. Here’s a guide to how molds are generally packaged for sea freight:
Wooden Crates: The most common packaging method for molds is placing them inside sturdy wooden crates. These crates are designed to withstand rough handling during transit and prevent moisture damage. Wooden crates also provide a firm structure to keep the molds from shifting or getting damaged during the journey.
Plastic Wrapping or Shrink Film: Molds may be covered with plastic wrapping or shrink film to protect them from dirt, moisture, and exposure to saltwater during transit. This is particularly important for molds made of materials that are sensitive to rust or corrosion.
Foam Inserts and Padding: To prevent movement within the crate, foam inserts or padding are often used. These materials help absorb shocks and minimize the risk of damage from impact or rough handling.
Steel Straps: The molds are often secured inside the crates with steel straps to ensure that they remain firmly in place during transit. Steel straps provide additional stability and prevent shifting during loading and unloading.
Desiccants or Silica Gel Packs: To avoid mold or rusting caused by humidity, desiccants or silica gel packs are placed inside the crates to absorb excess moisture during the journey.
Labeling: Clear and accurate labeling is crucial. Each package should include handling instructions, the destination address, and any specific notes such as “Fragile” or “This Side Up,” ensuring that the shipment is handled properly throughout its journey.
Incoterms: CIF
The shipping terms for this transaction are CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). Under CIF, the seller is responsible for the costs, insurance, and freight necessary to deliver the goods to the port of destination. This means that the seller covers the shipping charges, including freight and insurance, until the molds reach Hämeenlinna Port in Finland.
Once the shipment arrives at Hämeenlinna Port, the buyer is responsible for clearing the goods through customs and handling any local transportation from the port to the final destination within Finland.