Shipping Folding Chairs from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Kokkola Port, Finland: FCL and LCL Options
1. Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
FCL (Full Container Load):
For larger shipments, you may choose FCL, which means you rent an entire container for your cargo. This option is often more cost-effective for bulk shipments and ensures your goods are not mixed with other consignments. FCL is available in both 20-foot and 40-foot container sizes. For a large batch of folding chairs, you might opt for a 20FT or 40FT container depending on the volume of goods to be shipped.
- 20FT container: Typically accommodates around 10-12 cubic meters of cargo.
- 40FT container: Suitable for larger shipments, holding roughly 25-28 cubic meters.
For FCL, the shipping process is straightforward and involves a CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) arrangement, which covers the cost of the goods, shipping, and insurance up until the destination port, Kokkola.
LCL (Less than Container Load):
For smaller shipments, where the volume of goods doesn’t justify a full container, LCL is the more affordable option. With LCL, your cargo will share space in a container with other shipments. While it can be a more economical choice, the shipping time may be slightly longer due to the consolidation process at the port of departure.
- The typical sea journey for LCL shipments from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Kokkola takes approximately 43 days.
2. Estimated Transit Time
Both FCL and LCL shipments from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Kokkola Port typically take around 43 days. This transit time includes the sea journey, port handling, and customs clearance, but may vary depending on seasonal factors, vessel schedules, and port congestion.
3. Cargo Packaging
Proper packaging is essential to ensure that folding chairs arrive safely at their destination, especially for international shipping. The packaging process can vary based on whether you are shipping FCL or LCL:
For FCL shipments: Since the chairs are packed in an entire container and not shared with other cargo, they are usually packed in sturdy cardboard boxes or wooden crates. Each folding chair should be individually wrapped in protective materials like bubble wrap or foam padding to prevent scratches and damage during transit. Boxes should be sealed tightly to prevent movement inside the container, and heavy-duty straps can be used to secure them to the container walls.
For LCL shipments: Packaging is even more important in LCL shipments because the goods are mixed with other shipments. Chairs are often grouped together in wooden pallets or strong boxes. In addition to bubble wrap or foam, it is common to use plastic shrink wrap to keep the goods tightly bound and prevent them from shifting during the sea journey. Labeling the boxes clearly with the shipment’s details (including destination) is crucial for easy identification during unloading.
4. Port Handling and Delivery
Upon arrival at Kokkola Port, Finland, your cargo will undergo customs clearance and handling. For both FCL and LCL shipments, this process includes verifying the shipment against documentation, paying any applicable customs duties and taxes, and handling the delivery of goods to the final destination.
For FCL shipments, once the container is cleared, it will be available for direct delivery or pick-up from the port. For LCL shipments, your goods will need to be sorted and possibly re-packed before they can be delivered.
