Shipping Goji Berries from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Duisburg Port, Germany: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL) Options
Shipping goods internationally involves meticulous planning and understanding of logistics. If you’re looking to ship goji berries (枸杞) from China to Germany, especially from the ports of Guangzhou or Shenzhen, there are various shipping options available, including Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL). Both options come with their own set of advantages depending on the shipment volume and requirements.
1. Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping:
When shipping large volumes of goji berries, opting for a 20FT or 40FT Full Container Load (FCL) is typically the most efficient choice. An FCL is ideal for exporters who have enough goods to fill an entire container, as it allows the goods to be shipped in a private, dedicated space without sharing the container with other products.
Shipping Route & Duration: The typical journey from Guangzhou or Shenzhen ports to Duisburg Port in Germany takes approximately 32 days by sea. The transit time may vary slightly depending on factors such as weather conditions and the specific route taken.
CIF Shipping Terms: Under CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) shipping terms, the exporter is responsible for covering the cost of the goods, the freight charges, and marine insurance up to the point of arrival at Duisburg Port. However, the buyer will need to handle import customs clearance and any additional costs once the goods arrive.
2. Less-than-Container Load (LCL) Shipping:
If your shipment does not fill an entire container, LCL shipping is a more economical option. This involves sharing container space with goods from other exporters.
Cost Efficiency: LCL shipping is typically cheaper for smaller quantities because you only pay for the space your cargo occupies, rather than the entire container. However, it may have slightly longer transit times due to the process of consolidation and deconsolidation at the ports.
Shipping Route & Duration: Similar to FCL, the LCL shipping from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Duisburg Port generally takes 32 days by sea. The duration can vary depending on the port congestion or specific shipping lines used.
3. Goji Berry Packaging for Shipping:
Proper packaging is critical to ensuring the safe transport of goji berries. Since goji berries are delicate and easily damaged, they must be securely packaged to preserve their quality during the long journey. Here’s an overview of common packaging methods for goji berries:
Packaging Type: Goji berries are typically packaged in food-grade plastic bags or vacuum-sealed bags to protect them from moisture and contamination. These bags are often placed inside cardboard boxes for added protection.
Box Dimensions and Stacking: The cardboard boxes should be appropriately sized to prevent any excess movement during transit. Shrink-wrapping the boxes is common practice, as it adds an extra layer of protection. The boxes should be stacked securely within the shipping container to prevent crushing during transport.
Temperature Control: Goji berries are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so it is essential to ensure the container is sealed properly to maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels throughout the journey. For longer distances or extremely hot climates, some shipments may require refrigerated containers (REEFER containers).
Labeling and Documentation: Clear labeling of the boxes with both shipment details and product information (such as the contents, origin, and expiration dates) ensures smoother customs clearance and reduces the risk of damage during handling.
