Shipping Olive Oil from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Cagliari, Italy: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL)
1. Shipping Method: Full Container Load (FCL) vs. Less Than Container Load (LCL)
When shipping large quantities of olive oil, businesses typically choose between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL).
Full Container Load (FCL): This method is ideal for large shipments where the entire container is dedicated solely to one client’s cargo. An FCL is suitable for bulk olive oil orders, providing better control over the shipment and the ability to pack the goods in a more secure and efficient manner. It also tends to be more cost-effective for large shipments.
Less Than Container Load (LCL): For smaller shipments, LCL is an optimal choice. LCL allows businesses to share space within a container with other consignments, making it a more economical option when the volume doesn’t justify a full container. The olive oil is consolidated with other goods and shipped to the destination port, with a shipping time of about 31 days from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Cagliari.
2. CIF Incoterms for Ocean Freight
For both FCL and LCL, CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) is a commonly used incoterm for shipments. This means the seller covers the costs of transporting the olive oil to the port of destination (Cagliari Port), as well as the insurance and freight charges. However, once the shipment arrives at the port, the buyer is responsible for import duties, taxes, and delivery to the final destination.
3. Ocean Freight Journey and Transit Time
The sea freight journey from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Cagliari, Italy, typically takes around 31 days. The journey passes through major shipping lanes in the South China Sea, the Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean waters, depending on the specific route taken by the carrier.
- Departure Ports: Guangzhou or Shenzhen are well-established shipping hubs in China, offering regular containerized cargo services to major European ports, including Cagliari in Italy.
- Arrival Port: Cagliari Port, located in the south of Sardinia, is an important Mediterranean shipping gateway. Upon arrival, the cargo will go through customs clearance before being transferred to the next mode of transport.
4. Packaging for Olive Oil Shipments
Proper packaging is essential when shipping olive oil internationally. As a delicate liquid, olive oil requires special handling to prevent contamination, leakage, or damage. The following packaging guidelines should be followed:
Bulk Packaging (for FCL shipments): For large FCL shipments, olive oil is typically packed in food-grade plastic drums or steel barrels, each with a capacity ranging from 180 liters to 220 liters. These barrels are sealed to avoid contamination and minimize the risk of leakage during transit.
Individual Bottles (for smaller or LCL shipments): In cases of smaller orders, olive oil can be packaged in glass or PET bottles, each securely sealed to prevent leaks. These bottles are then placed in sturdy cardboard cartons, with sufficient cushioning material (such as bubble wrap or foam) to prevent breakage.
Palletization: Regardless of whether it’s an FCL or LCL shipment, products are often stacked on wooden pallets to ensure stability during transport. For LCL shipments, the individual cartons or barrels are consolidated into a single pallet, which is then shrink-wrapped for added security.
Labeling: Each package should be clearly labeled with necessary details, including the product name, weight, destination address, and any relevant safety or handling instructions (such as “Fragile” or “Keep upright”). Accurate labeling helps prevent delays during customs clearance and ensures the olive oil arrives safely at its final destination.
5. Customs Clearance and Delivery to Cagliari
Once the shipment reaches Cagliari Port, it will go through the customs clearance process. Given that the olive oil is a food product, it is subject to certain import regulations and inspections, including documentation proving its quality and origin. After clearing customs, the goods will be delivered to the importer’s specified address in Italy.
For FCL shipments, the olive oil can be delivered directly to a warehouse or another destination. For LCL shipments, the cargo may need to be deconsolidated at a warehouse before final delivery.
