Shipping Bread from Guangzhou/Shenzhen, China to Surabaya Port, Indonesia: FCL & LCL Options with CIF Terms
1. Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping:
For businesses with larger quantities of bread, opting for FCL (Full Container Load) shipping is the most efficient way to ship goods in bulk.
Shipping Terms (CIF): Under CIF terms, the supplier is responsible for the costs, insurance, and freight until the goods reach Surabaya Port. This means the seller takes on the responsibility for the goods during transit and the risk is transferred to the buyer only once the goods arrive at the destination port.
Container Options:
- 20FT Container: Ideal for smaller shipments or when the volume of bread doesn’t require the full capacity of a 40FT container. This container holds around 20-25 cubic meters of cargo.
- 40FT Container: Suitable for larger shipments, with a capacity of approximately 40-45 cubic meters.
The bread is securely packed into cartons or pallets, which are loaded into the container. Depending on the size of the shipment, it may require special handling to ensure the cargo does not shift during transport.
2. Less-than-Container Load (LCL) Shipping:
For smaller shipments that do not fill an entire container, LCL (Less-than-Container Load) shipping is a cost-effective solution. LCL shipping allows multiple shippers to share container space, thereby lowering the shipping costs for smaller shipments.
Shipping Terms (CIF): Like FCL, the CIF shipping terms will apply to LCL shipments. The supplier will handle the costs, insurance, and freight for the journey until the goods reach Surabaya Port.
Transit Time: The typical sea transit time for LCL shipments from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Surabaya is around 7 days. However, additional time may be required for consolidation and deconsolidation at both the origin and destination ports.

3. Bread Packaging for Safe Transport:
Packaging bread for international shipping, especially when transporting it by sea, requires careful consideration to ensure the product arrives in good condition. Bread is a perishable item, and the packaging plays a crucial role in preserving its quality during transit.
Packaging Materials:
- Outer Packaging: The bread is generally packed in durable cardboard cartons or crates. These provide structural protection during the shipping process and help to keep the bread from being damaged.
- Internal Packaging: Depending on the type of bread, individual loaves may be wrapped in plastic or vacuum-sealed to maintain freshness and prevent exposure to air and moisture.
- Palletizing: For FCL shipments, the bread is often placed on pallets. Pallets help distribute the weight evenly across the container and make unloading easier. For LCL shipments, pallets also help with the consolidation of different goods, keeping the bread safe from other cargo.
- Temperature-Controlled Packaging: For perishable items like bread, it is essential to use temperature-controlled packaging if the bread is sensitive to heat or humidity. This might include the use of insulated liners or gel packs to maintain the ideal temperature during transit.
Sealing and Labelling: Each carton or pallet should be securely sealed to prevent exposure to external elements. Labels should clearly indicate the contents and any handling instructions, such as “Keep Dry” or “Fragile.”