Shipping Goods from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Salvador Port, Brazil: 20FT/40FT FCL and LCL Options
Shipping Options: FCL vs. LCL
Full Container Load (FCL)
When shipping goods in bulk, you may opt for a Full Container Load (FCL), where the entire 20FT or 40FT container is dedicated to your goods. The advantage of this method is that it offers more security, as the entire container is solely for your shipment. Additionally, it can be more cost-effective if you have enough goods to fill a whole container.
- 20FT FCL: Ideal for shipments that are less than 28 cubic meters, typically suitable for heavy or bulky goods.
- 40FT FCL: Ideal for larger shipments, with a capacity of around 60 cubic meters, suitable for heavy or high-volume shipments.
The CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) shipping terms mean that the seller will cover the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges to the Salvador port. The buyer will be responsible for customs clearance, import duties, and any other costs once the cargo arrives at the port.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
If you don’t have enough goods to fill a full container, the Less than Container Load (LCL) option is the best solution. In this case, your cargo will share space in a container with other shipments. While this is a more economical choice for smaller shipments, it may take longer for the goods to reach their destination as the container must be consolidated with other cargo.
The sea voyage from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Salvador typically takes around 36 days. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific shipping line and weather conditions. LCL shipments generally take a little longer, as the goods need to be consolidated and de-consolidated at the ports.
Packaging of Goods for Sea Freight
Proper packaging is crucial for ensuring the safety of your cargo during the long sea journey. Here’s a breakdown of how goods are typically packaged for FCL and LCL shipments:
1. Packaging for FCL Shipments
- Standardized Palletization: Most goods are placed on wooden pallets, which makes handling and loading easier. These pallets are typically wrapped in shrink wrap to secure the goods and protect them from dust, moisture, and damage.
- Wooden Crates: For fragile or high-value items, wooden crates are often used to provide an extra layer of protection.
- Heavy-duty Bags or Boxes: For products like textiles or grain, heavy-duty, sealed bags or boxes are used to avoid spillage and damage.
2. Packaging for LCL Shipments
- Strong Cartons: For smaller items, cardboard cartons are commonly used. These should be strong and well-sealed to avoid breakage during transit.
- Palletization: LCL cargo is often palletized to facilitate easier handling and prevent shifting during transit. The goods will be packed in cartons or containers on a pallet.
- Shrink Wrapping: To protect your goods from moisture and dirt, shrink wrapping is often applied around the palletized cargo. This ensures that the cargo remains intact during the journey.
In both FCL and LCL shipments, it’s crucial that goods are packed to withstand the rigors of sea transport, including rough handling, exposure to varying temperatures, and potential humidity.
