Shipping Fiber Optic Cables from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Ciudad del Este, Paraguay
1. Sea Freight Shipping Options
There are two primary ways to ship goods from China to Ciudad del Este, Paraguay: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL).
FCL (Full Container Load)
FCL shipping is suitable for businesses or individuals with large shipments that require the use of an entire shipping container. For fiber optic cables, which can often come in large quantities, shipping a 20-foot (20FT) or 40-foot (40FT) container is ideal. FCL shipments are typically more cost-effective per unit of cargo compared to LCL when the cargo volume is significant.
20FT/40FT Container Shipping (CIF):
The typical shipping route from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Ciudad del Este will include a CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) arrangement. This means that the cost of the shipping, insurance, and freight charges are included, and the goods will be delivered to the port of Ciudad del Este. The cargo will be loaded onto the container, and the shipping company will handle transportation to the destination port.Estimated Transit Time:
The estimated sea journey from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Ciudad del Este is around 48 days, depending on the shipping line, the number of transshipment ports, and other logistical factors.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
For smaller quantities of fiber optic cables, LCL is a viable option. In this case, multiple shipments from different exporters are consolidated into one container, reducing the shipping cost for smaller businesses. The cargo will be delivered port-to-port, and upon arrival at Ciudad del Este, the goods will need to be cleared through customs.

2. Packaging Requirements for Fiber Optic Cables
Proper packaging is crucial when shipping fiber optic cables to ensure they are delivered safely and without damage. Fiber optic cables are delicate and require special care during transit.
Packaging Process:
Coiling:
Fiber optic cables should be coiled properly to avoid kinks or damage. It is important to ensure that the coil is not too tight, which could cause stress on the cables during shipping.Reinforced Drum Packaging:
Most fiber optic cables are packed in heavy-duty cardboard drums, which provide support and prevent any mechanical damage during handling. The drums are designed to keep the cable wound neatly and to allow for easy unloading at the destination port.Plastic Wrapping:
Once coiled and placed on the drum, the cable is often wrapped in plastic or shrink film to protect it from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors during transportation.Cushioning and Padding:
For additional protection, foam padding or bubble wrap may be used inside the drum, especially if the cables are particularly delicate or sensitive.Clear Labeling:
Shipping labels should be clearly visible on the packaging, including the origin and destination addresses, as well as handling instructions, such as “Fragile” or “Keep Dry.”Export Palletizing:
When shipping via FCL, the drums may be stacked on pallets to ensure stability during transport. Each pallet should be secured to prevent shifting during loading, unloading, and transit.