Shipping Dinner Plates from Guangzhou/Shenzhen, China to Jyvaskyla, Finland via Sea Freight: FCL & LCL Options
When it comes to shipping dinner plates from China to Finland, two main shipping methods are commonly used: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL). Both options have their own advantages, depending on the volume and nature of the shipment. Below, we explore these options and the necessary packaging for the shipment.
1. Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping
For larger shipments, FCL is often the preferred choice. In this case, the shipment is sent in either a 20-foot (20FT) or 40-foot (40FT) container, which is fully dedicated to your cargo. The advantage of FCL shipping is that it provides more security, as the container is sealed, reducing the risk of damage during transit. Moreover, since the entire container is allocated to your shipment, there is no need to share space with other goods, leading to faster transit times.
Estimated Transit Time:
- The sea voyage from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Helsinki, the closest major port to Jyvaskyla, takes approximately 41 days. From Helsinki, the cargo would be transported by truck to the final destination in Jyvaskyla.
Cost and Service:
- The CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) service includes the cost of shipping, marine insurance, and freight to the destination port. The CIF price also covers the unloading at the destination port, but not the inland transportation to the final destination (Jyvaskyla).
2. Less than Container Load (LCL) Shipping
For smaller shipments, LCL shipping is a cost-effective alternative. LCL allows shippers to share container space with other goods. The main advantage of LCL is the flexibility in shipping smaller volumes without the need for a full container. However, it can take longer to reach the destination due to the need to consolidate cargo at the port of origin and possible delays in unloading and handling at the destination port.
Estimated Transit Time:
- Similar to FCL, the transit time for LCL shipments from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Helsinki is 41 days. However, the final delivery time to Jyvaskyla may be extended due to the need for additional handling and transportation.
Cost and Service:
- Like FCL, LCL shipments can also be sent with the CIF service, which includes the cost of freight, insurance, and ocean transport up to the destination port. Additional charges may apply for the handling of the goods and the inland transport to Jyvaskyla.
3. Packaging for Dinner Plates
Proper packaging is critical when shipping fragile items like dinner plates, ensuring they arrive safely and undamaged. Below is a recommended approach for packaging dinner plates for both FCL and LCL shipments.
Primary Packaging:
- Individual Wrapping: Each dinner plate should be carefully wrapped in bubble wrap or foam sheets to provide cushioning and protection from scratches, cracks, or breakage. The plates should be wrapped tightly with at least two layers of protection, ensuring that they are secure.
Secondary Packaging:
- Cardboard Boxes: After individual wrapping, group the plates in strong, double-walled cardboard boxes. The boxes should be appropriately sized, with enough room for padding material around the plates to prevent movement. It’s advisable to use dividers between plates to avoid direct contact and potential breakage.
Additional Cushioning:
- Packing Peanuts or Foam Inserts: To further secure the plates, fill any remaining voids inside the box with packing peanuts, foam inserts, or air pillows. This will reduce the risk of movement during transit.
Box Labeling:
- Fragile Labels: Make sure each box is clearly marked with “FRAGILE” labels, both on the top and sides of the boxes. This is crucial for informing handlers of the delicate nature of the cargo.
Container Loading:
When using FCL shipping, the sealed container will be loaded with the boxes containing the dinner plates, ensuring that they are placed in a secure manner to prevent shifting during the journey. The boxes should be stacked carefully to avoid pressure or crushing.
For LCL shipments, the boxes will be consolidated with other cargo in a shared container. Proper stowage is vital, as the plates will need to be placed in a location that avoids heavy items or rough handling.