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Shipping from Guangzhou/Shenzhen, China to Rauma Port, Finland: A Guide for 20FT/40FT Full Container Loads (FCL) and Less-than-Container Loads (LCL)

Shipping from Guangzhou/Shenzhen, China to Rauma Port, Finland: A Guide for 20FT/40FT Full Container Loads (FCL) and Less-than-Container Loads (LCL)

Shipping Options: FCL and LCL

  1. Full Container Load (FCL): If you are shipping a large quantity of goods, a Full Container Load (FCL) is ideal. FCL means that you rent an entire container, either 20FT or 40FT, for your shipment. The advantage of FCL is that your goods are typically loaded and unloaded faster, as they are the only cargo in the container. Furthermore, the risk of damage due to handling is minimized.

    • 20FT Container: A 20FT container typically holds around 28-30 cubic meters of goods, and can carry up to 24,000 kg of cargo.
    • 40FT Container: A 40FT container provides more space, accommodating 58-60 cubic meters and up to 30,000 kg of cargo.

    With FCL, the cost is generally higher compared to LCL, but the benefits in terms of speed, security, and direct transport make it an attractive choice for large shipments.

  2. Less-than-Container Load (LCL): For smaller shipments that do not fill an entire container, LCL is a viable solution. LCL allows you to share container space with other shippers, reducing the overall shipping cost. However, the transit time might be slightly longer as the container is first consolidated at the port of departure and deconsolidated at the destination port.

    • The typical LCL transit time from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Rauma Port, Finland, is approximately 41 days, which includes the consolidation and deconsolidation process.

Shipping Terms: CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)

When shipping via sea, the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) term is often used. This means that the seller (usually the exporter) covers the costs of the goods, the freight charges, and insurance until the goods arrive at the port of destination. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the shipment until it reaches the Finnish port, after which the buyer assumes responsibility for customs clearance and onward transport.

Estimated Transit Time

The sea freight transit time from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Rauma Port in Finland is typically 41 days. This includes the time spent on the sea voyage and any required port handling operations. The actual delivery times may vary depending on the specific shipping route, the shipping line used, and potential delays caused by weather or port congestion.

Packaging for Sea Freight

Proper packaging is crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of goods during sea transport, especially for long journeys like this one. Here are some general packaging guidelines for both FCL and LCL shipments:

  1. Use Sturdy, Durable Containers:

    • For LCL shipments, each cargo item should be packed into sturdy boxes, crates, or pallets. Using materials like wooden crates or strong corrugated boxes can prevent damage during transit.
    • For FCL shipments, it’s important to ensure that goods are packed in a way that maximizes the use of container space while keeping the cargo stable and secure.
  2. Palletization:

    • Palletizing the goods is a common practice. This allows for easier loading and unloading, especially in LCL shipments. It also reduces the risk of damage by keeping the goods raised off the ground.
    • If using wooden pallets, ensure that they are heat-treated and meet international shipping standards (ISPM 15) to avoid issues with customs or quarantines.
  3. Proper Sealing:

    • Goods should be sealed with strong packaging tape or shrink wrap to prevent exposure to moisture and potential damage from the sea environment.
    • Pallets should be securely wrapped to prevent shifting during transport, which could lead to damaged or misplaced goods.
  4. Labeling and Documentation:

    • Ensure that every package or pallet is properly labeled with the destination address, contact details, and any necessary customs information. This is critical for the smooth movement of goods through customs.
    • Include a packing list and commercial invoice in the shipment, especially when shipping CIF terms, to ensure proper customs clearance.
  5. Weather Resistance:

    • Sea freight often involves exposure to humid and salty environments. For sensitive goods, it’s essential to use moisture-resistant materials, such as desiccants or waterproof coverings.