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Shipping a Filling Machine from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Kerikeri Port, New Zealand: A Guide to 20FT/40FT FCL and LCL Sea Freight

Shipping a Filling Machine from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Kerikeri Port, New Zealand: A Guide to 20FT/40FT FCL and LCL Sea Freight

Shipping Options: FCL vs. LCL

When shipping from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Kerikeri, you have two main options: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL).

1. Full Container Load (FCL):

  • 20FT FCL: A 20-foot container is suitable for larger shipments or a single piece of heavy machinery like a filling machine. This option ensures that the container is dedicated solely to your goods, which reduces the risk of damage during transit.
  • 40FT FCL: If you have multiple filling machines or additional equipment to ship, a 40-foot container may be more cost-effective, offering more space for your cargo.

Both FCL options are CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), meaning the cost of the goods, shipping charges, and insurance are included up to Kerikeri Port. The delivery time by sea is approximately 23 days.

2. Less Than Container Load (LCL):

For those with smaller shipments, LCL allows you to share container space with other exporters, making it a more cost-effective solution. However, LCL shipments are typically more susceptible to handling damage since multiple shipments are packed together, so extra care is needed with packaging.

Sea Freight Journey

The journey from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Kerikeri Port typically takes around 23 days, depending on the specific route and weather conditions. The sea freight journey involves several stages:

  • Loading at the Port: Your goods will be carefully loaded into the container at either the Port of Guangzhou or Shenzhen, depending on the departure location.
  • Transit via Major Ports: The container will make its way across the Pacific Ocean, passing through key transshipment hubs such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Australia before reaching New Zealand.
  • Arrival at Kerikeri Port: Upon arrival at Kerikeri Port, the container is unloaded and moved through customs clearance before being delivered to the final destination.

Packaging for Safe Transit

Given the nature of filling machines, proper packaging is crucial to ensure they arrive safely and in good condition. Here’s a breakdown of how a filling machine is typically packaged for sea freight:

1. Wooden Crates:

  • Filling machines are often packed in custom-made wooden crates. These crates provide sturdy protection against bumps, drops, and rough handling during transit.
  • The crates are designed to prevent movement inside the container, securing the machine in place to avoid damage from shifting cargo.

2. Protective Wrapping and Cushioning:

  • Bubble wrap or foam padding is used to wrap delicate parts of the filling machine. This helps to cushion the equipment and protect it from impacts during the journey.
  • Plastic shrink wrap may also be used to provide an extra layer of moisture protection, which is important for long sea voyages.

3. Steel Straps and Bracing:

  • To further secure the crates inside the container, steel straps and bracing materials are used. These prevent the crates from moving or tipping during transit.

4. Handling Instructions:

  • Clear “Handle with Care” and “Fragile” labels are affixed to the crates. This provides guidance to the shipping team and ensures the cargo is handled with the appropriate level of caution.

5. Cargo Insurance:

  • Since shipping involves risks, especially for high-value machinery like filling machines, cargo insurance is highly recommended. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) covers insurance as part of the shipping package, giving you peace of mind that your equipment is protected during the journey.