Shipping Aromatherapy Products from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Avila, Spain: A Guide to 20ft/40ft FCL and LCL Ocean Freight
When it comes to shipping aromatherapy products internationally, businesses often look for cost-effective, reliable, and timely logistics solutions. Shipping aromatherapy products, such as essential oils, diffusers, and scented candles, from Guangzhou or Shenzhen, China, to Avila, Spain, can be accomplished through ocean freight services, with options including Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL).
Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
FCL (Full Container Load): For large shipments, using a 20ft or 40ft Full Container Load (FCL) is a preferred option. In this scenario, the entire container is filled with goods, offering a cost-effective way to ship bulk orders. This type of shipment ensures that the goods are the only cargo in the container, minimizing the risk of contamination or damage caused by other goods. The CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) term means that the seller is responsible for the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight up to the destination port (in this case, the nearest port to Avila, typically Valencia or Algeciras).
- 20ft or 40ft FCL: Typically, a 20ft container can hold approximately 10-12 pallets of aromatherapy products, while a 40ft container can accommodate around 22-24 pallets, depending on the size and packaging of the products.
LCL (Less than Container Load): If the volume of the aromatherapy products is smaller, Less than Container Load (LCL) might be the right choice. LCL involves consolidating shipments from multiple shippers into a single container. For this method, shipments can be more flexible in terms of volume, making it suitable for smaller or irregular-sized shipments. For a shipment to Avila, LCL is often preferred for businesses that need to ship smaller quantities to reduce costs.

Shipping Time: 27 Days Ocean Freight Journey
The standard shipping time from Guangzhou or Shenzhen ports to Avila via ocean freight is approximately 27 days, though the actual duration may vary depending on the port and weather conditions. The journey includes time spent in transshipment ports such as Hong Kong or Singapore, and then to the final port of entry in Spain. From there, goods will be delivered to Avila, either by rail or truck.
Packaging of Aromatherapy Products
The packaging of aromatherapy products plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and secure transportation. Aromatherapy products, including essential oils, diffusers, and candles, are often sensitive to temperature, humidity, and physical impacts during transit. Proper packaging not only helps prevent damage but also ensures the products arrive in optimal condition.
Glass Bottles (Essential Oils): Essential oils are typically packaged in glass bottles. To ensure safety during transport, these bottles should be cushioned with bubble wrap or foam inserts to prevent breakage. The bottles should be packed in sturdy cardboard boxes, with each bottle separated and protected from impact.
Scented Candles: Scented candles, which may be fragile and prone to melting or breaking, should be securely wrapped in bubble wrap and packed in strong boxes to prevent shifting during transit. It’s important to pack the candles with sufficient cushioning material (e.g., foam peanuts or air pillows) to avoid any external pressure.
Diffusers: For diffusers, packaging should involve wrapping the diffuser units in bubble wrap, ensuring that both the diffuser and its parts (e.g., reed sticks) are individually protected. The diffusers should be placed in double-walled cartons for added security, with ample void fill materials to prevent movement during shipment.
Temperature Considerations: Aromatherapy products, especially those containing essential oils, should not be exposed to extreme temperatures during transit. It’s essential to use weather-resistant packaging that offers some insulation, particularly when transporting to regions with fluctuating temperatures.