Shipping Auto Parts from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Bursa Port, Turkey: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Sea Freight Options
Full Container Load (FCL)
When shipping a full container, the most common sizes for sea freight are the 20FT and 40FT containers. For large orders, a 20FT or 40FT container may be the most cost-effective option as it allows for exclusive use of the container space. The shipping route from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Bursa Port typically takes around 34 days by sea, depending on the shipping line and any transshipment points along the way.
- 20FT Container (20FTCIF): This is ideal for smaller shipments that can fill up a full 20-foot container. The CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) term means the seller is responsible for the cost of the goods, the shipping cost, and insurance until the goods reach Bursa Port.
- 40FT Container: Larger orders may require a 40FT container, offering more space and typically better value for bulk shipments. The process and shipping terms (CIF) are the same as for the 20FT container but with a larger volume.
Less-than-Container Load (LCL)
For smaller shipments that don’t require a full container, LCL (Less-than-Container Load) is an excellent choice. With LCL, your goods share container space with other shipments, reducing shipping costs. However, the process takes slightly longer than FCL due to additional consolidation and deconsolidation procedures at the ports.
2. Transit Time & Route
The shipping time from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Bursa Port is typically around 34 days by sea. This transit time accounts for port handling, customs clearance, and the ocean voyage. The route typically involves the following steps:
- Departure from Guangzhou/Shenzhen ports
- A possible transshipment at a major hub port (e.g., in the Middle East or Europe)
- Arrival at Bursa Port, where the cargo will be cleared through Turkish customs before final delivery.
3. Packaging Auto Parts for Shipping
Proper packaging is essential when shipping auto parts to ensure the safety and security of the goods during transit. Here are the key packaging practices to follow when shipping auto parts from China to Turkey:
1. Protection Against Damage:
Auto parts can be heavy and delicate, so it’s vital to protect them from damage. Use durable materials such as:
- Bubble wrap and foam to cushion the parts.
- Wooden crates or pallets for bulky or heavy items, providing sturdy support and preventing any shifting during transit.
- Stretch film or shrink wrap to secure small parts together, protecting them from moisture and dust.
2. Labeling:
Each package must be clearly labeled with essential information:
- Product description
- Quantity
- Part numbers
- Handling instructions (e.g., “Fragile” or “This Side Up”)
- Destination address and port information
3. Sealing:
All packages must be securely sealed with heavy-duty packaging tape to prevent unauthorized access and to ensure the integrity of the goods during the long sea voyage.
4. Palletization:
For FCL shipments, auto parts are typically palletized, which makes it easier to load and unload the cargo. Each pallet should be wrapped and secured to prevent any movement during the shipping process.
5. Container Loading:
For FCL shipments, the container will be loaded carefully, ensuring that heavy items are placed at the bottom to avoid crushing lighter goods. Proper weight distribution is essential for balancing the container during the voyage. For LCL shipments, your auto parts will be consolidated with other goods, so it’s important to ensure that your packaging is compatible with the shared container space.
4. Customs and Documentation
- Customs Clearance: Once the goods arrive at Bursa Port, they must clear Turkish customs. Proper documentation is crucial for smooth customs clearance. Required documents include:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
- Import permits (if necessary)
- Taxes and Duties: Import duties and taxes will apply based on the value of the goods. It’s important to ensure that the CIF price covers all costs up to the point of arrival at the port, including the cost of insurance and freight.
