Shipping Biscuits and Snacks from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Pordenone Port, Italy: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) Options
Shipping Methods: FCL and LCL
Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping: FCL shipping is the best option for businesses that need to ship a large volume of biscuits and snacks. In this case, the entire container (either 20-foot or 40-foot) is dedicated to the shipment, providing the advantage of faster transit times and reduced risks of damage. FCL shipments from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Pordenone Port typically take around 30 days by sea. The container is sealed, and the cargo is shipped directly from the departure port to the destination port.
Less than Container Load (LCL) Shipping: LCL shipping is ideal for smaller shipments that do not fill an entire container. In this case, multiple shippers’ goods are consolidated into one container, with each paying only for the space their goods occupy. LCL shipping usually takes the same 30-day transit time as FCL, but it can involve a slightly more complex process as the goods will be consolidated at a container freight station before being shipped. This option is cost-effective for smaller quantities of biscuits and snacks.
Packaging of Biscuits and Snacks for Sea Freight
When shipping food items such as biscuits and snacks, packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring the products remain safe, intact, and meet international regulations. Proper packaging helps to protect the goods from damage during transit, contamination, and environmental factors such as humidity or temperature variations.
Primary Packaging:
- Individual Packaging: Biscuits and snacks are typically individually wrapped in airtight packaging, such as plastic bags or foil wraps, to preserve freshness.
- Bulk Packaging: For larger orders, biscuits may be packaged in bulk, in boxes or cartons, which are then sealed tightly to avoid exposure to moisture or external contaminants.
Secondary Packaging:
- Cartons and Boxes: The primary packages are grouped together in larger corrugated cartons or boxes. These containers are designed to protect the biscuits from any impact during handling and loading. Depending on the size and weight of the shipment, the number of cartons per pallet may vary.
- Shrink-Wrapping: To prevent shifting inside the container, cartons can be shrink-wrapped onto pallets. This ensures that the cargo remains secure during the journey and minimizes the risk of damage.
Palletizing:
- Pallets: The final step in packaging is palletizing. Goods are stacked onto wooden or plastic pallets to facilitate easier loading and unloading. The use of pallets ensures that the biscuits and snacks are handled efficiently during both the sea transport and the customs clearance process.
Labeling and Documentation:
- Product Information: Each carton or pallet should be clearly labeled with important product information such as weight, dimensions, and handling instructions (e.g., “Keep dry” or “Fragile”).
- Customs Documentation: Proper labeling also includes the necessary shipping documents, such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and certificates of origin. These are crucial for customs clearance at both the port of departure and arrival.
Customs Clearance and Port Handling
Upon arrival at Pordenone Port in Italy, both FCL and LCL shipments will undergo customs clearance procedures. The necessary documents, including the bill of lading and product certificates, will be inspected. Customs duties and taxes, if applicable, will also be calculated and need to be paid before the goods can be delivered.
Once cleared, the goods can either be transported directly to the final destination (if it’s a FCL shipment) or unloaded and distributed to different recipients if it’s an LCL shipment.
