Shipping Calcium Plastic Corrugated Sheets from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Riyadh Port, Saudi Arabia: 20FT/40FT FCL & LCL Shipping Overview
1. Shipping Methods: FCL and LCL
When shipping from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Riyadh, two primary options for transporting goods are available:
FCL (Full Container Load): For larger shipments, you can opt for either a 20FT container or 40FT container (40FTC). This method is ideal when you have enough goods to fill an entire container, as it offers a more cost-effective and secure shipping solution for larger volumes.
20FT FCL typically accommodates around 28-30 cubic meters of cargo, while the 40FTC can hold about 55-58 cubic meters of goods. Shipping a full container also allows for better control over the handling and protection of your goods during transit.
LCL (Less than Container Load): For smaller shipments that do not fill a container, you can opt for LCL shipping, where your goods share container space with goods from other shippers. This is a more economical option if your shipment volume is relatively low, as you only pay for the space your cargo occupies.
For both FCL and LCL, the goods will be transported to King Abdulaziz Port in Riyadh, which is the main port serving the capital. The port is well-equipped to handle various types of cargo, including construction materials such as calcium plastic corrugated sheets.
2. Shipping Duration and Timeline
The shipping time from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Riyadh Port typically takes 23 days by sea. This includes the transit time from the Chinese ports to the port of arrival in Saudi Arabia, excluding any additional handling or customs clearance times. The 23-day timeframe is an estimate and may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, port congestion, or additional stops along the way.
3. Packaging of Calcium Plastic Corrugated Sheets
Proper packaging is essential when shipping calcium plastic corrugated sheets, as it ensures the cargo remains protected during the journey and helps minimize damage. Here are some common packaging methods used for this type of cargo:
Wrapping with Stretch Film: The sheets are often tightly wrapped in high-quality stretch film or plastic wrap to protect them from moisture, dust, and dirt during transit. This also helps secure the cargo and keeps it in place inside the container.
Palletizing: For easier handling and more efficient use of space, the corrugated sheets are usually stacked onto wooden or plastic pallets. Palletizing the cargo allows for smooth loading and unloading, especially in cases of LCL shipping where multiple shipments are consolidated.
Corner Protection and Edge Guards: To prevent damage during handling, corner protectors and edge guards (often made of cardboard or foam) are placed around the edges of the corrugated sheets. This helps avoid crushing or bending, especially when cargo is stacked in the container.
Shrink Wrapping or Boxed Packaging: In some cases, individual sheets may be packaged in shrink-wrapped bundles or placed into boxes for added protection. This reduces the chance of the sheets shifting inside the container, especially during long transit times.
Temperature and Weather Considerations: As the calcium plastic sheets are sensitive to extreme temperatures or humidity, it’s important to ensure that the packaging protects them from environmental conditions, particularly during transit across long distances and variable climates.
4. Customs Clearance and Import Procedures in Saudi Arabia
Once the goods arrive at King Abdulaziz Port in Riyadh, they will go through the standard customs clearance procedures. The documents typically required for importation include the bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and any applicable certifications for construction materials.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Under CIF terms, the seller (shipper) is responsible for the cost, insurance, and freight up to the point of arrival at Riyadh Port. This means that the shipper will cover the cost of transporting the goods, as well as insurance during transit, until they reach the port.
Duties and Taxes: Upon arrival, the buyer (importer) will be responsible for any applicable import duties, taxes, and local delivery costs. It is essential to ensure that the correct documentation and payment are in order to avoid delays in the release of goods.
