Shipping Cocktail Shakers from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Tarija Port, Bolivia
Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
When shipping cocktail shakers from Guangzhou or Shenzhen in China to Tarija Port (Porto de Tarija) in Bolivia, two primary shipping options are available: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL).
FCL (Full Container Load): FCL is ideal if you’re shipping a large quantity of cocktail shakers. This method means your goods will occupy the entire container, either a 20FT or 40FT container. It is more cost-effective for large shipments, as you’re not sharing space with other cargo. The transit time for FCL sea freight from China to Bolivia is approximately 51 days.
- 20FT Container: The standard 20FT container can hold up to 28 cubic meters of cargo, or about 10-12 tons of goods.
- 40FT Container: The larger 40FT container can carry 58 cubic meters or about 22 tons of goods.
LCL (Less than Container Load): LCL is an excellent choice for smaller shipments that do not require a full container. In this case, your goods will share container space with other shippers. While LCL can be more economical for smaller loads, it might take a little longer due to the need to consolidate cargo at various ports. For LCL shipments, the sea freight transit time is also approximately 51 days.
Sea Freight Transit Time
The estimated 51 days is the standard transit time from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Tarija Port. The shipping process involves the following steps:
- Departure from Guangzhou/Shenzhen Port: The cargo is loaded onto a container vessel.
- Transshipment: Most ships heading to Bolivia will transship at other major South American ports, such as Santos (Brazil) or Buenos Aires (Argentina).
- Arrival at Tarija Port: After approximately 51 days, the cargo arrives at Tarija Port in Bolivia, where it is unloaded and cleared through customs.
Packaging of Cocktail Shakers
Proper packaging is crucial to ensuring your cocktail shakers arrive safely at their destination. These items, often made of metal, glass, or other fragile materials, need careful protection to prevent damage during transit. Below are key considerations for packaging cocktail shakers:
Individual Packaging: Each cocktail shaker should be placed in its own protective box, such as a double-walled corrugated box, to provide an extra layer of protection. Inside the box, foam inserts or bubble wrap should be used to cushion the shaker and prevent it from moving around.
Outer Cartons: Once individual items are securely packed, they are placed into larger outer cartons. These cartons should be sturdy enough to withstand the pressures of sea freight and should be sealed with strong packing tape. For extra safety, consider reinforcing the corners of the cartons with additional padding or edge protectors.
Palletization: For FCL shipments, packaging your cocktail shakers on pallets is common practice. Pallets help distribute the weight evenly and make it easier to load and unload the container. Shrink-wrapping the pallets ensures the goods remain tightly packed and protected during transportation.
Labeling and Documentation: Ensure each carton is clearly labeled with the destination address, consignee information, and any necessary customs details. Documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and Bill of Lading should be prepared to ensure smooth customs clearance upon arrival at Tarija Port.