Shipping Concrete Mixers from Guangzhou/Shenzhen, China to Paris, France via Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)
1. Shipping Options: FCL vs. LCL
Full Container Load (FCL) is the ideal choice when you have enough cargo to fill an entire container. If you choose FCL, you are responsible for the entire container, which minimizes the risk of cargo damage from other shipments. For concrete mixers, this is often the preferred method due to the size and weight of the machinery. You can opt for either a 20ft container or a 40ft container (40ft HC for high cube containers) depending on the volume and size of your cargo.
For smaller shipments or those who do not require an entire container, Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping is a viable option. LCL allows you to share a container with other shippers, reducing costs but requiring more time for consolidation and deconsolidation at the destination port.
The sea freight journey typically takes about 30 days from the ports of Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Paris. The port in Paris handles maritime cargo, but after the ship reaches France, goods are transferred to inland transport for final delivery.
2. Shipping Terms: CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
The shipping term CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) indicates that the seller is responsible for the cost of shipping, insurance, and freight charges up to the port of destination in Paris. Under CIF, the buyer assumes responsibility for unloading the cargo at the port, paying import duties, and organizing further inland transportation to the final destination.
This is a convenient option for international shipping, as it covers much of the risk and logistics involved in getting the cargo to the destination port safely.
3. Packaging of Concrete Mixers for Sea Freight
Proper packaging is crucial to ensure the concrete mixer arrives in good condition. Here’s a breakdown of the packaging process:
Wooden Crates: Concrete mixers are usually packed in heavy-duty wooden crates to protect them from external damage during transport. These crates should be custom-built according to the specific dimensions of the concrete mixers, with ample padding to avoid shifting or jostling during transit.
Steel Strapping: The wooden crates should be secured with steel strapping to keep the contents tightly bound. This prevents the machinery from moving inside the container, which could cause damage.
Plastic Wrapping: Some parts of the concrete mixer may also be wrapped in plastic film to provide additional protection from moisture, saltwater, or other environmental factors during the sea voyage.
Shock Absorbing Materials: Inside the crate, foam padding or rubber mats are used to absorb any shocks during handling and prevent scratches or dents to the machinery.
Labeling and Documentation: Each crate should be clearly labeled with the consignee’s details and necessary shipping information, including the bill of lading number, the shipping container number, and any special handling instructions (e.g., fragile or heavy cargo). Proper documentation is essential to avoid delays at customs and port clearance.
4. Port Procedures in China and France
In China: Once your concrete mixers are packaged, the next step is to transport them to the Guangzhou or Shenzhen port. Customs clearance is required for export, including the submission of export documents such as the invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary certifications for the cargo. After customs clearance, the container is loaded onto the vessel for transport.
In France: Upon arrival at Paris Port, your shipment will undergo customs clearance before it can be unloaded. The consignee or their agent will need to pay the applicable import duties and taxes, and arrange for the cargo’s final delivery via road or rail to its destination. You can opt for a door-to-door service if you prefer the cargo to be delivered directly to the consignee’s address.
