Shipping from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Oviedo, Spain: 20FT/40FT Full Container and LCL Sea Freight
Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
1. Full Container Load (FCL)
For larger shipments, full container load (FCL) is a preferred choice. This means you rent an entire 20FT or 40FT container to transport your goods. The primary advantage of FCL is that the goods are the sole contents of the container, minimizing the risk of damage and reducing shipping time compared to LCL. The sea freight journey from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Oviedo, Spain, typically takes around 27 days.
20FT Full Container (20’ FCL): This is ideal for shipments that require a smaller volume of space, generally around 28 cubic meters, and can handle goods up to 25-28 tons, depending on the cargo type.
40FT Full Container (40’ FCL): A 40FT container offers double the capacity of a 20FT container, typically handling up to 58 cubic meters or a weight of 25-30 tons.
Both types of full containers offer the benefit of direct transportation without sharing space with other customers’ goods, ensuring safer and more efficient delivery.
2. Less-than-Container Load (LCL)
For smaller shipments that do not require a full container, Less-than-Container Load (LCL) is an ideal option. LCL allows multiple customers to share a single container, with their cargo being consolidated at the port of departure and de-consolidated at the port of arrival. This option is often used for smaller shipments or when transporting goods that do not fill up an entire container.
For example, if you’re shipping a few switchgear units, LCL would be a cost-effective choice, though it may take a few additional days for consolidation and de-consolidation.
Transit Time: 27 Days
The sea freight transit time from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Oviedo, Spain, is approximately 27 days. However, the total time might vary depending on several factors such as customs processing, port congestion, and weather conditions. In general, shipping lines provide a reliable schedule, but it’s important to plan for any unforeseen delays.
Cargo Packaging
Proper packaging of goods is vital for ensuring they arrive at their destination safely and in good condition. Here’s how to package switchgear or similar electronic equipment for international sea freight:
Heavy Duty Packaging:
- For electronic goods like switches and switchgear, it’s essential to use heavy-duty wooden crates or pallets to secure the items.
- Use foam padding, bubble wrap, or plastic wraps to prevent any movement within the crate or container, reducing the risk of damage during transit.
Waterproofing:
- Sea freight exposes goods to humid and salty environments, so it’s important to waterproof the items using plastic shrink wraps or waterproof covers.
- Desiccants (silica gel packets) can also be included to absorb any moisture inside the packaging.
Labeling:
- Clear, legible labels should be affixed to all packages, including details such as the destination address, contact information, and any special handling instructions like “Fragile” or “This Side Up.”
Palletizing:
- For LCL shipments, goods should be palletized for easier handling. This allows for better loading and unloading at the port, as well as streamlined handling during transportation.
Securing:
- For FCL shipments, it’s important to securely fasten the goods within the container. This can involve strapping or blocking the items with additional support material to prevent shifting during transit.
Customs and CIF Terms
When shipping goods from China to Spain, the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) term is often used. This means that the shipping cost, insurance, and freight charges are all covered by the seller up to the port of Oviedo. After the cargo arrives at Oviedo, customs clearance is required before the goods are delivered to the final destination. The importer is responsible for customs duties and taxes, which are payable upon arrival.
