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YUNcargo-International air and sea freight door-to-door transportation.
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Shipping Grains from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Kolkata Port via Sea Freight: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL)

Shipping Grains from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Kolkata Port via Sea Freight: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL)

Shipping Process Overview

  1. FCL (Full Container Load):

    • Fumigation Requirement: Grains being exported are typically subject to fumigation regulations, especially to prevent the spread of pests between countries. The fumigation process involves sealing the grains in containers and exposing them to controlled chemicals that eliminate pests and ensure the shipment is compliant with international standards.
    • Container Types: For bulk grain shipments, either 20-foot (20’ FCL) or 40-foot (40’ FCL) containers are used. The choice between 20’ and 40’ depends on the volume of the shipment and the need for space.
    • Port of Origin: The shipment starts at either the Port of Guangzhou or Shenzhen, both of which have extensive infrastructure and services for international shipping.
    • Shipping Time: The sea freight journey from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Kolkata typically takes about 20 days.
    • Destination Port: The shipment arrives at Kolkata Port (also known as Calcutta Port) on India’s east coast. Once at the port, customs clearance is required before the goods can be delivered to the consignee.

  2. LCL (Less than Container Load):

    • For smaller shipments, LCL is an ideal solution. In this case, grains are consolidated with other cargo in a single container. The benefit of LCL is that it reduces shipping costs for smaller quantities of goods, although it may slightly extend the transit time due to consolidation and de-consolidation processes at the ports.
    • LCL shipments also undergo fumigation and are carefully packaged to avoid contamination and protect the cargo during transit.

Packaging for Grain Shipments

Packaging grains for sea freight is crucial to ensure that the cargo remains safe, clean, and undamaged during the long journey. The packaging process includes the following steps:

  1. Vacuum-Sealed Bags or Grain Sacks:

    • Grains are often packed in vacuum-sealed bags or woven polypropylene sacks, which are both durable and moisture-resistant. The bags are carefully sealed to prevent any leakage or contamination.
    • In the case of LCL shipments, smaller quantities of grains are packed into pallets and wrapped with plastic or shrink wrap for added protection.

  2. Palletizing:

    • For both FCL and LCL shipments, the grains are typically palletized, meaning the bags or sacks are stacked on wooden pallets. This helps in easy handling and loading of containers. Each pallet is wrapped securely in plastic to prevent shifting during transit and to protect the grains from moisture.

  3. Fumigation and Sealing:

    • As grains are susceptible to pest infestations, fumigation is a standard practice in the shipping process. Fumigation ensures that the cargo is free from pests such as insects, larvae, and other organisms that could be harmful to crops in India.
    • Once the fumigation process is complete, the containers are sealed with a special seal that certifies the cargo has been treated.

  4. Labeling and Documentation:

    • Accurate labeling is essential for customs clearance. Each package or pallet is marked with details about the shipment, including the contents (type of grain), weight, origin, destination, and fumigation certification.
    • Proper documentation, including the Bill of Lading (B/L), fumigation certificate, packing list, and commercial invoice, should accompany the cargo.