Shipping Mahjong Tables from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Dijon Port, France: A Comprehensive Guide
When shipping goods like mahjong tables from China to France, specifically from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Dijon Port, it is essential to consider various shipping options and packaging methods. Whether you’re opting for a Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) service, both have their advantages depending on the shipment’s size, volume, and time sensitivity. Below, we explore the shipping process, including transit time, container types, and packaging considerations.
1. Shipping Options: FCL vs. LCL
Full Container Load (FCL):
For large shipments, using an FCL service might be the best choice. FCL means that your shipment occupies the entire 20FT or 40FT container, providing more security and less risk of delays compared to sharing a container with other goods. This is especially important for bulky items like mahjong tables.- 20FT Container: Ideal for shipments of a moderate volume, such as 5 to 10 mahjong tables.
- 40FT Container: Suitable for larger shipments or when you need to ship a higher quantity of goods, offering more capacity and potential cost savings.
Less than Container Load (LCL):
If your shipment doesn’t fill an entire container, you can choose the LCL option. This allows you to share a container with other goods, making it a cost-effective solution for smaller loads. The downside is that the goods may take longer to load and unload as the container is consolidated with others at the port.
2. Shipping Process and Transit Time
The sea freight route from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Dijon Port, France, generally takes around 28 days. This time frame is based on average maritime shipping conditions, but transit times may vary slightly depending on factors such as port congestion or weather conditions.
- Port to Port: The shipment will depart from either Guangzhou Port or Shenzhen Port and will typically reach the Port of Le Havre in France. From there, the cargo can be transported via land or rail to Dijon, depending on the final destination.
- Customs Clearance: Upon arrival at the French port, the cargo will go through customs clearance. Once cleared, it will be ready for onward transport.

3. CIF Shipping Terms
The shipping term used here is CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). This means that the seller (shipper) is responsible for the costs of transporting the cargo, including insurance, until the goods arrive at the French port. Under CIF terms, the seller ensures the goods are covered against loss or damage during transit, providing peace of mind for both the seller and the buyer.
4. Packaging of Mahjong Tables for Sea Freight
Proper packaging is crucial when shipping mahjong tables internationally. The tables, which are typically bulky and can be fragile, need to be securely packaged to avoid damage during handling and transport. Here are the key steps for packaging mahjong tables for sea freight:
Disassembly: If the tables can be disassembled (such as removing the legs or smaller components), it’s advisable to do so. This reduces the volume and helps optimize container space.
Protection:
- Bubble Wrap: The table’s surface should be wrapped in bubble wrap to protect it from scratches and minor impacts during transport.
- Foam Padding: For added protection, foam padding can be used around the edges and corners of the table.
- Cardboard Boxes: If possible, place each disassembled table in a custom-sized cardboard box with extra padding to secure the parts and prevent shifting inside the box.
Wooden Crates: For high-value or fragile items, many importers opt for wooden crates. These crates provide a more rigid and protective environment for the tables, especially for long-distance sea transport. The wooden crate should be sturdy, with internal braces to keep the items in place and reduce the risk of breakage.
Labeling: Clearly label the packages with handling instructions, such as “Fragile,” “This Side Up,” and “Keep Dry.” This ensures that the cargo is handled appropriately throughout the journey.
5. Final Destination and Delivery
After arriving at Dijon Port, the cargo will be transferred to a local transportation service for final delivery. Depending on your arrangement, this could involve rail or road transport to get the goods to your warehouse or shop in Dijon.