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Shipping Plastic Barrels from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to San Sebastián, Spain: A Guide for Sea Freight

Shipping Plastic Barrels from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to San Sebastián, Spain: A Guide for Sea Freight

When shipping plastic barrels from China to San Sebastián Port (Puerto de San Sebastián) in Spain, there are various factors to consider, including shipping methods, packaging, and estimated transit times. In this article, we’ll walk through the process for both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, with a focus on packaging and the journey’s duration.

Shipping Options: FCL vs. LCL

1. Full Container Load (FCL)
For large shipments, Full Container Load (FCL) is a cost-effective solution. You can ship a full 20-foot (20FT) or 40-foot (40FT) container, with a minimum quantity of plastic barrels that fills the entire container. The most common shipping term for this service is CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), meaning that the seller is responsible for the goods’ costs, insurance, and freight charges until the destination port, in this case, San Sebastián.

  • 20FT Container: Suitable for smaller shipments, typically able to hold up to 10-12 pallets of plastic barrels, depending on the barrel size.
  • 40FT Container: Ideal for larger shipments, accommodating more barrels—up to 24-25 pallets.

2. Less than Container Load (LCL)
If you do not have enough goods to fill a full container, Less than Container Load (LCL) is the perfect choice. LCL allows you to share a container with other shippers, thus lowering the cost. The goods will be consolidated at the port of departure (Guangzhou or Shenzhen) and unloaded and distributed at the destination port (San Sebastián).

  • Transit Time: Whether you’re shipping via FCL or LCL, the sea voyage from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to San Sebastián takes approximately 32 days. Keep in mind that this is the estimated time for the sea passage and may vary depending on weather conditions and port congestion.

Packaging of Plastic Barrels

Packaging is crucial to ensuring the safety of your cargo during transit, especially when shipping plastic barrels over long distances. Proper packaging helps protect the goods from damage, contamination, and leakage. Here’s how plastic barrels should typically be packaged for shipping:

  1. Barrel Inspection:
    Before packaging, inspect the barrels for any damage or cracks that could compromise their integrity during shipping. Ensure that all barrels are clean and dry, especially if they are intended to store liquids or chemicals.

  2. Wrapping and Sealing:
    Plastic barrels should be securely sealed to avoid any leakage during transit. If the barrels contain liquids, ensure that the lids are tightly sealed and reinforced with adhesive tape or sealing bands.

  3. Palletization:
    For both FCL and LCL shipments, plastic barrels are usually placed on pallets to make handling and loading easier. Typically, barrels are stacked securely on wooden or plastic pallets, with each pallet wrapped in stretch film to hold the barrels together.

  4. Labeling:
    Each pallet should be clearly labeled with the consignee’s details, handling instructions, and any special requirements (such as “Keep Dry” or “Fragile”). Labels should also include the destination port, San Sebastián, and any relevant shipping documentation (e.g., Bill of Lading or CIF contract).

  5. Protective Material:
    If needed, additional protective materials such as corner protectors, bubble wrap, or shrink wrap should be used to prevent shifting and protect the barrels from impact during the journey. In an FCL shipment, pallets can be placed side by side within the container, while in an LCL shipment, the goods will be carefully consolidated in a shared container with other shipments.

Sea Freight Process: From Guangzhou/Shenzhen to San Sebastián

  1. Booking the Shipment:
    Once your goods are packed and ready for shipping, contact your freight forwarder to book your space on the vessel. They will guide you on the available shipping lines, container types, and the most cost-effective shipping option (FCL or LCL).

  2. Container Loading:
    At the port of departure (Guangzhou or Shenzhen), your goods will be loaded into the container. FCL shipments are loaded as a complete unit, while LCL shipments are consolidated with other goods in a shared container.

  3. Sea Voyage:
    The container will then be shipped across the ocean, with an estimated transit time of 32 days from China to San Sebastián. The ship will pass through the Strait of Gibraltar and dock at the Port of San Sebastián in northern Spain.

  4. Arrival at San Sebastián Port:
    Upon arrival at San Sebastián, the cargo will be offloaded and cleared through customs. If you’ve chosen CIF shipping, your freight forwarder will handle the customs procedures, insurance, and other duties.

  5. Delivery:
    Finally, once your shipment has cleared customs, the goods will be delivered to the specified destination in San Sebastián.