Shipping POS Machines from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Murcia, Spain via Sea Freight: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
When shipping POS machines from China to Spain, you can choose between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options.
Full Container Load (FCL): If you have a large quantity of POS machines or other related equipment, FCL is the best choice. This means that your shipment will occupy the entire container, providing direct transportation from the port of departure to the port of destination. This option is more cost-effective per unit if you have enough cargo to fill the container. You can choose between a 20-foot container (20FT) or a 40-foot container (40FT), depending on the size and quantity of your shipment.
Less than Container Load (LCL): For smaller shipments that do not require a full container, LCL allows you to share space in a container with other shippers. This is a more economical option for smaller loads, though the cargo will take longer to be consolidated and de-consolidated at both ends of the journey.
2. Port-to-Port Transport: CIF Incoterms
When shipping to Spain, you can select CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) as your shipping term. This means that the seller (the shipper) is responsible for the cost of the goods, shipping, and insurance until the goods reach the destination port (in this case, Murcia Port). The buyer, on the other hand, will be responsible for clearing customs and paying any duties or taxes upon arrival.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Under this arrangement, the seller covers the cost of the goods, shipping, and insurance up to the port of destination. This ensures that your POS machines are protected during the sea journey, with the cost of insurance and freight included.
3. Transit Time: Sea Freight from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Murcia
The approximate sea freight transit time from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Murcia, Spain, is 27 days. This can vary depending on the specific shipping line, weather conditions, and other logistical factors. However, 27 days is the standard estimate for most sea freight services between China and Spain.
During this time, your POS machines will be carefully transported across the ocean, passing through key transshipment hubs or directly to the port of Murcia.

4. Packaging of POS Machines
Proper packaging is essential to ensure the safety of your POS machines during the sea freight journey. These machines are often fragile and sensitive to moisture, impact, and temperature fluctuations. Below are some packaging tips to ensure your POS machines arrive in good condition:
Primary Packaging: POS machines should be individually wrapped in anti-static bubble wrap or foam padding to protect them from external shocks and prevent electrostatic damage. Ensure that the POS machines are well-cushioned and there is no room for movement within the packaging.
Secondary Packaging: Place each wrapped POS machine into a strong cardboard box. The boxes should be of high quality, ideally double-walled, to provide added protection during handling and transit. Include sufficient padding inside the boxes to avoid any impact against the box walls.
Palletizing: For FCL shipments, it’s important to palletize the boxes to make loading and unloading easier. Secure the boxes with strapping or shrink wrap to prevent shifting during transit. If you’re shipping LCL, this is particularly important as cargo might be handled multiple times.
Moisture Protection: Since the sea journey can expose the cargo to humidity, use moisture-absorbing desiccant packets inside the boxes to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which could damage your POS machines.
Labeling: Ensure that all packages are properly labeled with clear handling instructions such as “Fragile,” “Keep Dry,” and “This Side Up.” Include a detailed list of the contents inside the package to ensure easy identification and tracking.
5. Customs and Import Duties in Spain
Upon arrival at the port of Murcia, your POS machines will need to go through customs clearance. As the shipment is made under CIF terms, the buyer is responsible for paying any customs duties, taxes, and import fees. Ensure that all necessary documentation, including the Bill of Lading, Invoice, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin, are in order to avoid delays.