Shipping Roller Shutter from Guangzhou/Shenzhen, China to Sendai Port, Japan (CIF 20FT/40FT Full Container Load & LCL)
Shipping Methods: FCL vs LCL
Full Container Load (FCL)
For businesses with large orders, Full Container Load (FCL) is the most efficient method. You can choose a 20FT or 40FT container, depending on the volume of your shipment. In this case, the shipping term is CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), which means that the seller covers the costs of shipping, insurance, and freight until the goods reach Sendai Port. Once the goods arrive at the port, the buyer is responsible for clearing customs and further transportation.
- 20FT Container: Ideal for smaller volumes, a 20FT container offers a compact solution for shipping roller shutters, typically holding between 20 to 25 CBM (Cubic Meters).
- 40FT Container: A 40FT container is more suitable for large volumes and can accommodate up to 60 CBM. This option ensures that your shipment arrives in one large batch, reducing handling times and simplifying the process.
Less-than-Container Load (LCL)
For smaller shipments that don’t require a full container, Less-than-Container Load (LCL) is the preferred choice. LCL allows businesses to share container space with other shipments, which reduces the cost of transportation. The journey time from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Sendai Port by LCL is typically the same—around 9 days—although LCL shipments may take longer due to additional handling and consolidating at ports.
In both FCL and LCL shipping, the primary considerations are customs clearance, documentation, and port handling. The goods are shipped via ocean freight, and Sendai Port in Japan is the final destination.
Shipping Time and Route
The ocean freight journey from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to Sendai Port typically takes around 9 days. This includes a direct sea route from the Pearl River Delta to Japan, where the container is unloaded at Sendai Port. Depending on the carrier and the type of shipment, the total shipping time may vary slightly due to port handling, customs, and unforeseen delays.
Packaging of Roller Shutters
Proper packaging of roller shutters is essential for ensuring that the products remain in perfect condition during their long sea voyage. The following steps are typically followed when packaging roller shutters for international shipment:
Protection of Roller Shutters:
- Wooden Crates: The roller shutters are often placed in sturdy, custom-made wooden crates. These crates provide added protection against physical damage, such as impacts, moisture, or exposure to harsh conditions during transit.
- Plastic Wrapping or Stretch Film: To protect against moisture and dust, the roller shutters are tightly wrapped in plastic or stretch film. This helps keep the items clean and prevents rusting, especially if they are made from metal.
- Foam Padding: Additional foam padding or bubble wrap can be placed around the product to minimize the risk of scratches and dents during transport.
Securing the Shipment in the Container:
- Palletization: Roller shutters are often placed on wooden or plastic pallets for easier handling and securing inside the container. This also prevents the shutters from shifting during the journey.
- Container Blocking and Bracing: Inside the container, the roller shutters are blocked and braced using materials such as timber or steel straps to prevent movement during the voyage.
Labeling and Documentation:
Each crate or pallet will be clearly labeled with important shipment information, such as product details, origin, destination, and handling instructions. This ensures that the goods can be tracked, and any issues that arise during transit can be quickly addressed.Handling of Sensitive Parts:
If the roller shutters contain delicate or electronic components, extra care should be taken. These parts are typically wrapped in anti-static packaging and cushioned with foam or bubble wrap.
