Skip to content Skip to footer
YUNcargo-International air and sea freight door-to-door transportation.
YUNcargo-International air and sea freight door-to-door transportation.
Close

Shipping Softballs from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Seattle via Ocean Freight: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL) Options

Shipping Softballs from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Seattle via Ocean Freight: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL) Options

Shipping Options: FCL vs. LCL

  1. Full Container Load (FCL) – 20FT/40FT Container If you are shipping a large quantity of softballs, opting for a Full Container Load (FCL) is a cost-effective choice. With FCL shipping, your goods occupy the entire container, offering more security and reducing the risk of damage. This option is ideal for businesses with large orders, as it provides a fixed cost for shipping and is typically faster.

    • Container Sizes: The most common containers for shipping softballs are 20FT and 40FT containers. A 20FT container typically fits around 10-12 pallets, while a 40FT container can accommodate up to 24 pallets of softballs.
    • Shipping Terms: Using the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) Incoterm ensures that the shipping cost, insurance, and freight charges are covered by the seller up until the arrival at Seattle Port.
    • Transit Time: The average ocean transit time from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to Seattle is approximately 18 days. However, the total shipping time may vary based on the vessel’s route and port congestion.

  2. Less-than-Container Load (LCL) For businesses with smaller quantities of softballs, LCL shipping is a more economical option. LCL allows you to share a container with other shippers, and you only pay for the space your cargo occupies. While the shipping cost per unit may be higher than FCL, LCL is ideal for smaller, less urgent shipments.

    • Shipping Flexibility: LCL shipments are more flexible and suitable for smaller shipments, often making it easier for businesses to ship smaller volumes without committing to a full container.
    • Shipping Process: LCL cargo is consolidated at a warehouse, then shipped alongside other goods, and deconsolidated at the destination port. This process can take a bit longer due to handling at both origin and destination.

Packaging Softballs for Ocean Freight

Proper packaging is crucial to ensuring the softballs are shipped safely and arrive in good condition. Here are some tips for packaging your softballs for ocean freight:

  1. Inner Packaging: Softballs should be individually wrapped in protective materials such as bubble wrap or shrink film to prevent damage during transit. For large shipments, softballs can be packed into large boxes or bags that contain multiple balls.

  2. Outer Packaging: The outer packaging, typically corrugated cardboard boxes, should be strong enough to withstand the rigors of ocean shipping. The boxes should be sealed tightly, and any excess air should be removed to avoid shifting during transit.

  3. Palletizing: For FCL shipments, the softballs should be neatly stacked onto pallets. The pallets should be well-secured with strapping or shrink wrap to prevent movement during loading and unloading. LCL shipments may also require palletization to ensure efficient handling and reduce the risk of breakage.

  4. Labeling: Each package should be clearly labeled with the necessary details, including the consignee’s address, a description of the contents, and handling instructions (e.g., “fragile” or “keep dry”). Proper labeling is vital for smooth customs clearance and handling during transit.

  5. Cargo Insurance: Since CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) shipping is chosen for both FCL and LCL options, it’s important to ensure that the cargo is insured against loss or damage during transport. The insurance will cover potential risks such as rough seas, accidents, or container mishandling.