Shipping Thermos Bottles from Guangzhou/Shenzhen to New York Port: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL) Options
Shipping Method: FCL vs. LCL
Full Container Load (FCL)
If you are shipping a large quantity of thermos bottles, a Full Container Load (FCL) is the most cost-efficient option. A 20-foot or 40-foot container is used to accommodate your products, with the entire container reserved exclusively for your shipment. The transit time by sea is typically around 28 days from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to New York Port, depending on the shipping line and specific port conditions. This option offers greater security for your goods, as they are not shared with other shippers, reducing the risk of damage or loss.Less Than Container Load (LCL)
For smaller shipments, Less Than Container Load (LCL) is an ideal choice. LCL means your goods will share space in a container with other shipments, and the shipping cost is calculated based on the volume or weight of the cargo. While the delivery time is also around 28 days, LCL shipments may take a bit longer due to the need for consolidation at the port of departure and deconsolidation at the destination.

Packaging of Thermos Bottles
Thermos bottles are typically fragile and require careful packaging to avoid damage during the shipping process. Proper packaging not only ensures that the products arrive in good condition but also helps optimize the use of space within the container. Here’s how thermos bottles are usually packed for international shipping:
Individual Packaging
Each thermos bottle is typically wrapped in bubble wrap or foam to cushion it from impacts. This layer of protective material helps to absorb shock and prevent scratches or cracks during the transit. The bubble-wrapped bottles are then placed into individual cardboard boxes, which are sturdy enough to hold the shape and prevent the bottles from shifting inside.Sealing and Labeling
After the thermos bottles are securely packed in their individual boxes, each box is sealed with strong adhesive tape to ensure they remain closed during transit. The boxes are then labeled with shipping details, including the consignee’s address and any handling instructions (e.g., “Fragile” or “Handle with care”).Palletizing (for FCL shipments)
For FCL shipments, the boxes of thermos bottles are typically arranged on wooden pallets. Palletizing helps to keep the goods organized and ensures that the weight is distributed evenly. The pallets are wrapped in stretch film to prevent the boxes from shifting during transport and to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.Consolidation (for LCL shipments)
For LCL shipments, the individual boxes are consolidated with other cargo in a shared container. However, they are still carefully packed and secured to avoid any movement inside the container. To ensure safety, LCL shipments may also be packed with dunnage materials (such as air bags or wooden blocks) to keep the boxes stable and to reduce the risk of damage from jostling.
Shipping Process: CIF and Port-to-Port Transport
Whether you are choosing FCL or LCL shipping, the shipping terms can be based on CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). Under CIF, the seller (in China) is responsible for paying for the cost of the goods, shipping, and insurance up to the New York Port. The buyer in the U.S. will be responsible for handling the customs clearance and any import duties upon arrival.
The ocean freight will take approximately 28 days from Guangzhou or Shenzhen to New York Port. During this time, the cargo will be loaded onto a container ship, which will follow a standard international sea route across the Pacific and through the Panama Canal before arriving on the U.S. East Coast. Upon arrival, the goods will undergo customs clearance before being released for further transportation.