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Sea Freight

Sea Freight
What is Sea Freight

Sea freight, also known as ocean freight, is the transportation of goods via sea vessels from one port to another. Sea freight is a cost-effective method of transporting large quantities of goods over long distances. It is commonly used for shipping bulk cargo, such as raw materials, commodities, and heavy machinery. Goods are packed into containers and then loaded onto a vessel. A typical cargo ship can carry around 18,000 containers, which means that sea freight is a cost-efficient way to transport high quantities over large distances.The process of sea freight involves several stages, including booking, documentation, customs clearance, loading, shipping, and delivery. Freight forwarders and shipping companies coordinate these stages to ensure that the cargo reaches its destination safely and on time.

 

 

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Benefits of Sea Freight

High efficiency

No matter the size of your shipments, sea freight companies can usually accommodate your needs. Smaller shipments can be grouped together with other cargo to fill a container, allowing for cost-sharing of the transportation services. Larger cargo can fill one or more containers, offering shippers unmatched bulk options. In fact, vessels are the ideal way to move high volumes of cargo as they are designed to carry large amounts of goods or raw materials.

Safety

Ships are designed to carry hazardous materials and dangerous cargo safely. The industry is well-versed in the handling of such goods and has regulations in place to ensure the safety of the vessel, crew, cargo and environment. Cargo loss caused by incidents during transportation is continually dropping as maritime safety increases, and has dropped significantly in the past decade. Containers are designed to be sealed and locked during transportation for extra security.

Extra large transportation capacity

A major advantage of sea freight shipping is shipping companies'ability to handle oversized, heavy or bulky cargo often referred to as breakbulk or Not in Trailer (NIT) loads. Such cargo could include large vehicles, equipment, construction materials and more. Oftentimes too heavy or large for air freight or even over-the-road transportation, very large cargo is not a problem on many shipping vessels.

Environmental friendliness

When compared to sea shipping, air and many other forms of transportation have much higher carbon footprints a definite disadvantage for the environment. Ships, on the other hand, provide the most carbon-efficient mode of transportation and produce fewer grams of exhaust gas emissions for each ton of cargo transported than any other shipment method.

 

why choose us
 
 
 

Professional team

We have a professional team of experienced logistics experts who are committed to providing customers with personalized and reliable logistics services.

 
 

Innovation

Utilizes advanced technology and systems to optimize the logistics process, providing clients with real-time visibility and control over their shipments.

 
 

One stop solution

Company provides customized logistics solutions tailored to each client's unique requirements, ensuring efficient and cost-effective deliveries.

 
 

24h online service

We try and respond to all concerns within 24 hours and our teams are always at your disposal in case of any emergencies.

 

 

Types of Cargo Ships Used for Sea Transportation

Tankers
Tankers are the most common ships that haul oil. Although there are many types of tankers that carry different types of liquids and gases, they are all generally the same in their use. Tankers can be spotted by their large surface area protruding from the main deck. This is to load on and off the cargo.Tankers can come in many different sizes with the largest one sporting a length of nearly a quarter mile long.

 

Barges
These vessels normally require a towboat to move or can be used with container ships. Barges are used to primary move three types of cargo: grain & ore, containers, and liquid & gases. Essentially these can be thought of the miniature versions of cargo ships, container ships, and tankers. By having these different types of sea transport allows for carriers to pick and choose the one most fitting for the job. It wouldn't make sense to standardize one ship to fit all – although most of these ships can be used uniquely to transport their unintended cargos.

Bulk carriers

Bulk carrier ships are seen with large hydraulic hatches covering their folds. These types of ships are used to transport grain, ore, wood ships and other materials/products down into a hold. They are sent to be load-on and off at special ports. The average bulk carrier is around 800 feet long.

General cargo ships

These ships have large hydraulic hatches covering the holds along with overhead rigging. They can have four to five holds (a hold is also called the cargo space) and long protruding rigging for winches. Some of these ships can be special and have refrigerated spaces to carry perishable items. They are normally 500 feet.

Container ships

A standard in freight types of sea transport, these are the primary ships used today. They are designed to carry large steel containers that are normally 20 and/or 40 feet long. Large cranes and help from trucks assist in loading up and off of these ships. They are some container ships that are designed where the bow opens up and smaller ships called barges are pulled in.

 

What Are the Types of Shipping Containers

 

 

Fast Sea Freight Freight Forwarder Ship From China To USA

01.Standard shipping containers

These are also known as dry containers and are the most commonly used type of container in ocean freight. They come in 20-foot and 40-foot lengths and are available in various heights and widths. They are designed to hold dry cargo, such as textiles, electronics, and machinery.

02.Reefer containers

These containers are designed to transport temperature-sensitive cargo, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. They are temperature-controlled and have refrigeration units that maintain a consistent temperature throughout the journey.

03.Open-top containers

These containers are similar to standard shipping containers except for the fact that they have an open top. They are used to transport over-height cargo, such as large machinery, vehicles, and construction equipment.

04.Flat rack containers

These containers are specifically designed for cargo that cannot fit into standard containers due to their size and shape. They have a flat base and no sides or top, making it easy to load and unload cargo from any side.

05.Tank containers

These containers are used to transport liquids and gases, such as chemicals, oil, and liquefied natural gas (LNG).

 

 
How Sea Freight Works
 
01/

Booking
The first step is booking the shipment. This involves providing details of the cargo, such as weight, dimensions, and the destination. The freight forwarder then issues a booking confirmation to the shipper.These include a bill of lading, customs documentation, and any other required documentation depending on the nature of the cargo and destination.

02/

Customs clearance
The cargo goes through customs clearance at the port of departure. This process includes document verification, cargo inspection, and payment of any necessary fees.Once customs clearance is completed, the cargo is loaded onto the appropriate vessel. This process can take several hours or even days, depending on the amount of cargo and the type of vessel.

03/

Cargo packaging
The cargo is then packaged and loaded into containers. The containers can be either owned by the shipper or provided by the shipping company.The cargo is then transported to the port of departure either by truck, rail or other forms of transportation.

04/

Transit
During the transit period, the cargo is moved across the sea to the port of destination.Once the vessel reaches the port of destination, the cargo is unloaded from the vessel and transferred to a customs clearing facility.

05/

Customs clearance at destination
The cargo goes through customs clearance at the port of destination. This process includes document verification, cargo inspection, and payment of any necessary fees.

06/

Delivery
Once customs clearance is completed, the cargo is delivered to its final destination via trucks, trains, or other forms of transportation.

 

What Documents Are Required for a Sea Freight Shipment

 

Bill of lading (B/L)
This is the most critical document in sea freight. It serves as a receipt for the shipment and evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier.

Commercial invoice
This is a document that shows a detailed description of the goods being shipped, including their quantity, value, and total weight.

Packing list
This document provides a detailed list of the items included in each shipment, including the weights, dimensions, and packaging materials.

Certificate of origin
This document is used to ascertain the country from which the goods originated. It is issued by the exporter and may be necessary for customs clearance.

Export license
This document may be required for certain products or countries, and it certifies that the goods can legally be exported.

Insurance certificate
It is a document that proves that the shipment is insured against loss or damage while in transit.

Inspection certificate
It is required for certain goods, and it shows that they have undergone the necessary inspection and comply with relevant quality and safety standards.

Import license
Some countries require an import license for certain products, and it is necessary to obtain it before shipping.

Bill of entry
This document is required for customs clearance and contains information about the imported goods. It also serves as a declaration of the tariff to be paid.

China To USA Shipping

 

How to Choose the Right Sea Freight

 

 

Type of cargo
The type of cargo you are shipping will determine the type of vessel required. For example, if you are shipping hazardous materials, you will need a vessel that is equipped to handle such cargo.

Distance and transit time
The distance your cargo needs to travel and the time it will take to reach its destination will determine the type of service you require. Expedited services will cost more than standard services.

Cost
Cost will always be a consideration. You will need to balance the cost of the service with the value of your cargo. Cheaper options may not always be the best choice.

Transit routes
Look for sea freight companies that offer transit routes that align with your specific delivery needs.

Insurance
Ensure that the sea freight company provides insurance coverage for your cargo in case of loss or damage during transit.

Customs compliance
Choose a sea freight company with experience in customs clearance and compliance with import and export regulations.

 

Freight Forwarder From China to Europe

 

How Do I Track My Ocean Shipment

Obtain your shipment reference number or bill of lading number from the freight forwarder or carrier that you used for your shipment. Go to the carrier's or shipping line's website and find the tracking section. Enter your reference number or bill of lading number in the tracking field. Review the tracking information to see the status of your shipment, including the current location and expected delivery date. If you have any questions or concerns about your shipment, contact the carrier's customer service department for assistance.

 

Things to note when choosing to ship goods by sea
 

Packaging
Goods need to be packaged properly in order to withstand the rigors of sea transportation. They should be packed in durable containers that are designed to protect them from moisture, dust, and other potential hazards.

 

Weight and size
The weight and size of the goods will determine the type of container that is needed, as well as the cost of transportation. It's important to carefully consider the weight and size of the goods in order to choose the most cost-effective transportation option.

 

Types of goods
Depending on the type of goods being transported, certain types of containers or transportation methods may be required. Perishable goods may require refrigerated containers, while hazardous materials may require special handling.

 

Shipping regulations
There are a variety of shipping regulations that must be followed when transporting goods by sea. These can include customs regulations, safety regulations, and environmental regulations. It's important to be aware of these regulations in order to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues.

 

Freight costs
The cost of sea transportation can vary depending on a number of factors, including the weight and size of the goods, the destination, and the shipping method. It's important to carefully consider these costs and choose a transportation option that is both cost-effective and reliable.

 

The Role of Customs in Maritime Transport

Customs plays a vital role in the efficient and effective operation of maritime transport. The primary objective of customs is to ensure the seamless movement of goods across international borders. The processes involved in the clearance of goods at the ports of entry are complex, and require an integrated approach that includes the collaboration of various stakeholders, including maritime transport operators, shipping lines, customs brokers, and regulatory authorities.

Customs clearance procedures involve the formalities required for the import and export of goods, including documentation, inspection, and payment of taxes and duties. customs play a critical role in ensuring the smooth flow of goods in maritime transport and facilitating global trade. preventing the entry of dangerous goods, and supporting the efficient clearing of goods at the ports through digitalization. Collaborative partnerships with stakeholders play a key role in seamless trade and economic growth.

 

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HKE LOGISTICS was founded in April 2013, which is an integrated LOGISTICS company based in Shenzhen China. With 13 years of experience in international LOGISTICS and transportation, our team brings expertise to solve a variety of complex global LOGISTICS needs. We have in-depth knowledge of global customs regulations to ensure compliance and efficient management of your cargo.

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FAQ

Q: What is the meaning of sea freight?

A: A method of transporting large quantities of goods, usually packed in shipping containers, by sea. Ocean freight service is generally more cost-effective than air freight service, but it is also slower and more prone to longer delays.

Q: How does sea freight works?

A: Sea Freight Shipping is moving cargo by sea from the port of origin to the port of destination. This can happen in multiple ways and the process can be broken down into many pieces. In every shipment, part of the process is done at the origin, a second part during transit, and the third one at the destination country.

Q: What is the difference between cargo and sea freight?

A: Over land, we would typically use the term freight, whereas transporting by air or on the seas would use the term cargo. Still, whether we use traditional or contemporary definitions, there is an underlying common ground in both terms refer to the transportation of goods and products.

Q: Is DHL a sea freight?

A: We're on the ground in over 190 countries allowing you to export and import from more locations worldwide. Providing more ocean loops and services than anyone else. DHL Ocean Freight shipments include a wide range of quality controlled equipment types.

Q: What is an example of sea freight?

A: The main categories of cargo transported by sea include roll on/roll off, break bulk, dry bulk, liquid bulk, and container cargo. Containers are used to ship items such as computers, meat, clothing, televisions, and toys.

Q: What are the advantages of sea freight?

A: Sea freight offers a significantly larger capacity for transporting goods compared to air freight. Ocean freight vessels, such as container vessels, can accommodate large volumes of cargo, while air freight is limited by the size and weight restrictions of aircraft.

Q: Who pays for ocean freight?

A: If the terms include the phrase FOB origin, freight collect, the buyer is responsible for freight charges. If the terms include FOB origin, freight prepaid, the buyer assumes the responsibility for goods at the point of origin, but the seller pays the cost of shipping.

Q: Is Bill of Lading only for sea freight?

A: Usually, all companies that sell transportation services generate bills of lading. They can include owner-drivers, freight forwarders, steamship lines, third-party logistics companies and others. They include companies transporting goods by any means, whether it be through air, sea, rail or road.

Q: Is sea shipping cheaper?

A: Ocean freight tends to be 12 to 16 times cheaper than air freight since it utilizes large-scale vessels that can transport larger loads for greater distances for less expense. Air cargo, on the other hand, is typically more expensive due to higher fuel costs and the need for faster delivery times.

Q: What is sea freight import?

A: Sea freight is the method of transporting a large quantity of goods using cargo ships. These come in the following forms: Full Container Load (FCL) In which a company fills a whole container with their own goods. Containers can be from 20 45 feet long.

Q: What is FOB in sea freight terms?

A: FOB is a shipping term that stands for free on board. If a shipment is designated FOB (the seller's location), then as soon as the shipment of goods leaves the seller's warehouse, the seller records the sale as complete.

Q: How long does it take for sea shipping?

A: Sea freight can take anything between 10-55 days, depending on the departure and arrival port of your goods. Let's look at the average ocean freight transit times on some of the main routes: East Asia - Europe: 30 days. East Asia – North America East Coast: 25 days.

Q: Is sea freight more environmentally friendly?

A: Put simply, sea freight has the smallest carbon footprint of all major forms of long-distance freight. Air has the largest.

Q: What is sea freight charges?

A: Ocean freight is the price you pay for your international transport by sea. There are many variables that can determine this price. For example, the type of cargo, the volume and weight of the cargo, but also the sailing route defines the final price of each shipment. The choice for FCL or LCL is also of influence.

Q: Who are ocean freight?

A: Ocean freight is the transportation of goods over long distances by ship. It can also refer to the shipping or transport industry as a whole, including cargo ships and containers. Ocean freight is typically used for cargo that needs to be transported over large distances, such as those between continents.

Q: Is sea shipping faster?

A: Air freight is faster than ocean shipping, hands down. Ocean shipments can sometimes take weeks to arrive. Air freight can reach its destination in only a day or two. While ships are getting faster and ocean shipping routes are being constantly optimized, there is still no beating the speed of air freight.

Q: What is 1 CBM in sea freight?

A: This DIM factor will change depending on how you're shipping your package. For instance, because ocean freight tends to be concerned with space, their standard DIM factor is 1 CBM is equivalent to 1000 kg. So, if your package is 2CBM but it weighs less than 2 tons (2,000kg), your chargeable weight is still 2 tons.

Q: Why does sea shipping take so long?

A: Additionally, weather conditions, port congestion, and logistics issues can also contribute to longer shipping times. Finally, different shipping methods (air, sea, land) have varying transit times, with sea freight being generally slower but more cost-effective than air freight.

Q: Why choose sea freight?

A: Sea freight offers a significantly larger capacity for transporting goods compared to air freight. Ocean freight vessels, such as container vessels, can accommodate large volumes of cargo, while air freight is limited by the size and weight restrictions of aircraft.

Q: What are the advantages of maritime shipping?

A: Traceability in the logistics process with secure, labelled and sealed containers at the port of origin. Large volume shipments. High tonnage shipments. Shipping containers can also be used for onward transport by road or rail.

We're professional logistics companies in China, mainly engaged in providing high quality sea freight service with low price. If you're going to know more about customized sea freight service, contact us now.

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