Ocean freight shipments account for 90% of international shipping. Ocean transportation is the most cost-effective method of transport. A large ocean carrier can move extremely heavy freight.
Although it is a relatively slow way to move your goods through the supply chain, and even though marine terminal operations can be complicated, it has a significant advantage over air freight as ocean shipping is significantly cheaper than air freight (around five times cheaper).
While it doesn’t suit every business, ocean shipping is an option when transporting bulk cargo at an affordable rate. Although it is one of the most straightforward shipping methods, shippers must consider some crucial factors. Look at how international ocean freight shipping works and the most critical factors.
Different Ocean/Sea Freight Shipping Methods
An ocean freight shipment travels in two ways, either by Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL). The cost of shipping using either service varies, but shipping FCL usually results in significant savings compared to LCL.
Full Container Load (FCL)
FCL shipping refers to large cargo loads that can fill 20’ or 40’ shipping containers. It doesn’t involve shipment consolidation. The goods are packed, and the container is sealed at the factory. Unloading takes place at the destination warehouse.
Where possible, shippers should opt for FCL over LCL as it has significant advantages. Loading and unloading aren’t shared, improving transit times. Containers are sealed, and there is less handling, resulting in a reduced likelihood of damaged goods. FCL is cheaper per unit than LCL because you pay a flat rate for each container.
However, if you don’t have enough goods to fill a container, consider an alternative method.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
LCL ocean shipments aren’t large enough to fill an entire 20’ or 40’ shipping container. Shipping services offer consolidation opportunities to importers and exporters who ship goods in smaller quantities.
There are some significant advantages to LCL shipping. You only pay for the quantity of goods you’re shipping rather than per container. By shipping fewer goods more often, you don’t need as much warehouse space (which can be costly). During busy periods, it can be easier to find LCL space.
The downsides of LCL and ocean shipping are quite significant. LCL freight rates are much more expensive. It requires more processing and handling to FCL, increasing the chances of your goods being damaged. LCL shipments must be loaded and unloaded from various containers, increasing the transit time.
How to Decide Between FCL and LCL Shipping
It can be challenging for shipping companies to decide which method to choose. Generally, if you can fill 75% or more of a shipping container, FCL is cheaper than LCL. Anything below 75% full will probably be cheaper to transport via LCL shipping.
However, you must also consider how long the container ship will take to reach its destination. LCL transit can be up to two weeks slower than FCL. Also, your merchandise is more likely to be damaged in LCL shipping.
While LCL is an excellent modern solution for international shipping, it’s more beneficial to use FCL if you can.
How Ocean Freight Shipping Works
There are several steps to the ocean freight shipping process. The initial step is when a buyer and seller agree to the terms of a sale. They must decide on an Incoterm under which the transaction takes place.
This determines how the ownership and risk transfer occurs and who is in charge of the shipping process and costs. All goods must be labeled and packaged to meet shipping and transportation standards.
Negotiations and rates
The next step is negotiating shipping rates and booking the freight shipment. It is often beneficial to hire a shipping agent or a freight forwarding service to assist with this step. They have the expertise, knowledge, experience, and contacts to ensure a smooth process.
Preparation for shipping
Once the goods arrive at the port before departure, they will be readied for transit. Depending on whether they’re FCL or LCL, this process will vary. The shipping line must issue and sign a bill of lading after the cargo has been loaded. This is a document of title and serves as legal proof of the buyer’s and seller’s agreement. All information on this document must be accurate.
Clearing customs
Before the ship sets sail, the shipment goes through customs and processing at the port of origin. When the goods have arrived at the port of destination, they must pass through customs clearance before being granted legal entry to the country. Tariffs, taxes, duties, and any related charges must be covered. Again, a freight forwarding service or customs broker can help with this step.
Delivery of the goods
The last leg of the journey involves getting the goods from the port to the warehouse or storage space that the buyer uses. This can be done via road, air, or rail transport. Truck freight is the go-to from this point.
How Ocean Freight Rates are Calculated
FCL and LCL freight rates are calculated differently in international trade. However, both are determined by specific criteria, including fuel costs, currency exchange rates, time of year, capacity, and individual shipping lines.
FCL Freight Rates
FCL shipments are paid as a flat fee for an entire unit. Whether the container is packed or half full, the rate remains the same.
LCL Freight Rates
LCL shipments are charged by volume rather than weight. However, for bulky goods, weight may contribute to a higher price. Because of the extra handling, processing, and paperwork involved, it is more expensive than FCL.
Other Factors that Contribute to the Price
Besides the freight rates, other factors contribute to the price of ocean freight shipping:
- GRIs (General Rate Increases)
- Spot prices (usually offered on late notice)
- Holiday related delays
- Seasonal price spikes
- Cumbersome goods
- Warehousing costs
- Trucking costs
- Insurance
- Accessorial surcharges
Expertise Plays a Key Role
International freight shipping is a complicated process that involves stringent rules and a lot of paperwork. A lack of expertise and professional knowledge can lead to costly mistakes.
If you’re new to the world of international shipping, give yourself peace of mind by hiring the help of an experienced customs broker or freight forwarder.
If you require international trade help, contact Asiana USA, a world-class international shipping service, for assistance at (833) 444-1333.
