Services
Sea freight from China: FCL and LCL
Sea freight is the most cost-effective way to import from China and the backbone of most operations. Whether you fill a full container (FCL) or send a few boxes as groupage (LCL), we choose the route, carrier and mode that best fit your cargo.
FCL vs LCL: which one suits you?
FCL — Full Container Load
You rent an entire container (20' or 40') just for your cargo. It usually pays off from around 15 CBM, or when you want to minimise cargo handling. More stable price per unit and lower risk of damage.
LCL — Groupage
Your goods share a container with other importers and you only pay for the space you use. Ideal below around 15 CBM and to start with no minimum volume. Many first trial imports travel this way.
Container types
20' Standard (20GP)
Ideal for dense or heavy cargo and mid-range volumes.
40' Standard (40GP)
The most common choice as volume grows.
40' High Cube (40HC)
Extra height for bulky, lightweight goods.
The theoretical figure is the container's geometric volume; the estimated real is what usually gets loaded, because it's rarely filled to 100%. Actual usage depends on the nature and homogeneity of the cargo (uniform, easily stackable boxes fit more) and on weight: with dense cargo —tiles, stone, liquids, metal, ink…— you'll hit the weight limit (around 26–28 t in a 40HC) before filling the volume.
Ports of origin and transit times
We operate from China's main ports —Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Xiamen, among others— to over 40 destination ports. Not all factories ship from the same port: we analyse every shipment to choose the best combination of factory, port and carrier.
Indicative sea transit times from China:
- Europe: 25–35 days
- North America: 18–25 days
- Latin America: 28–38 days
- Middle East: 18–28 days
- Africa: 20–35 days
- Southeast Asia: 5–12 days
- East Asia: 3–6 days
- Oceania: 18–25 days
How we handle your sea shipment
- We collect at the factory and consolidate the cargo if needed.
- Export clearance in China and space booking with the carrier.
- Sea freight with vessel tracking (B/L number).
- Import clearance at destination, coordinated with the local customs agent.
- Final delivery to your warehouse, door to door if you need it.
Other services
Ready for your sea shipment?
Tell us what you need to move and from where. We'll give you a clear quote, with a full breakdown and no hidden charges. No commitment.