Send a Parcel via Sea Freight

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does sea freight take to deliver?

• Short Sea Shipping (e.g., within Europe): Typically takes between 1-2 weeks.
• Transatlantic Shipping (e.g., Europe to North America): Usually takes about 3-4 weeks.
• Transpacific Shipping (e.g., Asia to North America): Can take approximately 3-5 weeks.
• Asia to Europe: Often takes around 4-6 weeks.

It's important to note that these are approximate transit times and can be affected by factors such as weather conditions, port congestion, customs delays, and the specific services offered by the shipping company. Additionally, if the cargo needs to be transported to and from the ports (pre-carriage and on-carriage), this will add to the overall transit time.

What customs paperwork will I need for sea freight?

Required documents can vary depending on the countries of origin and destination, as well as the nature of the goods being shipped. However, some of the most commonly required documents include:

• Bill of Lading (B/L): This is the official contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier. It serves as a receipt of cargo and contains details about the goods, the shipper, the receiver, and the journey.
• Commercial Invoice: This document provides information about the transaction between the seller and the buyer, including a detailed list of the shipped items, their value, and terms of sale.
• Packing List: Details the specifics of each package within the shipment, including weights, dimensions, and contents, aiding in the customs clearance process.
• Export License: Required for certain goods that are controlled or regulated, the export license is a government document that permits the exportation of specific commodities to certain destinations.
• Certificate of Origin: A document that certifies the country where the goods were manufactured, which is important for determining tariffs and complying with trade agreements.
• Insurance Certificate: If the goods are insured, this certificate provides proof of insurance coverage for the shipment.
• Import/Export Declaration: A statement made to the customs authorities detailing the nature, quantity, and destination of the goods being shipped.

What's the difference between a FCL and LCL shipment?

Full Container Load (FCL)

FCL refers to shipping a container exclusively filled with goods belonging to one consignee or shipper. In an FCL shipment, you pay for the entire container, regardless of whether you fill it to capacity. This option is typically more cost-effective for larger volumes of goods because it offers a flat rate for the entire container. FCL shipments also tend to have a shorter transit time compared to LCL, as the container goes directly from the sender to the receiver without the need to consolidate or deconsolidate cargo along the way. FCL is often chosen for its efficiency and security, as the container is sealed by the shipper and opened by the receiver, reducing the risk of damage or loss.

Less than Container Load (LCL)

LCL is a shipping option where multiple shippers' goods are consolidated into a single container. In this case, you pay only for the space your cargo occupies within the container, not for the entire container itself. LCL is ideal for smaller shipments that do not require the space of an entire container. While LCL can be more cost-effective for shipping smaller volumes, it generally involves longer transit times. This is due to the additional logistics involved in consolidating cargo from different shippers at the port of origin and then deconsolidating it upon arrival at the destination port. LCL shipments also may have a higher risk of damage or loss, as goods are handled more frequently.

What are some of the additional costs that can occur with sea freight?

1. Customs Clearance Fees

Charges for processing your documents through customs at both the origin and destination countries are included in our door to door service. This is limited to a standard clearance.  If any special clearance procedures are required, expect additional charges.

2. Import Duties and Taxes

Depending on the goods and the countries involved, your shipment may be subject to import duties and taxes, which can significantly affect the total cost. These are usually charged to the importer of record (unless shipping under DDP Incoterms)

3. Terminal Handling Charges (THC)

THCs are fees assessed by the terminal authorities at both the port of loading and the port of unloading for handling the cargo. These charges cover the cost of moving the container to and from the ship.  These fees are included in our door to door quotations.

4. Demurrage and Detention

Demurrage charges occur when a container is not moved out of the terminal after a certain period following its arrival. Detention fees, on the other hand, are charged when a container is taken outside the terminal (for unloading, for instance) and not returned within the allotted free time.

5. Container Freight Station (CFS) Fees

For LCL shipments, CFS fees are charged for the use of the facility where your goods are consolidated or deconsolidated. This includes handling and storing the cargo at these facilities.  We'll include these fees in all our quotes.

6. Documentation Fees

These are charges for processing the necessary paperwork and documentation required for shipping, including bills of lading, packing lists, and certificates of origin. These fees are included in our quotations for standard documents.

7. Inland Transportation Costs

These costs arise from transporting your cargo from its initial location to the port of loading and then from the port of discharge to its final destination. It includes trucking, rail, or any other mode of inland transport.  Our door to door quotes include these fees.

8. Insurance

While not technically an "additional" cost, as it is often considered essential, the cost of insuring your goods against loss or damage during transit can add to the overall expenses. Parcel Broker can provide instant quotes and issue insurance certificates for goods up to £250,000 in value.

9. Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF) and Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF)

These surcharges account for fluctuations in exchange rates (CAF) and fuel prices (BAF). They can vary depending on market conditions.  We include these adjustment fees in our quotes.

10. Quarantine and Inspection Fees

If your goods need to be inspected or quarantined by customs or agricultural authorities, these services will incur additional fees.

Why do I need a customs bond for USA shipping?

In the context of USA shipping, a customs bond is a financial guarantee between the importer, the surety company issuing the bond, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This bond ensures that all duties, taxes, and fees owed to the federal government will be paid.

There are two main types of customs bonds:

1. Single Entry Bond

This type of bond is used for a single shipment. Its value is typically determined based on the total value of the imported goods, including duties, taxes, and any additional fees. A single entry bond is best suited for importers who do not frequently ship goods into the U.S.

2. Continuous Bond

A continuous bond covers all imports made by an importer over the course of a year. The minimum bond amount for a continuous bond is generally $50,000 or 10% of the total duties, taxes, and fees paid to CBP in the previous 12 months, whichever is greater. This type of bond is cost-effective and convenient for regular importers, as it covers multiple entries and provides flexibility in shipping practices.

Can I track a sea freight shipment?

Yes, tracking is available for sea freight shipments.  Depending on the inland transportation segment of the freight's journey, you might encounter multiple tracking IDs, each corresponding to the movement overseen by different haulage companies involved.

What's included in ParcelBroker.co.uk's sea freight quote?

Our door to door quotes will include inland transport fees, sea freight transport, standard customs clearance fees, terminal handling charges, consolidation and deconsolidation fees, Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF) and Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF) fees.

How should I prepare my shipment for sea freight shipping?

1. Choose Appropriate Packaging

• Durability: Select strong, durable packaging materials that can withstand the rigours of sea transportation, including heavy handling, stacking, and potential moisture exposure.
• Protection: Use cushioning materials (bubble wrap, foam) to protect fragile items and fill empty spaces to prevent movement within the packaging.
• Palletising: For larger shipments, consider palletising and shrink-wrapping your goods to consolidate items and facilitate easier handling.

2. Label Clearly

• Clearly label each package with handling instructions, such as "Fragile," "This Side Up," or "Keep Dry," to inform handlers of the care needed.
• Include detailed shipping information on each item, such as the destination address, contact details, and a description of the contents.

3. Proper Documentation

• Ensure all required documentation is completed accurately and readily available. This typically includes a Bill of Lading (B/L), commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary export or import licenses.

4. Secure Loading

• If you're loading a container yourself (FCL shipments), distribute weight evenly and secure items to prevent shifting during transport.
• Use straps, braces, or padding to secure and protect your items within the container.