International Ocean Freight Services

Ocean freight costs vary significantly based on multiple factors. A 20' container typically costs $1,500-$8,000, and 40' containers range from $2,000-$12,000 depending on destination and market conditions. LCL costs are calculated per cubic meter (usually $50-$200/CBM). Pricing factors include: origin and destination ports, shipping distance, container type, cargo weight, seasonal demand, fuel surcharges, port fees, and customs duties. Additional charges may include documentation fees ($50-$150), container handling charges, chassis fees, and terminal fees. We provide all-inclusive quotes with transparent pricing showing all fees and surcharges upfront.

Ocean freight transit times from major U.S. ports vary by destination: Europe 10-20 days, Mediterranean 15-25 days, UK 12-18 days, West Africa 18-30 days, East Africa 25-35 days, Middle East 20-35 days, India 25-40 days, China/Japan 15-30 days, Southeast Asia 20-35 days, Australia 20-40 days, South America East Coast 15-30 days, and South America West Coast 20-30 days. These are port-to-port times. Total door-to-door service adds: inland transport to origin port (2-5 days), customs clearance and loading (2-4 days), destination port clearance (2-7 days), and inland delivery (2-5 days). We provide specific timelines for your route.

Ocean freight can ship most commercial goods including machinery, equipment, vehicles, household goods, electronics, furniture, building materials, food products (properly packaged), chemicals (with proper documentation), and general merchandise. Prohibited items include: hazardous materials without proper certification, weapons and ammunition (restricted), illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, certain perishables, and items restricted by destination country. Regulated items requiring special permits include: alcohol and tobacco, plants and seeds, animal products, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. We verify compliance with all regulations and arrange necessary permits for restricted items. Provide detailed cargo descriptions for accurate compliance guidance.

Yes, cargo insurance is highly recommended for all ocean freight shipments. While carriers maintain liability insurance, it's limited (typically $500 per package or customary freight unit) and insufficient for valuable cargo. Comprehensive marine cargo insurance covers loss, damage, theft, and general average at 1-3% of cargo value. All-risk policies cover all causes of physical loss except specific exclusions. Coverage includes loading, ocean transit, unloading, and can extend to inland transport. Given the long distances and multiple handling points in ocean shipping, insurance provides essential financial protection. We offer competitive insurance rates through leading marine insurers and can include coverage in your quote.

We provide comprehensive tracking for all ocean freight shipments. Upon booking, you receive a bill of lading number and container number for FCL shipments, or house bill number for LCL. Track your shipment through: our online tracking portal (real-time updates), email notifications at major milestones (container loaded, vessel departure, arrival, customs clearance), direct communication with your dedicated account manager, and carrier websites using bill of lading or container number. Tracking shows: current location, vessel name and voyage, estimated arrival time, customs clearance status, and delivery updates. We proactively communicate any delays or issues requiring attention.

Required ocean freight documents include: Commercial Invoice (detailed cargo description and value), Packing List (itemized contents with weights and dimensions), Bill of Lading (contract between shipper and carrier), Shipper's Letter of Instruction (shipping details and routing), Export Declaration (electronically filed through AES for shipments over $2,500), and Certificate of Origin (if required by destination). Additional documents may include: Import/Export licenses, Fumigation certificates (for wooden packaging), Phytosanitary certificates (for plant products), Health certificates (for food/animal products), and insurance certificate. We prepare all documentation and handle customs filing to ensure compliance and smooth clearance.

Yes, we provide comprehensive destination customs clearance services through our global network of customs brokers and agents. Our destination services include: customs documentation review and filing, duty and tax calculation and payment (on your behalf), customs inspection coordination, import permit acquisition, delivery order release, and final delivery coordination. We work with licensed customs brokers who understand local regulations and requirements. Most countries require an import broker for customs clearance. We handle all communication with destination customs authorities, keep you informed of clearance progress, and resolve any issues that arise. This door-to-door service ensures smooth delivery to your final destination.