How International Ocean Freight Shipping Works

Sea freight or ocean freight is the lifeline of this world. At least 90% of international shipments happen by sea. Any disruption of the sea route or any issue like war can cause serious implications. The famine and the financial crisis are the two immediate problems that will follow.

A majority of business tycoons, conglomerates, multinational companies, and industrial institutions depend on ocean freight. They go for air or land freight only for the shipping of some specific items. Unlimited shipping possibilities, the option to transport any item (irrespective of the volume, weight, or dimensions) to almost any destination, and reasonable shipping rates are the three basic reasons behind the high acceptance of ocean freight services over other shipping methods.

Why Ocean Freight?

Cost may be the only thing that comes to one’s mind while thinking of the benefits of ocean freight. Cost-effective shipping is just one of the many advantages offered by sea freight. We are listing points here that would help you decide upon the means of shipping for your cargo:

• Ocean freight is a budget-friendly shipping method. The cost of shipping is much lower than the other means of transport available. The transportation cost for air freight is almost five times higher than sea freight for a consignment of the same weight.
• Ship cargo of any weight and size to any corner of the world. There are limitations on size, weight, dimensions, shape, type, etc. when you transport items via air or road. You cannot ship bulky equipment via either air or road. Moreover, airfreight is not permissible for inflammable materials.
• Different types of ocean freight are available for the client to choose from.  Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) are the most common freight modes. The customer can pick the type of container or storage space depending on the volume of the cargo. Thus, saving money on shipping. Note that shipping expenses are the main component behind the price of an item. By reducing the expenses on transportation, the manufacturer or dealer can cut down the price and increase business prospects.
• Technological advancement has made ocean freight an efficient and safer shipping method than ever. Accident rates have come down phenomenally.
• Cargo is packed in strong containers and remains intact throughout the journey. It is opened by the client or by the customs executives only. Therefore, you can be sure about the condition of the products.
• Ocean freight is undoubtedly the most eco-friendly shipping method. It does not cause as much carbon footprint as other shipping means. By choosing shipment by sea, you are playing your part in protecting the environment.

Read to know how does LCL shipping works?

What are the Major Ocean Shipping Lines? 

When we say major shipping lines, we are stating how reliable their services are. We are happy to see Sohar Shipping at the top of the chart, delivering promised services at affordable rates. Connected with the top shipping and logistics supporters worldwide, Sohar can render matchless services.

The major ocean shipping lines are:

• Sohar Shipping
• CMA CGM
• Maersk
• Hapag Lloyd
• Cosco
• China Shipping
• Evergreen Marine

How International ocean freight shipping works?

Ocean freight follows a well-laid procedure from booking the cargo to the delivery of the same to the consignee. The process of shipping via sea includes:

• Packing of the cargo as per the marking and labelling standards promulgated.
• Picking a reliable shipper or freight forwarder and booking the shipment. Ocean freight has intricate paperwork, as well as an extensive duration of journey. Therefore, the shipping company you choose must be capable, technologically advanced, trustworthy, and well-equipped. Their lack of experience, inefficient handling of cargo, inadequate reach, and absence of a proper global network can affect the shipment leading to delays, damage, or loss.
• Insuring the cargo against loss, damage, theft, etc.
• Loading of the cargo into LCL, FCL, or temperature-controlled containers.
• Transportation of goods from source to destination.
• A contract or agreement is signed between the shipping firm and the carrier. This is called the bill of lading. It will have all the details about the shipment and is considered as the title of the goods.
• Customs inspection at the origin port.
• Shipping commences.
• Cargo reaches the destination, where it undergoes customs inspection again.
• Payment of customs duty.
• Delivery of the cargo from the port to the consignee’s warehouse.

Interested to read: Factors to consider when choosing a shipping carrier.

How does ocean freight cost calculated?

Fuel costs, currency exchange rates, volume and weight of the items, type of cargo, the time of the year when you are shipping the items, etc will affect the ocean freight cost. The cost would vary accordingly. Of course, LCL and FCL rates are different, as you would be hiring a full container in the case of FCL. It may be noted that freight charges would vary depending on the freight forwarder as well.

Listed below are the factors considered for calculating sea freight charges:

• Quick service price or spot price for the shipment of items on a short notice
• Seasonal price
• General Rate Increase
• Warehousing expenses
• Truck charges
• Insurance cost
• Holiday delays
• Accessorial surcharges

Benefits of hiring Sohar Shipping for ocean freight services

Ocean freight forwarding is a complex process involving various stakeholders. The shipping company or freight forwarder you choose must be equipped, resourceful, well-connected, and capable enough to handle such a laborious, highly demanding, and hefty task. The intricate regulations, international laws, and heavy documentation make it tougher than it seems.

You will require the support of a trusted, experienced, technically driven, and well-established shipping company. That is what makes Sohar Shipping the best shipping company in Oman . We have been the most preferred and highly trusted freight forwarders in the Sultanate of Oman since the early 1970s. We assure you of the best service and support.

For freight forwarding to any destination, anywhere in the world, call us now.