FCL Shipping: A Comprehensive Guide -Chapter 4

Costs of FCL Shipping

With the above shipping process flow, you now have a clear understanding of booking the FCL shipment.

Now here comes the cost, I believe it is the most important part you care like all the importers.

In this chapter, you will learn everything you need to know close related to FCL shipping cost.

Specifically,

1. What's the breakdown of the shipping cost?
2. Can I get a cheaper rate for big quantities of containers?
3. Are FCL shipping costs frequently changing?

What's the breakdown of the shipping cost?

Take notice that FCL is just a port-to-port service, not door-to-door.

The whole FCL shipping costs consist of 3 parts :

1. Local charge in China
2. Ocean Freight port to port
3. Destination import charge

The fees and charges in an international shipping cost are wide-ranging.

They cover anywhere from port and customs charges to additional fees implemented only under very specific circumstances.

Most fees form part of the overall container shipping rates quoted by freight forwarders and carriers.

But there are some that aren’t included and may apply depending on your shipment.

To help with your understanding, we have categorized these fees into different sections.

Here’s a breakdown of the whole FCL shipping charge.

• “√” means necessary charge.
• The origin charge in China will be paid by your supplier when?the term?is FOB

2. Can I get a cheaper rate for big quantities of containers?

During the off-season, if you have a large volume of shipments, you can apply for lower rates with the freight forwarder.

However, during peak season or if your cargo is overweight or not general cargo, it is difficult to obtain greater discounts. The more goods you have, the harder it is to get shipping space, so the priority should be given to securing space rather than price.

Only considering the low price may trap you in a commercial quagmire. After all, cross-border lawsuits take a long time, and many clients choose to give up because the cost outweighs the benefits. Therefore, there are some unscrupulous freight agents who will offer rock-bottom prices and then hold your bill of lading to increase the price, or even worse, run away with the money.

If you want to apply for larger discounts, you need to prove to the carrier that the shipment actually exists. You can provide the packing list or commercial invoice to your freight forwarder to apply for the discount, which can save you more time and money.

3. Are FCL shipping costs frequently changing?

The answer is YES.

FCL container shipping rates fluctuate frequently.

Now,a quote can’t be effective for too long, normally only can be used for 1 week, or 2 weeks at most.

So in case you got a very cheap price compared with the current market price, it may truly exist, but a few years ago.?

Remember to confirm the quote validity before booking.?

The shipping cost is easily affected by the seasonal factor.?Generally speaking, July and August are the Peak Season, and rates are increased

And shipping costs will be increased before Chinese holidays like National Day, and Chinese New Year.

After that, about 2-3 weeks, the rate tends to decrease.

However, the economic situation this year is different from previous years. Although there are not as many goods as in the previous two years, Carriers may still maintain or even increase freight rates by using tactics such as container rollovers and blank sailings. The specific rate judgment depends on the strong market sensitivity of your freight forwarder.

If you are interested in market changes and would like to obtain the latest market rate lists for Latin Amerian, or if you would like to verify whether a new supplier is reliable, please contact me.

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