Whatever you are importing or exporting, whether it is food or clothing, chemicals or pharma, our ocean shipping solutions get products to their destination. From selecting the right container for your goods, to loading safely and efficiently at the portside, to monitoring the condition of your container throughout its time at sea, we will support you at every step of your cargo’s journey.

 

Working with Instant Movers Shipping LLC will plug you into a network of experts across more than 675 offices, planning 300 global routes to 520 ports in over 155 countries. We’re committed to offering competitive rates and fast transit times along with personalised support.

 

Ocean freight refers to the transportation of goods by sea, using cargo ships or vessels. It is a crucial component of international trade and plays a significant role in the global supply chain. Ocean freight is preferred for transporting large quantities of goods over long distances, especially when cost-effectiveness is a priority.

Key components of ocean freight include:

1. Shipping Containers: Goods are typically packed into standardized containers for ease of handling and transfer between different modes of transportation. The most common container sizes are 20 feet (TEU) and 40 feet (FEU).

2. Shipping Routes: There are major shipping routes that connect major ports around the world. These routes are vital for efficient and timely transportation of goods. The Suez Canal, Panama Canal, and various straits are important passages for ocean freight.

3. Freight Rates: The cost of ocean freight is influenced by factors such as the distance traveled, the size and weight of the cargo, the chosen shipping route, and the type of goods being transported. Freight rates can vary based on market conditions, fuel prices, and other economic factors.

4. Incoterms: International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) are a set of standardized terms used in international trade to define the responsibilities and obligations of buyers and sellers regarding the delivery of goods. They play a crucial role in determining who is responsible for shipping costs, insurance, and the transfer of risk.

5. Documentation: Various documents, such as bills of lading, shipping manifests, and customs documentation, are required for the smooth transit of goods through different ports and compliance with international trade regulations.

6. Containerization: The use of standardized shipping containers has revolutionized ocean freight, making it more efficient and cost-effective. Containerization allows for easy loading, unloading, and transshipment of goods between different modes of transport.

7. Transshipment: In some cases, goods may be transferred from one vessel to another at intermediate ports during the journey, known as transshipment. This can be necessary when direct routes are not available or economically viable.

Ocean freight is a key enabler of global trade, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers across different continents. It offers a cost-effective solution for the transportation of goods on a large scale, although it may have longer transit times compared to air freight. The choice between ocean and other modes of transportation depends on factors such as the urgency of delivery, cost considerations, and the nature of the goods being transported.