Even when a business has a product that people want, it is important to have that product readily available wherever there is a market for it. Due to the global economy at the present, shipping overseas is common and can commonly be necessary. However, when transporting a product, it is important to know the cost, so one can remain competitive in any market around the world. For an example of securing a shipping quote on a full container load (FCL) this article will go through the steps of securing shipping quotes from India to the United States of men’s apparel, more specifically linen shirts.
Step 1: Securing a Quote
The first step in securing a quote on a FCL is to know both where you are shipping from and where to. In this instance one should have all of the information for that area: Tuticorin, India 628 to Boston harbor, MA 98501. Without accurate destination and origin, getting a quote is impossible.
Step 2: Finding Dimensions of Product
Next is the type and dimensions of what you are shipping. For this, the order would be a FCL of linen shirts. There would approximately 2000 in quantity and a value of anywhere from 40,000 to 60,000 USD.
Step 3: Finding a Shipping Company
The next portion of securing a quote is finding a shipper who offers their services at both of these locations. Many companies have one of two options on their sites, they have flat rates for any shipment under a certain weight for specific sized containers, or they require the item being shipped, the quantity and value. There are many maritime companies to choose from and one can compare quotes. For this shipment the company chosen was SeaRates.com, a worldwide container shipping company. The company offers quotes once you supply the above details on what is shipping and to where.
One can search many similar sites following the same steps for comparison. Cost of 40’ FCL from Boston harbor to Tuticorin costs approximately $2,924. At OceanFreightUSA states there is also a “fee of 7.99%/$89 minimum in the (break down) menu applies to standard shipments. On all other shipments, our service fee will be negotiable depending on frequency, volume or type of shipment.”
One should also keep in mind that most of these sites offering a quote (including the two above) require giving out of basic information: name, phone, e-mail, etc. With the uncertainty of giving out ones information with the theft of private information online, one should verify the company’s validity and security of private information given out.
When securing a freight for sea cargo is simple as long as one knows the details on what it is they are hoping to ship and to where. It is also very important to ensure the wording of the contract, differences between terminologies in sea shipping such as Free on Board (FOB), Free In out and stored (FIOS), etc. These items can be found at OceanFreightUSA along with other general overviews one should be aware of before entering into a shipping contract.
By – Domenic Gabriella for Trade.org