Sea transport is one of the most common forms of transportation for cargo today. However, it is also a complex mode of transportation. In the following article, we will introduce some basic knowledge of sea freight for readers.
1. What is Sea Freight Transportation?
Sea freight transportation involves the use of maritime infrastructure and vessels. Specifically, it refers to the use of waterways, seaports, and shipping routes that connect countries, territories, or regions within a nation. Along with that is the use of ships and cargo-handling equipment to transport passengers and goods across sea routes.
Since its development, sea transport has played an important role in supporting other industries by providing cargo and passenger shipping. It also meets the demand for transporting certain types of goods that can only be carried by sea.
2. Advantages of Sea Freight Transportation
- Unlike other modes of transportation, sea freight does not “limit” the type of cargo—it can carry almost all kinds of goods.
- Most shipping routes are natural waterways, which reduces the costs of construction, maintenance, and repairs, thereby lowering initial investment.
- A significant advantage of this method is its very high transport capacity, allowing large volumes of goods to be shipped at once.
- Sea transport is the optimal choice for companies needing to ship bulk and diverse types of goods.
- It is highly suitable for transporting specialized containers.
- Shipping costs are much lower compared to other modes of transport.
3. Process of Exporting Cargo by Sea
Step 1: Negotiation and Contract Signing
This is the first and most crucial step, laying the foundation for the following procedures.
Step 2: Applying for an Export License
Any cargo intended for export must have an export license. Goods transported by sea are no exception.
Step 3: Booking and Collecting Empty Containers
If you are selling under CFI terms, you must contact shipping lines or freight forwarders to secure the best rates for transporting your cargo.
Step 4: Preparing and Inspecting Export Cargo
Before shipping goods to your partner, it is necessary to conduct quality and quantity inspections to ensure everything matches the terms of the initial contract.