Transporting containers by sea is currently the most common method of transporting goods. So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of importing and exporting goods by sea? Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about container shipping by sea in the following article!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Containers by Sea

What is a Container?

A container is a type of box used for transporting goods by sea.

Containers are standardized in size, made of steel or aluminum, and can be stacked on top of each other.

There are different types of containers suitable for various types of goods.

What are the common types of containers?

Common types of containers include:

• Dry Container: Used for transporting dry goods that are not affected by weather.
• Refrigerated Container: Used for transporting goods that need to be kept cold.
• Dangerous Goods Container: Used for transporting hazardous, flammable goods.
• Bulk Container: Used for transporting unpackaged bulk goods.
• Open Container: Used for goods that need to be manually loaded and unloaded.

What is the process of shipping containers by sea?

The process of shipping goods by sea includes the following steps:

Customs Procedures

Businesses need to complete customs procedures at the export and import ports to be allowed to transport goods.

Preparing Goods

Goods must be properly packed and neatly arranged in the container.

Goods should be properly packed when transported by container.

Sending Containers to the Port

Businesses need to send containers to the export port for loading onto the ship.

Transporting Goods by Sea

The ship will transport the container to the import port.

Unloading Containers at the Port

Containers will be unloaded at the import port.

Customs Procedures

Businesses need to complete customs procedures at the import port to receive the goods.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of shipping containers by sea?

This method has many advantages, such as the ability to transport large volumes of goods at low cost, but it also has certain difficulties.

Disadvantages of Shipping Goods by Sea

Long Transit Time

Ships are moving speed much slower than airplanes, cars,...

Ships travel much slower than airplanes, cars, etc. The transit time for shipping goods by sea can range from a few days to several weeks or even months, depending on the route and distance. This can pose challenges for businesses that need to transport goods quickly.

Complex Customs Procedures

To ship goods by sea, businesses must complete customs procedures at both the export and import ports. These procedures are often complex and time-consuming.

High risk

Transporting containers by sea carries several risks, such as loss, damage to goods due to weather, natural disasters, or piracy.

Advantages of Shipping Containers by Sea

• Ability to Transport Large Volumes: Ships can carry large volumes of goods, up to thousands of tons. This helps save transportation costs for businesses.
• Low Transportation Costs: Shipping goods by sea is currently the lowest-cost transportation method.
• Diverse Range of Goods: Ships can transport a wide variety of goods, including those that are large, bulky, or perishable.

When should you use sea freight services for import and export?

Shipping containers by sea is a suitable choice for businesses needing to transport large volumes of goods at low costs. This method is also suitable for transporting goods that are large and bulky.

What should businesses consider when shipping goods by sea?

To mitigate the difficulties of shipping containers by sea, businesses should consider the following:

• Choose a Reputable Transport Company: Ensure that goods are transported safely and on time by selecting a reputable and experienced transport company.
• Complete Customs Procedures: Businesses must complete all customs procedures at the export and import ports to avoid complications during transportation.
• Comply with Safety Regulations: Businesses must comply with safety regulations to ensure goods are transported safely.

How to choose a reputable container transport company?

When choosing a containertransport company, businesses should consider:

• Ensure the company has good experience and transport capacity.
• The company should have a professional and enthusiastic team.
• The company should have a comprehensive goods insurance policy.

Which company should you use for sea freight services for import and export?

HNT is a reputable and reliable provider of sea freight services for import and export.

If you are looking for a professional and reputable transport company, HNT will surely be an excellent choice for you.

HNT has a professional, experienced team and provides fast, safe, and efficient sea freight services at the most competitive costs.

Here are some reasons why businesses should choose HNT for sea freight services:

• Experience and Reputation: HNT is a reputable transport company with many years of experience. We have served thousands of customers, including many large and reputable clients.
• Diverse Services: HNT offers a variety of transport services to meet all customer needs.
• Competitive Pricing: HNT is committed to providing customers with transport services at the most competitive costs.
• High-Quality Service: HNT Logistics has a professional and experienced team and modern warehousing and transport facilities, ensuring quick, safe, and efficient transport services for customers.

If you need to transport goods by sea, please contact HNT for the best advice and quotes!