Important Information about Sea Freight Procedures

Sea freight involves the safe and prompt transport of cargo from one port to another before being delivered to its ultimate destination. This method is not as fast as air transport. However, sea cargo is cheaper and port regulations are less stringent than airport customs. In fact, said process is considered the most cost-effective mode of moving merchandise between two countries.

You need to consider a number of factors such as seafaring frequency as well as definite time of sailing between loading and discharging points. It can also be a trans-shipment wherein your consignment will not be shipped directly but transferred to a second vessel that delivers the cargo to the port indicated in the contract.

The sea freight procedure begins when the shipping company announces the departure schedule. Cargo loading for the particular voyage starts at this point. The cargo ship agent files the berthing application with the port authority of the country concerned. The transport company provides all the necessary information such as type of cargo, tonnage, draught particulars, length of vessel, and actual dates. This data is also forwarded to shippers along with loading schedules and ports of destination. If at all possible, the consignment must arrive at the socking area at least five days prior to docking or loading. This stage is referred to as the "receiving days."

Documentation procedures (dispatch, storage and shipping) are not the same for all countries. The forwarding agent represents the exporter. There should be an invoice for each consignment. This is sent to the consignee at the receiving side. It indicates the package label, quantity, and description of each item. The price, various fees and name of carrier are also included. Other than the commercial value, this document is required for possible damages or losses during the shipment period. This allows processing of insurance claims. The exporter or in that case, the freight forwarder requests for shipping space directly with the ship owner or broker.

Merchandise is conveyed to the wharf with a shipping note (with duplicate forms) so the goods can be stored for security before the actual shipment. Sea freight may be charged based on the value of the products rather than the weight. This is called the Ad Valorem freight. Upon arrival at the port, the consignment is discharged. The designated authority receives the goods and takes care of storage. The commodities are delivered to the consignee once the consignment has been paid for.


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If you are looking for Sea Transport Management information, click on the links below:

http://freightforwardersinperth.tumblr.com/post/93463295831/air-freight-tips-for-smart-exporters
http://seatram.wordpress.com/2014/07/29/forward-movement/