Everything You Need to Know About Shipping
If you’re in the shipping industry, or even if you just know someone who works there, chances are you’ve heard the term bunker thrown around once or twice. But what exactly does this term mean? And how does it apply to the shipping industry? This guide is essential reading for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating field!
Containers are one of those things that you’re aware of but have no idea what they are or what they do if you’ve never dealt with them directly. A shipping container is essentially an intermodal freight transport packaging unit. Its primary function is to facilitate the transportation of goods via sea from one place or country to another. After being unloaded from a ship at its destination port, containers can be transported by train, truck, or plane across land.
Shipments are categorized into three types, depending on their weight. A-cargo refers to loads under 100 tons, B-cargo to loads between 100 and 1,000 tons, and C-cargo to loads over 1,000 tons (everything bigger than that). Shipments can’t be categorized by volume because they don’t conform to a standard size or shape like cars do. Instead, dimensions like length and width are needed to provide an accurate estimate. Larger cargo takes longer to ship because it takes longer for a vessel to travel from one location to another.
When it comes to moving your cargo from one location to another, you typically have four options: self-ship, full carrier, less than container load (LCL), or a combination of any and all. Depending on what you need and where you are located, there are clear advantages and disadvantages for each option. After deciding that shipping is the best option, you should begin making arrangements. Shipping goods from A to B requires specific information, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a carrier to do it for you.
Do your homework before shipping anything across the country or across the ocean. From dry bulk cargo to bunker fuel and beyond, understanding the jargon of the shipping industry is important for everyone in the industry. Freight forwarders provide a wide range of shipping services, including ocean freight, air freight (also known as express freight), trucking, multimodal freight, cross-border trade, and international logistics. When comparing rates between shippers, keep in mind that you’re paying for more than just transportation; you’re also paying for delivery, door-to-door service, and insurance. When comparing prices between carriers, keep these factors in mind. It’s also worth shopping around if your shipment is small enough; chances are good that many companies will give you good deals on short hauls.