As a common international logistics method, sea freight involves multiple links and precautions during transportation to ensure the safe and smooth transportation of goods.
Cargo cleaning: Before packaging, ensure that the goods have been thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, oil and other impurities to prevent damage during transportation or customs delays.
Packaging materials: Use appropriate packaging materials such as bubble film, foam board, plastic covering, etc. to protect the goods, especially the vulnerable parts. Ensure that the packaging is firm to prevent moisture, damage or loss.
Marking and numbering: Each cargo should be correctly marked and numbered, including the name, quantity, weight, destination port and other information of the goods, so as to facilitate identification and classification.
Commercial documents: Prepare relevant commercial documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin and certificates of conformity. These documents are legal evidence for the transportation of goods and are used for matters such as customs clearance and claims.
Bill of lading: The bill of lading is an important document for sea freight. The information on the bill of lading should be carefully checked to ensure that it is consistent with the contract and letter of credit. Pay attention to the accuracy of key information such as the consignee, notify party, loading port, and discharge port of the bill of lading.
Choose a suitable shipping company and route: Choose a suitable shipping company and route based on the nature, quantity, destination and other factors of the goods. Avoid choosing small or unreliable shipping companies to reduce transportation risks.
Insurance: Purchase appropriate transportation insurance for the goods to deal with possible risks such as maritime accidents, natural disasters and cargo loss. Insurance can provide certain economic guarantees for cargo transportation.
Tracking and communication: Track the transportation of goods in a timely manner, and keep in touch with shipping companies, freight forwarders, etc. to ensure that the goods can arrive at the destination on time.
Understand customs requirements: Before the transportation of goods, understand the customs requirements of the exporting and importing countries, and ensure that all necessary customs procedures have been completed.
Customs clearance documents: Prepare the documents required for customs clearance, such as customs declarations, quarantine certificates, etc., and ensure the accuracy and completeness of the documents.
Avoid backdating bills of lading: Backdating bills of lading is a deceptive act and should be avoided. Make sure that the shipping date on the bill of lading is consistent with the actual shipping date.
Choose a reliable freight forwarder: Freight forwarders play a vital role in the sea transportation process. You should choose a freight forwarder with good reputation and professional ability to cooperate with.
Pay attention to the safety of goods: During the transportation process, you should pay close attention to the safety of the goods to prevent the goods from being stolen, damaged or lost.
