Question 1

What does a container to the USA cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost for a container from Europe to the USA (East Coast) ranges from approximately USD 1,500–3,500 for a 20ft container depending on season and carrier. THC at origin and destination ports (USD 200–400 each), documentation fees (USD 50–150) and customs clearance are additional. West Coast prices are usually slightly higher due to increased demand.

Question 2

FCL vs. LCL: Which is cheaper?

Accepted Answer

As a rule of thumb: a 20ft FCL container becomes economically worthwhile compared to LCL from about 13–15 CBM. For larger shipments from about 28 CBM, a 40ft FCL is usually cheaper. However, current market prices for the specific route are always decisive. Use our FCL vs LCL calculator for an individual calculation.

Question 3

How long does sea freight from Germany to China take?

Accepted Answer

Transit time for sea freight from Germany (e.g. Hamburg) to China (e.g. Shanghai) is typically 25–35 days via the Suez Canal. Via the Cape of Good Hope (more common since the Red Sea crisis 2024), transit extends to 35–45 days. Pre-carriage (2–5 days) and destination customs clearance add additional time.

Question 4

What is the difference between FCL and LCL?

Accepted Answer

FCL (Full Container Load): One shipper occupies the entire container exclusively. The container is loaded at the shipper's premises, sealed and only opened at the consignee's location. Ideal from about 14 CBM. LCL (Less than Container Load): Multiple shippers share a container. Each pays only for the space used (per CBM/ton). Ideal for shipments below about 14 CBM.

Question 5

What documents do I need for sea freight?

Accepted Answer

The key documents for international sea freight are: 1) Bill of Lading (B/L) – proof of ownership, 2) Commercial Invoice, 3) Packing List, 4) Export Customs Declaration (EX1/AES), 5) Import Customs Declaration, 6) Certificate of Origin/EUR.1 if preference duties apply. For letter of credit transactions, an original B/L is also required.

Question 6

What does THC mean in sea freight?

Accepted Answer

THC stands for Terminal Handling Charge. It is a fee charged by the port terminal to the shipping line for container handling services (loading, unloading, storage) – which is usually passed on to the shipper or consignee. THC applies at both the port of loading (origin THC) and the port of discharge (destination THC).

Question 7

What is a B/L (Bill of Lading)?

Accepted Answer

The Bill of Lading (B/L) is the most important document in sea freight. It serves simultaneously as: 1) Contract of carriage between shipper and carrier, 2) Document of title to the goods, 3) Receipt for the goods handed over. An original B/L is required to release the cargo at the destination port. Modern alternatives: Telex Release and Sea Waybill.

Question 8

How does sea freight work with customs clearance?

Accepted Answer

International sea freight typically requires two customs clearances: 1) Export customs in the country of origin: export customs declaration (EX1 in the EU via ATLAS), export certificate. 2) Import customs in the destination country: import customs declaration, examination of cargo value (commercial invoice), HS code and origin. Customs duties and import VAT are calculated and must be paid before release.

Ocean Freight

Topic Overview

Transit Times & Main Routes

Documents & B/L

Container Types & Dimensions

Container Markings & Prefixes

FCL – Full Container Load

LCL – Less than Container Load

Tools & Calculators

Sea Freight Calculator

Seaports

Container Calculator

Customs Clearance

Container Dimensions

Container Markings & BIC

Articles

Who bears risk & costs for your sea freight shipment?

Frequently Asked Questions

Calculate your transit time