Ocean Freight Shipping

Understanding Ocean Freight Shipping

Ocean freight shipping involves the transportation of goods via sea routes, using cargo ships to move large volumes of goods across international waters. It is a cost-effective and efficient method for shipping a wide variety of products, from raw materials to finished goods.

Types of Ocean Freight Shipping:

  1. Full Container Load (FCL):
    • General Purpose Container (GP): 20 ft | 40 ft
    • High Cube (HC): 40 ft | 45 ft
    • Flat Rack (FR): 20 ft | 40 ft
    • Open Top (OT): 20 ft | 40 ft | 40 ft OT HC
    • Reefer (Refrigerated): 20 ft | 40 ft HC
  2. Less than Container Load (LCL):
    • When your shipment does not require an entire container, we offer LCL services, where your goods are consolidated with other shipments.
  3. Specialized Shipping:
    • Hazardous Materials: We have expertise in handling hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with international safety regulations.
    • Break Bulk (BBK): For cargo that doesn’t fit in a standard container, such as large machinery or equipment.
    • Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Ideal for vehicles and wheeled cargo.

Understanding Ocean Freight Shipping

Ocean freight shipping involves the transportation of goods via sea routes, using cargo ships to move large volumes of goods across international waters. It is a cost-effective and efficient method for shipping a wide variety of products, from raw materials to finished goods.

Types of Ocean Freight Shipping:

  1. Full Container Load (FCL):
    • General Purpose Container (GP): 20 ft | 40 ft
    • High Cube (HC): 40 ft | 45 ft
    • Flat Rack (FR): 20 ft | 40 ft
    • Open Top (OT): 20 ft | 40 ft | 40 ft OT HC
    • Reefer (Refrigerated): 20 ft | 40 ft HC
  2. Less than Container Load (LCL):
    • When your shipment does not require an entire container, we offer LCL services, where your goods are consolidated with other shipments.
  3. Specialized Shipping:
    • Hazardous Materials: We have expertise in handling hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with international safety regulations.
    • Break Bulk (BBK): For cargo that doesn’t fit in a standard container, such as large machinery or equipment.
    • Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Ideal for vehicles and wheeled cargo.

To learn more about the different types and sizes of ocean freight containers and how to select the best one for your shipping needs, read our detailed guide.

What is Ocean Freight Shipping?

Ocean freight shipping is the method of transporting large quantities of goods by sea. It encompasses various shipment options, including Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL), making it adaptable to different cargo sizes and types. This method is ideal for businesses seeking economical and reliable shipping solutions for international trade.

Scope of Shipments: What Can Be Shipped?

We can ship any cargo with a focus on:

  • General merchandise
  • Raw materials
  • Machinery
  • Steel
  • Paint/powder coatings
  • Automotive parts
  • Hazardous chemicals
  • Non-hazardous chemicals
  • Non-perishable food products
  • Vehicles
  • Displays
  • Heavy machinery
  • Electronic goods
  • Consumer products
  • Industrial equipment
  • Textiles and apparel

Why Choose MTA Lines: Unmatched Efficiency and Security in Ocean Freight Shipping

Choosing MTA Lines for ocean freight shipping means partnering with an employee-owned company that provides comprehensive and versatile shipping solutions for various cargo types. Our full-container-load (FCL) and less-than-container-load (LCL) services are designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients, offering adaptable solutions for all types of cargo, ensuring your shipping needs are met efficiently.

We have strategic relationships with the largest steamship lines, giving us an extensive volume of service contracts. This allows us to offer competitive pricing and priority space allocations. Our certified team ensures the safe and compliant handling of hazardous materials, safeguarding your shipments. With strategic route planning and dedicated containers, we minimize transit durations and ensure timely delivery.

Our operations are designed to minimize third-party handling, offering enhanced security for your cargo. Our proactive and transparent approach at every step of the shipping process keeps you informed and reinforces our commitment to first-class service. This approach aligns with clients who value trust, partnership, and competitive pricing.

Why Choose MTA Lines: Unmatched Efficiency and Security in Ocean Freight Shipping

Choosing MTA Lines for ocean freight shipping means partnering with an employee-owned company that provides comprehensive and versatile shipping solutions for various cargo types. Our full-container-load (FCL) and less-than-container-load (LCL) services are designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients, offering adaptable solutions for all types of cargo, ensuring your shipping needs are met efficiently.

We have strategic relationships with the largest steamship lines, giving us an extensive volume of service contracts. This allows us to offer competitive pricing and priority space allocations. Our certified team ensures the safe and compliant handling of hazardous materials, safeguarding your shipments. With strategic route planning and dedicated containers, we minimize transit durations and ensure timely delivery.

Our operations are designed to minimize third-party handling, offering enhanced security for your cargo. Our proactive and transparent approach at every step of the shipping process keeps you informed and reinforces our commitment to first-class service. This approach aligns with clients who value trust, partnership, and competitive pricing.

Get Your Custom Quote Today

Due to the highly customized nature of our services, we tailor our pricing to your specific needs, ensuring competitiveness and value. Connect with us for a personalized quote that reflects the unique requirements of your shipment. LCL is priced per weight or measure (w/m), while FCL is priced per container.

Exploring Our Available Routes

Our ocean freight service is a testament to our dedication to delivering first-class solutions, catering to the diverse needs of businesses globally. We offer comprehensive shipping options that ensure your goods are transported efficiently and securely. Our unwavering commitment and positive approach ensure that we remain the preferred partner for businesses looking for trustworthy and value-oriented logistics solutions. In addition to our extensive ocean freight services, we also provide specialized container consolidation services, which you can learn more about here.

Below, find a comprehensive list of our primary shipping routes, designed to meet your international shipping needs:

Key International Import and Export Shipping Routes

Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brazil
Chile
China
Colombia
Czech Republic
France
Germany
Hong Kong
India
Indonesia
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Malaysia
Netherlands
New Zealand
Philippines
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Taiwan
Thailand
Turkey
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Vietnam

Direct Dedicated Container Routes

Ocean Import Routes

France to US Consolidation Service

China to US Consolidation Service

Germany to US Consolidation Service

India to US Consolidation Service

Taiwan to US Consolidation Service

UK to US Consolidation Service

Ocean Export Routes

US to Germany Consolidation Service

US to UK Consolidation Service

These routes exemplify our commitment to providing seamless, direct service in dedicated containers, minimizing transfers, and maximizing reliability. With MTA Lines, your cargo is not just a number—it’s a priority, handled with the utmost care and professionalism every step of the way.

Additional Routes
MTA Lines offers a vast array of shipping routes beyond those listed above. Our services extend to virtually every corner of the globe, ensuring that your shipping needs are met no matter where your cargo is headed. For specific inquiries about additional routes and services, please contact our customer service team for more details.

Shipping Times

At MTA Lines, understanding that time is of the essence in global commerce drives us to refine our shipping processes for efficiency. While specific transit times vary by route, our unique approach to handling your freight ensures reduced transit durations. Our direct consolidated service, meticulous handling by our in-house team, and strategic route planning collectively expedite shipping times.

Benefits of Using MTA Lines:

  • Reduced Handling: Our service minimizes the handling of your cargo, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring quicker transit times.
  • Dedicated Containers: By using our own dedicated containers, we ensure your cargo is handled with the utmost care and efficiency.
  • Proactive Communication: Our team provides real-time updates and transparent communication throughout the shipping process.
  • Expertise in Hazardous Materials: Our certified team is skilled in handling hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: By eliminating third-party handling, we offer cost-effective shipping solutions with fewer intermediaries involved.

Due to the tailored nature of each shipment and the variables of international logistics, set shipping times are not predetermined. Instead, our focus on minimizing unnecessary handling and leveraging our dedicated routes contributes to faster delivery times, tailored to the specific needs and destinations of our clients.

For precise shipping time estimates and to learn how MTA Lines can streamline your freight forwarding, connect with our experts today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of containers are used in ocean freight shipping?

A: There are various types of containers used in ocean freight, including General Purpose (GP), High Cube (HC), Flat Rack (FR), Open Top (OT), and Reefer (refrigerated) containers. To learn more about selecting the right container for your needs, check out our guide.

Q: What items can be shipped via ocean freight?

A: We can ship a wide range of items, including general merchandise, raw materials, machinery, steel, paint/powder coatings, automotive parts, hazardous chemicals, food products, vehicles, displays, heavy machinery, electronic goods, consumer products, industrial equipment, textiles, and apparel.

Q: What documentation do I need for ocean freight shipping?

A: Required documents may include Commercial Invoices (CIV), Packing List (PKL), Certificate of Origin (COO), Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI), Bill of Lading (BOL), bank drafts, and Dangerous Goods Declaration (DG) if applicable.

Q: Can you insure my cargo?

A: Yes, we can insure your cargo. We recommend securing insurance for all shipments. Please send a written request, and we will procure the necessary insurance through our global network to get you the best possible rates.

Q: How are your services priced?

A: Due to the highly customized nature of our services, we tailor our pricing to your specific needs, ensuring competitiveness and value. Connect with us for a personalized quote that reflects the unique requirements of your shipment. LCL is priced per weight or measure (w/m), while FCL is priced per container.

Q: Can you handle hazardous materials?

A: Yes, we are experts in handling hazardous materials. Our team is certified to handle hazardous materials for air, ocean, and road transportation, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations.

Q: Do you provide door-to-door transportation?

A: Yes, we provide comprehensive door-to-door transportation services through our extensive global network of partners, ensuring seamless logistics from origin to destination.

Q: What are the benefits of using MTA Lines for ocean freight shipping?

A: Benefits include reduced handling, dedicated containers, proactive communication, expertise in hazardous materials, and cost-effective solutions. Our service minimizes the risk of damage and ensures quicker transit times by eliminating third-party handling.

Q: Where can I find more information about container dimensions and types?

A: We use various types of containers in ocean freight, including General Purpose (GP), High Cube (HC), Flat Rack (FR), Open Top (OT), and Reefer (refrigerated) containers. Detailed information about container dimensions and types can be found in our comprehensive container guide.

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