subject: Reach out to the world with less-than-container-load shipping services [print this page] Reach out to the world with less-than-container-load shipping services
With so many businesses in the UK now sourcing goods and supplies through the Far East, the demand for reliable and efficient shipping services between the two regions has never been greater.
Long-distance parcel and package delivery is often thought of as being fraught with difficulties. But the truth is that there are now many companies which offer the specialist knowledge and contacts necessary to ensure a smooth passage for even the most complex consignment.
When sea freight is mentioned, it brings to mind an image of a vast container ship laden with large metal boxes which it has now literally been proved in some countries are as big as houses.
The complex job of booking and allocating space on these vessels is a highly specialised area, but, just as with a business which makes money by carrying goods and passengers, the general rule is that the more space is paid for, the more profitable that journey is to the operator.
Because of this need to maximise the use of capacity, shipping companies use many outlets through which they sell the space available on their vessels. Of course, while this is most cost-effective if they can do this themselves, an array of brokers is also used, which will sell the space at rates previously agreed with the ship's owner.
There is a fine balance to be struck between having a ship loaded to its maximum capacity, and achieving this at a reasonable return for the shipper. Of course, the long distances often involved make it easier for a shipping company to have flexibility in the rates which it can afford to charge different customers. As in most lines of business, those companies which require the greatest amount of space will get this at preferential rates.
While this is the result of simple economics, there is also the consideration that, in the huge hold of a cargo ship, there is often space which can be offered to other operators. These companies usually need a small amount of space, widely known in the shipping industry as less than container load' (LCL). The ability to carry these smaller consignments has revolutionised the way many operators can send goods around the world, giving them access to event the largest ships at reasonable rates.
A good delivery company, with extensive contacts, will be able to arrange the transportation of LCL traffic easily, which means that businesses of all sizes can be connected across the widest seas.
Sea freight often needs specialist handling, above and beyond that of a typical delivery company. Checking online will uncover the best advice and the most competitive prices.
