If you’re looking to ship cargo from Canada to China by sea (cargo ship), there are several steps and considerations. This type of shipping is commonly used for bulk goods, commercial products, or large items that require cost-effective transport.

1. Types of Cargo Shipping

• Full Container Load (FCL): You rent the entire container, ideal for large shipments.
  • Standard container sizes: 20ft, 40ft, 40ft high cube.
• Less than Container Load (LCL): Your shipment shares container space with other shippers, which is more economical for smaller shipments.
• Specialized Cargo: For oversized, refrigerated, or hazardous goods.

2. Key Steps to Arrange Sea Freight

a. Find a Freight Forwarder

• A freight forwarder helps manage logistics, documentation, and shipping schedules. Examples include DHL Global Forwarding, Flexport, or local Canadian companies.

b. Choose a Port

• Major Canadian Ports: Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax.
• Major Chinese Ports: Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Tianjin.
• Port-to-port transit times typically range from 25–40 days, depending on the route.

c. Prepare Documentation

• Bill of Lading (BOL): The contract for cargo transport.
• Commercial Invoice and Packing List: Required for customs clearance.
• Certificate of Origin: If applicable.
• Customs Declaration: Includes a description of goods and their value.

d. Verify Customs Requirements

• Canada: Ensure your goods meet export requirements.
• China: Ensure goods comply with Chinese import regulations (check restricted/prohibited items).
• Duties and taxes will apply based on China’s tariff codes.

3. Cost Factors

• Weight & Volume: Shipping cost depends on the size and weight of your shipment.
• Shipping Method: FCL is cheaper per unit for large loads, while LCL is cost-effective for smaller shipments.
• Port Fees: Both origin and destination ports charge handling fees.
• Additional Services: Insurance, door-to-door delivery, customs brokerage.

4. Major Shipping Companies

• Maersk Line
• COSCO (China Ocean Shipping Company)
• MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
• CMA CGM
• Evergreen Line

5. Alternatives to Cargo Ship

If your shipment is urgent, consider air freight, which is faster (typically 3–7 days) but more expensive.

Would you like help finding a freight forwarder or calculating costs for your shipment?