We speak of maritime transport when goods in bulk, general cargo or transport units (containers) are transported by sea in local and international transport.
Brief description
Shipping by sea is particularly applicable to shipments of heavy weight, large volume and quantity, and small value of goods. Also, a sufficiently large time requirement is a prerequisite for shipping by sea. In contrast to air transport, sea transport is a low-cost alternative, however, attention should be paid to the type of packaging suitable for sea transport.
An important factor for the reliable transportation of sea shipments, which can take up to almost a month depending on the distance, is the quality of the loading and stowage processes. Such external influences as the movement of the ship, the loaded cargo and different climatic zones cannot be underestimated and can be largely offset by the use of proper packaging as well as container fixation.
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Abbreviations and container types |
Explanation |
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LCL |
Less Container Load; describes the partial loading of a container, weight and volume are taken for billing |
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FCL |
Full Container Load; describes the complete loading of the container, the gross weight including tare is always given |
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TEU or 20' Container |
Twenty Foot Equivalent Unit; 20′ Container, a standard shipping container with internal dimensions of 590 x 234 x 239 cm, loading weight is about 22 tons or 28 m³ |
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FEU or 40' Container |
Forty Foot Equivalent Unit; 40′ Container, a standard shipping container with internal dimensions of 1203 x 234 x 239 cm cargo weight is approximately 26.5 tons or 55m³ |
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BAF |
Bunker Adjustment Factor; a fuel surcharge that is added to the fare |
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CAF |
Currency Adjustment Factor, an allowance to compensate for the exchange rate added to the fare |
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DGR |
Dangerous Goods Regulations; guidelines and guidance for transportation of dangerous goods |
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B/L |
Bill of Lading; shipping document in maritime transport |
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High Cube |
40′ container with increased height and width, internal dimensions 1203 x 234 x 271 cm, cargo weight about 26.6 tons or 60 m³ |
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Open Top |
20′ or 40′ containers open from the top so that tall goods can be transported |
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Reefer |
Refrigerated Container; refrigerated 20′ or 40′ containers used for transporting chilled goods (food, pharmaceuticals) |
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Flat Rack |
Shipping platform with 20′ or 40′ container floor dimensions |
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