OCEAN FREIGHT

What is Ocean Freight Service?

The term “ocean freight” is made up of two words. First is “ocean,” which means a large body of saltwater, and the other is “freight,” which refers to the transportation of goods or cargo. By combining them, ocean freight means transporting goods from one place to another across the ocean. 

So, essentially, it is a service that facilitates the transportation of goods across the sea to various countries. It is like the big, moving road for international shipping.

Security & Insurance – Ocean Freight

When it comes to shipping goods over the ocean, there are a number of challenges that may be encountered. So, security and insurance are very important.

• Cargo Theft Prevention – Ocean Freight Security Measures

Ocean freight security is taken very seriously by the ocean freight industry to protect your goods from theft. They use special tools like sealed containers, GPS tracking, and surveillance systems at ports as well as on our ships to keep track of everything.

• Container Sealing & Tamper Detection

To keep everything safe and in the same condition it is packed, shipping containers are sealed with high-security seals that follow the ISO 17712 standards. These seals make it nearly impossible for someone to tamper with or open the container during the trip. 

• Marine Cargo Insurance

Shipping over the ocean means your goods are exposed to different risks. So, to kick off these possible issues, marine cargo insurance is there to cover and compensate for the damage that occurs from the unexpected things like loss, theft, fire, and even damage caused by weather or accidents during the trading.

• Customs Inspection & Security Checks

Before cargo begins its journey to the designated destination, it goes through a security check at the port to check if everything is alright or not. These checks include random cargo inspections, X-ray scans, and customs clearances. 

The main goal for the security check is to make sure that no one is smuggling contraband, shipping counterfeit goods, or carrying dangerous hazardous materials that could harm people or the environment.

• Force Majeure & Natural Disasters

Sometimes, unexpected natural disasters like storms, hurricanes, or even earthquakes might hit the ship while the cargo is on its journey. These natural hazards are known as Force Majeure events. Therefore, to protect against such unforeseen issues, you should not skip marine cargo insurance.

• Liability Limitations

It is quite important to know that shipping companies have limited liability under certain laws, i.e., the Hague-Visby Rules. This means that if something goes wrong and your goods are damaged or lost, the shipping company might not be fully responsible. So, for full coverage, it is smart to get comprehensive insurance.

• Claims & Documentation

If something goes wrong and your cargo is damaged or lost, you can file a claim. But to do this, you must carry the right documents, including the Bill of Lading, Packing List, and Insurance Policy. You must also file your claim within a certain time frame. So don’t have to panic, just act fast to get the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Ocean Freight for Your Shipping Needs?

When you need to send a ton of things around the world, then opting for the best ocean cargo transport services is a smart choice. 

• Cost Efficiency – Ocean freight is one of the most affordable ways to ship goods across long distances. Since cargo ships can carry massive amounts of goods at once, it helps reduce the cost per unit, especially for bulk shipments. 

• Bulk Shipping Capacity – Whether you are shipping electronics, machinery, or a large amount of raw materials, our reliable ocean freight services can carry tons of cargo in a single trip. Just one trip and your goods are on their way!

• Global Reach – Ocean freight connects almost every part of the world via the shortest routes that do not have traffic like the land transportation system. And from there, further inland by road or rail.

So, never think twice before opting for this reliable & affordable service that handles bulk shipments with ease.

Comprehensive Ocean Freight Solutions

Ocean freight services not only transfer your goods, but they offers offer a variety of solutions.

International Ocean Freight Services

When you are searching the webpages to find reliable international ocean freight services, you can think of it as a bridge that connects businesses all over the world. Our services use massive cargo ships to move goods across long distances. As the goods are shipped across oceans daily, it also supports the global economy. 

• Global Trade Routes

A major ocean freight route network links continents and countries together to make international shipping smoother as well as faster. From Asia to Europe, North America to South America, and even across to Africa and Australia, ocean freight services cover almost every corner of the globe to ensure that businesses can ship products to and from any part of the world efficiently. 

Door-to-Door Ocean Freight Services

Door-to-door ocean freight services make shipping your goods around the world simple and easy. They handle everything from picking up your items at the starting point to delivering them right to your doorstep. 

Step-by-Step Process of Door-to-Door Ocean Freight Services

• Pickup & Inland Transportation (Origin)

First, the process starts with the shipper.

1. 1. Booking & Planning: The person sending the goods arranges the shipment with an ocean freight services company.
   2. Cargo Packaging & Labelling: The goods are then packed properly, labelled, and prepared to embark on their journey.
   3. Pickup & Transport to Port: A truck or a train picks up the cargo from the warehouse or factory and takes it to the nearest port.

• Export Customs Clearance

Before the cargo can leave the country, it needs to go through export customs clearance. The shipper provides all the important documents, including:

1. 1. Commercial Invoice & Packing List
   2. Bill of Lading (B/L) Draft
   3. Certificate of Origin (if needed)

Then the customs officials check everything and make sure that the goods are following the rules and regulations before they are allowed to leave.

• Port Handling & Container Loading

Once the goods reach the port, they are either loaded safely into a Full Container Load (FCL) or a Less than Container Load (LCL). The difference between the two is:

1. 1. FCL: The entire container with your goods is loaded onto the ship.
   2. LCL: In this, your cargo is grouped with other shipments in one container.

• Ocean Freight Transit

Now, your cargo is ready for its sailing journey! You can track your shipment in real time using GPS technology or the shipping company’s tracking system. With these updates, you can calculate the transit times. But it varies depending on the distance, the route, and how busy the ports are.

• Arrival at Destination Port & Unloading

When the ship arrives at the destination port, the cargo is unloaded efficiently and placed in a container yard. Then, customs officials do a quick inspection to make sure everything follows the import regulations and is in the best condition.

• Import Customs Clearance

Just like before, when the cargo arrives at the destination country, it needs to clear customs checkpoints. The importer (the person receiving the goods) must submit the following documents:

1. 1. Bill of Lading (B/L) or Telex Release
   2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List
   3. Import Permits & Licenses (if needed)

After going through the documents, customs officers will check for duties, taxes, and other necessary details before giving the green light for release.

• Container Release & Port Handling

Once the goods clear customs, the container is ready for release. If it is in the FCL Shipments, then the entire container is sent for the final delivery. And, if it is delivered in LCL Shipments, then the cargo is taken out of the container and sent to a container freight station (CFS) for delivery.

• Inland Transportation to Final Destination

Now that the cargo is fully prepared, it is time to move it from the port to the final destination: a warehouse, store, or factory. This is done by truck or rail. You can also track the shipment during this stage to stay updated.

• Final Delivery & Cargo Inspection

Once your goods arrive at the final destination, the receiver (consignee) will inspect the cargo for any damage or discrepancies. If everything looks good, it is time to sign off and receive the goods.

• Documentation Closure & Completion

The final step is completing all the necessary paperwork. In this last step, the freight forwarder will finalise everything and make sure you have all the documents you need, including:

1. 1. Final Bill of Lading (B/L)
   2. Customs Clearance Documents
   3. Proof of Delivery (POD)

Container Shipping and Bulk Transportation

There are two main ways to transport cargo: containerised shipping and bulk transport. Both methods have equal importance for global trade, but they are used for shipping different types of goods based on how much space they need, how they are handled, and how cost-effective they are. So, let’s learn about both of these methods!. 

• Containerized Shipping

Containerised shipping is the most common way to move goods worldwide. It involves placing your cargo into standardised containers, which are easy to stack and move. These containers are sealed properly. 

• Container Types & Uses

There are several types of containers to carry specific types of goods.

1. 1. Standard Dry Containers (20ft & 40ft) – These are the most common containers used for general cargo like electronics, textiles, and machinery.
   2. High Cube Containers (40ft & 45ft) – These containers are taller than standard ones and are ideal for bulky items.
   3. Reefer (Refrigerated) Containers – These are used for perishable items like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals that need to stay cold.
   4. Open-Top Containers – These are used for oversized cargo, such as heavy machinery or industrial equipment that won’t fit in a regular container.
   5. Flat-Rack Containers – These are used for cargo that is too large to fit in a normal container, like vehicles, pipes, or large equipment.
   6. Tank Containers – These are special containers used to carry liquids, such as chemicals, oil, and food-grade liquids.

• Bulk Transport (Liquid & Dry Bulk Cargo)

On the other hand, bulk transport is a method that is used for carrying large amounts of unpackaged goods. These are items that are often poured, loaded, or transferred directly from one place to another. 

Bulk transport is divided into two types: dry bulk and liquid bulk. These are explained below:

Dry Bulk Shipping (Solid Cargo)

This type of shipping is used for goods that are solid and don’t need packaging. It is loaded directly onto the ship using cranes, conveyor belts, or pipes. Some of the common goods shipped this way are:

1. 1. 1. Grains & Cereals (like wheat, corn, and rice)
      2. Coal & Minerals (such as iron ore and bauxite)
      3. Cement, Sand & Fertilisers.

Liquid Bulk Shipping (Tanker Ships)

Liquid bulk shipping is used for transporting large quantities of liquids. It requires specialised ships called tankers that are designed to safely transport liquids like:

1. 1. 1. Crude Oil & Petroleum Products
      2. LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) & LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)
      3. Chemicals & Industrial Liquids
      4. Edible Oils & Beverages 

Customs Clearance and Documentation Support

One of the most important things you will need to navigate is customs clearance and documentation support to ensure your goods meet all the necessary rules and regulations of both the country you are exporting from and the one you’re importing to.

Key Aspects of Customs Clearance & Documentation Support

• Pre-Shipment Documentation & Preparation

Before you can ship your goods, there are important documents that need to be ready. Ocean freight services providers and customs brokers help with this and make sure everything is correct and submitted on time.

Essential Documents Required for Clearance are:

1. 1. Bill of Lading (B/L) – This is the official contract between the shipper and the carrier to confirm the cargo has been accepted for transport.
   2. Commercial Invoice – This document lists the details of the sale, like product value, quantity, and buyer/seller information.
   3. Packing List – This shows the packing details of the shipment, such as weight, size, and contents.
   4. Certificate of Origin (COO) – It tells where the goods were made.
   5. HS Code (Harmonised System Code) – This number helps customs figure out the tariffs and taxes on your goods.
   6. Import/Export Licenses (if applicable) – Some products, like pharmaceuticals or chemicals, need special permits to be shipped.

• Export Customs Clearance (At Origin)

Before your goods leave the country, they must pass export customs. Here’s what happens:

Customs Declaration Filing: The exporter submits the necessary documents through an electronic system to let authorities know the cargo details.

1. 1. Inspection & Verification: Customs will check the cargo to make sure everything follows the rules.
   2. Duties & Taxes (if applicable): Some countries charge export duties based on the type of goods being shipped. So, you must be aware!
   3. Customs Approval: Once everything checks out properly, your goods are cleared and ready to be loaded onto the ship.

• Destination Port Arrival & Import Customs Clearance

Once your goods arrive at the destination port, the importer needs to complete the customs process for safety purposes. They are as follows:

1. 1. Bill of Lading Submission: This document is necessary to release the goods from the carrier.
   2. Duty & Tax Calculation: Customs calculates any import duties, taxes, and tariffs based on the product type and its value.
   3. Customs Inspection: Customs may inspect your cargo, either physically or with an X-ray scanner, on the basis of their rules.
   4. Release Authorisation: After everything is verified and the duties are paid, customs permits to release of the cargo for final delivery.

• Post-Clearance & Final Delivery

Once customs has cleared the goods, the shipment is ready to enter the final step and is sent for delivery.

1. 1. Inland Transportation: The goods are transported to their final destination, whether it is a warehouse, store, or distribution centre.
   2. Delivery Order (DO): The consignee (the person receiving the goods) uses this document to claim the shipment.
   3. Final Documentation: The importer receives all the documents for their records, including the customs clearance certificates and tax receipts.

How Documentation & Customs Support Help Businesses?

Documents act as proof! So, check how it can help:

• • Avoids Delays & Penalties: Correct documentation helps your goods move smoothly through customs without unnecessary delays or fines.
  • Compliance with Regulations: By following all the rules, you reduce the risk of your shipment being rejected or confiscated.
  • Accurate Duty & Tax Calculation: Proper documentation ensures you don’t overpay or underpay taxes and duties.
  • Efficient Import/Export Process: The right paperwork helps make the entire process more efficient, saving businesses time and money.
  • Real-Time Tracking & Updates: Shippers get updates on the customs status, so it also helps them stay informed and relaxed.

Specialised Ocean Freight Services for Businesses

Ocean Freight for Exporters and Importers

When businesses want to sell or buy goods internationally, they often turn to ocean freight. It is an important part of global trade, offering customised solutions for various business needs.

Tailored Solutions for Exporters (Sellers)

• • Competitive Freight Rates

Exporters get affordable rates for shipping large amounts of goods. They can choose between:

1. 1. 1. Full Container Load (FCL)
      2. Less than Container Load (LCL)

• • Flexible Shipping Solutions

Exporters can choose from different container options based on what they are shipping:

1. • 1. Standard Containers for regular goods like electronics, clothing, or auto parts.
     2. Reefer Containers for temperature-sensitive items like food or medicine.
     3. Open-Top & Flat-Rack Containers for oversized or heavy items like machinery.

   • Customs Compliance & Export Documentation Support

Freight providers help exporters with customs procedures and provide necessary documents, such as:

• • • Bill of Lading (B/L),
    • Commercial Invoice & Packing List,
    • Export Licenses & Permits (if needed).

  • Efficient Port Handling & Cargo Consolidation

Exporters can choose between FCL and LCL depending on how much cargo they have. If they don’t have enough for a full container, they can use cargo consolidation to share a container with other shipments.

• • Cargo Insurance & Risk Management

To protect valuable or fragile goods, you can opt for marine cargo insurance to cover risks.

Tailored Solutions for Importers (Buyers)

• • Streamlined Import Customs Clearance

Importers get help with customs to avoid delays or penalties. Customs brokers also ensure that everything is for smooth clearance.

• • Duty & Tax Optimisation

Freight providers assist with classifying goods using HS Codes to apply the right duties and taxes. They also help take advantage of trade agreements for reduced fees.

• • Inland Transportation & Last-Mile Delivery

Once goods reach the destination port, intermodal transportation options like rail, truck, and ocean freight ensure that goods reach their final destination.

• • Real-Time Tracking & Visibility

Importers can use digital systems to track their shipments in real time. They get updates on the status of their cargo and proactive alerts to plan.

• • Sustainable & Cost-Effective Shipping

Ocean freight is more eco-friendly compared to air freight, and it is a lower-cost option for shipping large quantities of goods.

Small Business Shipping Solutions

Running a small business and selling products globally? Ocean freight service is here to make your life easier and your shipping costs more affordable. So, grow your business internationally.

• • Cost-Effective Shipping

When it comes to shipping products in bulk, ocean freight is way cheaper than air freight. This helps small businesses save a lot of money, especially when shipping large quantities of goods.

• • Flexible Shipping Options

Don’t have enough products to fill an entire container? No worries! With Less than a Container Load (LCL), small businesses can share space in a container with other shipments.

• • Customs & Documentation Support

Ocean freight companies help small businesses with all the paperwork and customs clearance to ensure their shipments don’t get delayed at customs.

• • Reliable Delivery & Tracking

With ocean freight, businesses can plan because they know exactly when their shipments will arrive.

• • Global Market Access

Affordable ocean freight shipping means you can easily sell your products in new markets around the world, which leads to bigger profits.

Why Choose Us for Ocean Freight Services?

Reliable and Affordable Ocean Freight Shipping

At ATS Worldwide Pvt Ltd, we are all about making your shipping process as smooth and affordable as possible. We know how important it is for businesses to get their goods where they need to go, safely and on time, without breaking the bank. That’s why we offer dependable and budget-friendly ocean freight solutions.

Our Commitment to Excellence

• •  Reliable & Timely Deliveries – We know that your business relies on getting shipments on time. That’s why we stick to tight schedules to make sure your goods arrive when they’re supposed to.
  • Affordable Shipping Rates – Whether you need a Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than a Container Load (LCL), we offer competitive rates that work with your shipping volume and your budget.
  • Hassle-Free Customs Clearance – Customs paperwork can be confusing, but we’ve got it covered! Our expert team handles all the documentation and compliance so your shipments pass through customs smoothly without any delays.
  • Advanced Tracking & Transparency – Stay in the loop with real-time tracking. We provide complete visibility, so you’ll always know where your shipment is. No surprises, just peace of mind.
  • Dedicated Customer Support – From start to finish, our team is here to help. We offer personalised logistics solutions and are available 24/7 to answer any questions or address any concerns.

Expert Team for Ocean Freight Logistics

At ATS Worldwide Pvt Ltd, a dedicated team of experts makes sure your ocean freight shipments are handled with care, accuracy, and efficiency. 

Why Our Expert Team Stands Out?

• • Years of Industry Experience – Our team has a wealth of experience in the global freight-forwarding industry. We know the ins and outs of shipping, so your cargo moves smoothly and quickly.
  • End-to-End Logistics Management – From planning the best shipping route and selecting the right carrier to handling customs clearance and managing the final delivery, we handle every step of the process for you.
  • Customs & Compliance Experts – Navigating the rules and regulations of import/export can be tricky. So, our team is highly skilled at dealing with tariffs, documentation, and compliance.
  • Specialised Cargo Handling – We can handle all kinds of cargo—whether it’s temperature-controlled items, big machinery, or hazardous materials.
  • 24/7 Support & Proactive Problem-Solving – We’re always available to support you! We give you real-time updates on your shipment, help reduce risks, and are ready to solve any problems that may come up along the way.

Perks of Choosing Us as Your Sea Freight Forwarder

When you choose us as your sea freight company, you are not just picking a service—you are partnering with a team that genuinely cares about getting your goods to their destination safely and on time.

How Do We Ensure Efficiency in Ocean Freight Services?

We know that shipping can feel like a big puzzle with many pieces. That’s why we make sure everything runs smoothly by offering ocean freight services and tracking updates.

Advanced Tracking and Monitoring Solutions

Our advanced tracking and monitoring systems allow you to stay informed about your shipment’s progress every step of the way. We use the latest technology to give you up-to-date information, so you are never left in the dark.

• • Real-Time Updates: Track your cargo as it moves so you always know where it is. 
  • Clear Communication: We provide easy-to-understand tracking information so you can check on your shipment at any time.
  • Efficient Monitoring: Our expert team actively monitors all shipments, ensuring that we are ready to respond if anything needs attention, whether it’s a delay or a change in the route.
  • Custom Alerts: You’ll also receive notifications about important events, like port arrivals and departures.

So, no more worrying about “Where is my cargo?” Just check the system, and you’ll know!

Our Commitment to Sustainable & Green Logistics

We take the environment seriously and offer green ocean freight solutions to make shipping better for the planet. 

Our Green Shipping Initiatives

• • Low-Emission Vessels & Cleaner Fuels – We work with shipping companies that use cleaner fuels, like low-sulfur fuel and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), to reduce harmful emissions. 
  • Optimised Shipping Routes & Smart Logistics – Using AI-powered route planning, we choose the most efficient paths to avoid crowded ports and reduce unnecessary fuel use. 
  • Eco-Friendly Containerization & Packaging – We promote the use of reusable and biodegradable packaging materials to reduce waste. The lighter containers also mean less fuel is needed to transport them.
  • Carbon Offset Programs & Sustainable Partnerships – We support global green initiatives, such as planting trees and investing in renewable energy to offset carbon emissions and promote sustainable relations. 
  • Digital Documentation & Paperless Operations – To cut down on paper waste, we have switched to digital documentation like e-Bills of Lading and digital customs clearance.

Tips For Shipping Freight Forwarding

Ensure Smooth & Cost-Effective Shipping

Shipping freight can sometimes seem complicated, but you don’t have to worry! Businesses can make the process easier, save money, and avoid delays just by following the right steps. 

Essential Freight Forwarding Tips

• • Choose the Right Freight Mode – First, you must decide the shipment mode. Whether by ocean, air, or land, it depends on how big your shipment is, how fast you need it, and your budget.
  • Plan & Book in Advance – Booking early means you can get better prices and secure your spot, especially during busy times like holidays.
  • Ensure Accurate Documentation – You must make sure all your important documents are ready to submit.
  • Understand Customs Regulations & Duties – Every country has its own rules for cost and shipping items. So, make sure you understand the customs rules for the country you’re shipping to.
  • Optimise Packaging & Labelling – You must use strong, weather-proof materials to pack the goods and clearly label your shipments with details like who they’re for and any special instructions.
  • Track & Monitor Shipments in Real Time – Remember to keep an eye on your shipment using GPS tracking. This way, you will know where it is at all times and can avoid any surprises.
  • Get Cargo Insurance for Risk Protection – It is always a good idea to get marine cargo insurance in case anything gets lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • Work with a Reliable Ocean Freight Service – You should always make sure you work with a freight forwarder who has experience and knows your business needs.

Why Ocean Freight Matters for Global Trade?

As you now know, ocean freight is the backbone of global trade. So, it supports businesses of all sizes and helps them to expand internationally.

• Cost-Effective Shipping
• Reliability & Timeliness
• Scalability for Any Size Business
• Global Reach