Introduction
Embarking on an international move involves a lot of planning and coordination, and it often comes with a new vocabulary. Understanding the frequently used terms in the international moving industry is crucial to navigate quotes, understand your rights and responsibilities, and ensure a smooth relocation. This guide decodes the essential shipping terms you need to know before moving overseas.
Essential Shipping Terms for Your International Move
- Bill of Lading (B/L):
- Definition: The Bill of Lading is a legal document issued by the carrier (shipping company) to acknowledge receipt of the cargo for shipment. It serves as a receipt, a contract of carriage, and a document of title.
- Why It’s Important: It’s your primary shipping document. Review it carefully to ensure all details are accurate.
- Consignee:
- Definition: The consignee is the person or entity to whom the shipment is addressed and who will ultimately receive the goods at the destination.
- Why It’s Important: Ensure the consignee information is correct on all shipping documents.
- Customs Clearance:
- Definition: The process of complying with all import regulations and requirements of the destination country to legally bring your goods into that country.
- Why It’s Important: Customs clearance involves submitting paperwork, paying duties and taxes (if applicable), and potentially undergoing inspections. Delays here are common.
- Demurrage:
- Definition: A charge assessed by the port for containers left at the terminal beyond the allotted free time. This fee is charged per day the container remains at the port beyond the free period.
- Why It’s Important: Plan for timely pickup of your container after it arrives at the port to avoid these extra charges.
- Detention:
- Definition: A charge assessed by the shipping line or carrier for keeping their equipment (e.g., container, chassis) longer than the agreed-upon free time.
- Why It’s Important: Unload your container promptly and return the empty equipment within the allowed timeframe.
- Door-to-Door Service:
- Definition: A comprehensive moving service that includes packing, loading, shipping, customs clearance, and delivery of your goods to your new residence.
- Why It’s Important: Understand the specifics of what’s included in a “door-to-door” quote, as services can vary.
- Drayage:
- Definition: The transport of goods over a short distance, often as part of a longer overall move. This typically refers to trucking containers from the port to a warehouse or your residence.
- Why It’s Important: Drayage costs can vary, so get a clear understanding of these fees upfront.
- Freight Forwarder:
- Definition: A company that specializes in arranging the transportation of goods on behalf of shippers. They handle logistics, documentation, and customs clearance.
- Why It’s Important: A good freight forwarder is invaluable for navigating the complexities of an international move.
- Full Container Load (FCL):
- Definition: A shipment that utilizes the entire capacity of a shipping container. You have exclusive use of the container.
- Why It’s Important: FCL is generally faster and more secure than LCL.
- Less than Container Load (LCL):
- Definition: A shipment that does not fill an entire shipping container. Your goods are consolidated with other shippers’ goods in the same container.
- Why It’s Important: LCL is more cost-effective for smaller shipments but may take longer due to consolidation and deconsolidation.
- Origin Charges:
- Definition: Fees assessed at the origin location of your shipment. These can include packing, loading, terminal handling, and documentation fees.
- Why It’s Important: Understand all origin charges included in your quote to avoid surprises.
- Destination Charges:
- Definition: Fees assessed at the destination location of your shipment. These can include customs clearance, terminal handling, delivery, and unpacking fees.
- Why It’s Important: Understand all destination charges included in your quote to avoid surprises.
- TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit):
- Definition: A standard unit used to measure container capacity. It refers to a container that is 20 feet long.
- Why It’s Important: Shipping costs are often quoted per TEU.
Conclusion
Understanding these frequently used terms will empower you to communicate effectively with moving companies, freight forwarders, and other service providers. By familiarizing yourself with the language of international shipping, you can navigate the complexities of your move with greater confidence and ensure a smoother relocation experience.
FAQs
- What’s the difference between a freight forwarder and a moving company?
- While some companies offer both services, freight forwarders typically specialize in the logistics of shipping, while moving companies focus on the packing, loading, and transportation of household goods.
- How can I get a clear and accurate quote for my international move?
- Provide detailed information about your shipment, including the volume of goods, origin and destination addresses, and desired services. Get multiple quotes and compare them carefully.
- Should I purchase shipping insurance for my international move?
- Yes, cargo insurance is highly recommended to protect your belongings against loss or damage during transit. Review the policy carefully to understand what’s covered.