Shipping can sometimes seem like a difficult and complicated process. Whether you are a sender or a recipient, it is good to be informed so that everything can go smoothly. Due to insufficient information about the shipping process, we can sometimes make mistakes and complicate things. With a little preparation, you will find that shipping can be a much easier process than you expected. For everything to go as you imagined, there are some shipping terms you should understand. If you take the time to do your research well, shipping to Saudi Arabia will seem like a piece of cake.
The ultimate guide to shipping terms you should understand
If you are new to shipping, a lot of new information can seem daunting. You probably have a lot of questions about which shipping method to choose and how much it will cost. We recommend that you make a list listing all the steps you need to take for your shipping to be successful.
Ways of shipping freight to Saudi Arabia
The entire process of shipping begins with deciding whether you want that shipping to be by a ship or a plane. Each of these alternatives has its advantages and you need to get acquainted with the characteristics of each of them. There are two most important factors when it comes to this: speed and price. It is up to you to consider which option is the best. This, of course, depends on the type and quantity of goods you send.
Sea freight shipping
When it comes to sea freight shipping, there are two terms you need to be familiar with – FCL and LCL. These terms refer to the option of renting a container to transfer the freight. It is a good idea to choose the Full Container Load (FCL) option when you want your goods to be separated from the goods of other shippers or manufacturers. You choose this alternative when you have a large number of goods to send to Saudi Arabia. You have opted for FCL if your goods occupy more than half of the container. If you do not have large shipping and are looking for cheaper transport, you will opt for the LCL option. Less than Container Load (LCL) is the best way to ship small and light things for a good price.
Air freight shipping
If you are in a hurry and want the cargo to reach the recipient as soon as possible, it is best to decide to ship it by plane. This way you will ensure that it arrives at the destination in the shortest possible time. It is important to know that this is a more expensive option but you’ll get the highest level of security by choosing this option. Air freight shipping is a better solution if the cargo doesn’t require much space. Whichever option you choose, there are plenty of good ways to trim shipping and delivery costs.
Documents you’ll need
When you ship goods to Saudi Arabia, there are many documents to think about. All of them are extremely important for the shipping to be done according to the regulations. The three most important documents you need to provide are:
- The packing list – This list contains all the information about what you are sending. It is a detailed description of the items, as well as the location to which those items are being sent. That list also contains information about the shipper. It should be first on your list of shipping terms you should understand and research.
- Commercial invoice – This document contains information on the price of the items that the sender ships to the recipient.
- Certificate of origin – This is a document that confirms that the items being shipped are suitable concerning the set criteria. This document is filled out by the sender and is very often used at customs as proof that everything is in order with the goods being sent.
Make sure you collect all the documentation on time. This will make shipping much easier for you and you will be able to send the cargo without stress. Inquire about whether any additional documentation is required when shipping specific items.
Terms and tips for packaging freight
When shipping freight, one of the most important things we need to find a way to pack it. We need to be very careful, especially when it comes to valuable things. We want to avoid worrying about them breaking.
The first thing you need to do is provide enough packing supplies. This way, you will have everything you need to keep things from breaking. No matter how big or small they are, keep in mind that the distance is very long, and do everything you can to avoid additional worries. Put everything fragile in additional boxes and wrap it in bubble wrap. The best thing you can do is research environmentally-friendly packing solutions. That way you can pack everything without worry while thinking about the planet at the same time! Along with this, you should learn a few packaging terms as well:
- Pallet – The pallet is a horizontal wooden platform on which the goods are placed. They are used for extra safety and easier transport.
- Palletizer – This is a machine that forms pallets providing them with additional security.
- Container – As mentioned previously, it is a big portable box in which the fright is placed while shipping
Get ready for shipping!
Now that you’ve made a list of all of the shipping terms you should understand it’s time to start planning! Do a little reading about Saudi Arabia’s ports and airports so that you can fully consider all your shipping options. If you need any help, it is always good to consult with experts. That way, you will get all the necessary information and excellent cooperation. Get acquainted with all of the services that you’ll need. Having a company on your side that you can trust with cargo transportation, customs clearance, and freight forwarding is very significant. This also includes crating and palletizing. When you have all these services in one place, shipping is no longer something you fear. In other words, when you do the research correctly and have people you can rely on, all that’s left is to wait for your freight to be shipped.
