Full containers and part loads
One file from the supplier’s factory to your loading bay, with more than a dozen ocean carriers and origin agents who answer the phone.
Ports and landed cost
Cape Town and Durban mainly, with Gqeberha and Ngqura when the routing suits. We pick the port that lands cheaper for your address, and quote one itemised landed cost: freight, origin and terminal charges, duty, VAT and delivery.
How long it takes
Far East 28 to 38 days on the water, Northern Europe 18 to 25, plus three to seven days to clear and deliver. Honest ranges: blank sailings and congestion move them, and we tell you the day we hear.
See container specifications and Incoterms 2020. Every sea shipment clears through our own customs desk.
Quick answers
What is the difference between FCL and LCL?
FCL (full container load) means you book the whole container: a 20GP, 40GP or 40HC. LCL (less than container load, or groupage) means your cargo shares a container and you pay for the space you use. LCL suits smaller loads. Once you are close to half a container, FCL often works out cheaper, so we price both and show you the difference.
How long does sea freight from China to South Africa take?
From the Far East it is usually 28 to 38 days on the water, then three to seven days to clear customs and deliver. From Northern Europe it is 18 to 25 days on the water. Blank sailings and port congestion move these ranges, and we tell you the day we hear of a change. See importing from China to South Africa.
Which South African ports do you use?
Mainly Cape Town and Durban, with Gqeberha and Ngqura when the routing suits. We pick the port that lands cheaper for your delivery address. Our customs desk clears at all of them, so you have one clearing agent for Cape Town and Durban.
What documents do I need to import by sea?
The commercial invoice, the packing list and the bill of lading from your supplier, your SARS customs client (importer) code, and a letter of authority so we can clear for you. Some goods also need a permit (ITAC, NRCS, port health or agriculture), and a certificate of origin lets you claim a lower duty rate under a trade agreement. We check the list before the goods ship.
Can you quote the full landed cost?
Yes. One itemised figure: ocean freight, origin and terminal charges, duty, VAT and delivery to your door. Ask for a landed cost and a controller replies within one working day.