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In order to develop successfully, all imports require careful management of logistics processes to ensure the safe and correct transfer of products from one country to another. Logistics operators are involved in this process, as well as various procedures that must be carried out.
In this context, over time, systems have been emerging that are particularly oriented towards the handling and use of cargo containers for complex tasks such as international transfers. Today, we want to talk about Less than Container Load (LCL) and everything you have to take into account when moving cargas consolidadas LCL.
Benefits of consolidated loads LCL
In the import area, the shipping LCL it is one of the most used modalities today. In particular, for the maritime transport of goods. Basically, it can be said that it is a type of shipment in which the cargo occupies as little space as possible in a container, which causes it to share space with products and merchandise from other suppliers.
In relation to this, it is a system used especially by small and medium importers who prefer to make group purchases with others. By sharing a container with other importers, significant logistics costs are saved. Some of the main benefits that importers can obtain from using this modality are:
Costs reduction
Both logistics costs and operating costs in general drop considerably when opting for a LCL for imports modality. small or medium. This is because it is not necessary to move an entire container for the products themselves.
Intermodal service
Through LCL, the possibility of using an intermodal service increases considerably. This is due to the fact that the possibilities gradually extend towards the use of consolidated operators, courier services and the use of warehouses to send goods.
Speed of deliveries
Unlike other modalities, when you bet on the consolidated LCL loads for import of products and merchandise, this represents greater agility. It is an alternative that provides the possibility of delivering products quickly without having to wait for a larger quantity of own goods to finish filling the container. In this way, the delivery service to the customer is streamlined, which also results in greater possibilities of customer satisfaction.
Accessibility for all
Many times, the modalities of freight transport where it is necessary to fill an entire container are inaccessible to small and medium importers. This is because the shipping volume of these is usually lower. In this way, that alternative can be inaccessible and excessively expensive.
In contrast, LCL consolidated cargoes is something that is within the reach of small and medium businesses and companies that need to make shipments, because the costs are shared with other companies, while they can guarantee deliveries without having to wait for new products.
What is LCL and how does it work on import?
Despite being an increasingly widespread modality, import products with LCL consolidated cargo requires detailed logistics management. Therefore, below, we are going to tell you what aspects must be taken into account when opting for the LCL modality for import.
LCL shipping requirements
In order to carry out imports of products with LCL, it is necessary to book the shipment with the freight forwarder. In doing so, it will be necessary to know exactly the dimensions and weight of the loads to be transported.
In addition, there is certain documentation that will be necessary to present, as is mainly the case of the Bill of Lading (BL), which is the document from which the carrier takes charge of the transferred goods. You must also have the Packing List (PK), which is the document linked to the content of the shipment. In addition, the identification data will be requested, which is the Commercial Invoice (FC) of the buyer and the seller and the data referring to the value of the transported cargo.
Shipping time management
Another aspect that must be taken into account when importing products with LCL is time management. Imports with LCL shipment usually have a regular frequency, which can be both weekly and fortnightly. This is generally linked to the port of destination and its own conditions or characteristics.
Taking this into account, time management is very important to avoid delays in receiving the goods. Although this can be modified according to each case, it is usual to recommend that the loads arrive at the warehouse at least one week before the shipment date. However, the distance between the warehouse and the port of departure must be considered, because the greater this distance, the greater the delay in the transfer.
What to do in case of shipping delays?
As we have seen previously, the consolidated LCL shipments can be very fast, expanding the possibilities for companies to meet the demands and needs of their customers. However, on different occasions there may be delays, generally linked to problems in the management of the products or due to delays by other importers who share the container.
The most effective way to prevent this from happening is to leave the management in the hands of professionals with experience in the area who can take the necessary actions to prevent delays and resolve inconveniences that may occur throughout the process. Therefore, it is important that you put your merchandise in the hands of expert companies in international logistics, such as Alfa Trading S.A , leading company transporting products from Uruguay to Paraguay.
In Alfa Trading S.A. we are a Paraguayan company with more than 28 years of experience in international logistics and we can advise you in air, sea, land and </span >multimodal of your burden. Our experts have extensive knowledge of international freight, customs procedures and everything related to the handling of different types of cargo.
In addition, we offer you global coverage, since we have cargo agents in all ports and airports in the world, ready to assist you in the success of your operation.
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