Leading Sea Freight Forwarding in Malaysia

The primary distinction lies in the terminology: “cargo” refers to the actual goods or merchandise being transported from one location to another, regardless of the mode of transportation. On the other hand, “sea freight” refers to the payment, charge, or rate associated with the transportation of goods by sea. While “cargo” specifically denotes the physical items being shipped, “freight” encompasses the broader concept of the financial aspect of transportation services.

Sea freight  involves various types of cargo, where each category requires specific handling methods and equipment for loading and unloading:

• • Roll on/roll off: Vehicles, like cars and trucks, are driven directly onto ships for transportation.
    
    

• • Break bulk: Cargo, such as machinery or crates, is loaded individually onto ships without containers.

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  • Dry bulk: Loose materials, like grains or ores, are poured or scooped into the ship’s hold for transport.

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  • Liquid bulk: Liquids, such as oil or chemicals, are pumped directly into the ship’s tanks for shipment.

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• Container cargo: Goods are packed into standardised containers, which are then loaded onto ships for transport.

Transloading makes the supply chain more flexible by connecting different ways of transporting goods. For instance, it can be part of a smooth plan to bring cargo into an area using trucks, store it in warehouses, and then send it out to other places.This is especially useful for businesses using both domestic transportation and cross-border transportation.

Determining the superior option between sea and air freight depends on various factors, such as delivery speed, cost, and the nature of the cargo.

• Sea freight offers a significantly larger capacity for transporting goods compared to air freight, often at a lower cost. Ocean freight vessels, such as container vessels, can accommodate large volumes of cargo, making them a cost-effective option for businesses, especially for bulky or non-perishable items.
  
  
• In contrast, air freight is limited by the size and weight restrictions of aircraft, which can result in higher transportation costs, but it is often preferred for time-sensitive or high-value goods due to its faster delivery speed.

For a detailed comparison, refer to our article: Air Freight vs. Sea Freight.

A sea freight forwarder in Malaysia coordinates shipping services, including booking cargo space, preparing documentation, and ensuring smooth customs clearance. This is essential for businesses shipping goods locally and internationally.

Shipping sea freight from China to Malaysia involves arranging containerized or bulk cargo transport, handling customs clearance, and ensuring timely delivery.

Sea freight is tracked using a Bill of Lading (BL) and digital tracking systems provided by the shipping company. These systems update the shipment status at key transit points, ensuring transparency throughout the journey. 

Essential documents include the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and any necessary customs documentation. Specific requirements may vary depending on the countries involved and the nature of the goods.

Proper packaging is crucial to protect goods during transit. Use sturdy materials, secure items to prevent movement, and consider factors like moisture and temperature. Label packages clearly and ensure they comply with any specific regulations for the destination country.