PRACTICAL SEA FREIGHT GUIDE
Container Cargo Preparation Guide
From dimensions to delivery details: prepare your enquiry and see what is missing.
This guide focuses on information preparation for standard dry cargo. Review the specific conditions of dangerous, temperature-controlled, heavy or out-of-gauge cargo with qualified specialists.
Describe the cargo as packed.
For each package group, prepare the length, width, height and quantity including the pallet and outer packaging. State the unit clearly and distinguish the unpacked product from the packed dimensions.
State whether the weight is the net product weight or the packed gross weight. Dimensions entered in the volume calculator should describe the same packed state.
Open the existing volume helperCheck internal dimensions and door clearance separately.
Compare dry-cargo equipment in the example guide. Actual internal dimensions, door clearance and carrying limits can vary; confirm suitability with the carrier.
View equipment dimensionsDescribe stacking and handling needs.
State whether cargo can be stacked, whether it is fragile and whether it is sensitive to moisture or temperature. Plan loading, unloading and securing needs with qualified people.
Plan a receipt check for container cleanliness, condition and cargo compatibility. This page does not produce a securing calculation or loading instruction.
Clarify the route and responsibilities.
Write down the origin, destination, cargo-ready date and requested delivery point. Clarify delivery terms and loading/unloading responsibilities with the parties; leave unknown information identified as unknown.
Confirm required documents and declarations with the relevant parties and obtain carrier/terminal submission deadlines. Bring the information together in the existing freight enquiry.
Go to the sea freight enquiryDistinguish gross cargo weight from VGM.
VGM is the verified gross mass of the packed container, not just the product weight. Depending on the method, cargo, packing/securing materials and container tare are considered together.
Plan the method, authorised responsible party and submission deadline with the shipper and carrier. Ticks here do not constitute weighing, a VGM document or a submission.
Check date: General information. Confirm product, route and handling conditions with the Gulf Sea team.