International Sea Freight Shipping

When you need to move goods across the globe, sea freight is one of the most reliable and economical options. At PACK & SEND, we make international sea cargo shipping simple, safe, and stress-free. With over 30 years of expertise, we manage everything from expert packing and container loading to customs clearance and delivery. Whether you’re moving personal belongings, commercial cargo, or oversized freight, we pack with precision, send with confidence, and handle every detail along the way.

What is Sea Freight

Sea freight is the process of transporting large volumes of goods across the ocean using cargo ships. Goods are usually packed into 20ft or 40ft containers and loaded onto vessels that sail to their destination country. A single container ship can usually carry around 18,000 containers (TEU), making sea freight one of the most cost-efficient ways to handle international trade and personal shipments.

Main Types of Sea Freight Shipping

PACK & SEND offers access to a range of international sea freight options, with a particular focus on Less than Container Load (LCL) services:

• Less than Container Load (LCL): Our core sea freight service. You share container space with other shippers, making it a cost-effective choice for smaller or irregular loads. PACK & SEND coordinates the packing, consolidation, and documentation to ensure your shipment travels efficiently and securely.
• Full Container Load (FCL): For larger or higher-volume shipments requiring exclusive container use, we can arrange full-container solutions through our logistics network.
• Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO): Available for vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and trailers, where suitable carriers operate.
• Dry Bulk Shipping: Limited support may be available for commercial consignments that require bulk handling.

How sea freight differs from air and road options

The fundamental distinction between sea freight and alternative transport methods lies in speed, reliability, and handling standards. Sea freight typically takes 6-10 weeks to reach international destinations, whereas air freight service typically delivers within 5-10 days, depending on the destination and service level selected.

Road freight, whilst excellent for domestic and regional deliveries, becomes impractical for international shipments requiring border crossings and extensive documentation. Sea freight, though cost-effective for large volumes, exposes goods to extended transit times, multiple handling points, and potential weather-related delays that can disrupt time-sensitive business operations.

What Can You Ship by Sea Freight?

Sea freight is one of the most versatile shipping options, capable of handling goods that may be too heavy, bulky, or restricted for air freight. With PACK & SEND, you can move almost anything securely and cost-effectively by sea, including:

• Bulk Goods & Commercial Cargo: Send machinery, raw materials, retail stock, and industrial equipment through our comprehensive logistics solutions.
• Household & Personal Effects: Furniture, appliances, clothing, and full container loads for international relocations & removals.
• Fragile & High-Value Items: Antiques, artwork, musical instruments, or other delicate items packed with expert care using our specialised packing solutions.
• Vehicles & Oversized Cargo: Cars, motorcycles, boats, or trailers via Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO) shipping.
• Dry Bulk Commodities: Goods such as coal, grain, salt, cement, or sugar, shipped in bulk holds.

With fewer restrictions compared to air freight, sea shipping is ideal for items that are oversized, or simply uneconomical to send by air. Our specialists will advise on the safest and most cost-effective way to ship your cargo.

Benefits of Sea Freight

Shipping by sea offers several clear advantages:

• Cost-effective: Cheaper than air freight for shipments over 100kg or multiple cartons.
• Carbon-efficient: A lower carbon footprint compared to other transport modes.
• Ideal for bulk goods: Large, heavy, or oversized items can be easily shipped.
• Fewer restrictions: Items restricted by air freight (like perfumes or some chemicals) can often be shipped by sea.

How Our International Sea Freight Service Works

We’ve designed the process to be simple and transparent:

• Book Your Service – We recommend visiting your nearest Pack & Send service centre for full services. We’ll help you choose the most suitable sea freight option based on your shipment’s size, urgency, and budget.
• Expert Packaging & Preparation – Let us pack and cater your goods to international standards with our professional packing solutions.
• Documentation & Customs Clearance – We’ll guide you through commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and HS codes.
• Transit & Tracking – Your shipment is transported by sea, and you can follow its progress every step of the way with our online tracking system.
• Final Delivery or Collection – After customs clearance, your goods are either delivered securely to the final destination or made available for collection from the port or bonded warehouse, depending on the service and destination country.

Why Choose PACK & SEND for Sea Freight Shipping?

PACK & SEND specialises in Less than Container Load (LCL) sea freight — the flexible, cost-effective choice for shipping smaller consignments or mixed cargo internationally. Whether you’re sending a few cartons, a pallet, or part of a container, our team ensures your goods are packed, consolidated, and managed with professional care.

Beyond LCL, we can also arrange Full Container Load (FCL), Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO), and selected bulk freight services through our trusted logistics partners when suitable for your needs.

Why customers choose PACK & SEND:

• LCL Expertise: We specialise in shared-container shipping, providing efficient and affordable options without requiring a full container.
• Global Reach: Ship to over 220 countries and 80,000 destinations worldwide through our international courier and freight services.
• Expert Packaging for Safe Transit: Our team designs protective packaging and custom crates for everything from household goods to fragile antiques.
• Comprehensive Support: Service Centres provide guidance on packing, paperwork, and customs.
• Peace of Mind: Our optional Freight Plus Warranty protects your shipment against loss or damage, giving you added security throughout the journey.

What is Customs Clearance?

Every international shipment must pass through customs. This ensures compliance with regulations, duties, and import restrictions.

Key documents include:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading
• HS Code classification
• Certificate of Origin (if required)

PACK & SEND assists with the preparation of required documentation and coordinates with carrier partners to help facilitate a smooth customs process. Final clearance decisions, timeframes, and any duties or taxes payable are determined by the destination country’s customs authorities.

Understanding Sea Freight Shipping Costs

The cost of sea shipping depends on several key factors:

• Weight and volume (measured in cubic metres or container size)
• Destination country and port fees
• Service type (LCL, FCL, RORO, or dry bulk)
• Customs duties, taxes, and brokerage
• Insurance or warranty
• Local pick-up and delivery charges

Costs can vary significantly between destinations. Give us a call or talk to our specialist from your nearest Service Centre.

Popular Sea Freight Destinations

From Australia, PACK & SEND ships cargo to major global corridors, including:

• Shipping to the USA: PACK & SEND ensures efficient delivery to the USA, even for complex or restricted items. Our expertise with U.S. customs requirements means your goods arrive smoothly and on time.
• Shipping to the UK: From business cargo to excess baggage and personal goods, we deliver safely across the UK. Our team navigates post-Brexit customs changes and local delivery nuances with ease.
• Shipping to New Zealand: With streamlined trans-Tasman processes, your freight moves quickly and securely across the Tasman. We handle everything from small parcels to full container loads.
• Shipping to Asia: From major trade hubs to remote destinations, PACK & SEND has the expertise to deliver across Asia. We manage diverse customs regulations so your cargo reaches its destination without delay. Shipping to Europe: We provide cost-effective shipping across Europe, handling both EU and non-EU customs requirements. Whether commercial or personal cargo, your goods are delivered reliably and at competitive rates.

Explore More International Shipping Options

Sea freight is just one way PACK & SEND connects Australia to the world. You may also want to explore:

• International Express Courier Service: For urgent requirements, our express international courier services offer quick international transit times.
• International Air Freight: Air freight is a cost-effective option for heavier shipments that need quicker delivery than sea freight, typically within 5–10 business days.
• International Postage & Airmail: International postage service is best for small parcels and documents.
• International Relocations: International relocation service is designed for families, students, or expatriates moving overseas or sending excess baggage.

Book Your Sea Freight Shipment Today

PACK & SEND offers international shipping solutions to suit all needs, from one-off senders to growing businesses:

Service Centre Shipping

Sea freight bookings are available exclusively through PACK & SEND Service Centres. This option is ideal for fragile, high-value, oversized items, excess baggage, or personal effects. Get a quote online or by phone, then work directly with your local Service Centre for professional packing, documentation, pickup, and expert support throughout the process.

FAQs About International Sea Freight

How long does sea freight take?

Sea freight shipping typically takes 6-10 weeks, depending on the route and destination.

How much does sea freight cost?

Costs vary by container size, volume, and destination. Speak to a specialist from your nearest Pack & Send service centre.

Can I track my shipment?

Tracking for sea freight shipments is more limited than for courier services. Online tracking is not always available, as updates depend on carrier systems and port schedules. Your PACK & SEND Service Centre monitors shipment progress and can provide status updates proactively or upon request throughout the journey.

Who pays customs duties and taxes?

Usually the recipient (DDU). In some cases, PACK & SEND can arrange pre-paid duties (DDP).

Is there warranty on sea freight?

Yes. Our optional Freight Plus Warranty covers loss or damage, with special protection available for antiques and artwork.