Ocean Freight — Full Container, Break Bulk, ISO Tank and More

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between FCL and LCL ocean freight?

FCL (Full Container Load) means your cargo fills an entire container — you pay for the whole container regardless of how much space you use. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your cargo shares a container with other shippers' freight and you pay only for the space your cargo occupies. FCL is preferable for large volumes, time-sensitive cargo, and hazardous materials requiring segregation. LCL is cost-effective for smaller shipments where transit time flexibility is acceptable.

What is an ISO tank and when do I need one?

An ISO tank is a standardized tank container designed for bulk liquid transport by ocean, road, and rail. It holds typically 17,000 to 26,000 liters of liquid. ISO tanks are used for bulk liquid chemicals, food-grade liquids, and other products that would otherwise require drumming or intermediate bulk containers. They offer cost advantages over drummed freight for volumes above approximately 14,000 liters and are fully intermodal — the same tank moves by ship, truck, and rail without product transfer.

What is IMDG Code and how does it affect my ocean shipment?

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code is the international regulatory framework governing the transport of hazardous materials by sea. It specifies classification, packaging, marking, labeling, documentation, and stowage requirements for dangerous goods on ocean vessels. IMDG compliance is required for all hazardous material ocean shipments regardless of quantity. Non-compliance can result in cargo rejection at port, vessel fines, and significant liability exposure. Total Connection manages IMDG compliance documentation as standard for all hazardous ocean freight.

What is a bill of lading and why does it matter?

A bill of lading is the primary legal document in ocean freight — it serves as a receipt for the cargo, a contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier, and a document of title that controls ownership of the goods. There are two types: a straight bill of lading (non-negotiable, consigned to a specific party) and an order bill of lading (negotiable, transferable by endorsement). The type of bill of lading affects how payment and title transfer is structured, which is particularly important for international trade finance arrangements.

How long does ocean freight take?

Transit times vary significantly by trade lane. Trans-Pacific eastbound (Asia to US West Coast) typically runs 14 to 21 days. Asia to US East Coast via Panama runs 25 to 35 days. Europe to US East Coast runs 8 to 14 days. These are vessel transit times only — port processing, customs clearance, and inland delivery add additional time at both ends. Total Connection provides lane-specific transit estimates at the time of booking.

What is demurrage and how do I avoid it?

Demurrage is a charge applied when a full container is not returned to the carrier's terminal within the allowed free time after vessel arrival — typically 3 to 5 days depending on the port and carrier. It accrues daily and can become significant on congested lanes. The most effective way to avoid demurrage is to have customs clearance completed and delivery arranged before the vessel arrives, and to have a receiving facility ready to accept the container promptly after delivery. Total Connection tracks vessel arrivals and coordinates delivery timing to minimize demurrage exposure.

Can you handle hazardous chemical ocean freight?

Yes — IMDG-compliant hazardous chemical ocean freight is a core capability. We manage classification verification, IMDG documentation, packaging compliance, carrier booking with appropriate stowage arrangements, and port handling coordination for hazardous materials. This includes Class 3 flammable liquids, Class 8 corrosives, Class 6 toxic substances, and other regulated commodities commonly found in chemical supply chains.

What is the difference between a freight forwarder and an NVOCC?

A freight forwarder arranges transportation on behalf of the shipper but does not take carrier liability — they act as an agent. An NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier) issues its own bills of lading and takes carrier liability for the cargo it handles, operating like a carrier even though it doesn't own vessels. Total Connection operates as an NVOCC, which means we issue our own ocean bills of lading and are directly liable for the cargo under our care — providing more accountability and documentation control than a pure forwarding arrangement.