Ocean Freight at a Glance
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Global ocean freight coverage
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FCL, LCL, consolidation, and special cargo
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Strong EU & Middle East execution
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Clear tracking and proactive updates
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Documentation and customs support
Ocean Freight Options We Offer
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Full Container Load (FCL)
- One shipper per container
- Faster handling at ports
- Lower risk of damage
- Fixed container cost 8
Best for large shipments or high-value cargo.
Consolidation / Buyer’s Consolidation
- Combine shipments into one container
- Reduce overall landed cost
- Simplify customs clearance
Best when shipping from multiple suppliers.
Dangerous Goods (IMDG)
- IMDG-compliant handling
- Proper classification and documentation
- Carrier approvals managed
For regulated or hazardous cargo.
Less-than-Container Load (LCL)
- Share container space with other shippers
- Pay only for the space you use
- Slightly longer transit due to consolidation
Best for smaller shipments that don’t fill a container.
Oversized & Project Cargo
- Flat rack, open top, breakbulk, RoRo
- Planned handling and stowage
- Suitable for industrial projects
For machinery and non-standard cargo.
What Affects Air Freight Pricing?
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Air freight pricing is influenced by several factors.
Key cost drivers
- Chargeable weight (actual vs volumetric weight)
- Route and destination
- Fuel and security surcharges
- Seasonality and capacity availability
- Cargo type and handling requirements
Important to know
Air freight is always quote-based. Choosing the right service level often has a bigger impact on total cost than choosing the lowest rate.
How Ocean Freight Pricing Works
Ocean freight pricing depends on several factors.
What affects your rate
- Origin and destination ports
- Container type and availability
- Season and market demand
- Cargo type and weight
- Incoterms
- Volume (CBM) for LCL shipments
Important to know
The cheapest rate is not always the best choice. Reliable carriers, correct documentation, and proper cut-off management often save more money in the long run.
Tracking, Visibility & Updates
We provide updates for:
- Gate-in at port
- Vessel departure
- Arrival at destination port
- Customs release (if applicable)
- Delivery coordination
You always know where your shipment stands.
Cargo Insurance & Risk Management
Why insurance matters
- Carrier liability is limited
- Insurance protects the shipment value
- Claims support ensures recovery
Ocean transport carries risk.
Customs & Documentation Support
We support the preparation and coordination of:
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Certificate of origin
- Permits when required
Incorrect documents are a common cause of delays.
Get Started with Ocean Freight
Ocean freight works best when it is planned properly. We help you choose the right option, manage documentation, and keep shipments moving smoothly.
Why Choose GCE Logistics for Ocean Freight
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- Global ocean freight capability
- Strong EU & Middle East execution
- Single point of contact
- Clear communication and updates
- Accurate documentation
- Flexible routing based on cost or transit time
Our Netherlands and Jordan presence strengthens execution—but we remain fully global.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Ocean Freight?
Ocean freight is the transportation of goods by cargo vessel across international shipping routes. It is commonly used for large, heavy, or non-urgent shipments where cost efficiency and capacity are more important than speed.
Is Ocean Freight Cheaper Than Air Freight?
In most cases, yes. Ocean freight is generally more cost-effective than air freight, especially for large volumes or heavy cargo. Air freight may still be preferred for urgent shipments or high-value goods where speed is critical.
FCL or LCL — Which Should I Choose?
Choose FCL (Full Container Load) when your shipment can fill most or all of a container or when you want exclusive use of the container.
Choose LCL (Less-than-Container Load) when your shipment is smaller, and you want to share container space to reduce costs.
How Long Does Ocean Freight Take?
Ocean freight transit times are usually measured in weeks rather than days. The exact duration depends on the trade lane, carrier schedule, port congestion, and whether transshipment is required.
Can Oversized Cargo Be Shipped by Ocean Freight?
Yes. Oversized or non-standard cargo can be shipped using specialized solutions such as flat racks, open-top containers, breakbulk, or RoRo vessels, depending on the cargo dimensions and handling requirements.
Can Hazardous Goods Be Shipped by Ocean Freight?
Yes, hazardous goods can be shipped by ocean freight when they are properly classified, packaged, and documented in compliance with IMDG regulations. Carrier approval and accurate documentation are essential for safe and compliant transport.
Ocean Freight or Air Freight — Which Should I Choose?
Choose ocean freight when cost efficiency and larger volumes are the priority.
Choose air freight when speed, reliability, or shipment value is critical.
The right option depends on urgency, cargo type, and overall supply-chain needs.