Sea freight is one of the most important logistics solutions in international trade. This method, which ensures that large-volume cargo is transported economically, safely, and efficiently, plays a critical role especially in intercontinental trade. Thanks to its high cargo capacity, low cost advantage, and eco-friendly nature, it is preferred by many businesses.

Playing a significant role in global supply chains, sea freight establishes a reliable connection between producers and consumers across different continents. Thanks to container shipping in particular, products can be transported securely, and logistics processes proceed in an orderly manner.

Companies that choose sea freight can benefit from low-cost transport options while also reducing their carbon footprint through environmentally conscious logistics operations. Shipping goods by sea is much more economical over long distances compared to road or air transport. Moreover, modern ship technologies and digital logistics solutions make transit shipping processes more efficient.

How Is Sea Freight Done? A Step-by-Step Process

Sea freight is a process that requires careful planning and professional logistics management. First, the type, quantity, and characteristics of the cargo are determined, and the most suitable transport method is chosen.

Container-based shipping is the most widely used sea freight model worldwide. This system protects goods and allows them to be transported in an organized manner, enabling logistics processes to advance efficiently.

A reservation must be made before the shipping process begins. At this stage, suitable ports for the cargo to be shipped are selected, and agreements are made. Customs procedures are also of great importance during this process. All required documents are prepared to ensure that goods are transported in compliance with legal procedures. Once customs clearance is completed, the cargo is placed on ships, and the transport process begins.

One of the most important stages of sea freight is tracking and delivery. Logistics companies use advanced tracking systems to monitor shipments. This allows both the sender and the receiver to check the location and estimated arrival time of the cargo. Once the goods reach the destination port, customs procedures are finalized and delivered to the recipient.

This process, managed by logistics companies, consists of several stages:

1. Identifying the Cargo
2. Selecting the Container
3. Making a Reservation
4. Customs Procedures
5. Port Operations and Loading
6. Sea Voyage
7. Arrival and Customs Clearance
8. Final Delivery

International Sea Freight with ENCO: Reliability, Economy, and Sustainable Solutions

ENCO is one of the pioneering logistics companies providing reliable, economical, and eco-friendly solutions in sea freight. Thanks to its global logistics network, it offers secure and fast transportation services worldwide.

Cost management is extremely important in sea freight. With its advanced systems, ENCO provides customers with the most suitable transport costs. Additionally, through its technological infrastructure, it digitally manages ocean container shipping processes and increases efficiency.

Sustainable logistics solutions are one of ENCO’s core principles. Through eco-friendly container management and smart logistics systems, ENCO provides both economic and ecological advantages for companies. Firms working with ENCO can optimize their operational processes while also gaining a competitive advantage with environmentally conscious logistics solutions.

The International Sea Freight Process: Booking, Customs, and Delivery

Accurate planning is required for a successful management of sea freight operations. During the booking process, the volume of the cargo and the ports through which it will be shipped are determined, forming the details of transportation. Choosing the right transport model is essential to gain a competitive edge in international trade.

Customs clearance is one of the most critical phases of sea freight. To ensure smooth export and import operations, all necessary documents must be fully prepared and all customs regulations must be followed. After customs procedures are completed, the cargo is loaded onto the ship to begin the transport process. During delivery, goods are ensured to arrive at the destination within the planned timeframe.

Types and Options of Container Shipping

Container usage in sea freight is one of the most common methods for transporting goods in a safe, organized, and cost-effective manner. Container shipping provides flexibility and efficiency by offering different options depending on the type of product and transport needs. Since every shipment has unique characteristics, selecting the right container type is a critical factor that directly affects the success of logistics processes. The size, weight, temperature requirements, and fragility of the cargo play an important role in choosing the right container.

FCL (Full Container Load)

FCL is a logistics model where a fully loaded container belongs to a single customer. This transport method is especially ideal for large-scale and high-volume cargo. Because goods are not consolidated with other customers’ shipments during the delivery process, it provides a safer and faster shipping experience.

Full container load shipping is particularly preferred by sectors such as automotive, electronics, machinery, textiles, and industrial raw materials that require shipping large volumes. One of the biggest advantages of FCL is reducing transit time by delivering goods directly from the sender to the recipient, without needing additional handling during transport.

LCL (Less Than Container Load)

LCL is an economical shipping method in which cargo from multiple customers is transported in the same container. It provides cost-effective logistics solutions for small-volume loads without needing to rent an entire container.

This method is particularly advantageous for e-commerce, small and medium-sized enterprises, and companies shipping to various locations. While LCL container shipping offers lower costs and flexible loading options, its delivery time may be slightly longer compared to FCL because additional time is required to consolidate and separate goods.

Reefer Container

Reefer containers are special containers used for sensitive cargo requiring temperature control. These containers are equipped with cooling systems that maintain a constant temperature inside, making them particularly suitable for transporting food, pharmaceuticals, chemical products, and biotechnological materials that are highly sensitive to temperature.

In logistics processes requiring a cold chain, the temperature values can be set between -30°C and +30°C to ensure product freshness. Reefer containers allow products such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, frozen foods, and medicines to be transported over long distances without spoilage.

Open Top Container

Open Top containers are ideal for transporting oversized or taller cargo that does not fit into standard containers, thanks to their open-top structure. These containers, which can be covered with a tarp or removable lid, are widely used for heavy machinery requiring a crane or top-loading, as well as construction materials, pipes, and industrial equipment.

These containers save time by simplifying loading and unloading processes, contributing to more efficient logistics operations.

Flat Rack Container

Flat Rack containers have no side walls or roofs, consisting only of a base. Designed for large, heavy, or non-standard cargo that does not fit into regular containers, they are used to transport construction machinery, large industrial equipment, vehicles, and specially sized loads.

Their biggest advantage is that cargo can be loaded and unloaded from all four sides, enabling safe transportation of excessively wide or heavy loads.

Freight Rates and Cost Components in Sea Transport

Sea freight pricing can vary according to several factors. Elements such as container type, transport distance, port taxes, fuel prices, and customs costs are important factors that determine total shipping expenses.

Sea freight rates are influenced by various cost items:

• Vessel freight calculation fees
• Port expenses
• Insurance and customs fees
• Fuel and security costs

Transit Times: Average Delivery by Region

Transit times in sea freight vary depending on factors such as transport distance, port infrastructure, weather conditions, and customs processes.

Generally, sea freight from Turkey to Europe takes about 7–14 days, while shipments to China and the Far East are usually completed within 20–35 days. Shipments to the Americas vary between 25–40 days, whereas deliveries to Africa and the Middle East can range from 15–30 days.

Transit times may be affected by additional processes such as container loading, transshipments, port congestion, and customs clearance. Therefore, correct logistics planning is crucial to ensure the most suitable delivery time.

Sea Freight from Turkey to Europe

Sea freight shipments from Turkey to Europe are predominantly carried out through the ports of Istanbul, Izmir, and Mersin. Regular shipments are made to major logistics centers in Europe. Customs procedures play a significant role in transport operations to Europe.

Sea Freight from Turkey to China and the Far East

Sea freight from Turkey to China plays an important role in transporting large-volume commercial cargo. The most commonly used ports include Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Shipments to China are connected to Asia’s major trade hubs, accelerating regional distribution processes.

Shipping Cargo to America by Sea: Process and Costs

Sea freight from Turkey to the United States is generally carried out via the ports of Istanbul and Izmir. The main arrival points in the US are New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. Customs procedures, freight calculations, and transit times are of great importance for companies shipping to the United States.

Sea Freight Solutions to Africa and the Middle East

Africa and the Middle East occupy an important place in international transportation due to their growing economies and increasing trade volumes. These regions are strategic markets for Turkey, both in terms of exports and imports, and sea freight is one of the most important logistics solutions for accessing these markets.

Green Logistics: Sustainable Solutions in Sea Freight

Eco-friendly logistics solutions are among the most important agenda items in the transport sector today. Sea freight stands out as one of the most environmentally friendly transport methods in terms of carbon emissions. Fuel-efficient ships, sustainable energy sources, and smart logistics systems help reduce environmental impact in sea transport.

Green logistics solutions assist companies in adapting to environmental policies and creating sustainable business models. 

By offering eco-friendly transport solutions with logistics operations that reduce carbon emissions, ENCO supports companies in achieving their sustainability goals.