1) The Best Method to Ship Your Goods from Vietnam to the UK
The United Kingdom, as the second-largest economy in Europe, attracts global investors keen on tapping into its market of over 60 million consumers. The country, comprising two major islands, heavily relies on ocean freight to connect its insular territory with the rest of the world. With a rich history of maritime navigation, the UK boasts numerous bustling seaports lining its coasts. To diversify its transportation infrastructure, the UK has also invested in various other transport solutions, including the Eurotunnel connecting it directly to Europe.
1.1) Sea Freight Shipping from Vietnam to the UK
1.1.1) Overview – Ocean Cargo from Vietnam to the UK
The flow of ocean freight in the UK is distributed among numerous seaports bordering different coasts and countries. Despite their individual small sizes, the strength of UK ports lies in the magnitude of their total traffic when combined. In 2017 alone, these ports handled a staggering 471 million tonnes of cargo. The UK is highly competitive in terms of sea transportation, with its major economic partners being the EU and China. Vietnam ranks 22nd in trade relations with the UK.
UK ports are also known for significant exchanges among themselves. The busiest ports include Grimsby & Immingham, London, Southampton, Liverpool, and Milford Haven.
1.1.2) Shipping Companies Offering Services from Vietnam to UK Ports
Several industry giants play a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of goods from Vietnam to various UK ports. Companies like Maersk, CMA CGM, COSCO, MSC, MOL, Evergreen, Hapag Lloyd, and K Line operate on routes connecting these two nations.
1.1.2.1) Port of Grimsby & Immingham
Grimsby & Immingham, among the top three busiest ports in the UK, serves as a key port for imports. With a focus on oil products, Roro cargo, and liquid bulk, it handled 54.4 million tonnes in 2016.
1.1.2.2) Port of Liverpool
Liverpool, with 75% of its cargo being imports, is the fourth-largest UK port for Roro cargo and the seventh for liquid bulk. It handled a total of 32 million tonnes in 2016.
1.1.2.3) Port of Forth
Port of Forth is largely oriented towards exports, handling 80% of goods leaving the port. With a focus on liquid bulk, it managed 23 million tonnes in 2016.
1.1.2.4) Port of Tees & Hartlepool
Tees & Hartlepool ports, with 66% of their flows being exports, managed 20 million tonnes of liquid bulk in 2016, ranking as the fourth busiest port for this type of cargo.
1.1.2.5) Port of Felixstowe
Felixstowe maintains a balance between imports and exports, with 55% of goods being imported. It is the UK’s busiest port for container handling.
1.1.2.6) Port of Southampton
Southampton, one of the busiest UK ports, handles 36 million tonnes of goods, with a balanced flow of imports and exports.
1.1.2.7) Port of London
London, with 85% of its flows being exports, is the third-largest UK port for Roro cargo and the sixth for liquid bulk.
1.1.2.8) Port of Milford Haven
Milford Haven, the largest UK port for liquid bulk, handled 33 million tonnes in 2016, with a significant share of LNG traffic.
1.1.2.9) Port of Dover
Dover’s port is the largest for Roro handling, with 27 million tonnes administered in 2016, all exclusively composed of Roro cargos.
1.2) Consolidation vs. Full Container Load (FCL):
1.2.1) What is LCL?
LCL, or Less than a Container Load, allows multiple small shipments to be consolidated in a container, optimizing space and cost. It is ideal for small shipments.
1.2.2) What is FCL?
FCL, or Full Container Load, involves a single shipment filling the entire container. It is suitable for larger shipments, especially those exceeding 15 CBM.
1.2.3) In Which Conditions is FCL Recommended?
FCL is recommended when the shipment is large or heavy enough to fill the container entirely or when the volume is financially more advantageous than LCL, depending on the carrier.
1.2.4) How Can I Determine Which Solution is Better Appropriate?
The decision between FCL and LCL depends on factors such as shipment size, cost considerations, and the specific needs of the cargo.
1.3) How Long Does it Take to Ship from Vietnam to the UK by Sea Freight?
The transit times for sea freight shipments from Vietnam to the UK vary depending on the route and the origin city in Vietnam. Transit times can range from 28 to 41 days.
1.4) How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Container from Vietnam to the UK?
Sea freight is the most cost-effective method for large and regular shipments between Vietnam and the UK. Despite longer delivery times compared to air freight, it remains the preferred solution for its economic advantages.
1.5) Special Sea Freight Services
1.5.1) Reefer Container from Vietnam to the UK
Reefer containers, integral for the food and chemical industries, maintain controlled environmental conditions during transit. FNM Vietnam can book and plan reefer container freight between Vietnam and the UK.
1.5.2) Roro/Bulk/OOG from Vietnam to the UK
Roll-on/Roll-off vessels (Roro) facilitate the transport of vehicles, while bulk cargo handles large quantities of raw products. Out of Gauge (OOG) items, with unique dimensions or weight, demand careful handling. FNM Vietnam is proficient in handling all types of goods, including OOG, Bulk, and Roro shipments.
1.6) Conclusion: Unlocking Opportunities Through Sea Freight
In conclusion, sea freight shipping from Vietnam to the UK involves strategic planning, collaboration with shipping companies, and an understanding of the nuances of major ports. Whether opting for consolidation or a full container load, businesses can unlock opportunities by leveraging the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of sea freight. The maritime connection between Vietnam and the United Kingdom serves as a gateway to prosperity, fostering economic growth and global trade partnerships. With expert guidance from freight forwarding specialists like FNM Vietnam, businesses can navigate the waters of sea freight shipping with confidence, ensuring the seamless transportation of goods from the vibrant shores of Vietnam to the prosperous landscapes of the United Kingdom.
