International Ocean Freight: Safety, Economics, and Strategic Planning for High-Volume Operations

icone agenciamento maritimo Rimera Agente de Cargas.webp

Ocean freight remains the primary mode of transport in international trade, accounting for approximately 90% of global trade volume, according to UNCTAD data. Its relevance is especially evident in operations involving bulky, heavy, or non-urgent cargo, offering an unbeatable cost-benefit ratio and broad geographic reach.

At Rimera, we integrate logistics planning, customs compliance, and operational management into FCL (full container) and LCL (consolidated cargo) ocean freight solutions, with support from origin to final destination.

Why choose international shipping?

Maritime transport stands out for its ability to move large volumes at low costs, making it the preferred mode for intercontinental operations, especially on routes between Asia and South America. A typical shipment between China, Vietnam, or South Korea and Brazilian ports has an estimated transit time of between 35 and 45 calendar days, depending on the connection logistics and transshipment services.

Furthermore, maritime transport allows for the use of specific logistics solutions, such as:

-National cabotage, which reduces costs and reduces highway congestion;

-Break Bulk, ideal for indivisible or large cargo;

-Out-of-Gauge projects, which require custom-built structures outside of conventional container standards.

Why choose international shipping?

- FCL (Full Container Load)

The FCL option is recommended when the importer or exporter has enough cargo to fill a full container. In addition to speeding up shipping and customs clearance, this option minimizes the risk of damage and reduces logistical handling, as the cargo belongs exclusively to a single owner. Operational independence allows for greater control over documentation and deadlines.

- LCL (Less than Container Load – Consolidated Cargo)

Ideal for companies with smaller cargo volumes, LCL allows for the sharing of container space with other shippers, proportionally diluting freight costs. However, it's important to note that this model entails more complex operations at the destination, as customs clearance depends on the inspection of the entire consolidated cargo. Choosing the right consolidator and organizing your documents are crucial to avoiding delays and additional costs.

COMMERCIAL INVOICE -
Manufacturer's Commercial Invoice
(Exporter).

It functions as a transportation contract and proves that the goods have been received for shipment.

Commercial Invoice Rimera importação Despachante Aduaneiro ..webp

Icone nacio de cargas Rimera NEgociação terminal.webp

Technical Aspects of Ocean Freight Management

- Tax Classification and Consenting Documentation

All maritime cargo must be strictly classified according to the NCM (National Customs Code), which directly influences taxation and specific licensing (LI) requirements by regulatory agencies such as MAPA (National Transport Association), ANVISA (National Institute of Materials and Industry), or INMETRO (National Institute of Metrology). Errors in tax classification or the Packing List can compromise customs clearance, resulting in demurrage and costly port storage.

- Incoterms and Responsibility Management

The correct application of Incoterms (such as FOB, CFR, DAP, or EXW) is essential for defining logistical obligations, risks, and costs between exporter and importer. A poor choice can compromise the predictability and safety of the transaction, especially for LCL cargo, which requires greater coordination between the parties involved.

-Customs Planning and Logistics Costs

Port operations involve critical variables such as terminal dwell time, storage costs, Federal Revenue inspections, and parameterization. Robust prior planning—including risk analysis and simulation of total logistics costs—is essential to ensure a smooth process and avoid unexpected costs.

Technical Aspects of Ocean Freight Management

Mais do que transporte, a Rimera oferece soluções completas e personalizadas para empresas que desejam importar ou exportar com segurança jurídica, eficiência logística e conformidade fiscal. Atuamos desde o planejamento da carga, passando pela gestão documental, escolha de modais e operadores, até a liberação alfandegária e entrega final door-to-door.

Rimera Differentiators:

-Real-time cargo monitoring;

-Complete advisory services for special regimes (Drawback, Warehouse, Temporary Admission);

-Logistics and tax risk management;

-Specialized support in Brazil's main port areas.