SHIPPING FAQ

SHIPPING TERMS

What do all these Export, Trade and Shipping Terms mean?

What's the difference between a Shipping Company, Shipping Agency and a Freight Forwarder?

Shipping Company. These are the companies that own the ships and operate the shipping services. They include companies like APL, Hoegh Autoliners etc. Usually it's not possible to book shipments directly with a shipping company, they need to be booked through a licensed Customs Broker in Japan.

Shipping Agency. These are companies that specialise in receiving and shipping vehicles. They usually offer a freight forwarding service, so they can work with Japan Customs to get Export Approval for the vehicles that they ship. They're common for Roll-On Roll-Off shipments and include companies such as Autoterminal, Autohub etc. These companies usually don't own the ships but will sometimes lease space on a ship or sometimes even lease whole ships. They will sometimes also have offices in the destination countries and will sometimes take car of inbound customs clearance and other inbound services.

Freight Forwarder. The Freight Forwarder is licensed by Japan Customs to process the application for Export Approval. Having an experienced freight forwarder lets you gets the best available rates and schedule to match your requirements. Having an experienced freight forwarder with a good network of connections can also allow you to get bookings when space is tight which can sometimes happen with Roll-On Roll-Off shipments.

What’s the Data Declaration Charge?

The Data Declaration Charge, sometimes called the the Data Declaration Fee or abbreviated to DDC is a fee charged by the shipping companies to cover the costs of declaring cargo information to the European Union so authorities can detect any potential security and safety threats.

How can I learn more about Ocean Shipping?

PORTS

Which ports in Japan can I ship from?

You can ship from any port in Japan that has a service to your destination port. Their are 3 main international port areas in Japan.

The first is the Kanto region ports of Tokyo, Kawasaki and Yokohama. The second is the Chubu area near the port of Nagoya. The third is in the Kansai region ports of Osaka and Kobe. These are the nearest international ports to our operating base in Himeji.

It's normally cheapest to ship stock direct from the supplier to the nearest port to minimise internal freight charges. We can organise this for you.

Can you ship from Japan to my port?

We can ship to any port that a service is available. Shipping Schedules are available here. Not all services shown will have available capacity. While Ocean Schedules shows services from over 20 shipping companies, not all are shown. For services not covered by Ocean Schedules go directly to the shipping company website. Go to Shipping From Japan for more information.

Can you ship to Hawaii?

Yes. Normally there are no direct services between Japan and Hawaii and the shipment is made via a west coast port such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California.

SHIPPING SCHEDULES

Where can I find shipping schedules to my destination?

Can you make a booking for the next ship leaving Japan to my destination port?

This depends on five things:

1. Available Capacity. The shipping companies hold long term bulk bookings for high volume clients such as the automakers and they will normally honour these contracts first before accepting other bookings.


2. Documentation. The shipping company will not accept a booking until the documentation for the shipment is lodged with them. If there are delays in this, such as the auction houses not providing the vehicle registration papers in time this could result in not being able to secure a booking.


3. Japan Customs. Japan Customs has a requirement for receiving the documents within a prescribed period and being able to inspect the stock being exported. In some cases this could cause a delay in shipping.


4. Pre-Export Inspections & Works. For shipments with these requirements there needs to be sufficient time in the schedule for these to be carried out. The amount of time it takes is determined by the schedules of the companies doing these inspections and works.


5. Shutdown Periods. If the shipment is at or around one of the main holiday shutdown periods shipping on the next ship may not be possible because of schedule delays at the departure port.

Can I change the destination port and other information after the shipment has already been booked?

Normally not. We require you to give us your consignee information and preferred destination port/s when you set up a Trading Account with us. You can update this any time up until you're successful on a unit. Immediately you're successful on a unit we initiate transport to port, sea freight and any pre-export works that you require based on the information you provided. The shipping company and other companies involved with the logistics process require us to give them accurate information.

How do I know the departure and arrival dates of my shipment?

You can view this online on the Shipping Status page for the shipment as soon as the information comes through from our freight forwarder.

If my stock is booked on a certain ship is that final?

No. Shipping companies can and do reschedule, even close to the scheduled departure day. In these cases we update the voyage details in the Shipping Status page with the new ship name, voyage number and departure and arrival dates.

How do I know when my shipment has sailed?

You can view the scheduled date of shipment online on the Shipping Status page for the shipment. If the scheduled date of shipment changes this is updated on the Shipping Status page. If the scheduled date of shipment has passed then we should receive confirmation of sailing and original documents about 3 to 5 working days from the day of sailing.

SHIPPING COST

How can I estimate shipping costs to my destination?

The quickest way to get shipping cost estimates is from our online shipping cost estimator. Our freight forwarder can also provide estimates on a shipment by shipment basis. You can also view a sample of shipping costs from past shipments.

What's the difference between Prepaid and Collect shipping?

Prepaid shipping is where the shipping company is paid from the country of departure. Collect shipping is where the shipping is paid for from the country of arrival.

Shipping companies will usually require prepaid shipping unless they have agreed in writing to collect shipping before the shipment is booked.

Why would I pay the shipping Collect rather than Prepaid?

There are 2 main reasons that you may want to pay shipping Collect rather than Prepaid:

1. Better Rate. Sometimes your customs broker may be able to get a better sea freight rate than our freight forwarder can get in Japan.


2. Mitigating Currency Risk. You also get to pay the account in your own currency, avoiding any currency risk that can happen if the account is paid in Japan. Shipping companies normally raise accounts in US dollars. The shipping company requires the account to be paid in the local currency at the exchange rate that they set. If the Japanese Yen suddenly devalues against the US dollar you may be paying more than if you'd paid the account in your local currency.

What's the difference between FOB and CIF?

FOB is an abbreviation for Free on Board. This means that the seller pays for transportation of the goods to the port of shipment, plus loading costs. The buyer pays freight, insurance, unloading costs and transportation from the arrival port to the final destination.

CIF stands for Cost, Insurance and Freight which means that the selling price includes the cost of the goods, the freight or transport costs and also the cost of marine insurance.

What's the AMS?

AMS is the Automated Manifest System operated by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol for air and ocean shipments. They levy a fee per BOL.

What's the BAF?

BAF is a charge levied on shipments similar to fuel levies are sometimes levied on airfares. Shipping companies raise and lower the charge depending on the cost of oil fuel.

What's the PCS?

PCS is a Port Congestion Surcharge levied by shipping companies to offset the additional costs incurred by calling at congested ports.

Why do shipping rates from Japan go up and down?

There are 3 main reasons that you'll see shipping rates from Japan fluctuate:

1. Supply and Demand. This is an important factor on shipping costs. If there's too much spare capacity on a route shipping companies will reduce rates to attract further business. This can come as other shipping companies increase capacity on a route or because of events.
   For example, shipping rates to some destinations halved during the Global Financial Crisis of the late 2000's. Conversely, once a shipping company reduces capacity or leaves a route, other shipping companies get more pricing power and may raise their rates. Supply and demand factors can also be seen in specific destinations such as islands, where there is only one carrier so they can charge a premium rate.


2. Currency Fluctuations. Shipping rates are usually denominated in United States Dollars, but when shipping is prepaid in Japan it is paid in Japanese Yen. As the Japanese Yen goes up and down against the US Dollar the cost of shipping changes.


3. Bunker Adjustment Factor. BAF is a charge levied on shipments similar to fuel levies are sometimes levied on airfares. Shipping companies raise and lower the charge depending on the cost of oil fuel.

What costs are covered in the freight forwarder's account?

The freight forwarder's account covers all the costs from the time the stock is delivered at the departure port in Japan until it arrives at the destination port.

This includes fees charged at the dock or shipping terminal, fees charged by Japan Customs, a radiation test fee, port logistics (moving the stock from place to place at the port) and fees charged by the shipping company. Where the freight forwarder organises other works, such as vehicle inspections at the port, then these are billed at actual cost and shown on the account. In the case of shipments that were containerised at the port then costs of loading the container are also shown on the freight forwarder's account.

The freight forwarder's account is uploaded to your client portal so you have full verification that you are being correctly billed. Our system gives you a detailed breakdown of all of the componnent costs. Our freight forwarder can provide an estimate of these costs before you go ahead with the shipment.

Once the stock arrives at the destination port then the costs from that point onwards are included in your custom's brokers account.

CONTAINER vs. ROLL-ON ROLL-OFF

What's the difference between shipping a vehicle or machinery by Container and Roll-On Roll-Off?

With container shipping your vehicle or machinery is driven into a Shipping Container, secured by tie-downs and the whole container is shipped to your destination port. International container ships operate to a hub system (like airports) and will swap the containers between ships at these hubs.

With Roll-On Roll-Off, the car is driven into a special car carrying ship which transports your car to the destination port where it's driven off. This is the method the vehicle manufacturers normally ship their new vehicles to other countries. RO-RO shipping schedules usually operate to a circuit system, where the same ship will go from port to port to port in a circle. Schedules might be adjusted to reflect demand levels at particular ports.

Since the cost of shipping RO-RO is determined by the vehicle or machinery size it's usually cheaper to ship smaller, lower units by RO-RO. However, this advantage diminishes as the units get bigger and containers offer better security. Shipping multiple units in a 40 foot high cube container is generally cheaper per unit than shipping a single unit in a 20 foot container. Vehicles and machinery containerised in combination with parts usually offer you the highest container load factor, which means the lowest landed cost per item.

There are sometimes capacity problems on some routes with both containerised and RO-RO shipments, so this can also determine which option you choose.

Do I need to have a registered company to ship from Japan?

Roll-On Roll-Off shipping companies will normally accept bookings where the consignee is a registered company or a private individual. However, container shipping companies will usually only accept bookings where the consignee is a registered company in the destination country. They will often require the company's registration number and/or taxation number.

SHIPPING ON DECK

Do you ship vehicles on deck?

No. Vehicles are either shipped on special Roll-On Roll-Off vessels or in containers. You can tell us which option you'd prefer. At best shipping on deck will expose your vehicle to corrosive salt spray. At worst your vehicle could be damaged or lost.

SHIPPING CONTAINERS

How big is a shipping container?

What's the difference between standard 40 Foot Containers and 40 Foot High Cube Containers?

A High Cube 40 foot container provides an extra foot in height (305mm) which means an extra capacity of 304 cubic feet (8.7M3).

If you're shipping containers of standard front cuts then you'll be able to ship an extra 6 or 7 front cuts by stacking them 3 high instead of 2 high. If you're shipping whole cars that are angled you may be able to fit another 1 or 2 vehicles, depending on the vehicle model.

Can I get a 20 Foot High Cube Container?

No. 20 Foot containers are only available at standard height. While 20HQ containers are made, they're not generally available for international shipping from Japan except by special arrangement with the shipping company. Normally this would require high volume regular business.

How many vehicles will fit in one shipping container?

This varies with the size and shape of the vehicles, but typically:

20 Foot Container

• 1 large sedan, van, light truck or 4WD when loaded flat without supporting frames


• 2 very low sports cars when loaded with supporting frames or cables, e.g. Caterham, MGB with windscreens removed


• 2 Kei Mini Trucks when loaded back to back and overlapped


• 1 2-tonne short body truck such as Isuzu Elf, Mazda Titan, Mitsubishi Canter, Nissan Atlas or Toyota Dyna subject to height and length.

• 2 large sedans, vans or 4WD when loaded flat without supporting frames


• 3 large sedans when angled and secured by frames or steel cables


• 4 medium sedans (e.g. Nissan Skyline, Subaru Legacy) when angled and secured by frames or steel cables. The vehicles need to be no more than 140cm high and tolerances might be tight.


• 5 small sedans (e.g. Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prius) when angled and secured by frames or steel cables.


• 5-6 compact cars (e.g. Toyota Vitz, Nissan March, Honda Fit) or very low small sports cars (e.g. Mazda Roadster, Honda S2000) when angled and secured by frames or steel cables.


• 6-7 Kei Mini Trucks when angled and loaded cab over tray, secured with slings or steel cables.


• 2 2-tonne trucks such as Isuzu Elf, Mazda Titan, Mitsubishi Canter, Nissan Atlas or Toyota Dyna subject to height and length.

• Vehicle Length


• Vehicle Height


• Vehicle Shape (this affects how much overlap is possible)


• Tolerances (the amount of separation between vehicles)

How many dismantled vehicles will fit in one shipping container?

This varies with the models and how the cars are dismantled, but for containers with front half cuts and parts typically:

20 Foot Container

• 4-6 dismantled cars plus parts (2-3 rows of front cuts stacked 2 high running lengthwise - doors etc down the side - light parts on top of the front cuts)


• 10 or more dismantled cars if dismantled more fully, e.g. nose-cut, bonnet, fenders, lights, engine-transmission etc.

• 12 dismantled cars plus parts (6 rows of front cuts stacked 2 high running lengthwise - doors etc down the side - light parts on top of the front cuts)


• 18 dismantled cars plus parts (6 rows of front cuts stacked 3 high running lengthwise - doors etc down the side - small parts in the wells of the front cuts)


• 21 dismantled cars plus parts (7 rows of front cuts stacked 3 high running crosswise (small parts shipped in the wells of the front cuts)


• 20 or more dismantled cars if dismantled more fully, e.g. nose-cut, bonnet, fenders, lights, engine-transmission etc.

How many motorbikes will fit in one shipping container?

How many motorbikes that will fit depends on the size and grade of the units being shipped, the degree of separation required and whether the container is loaded as a single tier or as two tiers.

MOTORBIKES SHIPPED AS IS ON ONE LEVEL - 20 FOOT CONTAINER

VERY LARGE MOTORBIKES
2 very large bikes allowing for a lot of physical separation.

LARGE MOTORBIKES
3-4 large bikes allowing for a lot of physical separation.

MEDIUM MOTORBIKES
4-8 medium sized bikes allowing for a lot of physical separation.

SMALL MOTORBIKES
6-10 small bikes allowing for a lot of physical separation.

MOTORBIKES SHIPPED AS IS ON ONE LEVEL - 40 FOOT CONTAINER

About double the 20 foot container quantities for a 40 foot container.

MOTORBIKES SHIPPED AS IS ON TWO LEVELS

For units that are physically separated by packing between them 20 to 25 is typical for a 20 foot container packed in 2 tiers with racking. About double the 20 foot container quantities for a 40 foot container. This is for a range of bikes from off-road to road bikes. Having more smaller units will increase the number and more larger units will decrease it. For low grade bikes that don't require physical separation, and bikes that are partially dismantled more units will fit.

How many golf carts will fit in one shipping container?

How many golf carts that will fit depends on the size of the units being shipped. the size of the shipping container, and whether the golf carts are shipped as is in a single story or two storey, with the roofs removed and the upper units being supported by frames. This is a guide:

20 FOOT CONTAINER - CARTS SHIPPED AS IS ON ONE LEVEL
2 SEAT CARTS - 3 UNITS
4-5 SEAT CARTS - 2 UNITS

20 FOOT CONTAINER - CART ROOFS REMOVED & TWO LEVELS
2 SEAT CARTS - 6 UNITS
4-5 SEAT CARTS - 4 UNITS

40 FOOT CONTAINER - CARTS SHIPPED AS IS ON ONE LEVEL
2 SEAT CARTS - 10 UNITS
4-5 SEAT CARTS - 8 UNITS

40 FOOT CONTAINER - CART ROOFS REMOVED & TWO LEVELS
2 SEAT CARTS - 20 UNITS
4-5 SEAT CARTS - 16 UNITS

How many forklifts will fit in one shipping container?

How many forklifts will fit depends on the size and weight of the units being shipped. Up to 5 or 6 small forklifts of up to 1 tonne lifting capacity can be loaded sideways in a 20 foot container. Larger units which exceed 2300mm in length from container mast to the rear of the unit need to be loaded lengthwise or diagonally to maximise space. Between 2 and 4 units can usually be loaded this way.

The best load factors are obtained when there are several forklifts to select from and each shipment is based on matching the size of the units for the best fit and maximum number of units in the container.

The payload weight limit of 26,580 kgs. will sometimes preclude a 40 foot container full of forklifts only. We have a Forklift Container Loading Calculator which can assist you in staying under the weight limit.

If you're approaching the allowable weight limit you can buy smaller forklifts or include other kinds of stock to stay within the limit. There is usually space for shipping other stock such as wheels, tyres and parts in forklift containers. Forklifts with a mast height over 2280mm (standard container) or 2340mm (high cube container) will need to have the mast removed prior to containerisation. The mast's can usually be shipped in the same container.

How many small to medium sized excavators will fit in a container?

How many small to medium sized excavators will fit depends on the size and weight of the units being shipped. Between 2 and 6 is typical for a 20 foot container. Between 4 and 12 is typical for a 40 foot container. Matching the width of units so they can be loaded side by side in the container will increase the number that can be shipped.

Shipping in a 40 foot High Cube container can increase the number of units being shipped since the arms can be raised higher, reducing the space take in the container. There is often space for shipping parts, such as excavator tracks and seats in the spaces between the excavators.

Excavators can also be shipped on Roll-On Roll-Off carriers.

How many tractors will fit in one shipping container?

How many tractors that will fit depends on the size of the units being shipped. Between 6 and 8 is typical for a 20 foot container. Between 12 and 20 is typical for a high cube 40 foot container. Tractors are usually partially dismantled and shipped with a rotary cultivator.

How many hand tractors, tillers or cultivators will fit in one shipping container?

How many hand tractors, tillers or cultivators will fit depends on the size of the units being shipped. If loaded without dismantling between 10 and 12 is typical for a 20 foot container in a single tier. If a platform is used to create a second tier then between between 20 and 24 is typical for a 20 foot container.

How many rice planters will fit in one shipping container?

How many rice planters that will fit depends on the size of the units being shipped. Between 2 and 3 is typical for a 20 foot container. Between 4 and 6 is typical for a 40 foot container. There will usually be space to ship small items in the same container, depending on the actual dimensions of the rice planters.

How many combine harvesters will fit in one shipping container?

How many combines that will fit depends on the size of the units being shipped. Between 1 and 2 is typical for a 20 foot container. Between 4 and 6 is typical for a high cube 40 foot container. There will usually be space to ship other items in the same container, depending on the actual dimensions of the combines.

How many truck cabins will fit in one shipping container?

This varies with the size and shape of the vehicles, but typically:

20 Foot Container. Up to 3 or 4 depending on the size of the cabins.

40 Foot Container. Up to 8 depending on the size of the cabins.

How many large generators or air compressors will fit in one shipping container?

This varies with the size and shape of the units, but typically:

20 Foot Container. Up to around 24 depending on the size of the units.

40 Foot Container. Up to around 48 depending on the size of the units.

How many engines will fit in one shipping container?

This will depend on the size, shape and weight of the engines. In practice the limiting factor is weight. A 20GP container has a payload limit of around 21,600 kgs. A 40GP container has a payload limit of around 26,580 kgs. If you're wanting to import full containers then it's normally only possible to import engines in 20 foot containers.

Engines and transmissions are often sourced and shipped together. The shapes are matched for stability and to minimise the space take in the container.

Typically 3 or 4 engines will fit across a container, depending on their size. Four Wheel Drive and Rear Wheel Drive engine-transmissions are usually interleaved to make maximum use of the available space and for a secure, tight pack.

The engines are packed in vertical layers with protection between each layer. 3 layers high is typical.

A 20 foot container has an internal capacity of 33.2 M3 (1172 ft 3). Once the dimensions of the engines are known it's possible to do a rough calculation of how many engines will fit in the container.

How many marine engines and marine generators will fit in one shipping container?

This will depend on the size, shape and weight of the marine engines and generators. In practice the limiting factor is weight. A 20GP container has a payload limit of around 21,600 kgs. A 40GP container has a payload limit of around 26,580 kgs.

If you're wanting to import full containers then it's normally only possible to import marine engines and generators in 20 foot containers. Typically between 20 and 100 marine engines and generators will fit in a 20GP container if it's a container of marine engines and generators only. A 20 foot container has an internal capacity of 33.2 M3 (1172 ft 3). Once the dimensions of the engines are known it's possible to do a rough calculation of how many engines and generators will fit in the container.

If you're shipping marine engines and generators in containers of other stock - such as vehicles or machinery - the number of marine engines and generators that will fit in the container will depend on the space available around the other stock that you're shipping.

What are the weight limits for shipping containers?

There are 3 weight measurements that are important. Rating, Tare Mass and Payload. These are marked on the container wall, usually on the door in the case of an end-loading dry cargo container.

Rating is the maximum permissible weight of a container plus its contents. The Rating of a 20' dry cargo container is 24,000 kgs. (52,900 lbs.) and a 40' - standard or high cube - is 30,480 kgs. (67,200 lbs.).

Tare Mass is the weight of the empty container. This can vary with the different construction techniques and materials used in the individual container. A 20' x 8.5' dry cargo container generally weighs between 1,800 kgs. to 2,400 kgs., a 40' x 8.5' generally weighs between 2,800 kgs. and 4,000 kgs, and a 40' x 9.5' generally weighs between 3,900 kgs. and 4,200 kgs. The reefer (refrigerated container) generally weighs more than a dry cargo container of the same size.

Payload is the maximum permitted weight of the payload, including the dunnage etc placed in the container. Therefore,

Payload = Rating - Tare Mass

If the Tare Mass of a 20' dry cargo container is 2,400 kgs. and a 40' is 3,900 kgs., the Payload of a 20' is 21,600 kgs. (24,000 kgs. minus 2,400 kgs.) and a 40' is 26,580 kgs. (30,480 kgs. minus 3,900 kgs.).

There are 4 important points regarding containers that are near their weight limit:

• Careful planning is required prior to container loading. The exact Payload weight is not known until the container passes over the weighbridge at the entry to the container terminal. An overweight container will be denied access to the container terminal, requiring extra drayage, unloading and re-packing costs and possibly storage and other fees.


• The weight of containers varies from container to container. Generally older containers are heavier than newer containers. This will affect the maximum permissable payload. If your shipment is near the limit our freight forwarders provide us with the exact limits based on the actual container being used for the shipment, which means that you are able to stay within the maximum limit.


• In addition to the Rating limit there are road transport limits which vary throughout the world and even within the same country.


• In addition to total road weight limit, road transport authorities may also have weight limits for individual axle weight, so that even weight distribution throughout the container is important for containers near the weight limit.

Can I buy a shipping container and ship in that?

No. You need to use the containers provided by the shipping company. If you want a used shipping container for your own use we suggest sourcing one in your own country.

What does it cost to rent the shipping container?

There's no rental fee on containers for normal shipping use. The cost of use of the container is included in the cost of sea freight.

The shipping companies normally give you a reasonable time to take delivery of your stock once your container reaches the destination. However there is a time limit after which they charge you a fee. Your customs broker can help you plan container unloading to avoid the penalty fee.

Does the cost of shipping by container vary according to what's in the container?

No. You pay the same regardless of what's in the container. This is why you get the lowest landed cost per item by shipping the maximum amount of stock possible in each container.

Can vehicles leaking oil or other fluids be shipped by container?

No. There can be no leakage of fluids from the container. If leakage from the container is detected the shipping company will require that the vehicle is unloaded and the container cleaned and returned. This can incur significant extra costs. Vehicles with very minor leaks can be shipped by container by placing absorbent materials on the container floor but acceptance is at the discretion of the shipping and containerisation companies.

What's the difference between LCL and FCL shipments?

LCL means "Less Than Container Load". LCL shipments that are shipped in a container are typically shipped on pallets, consolidated by a freight forwarder and shipped together with stock for other importers in the same shipping container.

FCL means "Full Container Load". FCL shipments contain the stock of one importer who is the consignee.

The TS EXPORT service is for commercial importers shipping in commercial quantities.
The only containerised shipments we do are FCL. However you can combine shipments of small quantities of parts with your containerised shipments of other stock.

I'm a private importer. Can I share a container with someone else?

Sorry. Our service is a continuity service for commercial importers from Japan. If you import with our service you or the entity that you nominate become the consignee. There can only be one consignee per shipment. If you wish you could combine with other importers in your area for sharing containers, though there can still only be one consignee per shipment.

What are the causes and effects of container shortages?

While it's not common container shortages can occur from time to time. Causes are:

1. Spikes in Demand. These can be both seasonal, such as the Christmas holiday period and spikes due to unique circumstances such as a pandemic.


2. Shutdown Periods. If companies or ports temporarily shutdown because of holiday periods or shutdowns for other reasons containers may become unavailable and can't be assigned to new voyages.


3. Inland Freight Delays. Inland freight delays can tie up containers as containers are sitting in storage yards rather then being delivered to and from their inland destinations.


4. Congestion in Hub Ports. Container ships use hub and spoke routing. i.e. containers are usually trans-shipped one or more times in their journey from the departure to destination ports. Congestion in one or more of the hub ports can tie up the amount of time the container arrives at the destination port and can be re-assigned to another shipment.


5. Voyage Reduction. Shipping companies may reduce the number of voyages to reduce operating costs.


6. Double Booking. In peak times freight forwarders may double book to increase their chances of getting a booking, which reduces the amount of available capacity.

The effects can be container shipment bookings not being available, longer lead times for bookings, increased restrictions on the time available for container loading, some container types not being available, greatly increased prices for sea freight, increased storage fees at the docks and delayed delivery times.

Why is it that I can see container ships sailing but I'm told no bookings are available?

The majority of container shipments are from companies with long term contracts with the shipping companies. The shipping companies are obliged to meet these long term contracts before they will accept one-off bookings.

How can I tell if container rates are trending up or trending down?

You can use the spot rates for 40 foot containers as a guide to prices. Bear in mind that there can be differences in long-term contract rates used by large commercial importers and the spot rates. There can also be differences in the prices you'd pay for single container bookings compared to volume container bookings.

What is Drayage?

Drayage is movement of the shipping container from place to place by a truck. The shipping container sits on a trailer and is pulled by a prime mover which is attached to and detached from the trailer.

For shipments that are containerised at our Export in Himeji there is drayage from the container storage depot at the port to Himeji and then to the ports of Osaka or Kobe.

For shipments that are containerised at the port there is drayage from the container storage depot to the facility doing the containerisation, and then to the dock where the container is to be loaded onto the ship.

What is Vanning?

"Vanning" is Japanese English for loading stock into a container. In American English the process is often called "stuffing". We call the process "containerisation", "container loading" or "container packing" for fully packed parts containers.

ROLL-ON ROLL-OFF

How is Roll-On Roll-Off shipping cost calculated?

Sea freight on Roll-On Roll-Off shipping is usually calculated on the volume of the vehicle being shipped. The volume is calculated on the length (L), width (W) and height (H) of the vehicle at the maximum point. For example, a car is usually highest at the roof area (not the bonnet area) and the roof at it's maximum height is used as the height (H) measurement.

Let's say a vehicle has a length of 3 metres, a width of 2 metres and a height of 1.5 metres, then L x W x H = 3 x 2 x 1.5 = 9M3 (9 cubic metres).

A sea freight rate of $100 per cubic metre would give a sea freight cost of $900. Shipping companies may charge different M3 rates for different classes of vehicles, even on the same voyage.

While determining sea freight cost by the M3 measurement of the vehicle is most common, some carriers also offer flat fee rates for vehicles up to a certain M3 size and for other kinds of vehicles such as motorcycles.

For large vehicles such as large trucks and machinery the shipping company will sometimes calculate costs based on both M3 and vehicle weight, known as RT (Revenue Ton) and bill on the basis of whichever cost is higher. For example, if a 20 tonne vehicle was shipped at a rate of $100 per tonne this would give a sea freight cost of $2,000.

How much does freight forwarding cost on a Roll-On Roll Off shipment?

Typically costs for the Japanese Customs clearance, moving the vehicle around the dock and onto the ship, freight forwarders fees and marine insurance covering the vehicle during shipment are around Y30,000 per vehicle. Costs can vary according to the vehicle, port, dock and shipping company.

Storage fees may be payable if the vehicle is stored beyond the free period provided by the dock, but this is rare if your destination has a regular shipping service. Sea Freight and any extra services that you require such as a pre shipment inspection or cleaning are billed at actual cost.

A copy of the freight forwarders account is uploaded to your Client Portal so you can verify the cost.

I see a voyage from Japan to my destination this month. Does that mean we can get a booking?

Not necessarily. Factors are:

1. Available Capacity. The majority of RO-RO shipping is usually new vehicles being shipped by the manufacturers. The shipping companies are obliged to fulfil their contracts with the manufacturers before taking additional bookings. Sometimes the manufacturers may take all or most of the available capacity.


2. Vehicle Type. Different vehicle types are shipped on different decks. For example, tall vehicles will often be shipped on a different deck to standard height vehicles. There needs to be available capacity for the type of vehicle you're shipping.


3. Departure Ports. Not all voyages departing Japan will stop at all international ports. There may not necessarily be a voyage to your destination stopping at your departure port. Shipping companies will sometimes change the departure ports at late notice.


4. Timing. Vehicles need to be in the holding yard with all documentation by the deadline set by the shipping company for a confirmed booking.

Why do Roll-On Roll-Off Shipping Schedules Often Change?

Roll On-Roll Off shipping schedules will sometimes not be confirmed until quite near the date of sailing. The reasons for this are:

• New Vehicle Bookings. Often a significant volume of a RO-RO carriers shipment is new cars from Japan's vehicle manufacturers. It's not until these are confirmed with the manufacturers that they can confirm which ports they will call at, when and what capacity they will have for used cars.
  
  
• Weather. High seas or typhoons can delay schedules, sometimes making it hard to pinpoint the day that they will enter port.
  
  
• Bookings with dock owners. There may sometimes be several ships wanting to use the same dock and the schedulers need to co-ordinate sequencing.

Can I ship parts or other stock with my Roll-On Roll-Off shipment?

The policies of the RO-RO shipping companies can vary, but they usually prevent this.

Some shipping companies have a provision for a few parts that are from the vehicle to be shipped together with the vehicle as "inner cargo". This is by prior arrangement with the shipping company and requires the parts being shipped to be itemised in the shipping documentation. In this case, though the parts are being shipped with the consent of the shipping company, they can still be stolen, typically either on board the vessel or at the destination port. If these parts are important it's better that the vehicle and parts be shipped by container.

For RO-RO shipments where the shipping company doesn't allow the shipment of anything inside the vehicles then if the vehicle arrives at the port with things inside the vehicle or trunk then it's usual for the shipping company to deny shipment. This can result in delays and additional costs. If parts need to be removed for the vehicle for the shipment to go ahead the holding yard at the port will usually charge a small disposal fee. e.g. Y1,000 per item.

I’ve bought a vehicle with an extra set of wheels in it. Can it be shipped?

Normally the holding yard where the vehicle is being stored prior to shipment is required to remove the wheels from the vehicle prior to it being loaded onto the RO-RO carrier. They will often charge a fee for this, which is typically in the range of Y2,000 to Y4,000 per set. If you ship by container you can normally ship vehicles and the extra wheels in the same container.

Can parts be stolen from vehicles when they are shipped Roll-On Roll-Off?

There are 4 possibilities where this could happen:

1. Japan Storage Yard. Prior to loading onto the RO-RO carrier vehicles are stored at holding yards at the departure port. These areas have restricted access. Anyone wanting to enter the yard can only do so with prior authorisation. Authorisation is given to vehicle transport companies, vehicle inspection companies, companies that do pre-departure works on vehicles and export companies who have a vehicle in that particular yard. It's unlikely for parts to be removed from vehicles in these yards but it is still theoretically possible.


2. On the RO-RO Carrier. The crew of the ship have access to the cargo decks on RO-RO carriers. It's theoretically possible that parts could be taken from vehicles.


3. Destination Port. Depending on the security arrangements at the destination port it's theoretically possible that parts could be taken from vehicles.


4. Vehicle Delivery. Parts could have been removed from vehicles either on the transporter or in the process of loading and unloading.
   
   If security is important we recommend container shipping. In this case the vehicle is taken straight from the seller to a secure containerisation facility in Japan where it is containerised as soon as all documentation is available. If you have the container delivered to your premises at the destination port you minimise the chance of interference with the vehicle in the destination country.

Can I ship other stock on the back of a truck being shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off?

The policies of the RO-RO shipping companies can vary, but they usually prevent this. In the cases where it is allowed a surcharge will normally apply.

Can I ship large trucks, buses and motorhomes by Roll-On Roll-Off?

Pure Car Carriers (PCC) and Pure Car/Truck Carriers (PCTC) can carry these types of cargoes. Modern carriers will sometimes have liftable decks and decks for heavy cargoes. However, capacity is limited and the shipping companies will sometimes charge a premium for this space. Shipping large items like large trucks, construction machinery and boats is normally only commercially viable for high value units.

Before importing units that require non-standard Roll-On Roll-Off shipping please set up an account with us and we can start planning your shipping options.

Can I ship electric vehicles by Roll-On Roll-Off?

Electric vehicles could generally be shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off up until 2022. However after the fire and subsequent sinking of the Felicity Ace, some shipping companies imposed restrictions and some banned the shipping of electric vehicles. These bans do not apply to new EVs being shipped by the manufacturer.

Can machinery be shipped Roll-On Roll-Off?

Yes. It normally can. However, there are restrictions:

1. Height & Size. The deck for non-standard cargo such as large trucks and machinery often has a different height than standard vehicles. The Roll-On Roll-Off shipping companies will only allow machinery on their carriers up to a certain height. This can vary from vessel to vessel and voyage to voyage.


2. Mobility. The machine needs to be driveable and steerable so it can be driven onto and off the vehicle carrier under its own power.


3. Tracks. Some tracked machinery has rubber trucks and some has steel tracks. Roll-On Roll-Off shipping companies will usually only allow rubber tracked machinery on their vehicle carriers.


4. Voyage Availability. Because there may only be a single deck for non-standard vehicles capacity may be limited for particular voyages. Our freight forwarder can check on availability and restrictions when they get the current sea freight rate for the machine that you're interested in importing.

Can forklifts be shipped Roll-On Roll-Off?

Diesel, Gasoline and LPG forklifts can normally be shipped by RO-RO. They need to be driveable and steerable so they can be driven onto and off the vehicle carrier under their own power. However, electric forklifts might be refused RO-RO shipping because of the common occurance of battery depletion to the point where the unit becomes immobile.

Since the cost of RO-RO shipping is determined by volume calculated on the length (L), width (W) and height (H) of the unit at the maximum point, forks are usually removed and attached to the body of the forklift to reduce the cost of sea freight. This is typically done by straps or spot welds or a combination of both. While there is usually a charge for this work it is usually substantially less than the cost of the sea freight charge that otherwise would have been payable.

Can tractors and combine harvesters be shipped Roll-On Roll-Off?

Yes. They normally can. They need to be driveable and steerable so they can be driven onto and off the vehicle carrier under their own power.

Can boats and jetskis be shipped Roll-On Roll-Off?

This is at the discretion of the shipping company. Like other non-standard cargo they need to conform to height and size limits and the RO-RO carrier needs to have capacity. Boats and jetskis need to be on trailers so they can be towed on and off the RO-RO carrier.

Can motorbikes be shipped Roll-On Roll-Off?

This is at the discretion of the shipping company. When the vessels have high load factors then they will often refuse to carry motorbikes. Because of this most destinations are often not available. However, Australia, New Zealand and the UK are sometimes available on a voyage by voyage basis.

Can a vehicle be refused shipping by a Roll-On Roll-Off shipping company?

Yes. Reasons can be objects inside the vehicle, the vehicle not starting, running or driving properly, excessive engine noise or smoke, fluid leakage, body damage, being too low, warning light/s on etc. It can also be refused shipping if the shipping company believes there is a biosecurity risk and the vehicle has not been treated in a way they require. In cases where the vehicle is refused shipping by a Roll-On Roll-Off shipping company it can normally be shipped by container so long as it will fit.

SHIPPING DOCUMENTATION

How do you make sure the shipping documentation is correct?

We operate a 4 stage process to check and recheck that every detail in your shipping documentation is correct:

1. Shipping Instructions. You provide us with your Shipping Instructions when you set up your Trading Account with us. This information includes the name and address of the importing entity, your preferred destination ports, whether you prefer to ship by Roll-On Roll-Off or container, the details of your customs broker, your documentation and other requirements.


2. Shipping Status. Once the stock you're shipping has been purchased we set up an online Shipping Status page for that shipment. The information you provided with your Shipping Instructions is entered into this page and we ask you to check it for accuracy or if anything has changed. Only once we receive your approval do we prepare the draft shipping documentation.


3. Draft Shipping Documentation. Once we get your approval the documentation is sent through to our freight forwarder who lodges the documentation with the shipping company.


4. Final Shipping Documentation. About 3 working days after shipment we receive the original copies of the shipping documents. We create digital versions of these for the documents folder for the shipment which you can view online and send you the original documents as soon as all accounts have been cleared.

What shipping documents do I get?

When you set up an account with us you give us your documentation requirements. If you're shipping a motor vehicle then typical documents are 1 Copy of the Original Bill of Lading, Original Export Certificate and an Invoice with the vehicle chassis number. If you're shipping stock that hasn't been road registered or vehicles that have been dismantled and are being shipped as parts you won't have Export Certificates. If you have different requirements to these please let us know.

As the shipping documents become available we upload the digital versions of these documents to your Client Portal. Once any outstanding accounts have been cleared we send through the original versions of the documents by EMS. We then upload tracking details of the original docs so you can follow their progress. The documents typically leave Japan within 24-48 hours of lodgement and typically arrive in the destination country within a few days from their departure from Japan. They then go through customs and once cleared are delivered to the address that you have nominated.

Can I change consignees and customs brokers from shipment to shipment?

Yes. You can change consignees and customs brokers from shipment to shipment if you wish. Just let us know before each shipment of the changes. We usually check the draft shipping docs with you before we lodge them with our freight forwarder for each shipment.

Can I change consignee, pre export works and destination information after the shipment has been booked?

No. We require you to give us the consignee, pre export works and destination information when you set up your Trading Account. You can change this up until you select a unit for import. As soon as you're successful on a unit we implement domestic logistics, pre export works, documentation and shipping bookings to match the information you provided.

Are you able to surrender the Bill of Lading?

Yes. Sometimes shipments will have very short transit times which can mean the ship can arrive at the destination port before the original documentation. In these cases we can arrange for the Bill of Lading to be surrendered rather than sent to you. This allows your customs broker to take delivery of your shipment without the need for an original Bill of Lading. Since the freight forwarders account doesn't arrive until after the shipment has sailed you need to have sufficient funds in your Trading Account to cover the total cost of the shipment. Please let us know if you require a surrendered BoL when you give us your shipping instructions as part of setting up your Trading Account.

What service do you use to send the original shipping documents?

We use EMS wherever it is available. The Kansai International Airport is close to our logistics office and EMS picks up directly from our office. The documents are usually at the airport on the same day of despatch and usually leave Japan on the following day. EMS has good tracking which lets you follow the documents from the time they've been despatched in Japan until the time they reach you.

There are a few destinations where the EMS service is not available. In this case we use Registered Airmail. Delivery times are often similar to EMS delivery times. We don't charge for documents sent by EMS or Registered Airmail.

Can I have my original shipping documents delivered by a service other than EMS?

Yes. Please let us know ahead of the shipment and we'll put your this into the Shipping Status page for your shipment.

However, services like FedEx and DHL can be expensive. Costs for international document delivery with these services can be $100 and more. While we pay for EMS and Registered Mail delivery, use of other services is at your cost. You need to have sufficient funds in your Trading Account to cover the delivery cost.

How can I track my shipping documentation?

We upload the digital versions of your shipping documentation directly into your Client Portal as soon as it is available. This is usually about 3 working days from the date of shipment. This means your customs broker can quickly start work on your customs clearance in the destination country. You can track progress of your original documentation sent by EMS by tracking from Japan or by tracking in your Destination Country. We upload direct links to document tracking for each shipment into your Client Portal.

SHIPPING INSURANCE

Why should I insure my shipment?

While containers are a relatively safe way to ship, of the 200 million containers shipped each year over 1,000 are lost at sea. And then theres fire, like the MV Hyundai Fortune.

Disasters happen to Roll-On Roll-Off Car Carriers too like the MV Hyundai no 105 which sank off Singapore, the MV Tricolor which sank in the English Channel, the MV Cougar Ace which capsized en route from Japan to Vancouver, the one year old MV Byakko which was struck by another ship and sank in Japanese waters after leaving Kobe and the MV Hual Europe which ran aground on the Japanese coast and was totally destroyed with its cargo of cars.

If you're still not sure about insurance then click here for the videos.

Damage can also occur even if the vessel doesn't run aground, collide or sink.

Loss and damage can also occur on the docks prior to shipment.

Click here to view Typhoon 21 at the Port of Kobe.

Because of this we automatically insure all shipments unless you provide evidence that you're holding coverage under another policy.

How much does marine insurance cost?

For vehicles shipped by Roll-On Roll-Off some will automatically be insured by the shipping company.

Vehicles that are not automatically insured by the shipping company are insured with Mitsubishi Sumitomo Insurance Group. This cover is for theft or loss of the vehicle during shipping but does not include contents or parts. In the event of a claim the policy pays 110% of the invoiced price. The premium is the invoiced price of the vehicle +10% x 0.15% with a minimum premium of Y3,000. This means that vehicles with an invoiced price up to Y180,000 are covered by a Y3,000 premium.

Marine insurance for containers covers up to invoice value depending on the damage or loss. The cost of an insurance policy for containers is a minimum of Y2,000 and typically between Y5,000 and Y10,000 per container. The premium is calculated by invoice value x 11.1 x 0.003 though it could vary slightly depending on the actual stock items and their value.

For B2B clients we suggest that you consult with your local Customs Broker for the best policy for your individual circumstances. Usually a policy that covers multiple shipments will provide better cover than insuring on a shipment by shipment basis. Also, in the event of a claim you will be dealing with the same local office that provided the policy.

If I have marine insurance does it mean the insurance company will always pay the claim?

No. The insurance company can deny the claim.

SHIPMENT TRACKING

How can I track my shipment from Japan?

Once your shipment leaves Japan we upload tracking details to your Client Portal. This means you can plan for the receipt, unloading, transport and storage of your stock. Most shipping companies provide online tracking. You can also track your shipment with shipping locators.