Frete marítimo

It’s simple: with Hellmann, you can request a competitive seafreight quote quickly and easily. Just use our Let’s Do Business form and enter your shipment details, such as port of departure and destination, weight or volume, cargo type (FCL or LCL), and any required value-added services (e.g. break-bulk or RoRo).

Our experienced logistics experts will then prepare a customized offer tailored precisely to your requirements, including multimodal transport solutions and industry-specific needs.

Once you have confirmed your quote, you will receive a booking confirmation with all relevant details, including container type, departure date, routing, and your dedicated point of contact. Hellmann manages the entire process end to end—from cargo pickup and loading to documentation, customs clearance, and final delivery at destination. Throughout the shipment, you benefit from full transparency via our Smart Tracking tool, enabling real-time tracking of your seafreight shipment.

Airfreight is suitable for a wide range of goods, including:

• Hellmann handles almost all types of cargo worldwide via seafreight—from standard containerized shipments to complex special cargo. This includes, among others:
• Container cargo (FCL / LCL): Standardized goods shipped in 20-foot or 40-foot containers or as consolidated cargo (Less than Container Load). Ideal for consumer goods, industrial products, and machinery parts.
• Project and heavy lift cargo: Oversized cargo, heavy machinery, industrial plants, turbines, and large-scale projects requiring specialized handling and loading solutions.
• Break-bulk cargo: Individual items or goods that cannot be containerized, such as steel, timber, or raw materials.
• RoRo cargo (Roll-on / Roll-off): Cars, commercial vehicles, and other wheeled cargo loaded directly onto dedicated RoRo vessels.
• Refrigerated and temperature-controlled cargo: Food products, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive goods requiring a continuous cold chain.

For each cargo category, Hellmann provides tailored transport solutions, including documentation management, customs clearance, and shipment tracking, to ensure your goods arrive safely and on schedule.

In principle, a wide range of goods can be transported by seafreight. However, certain restrictions apply: dangerous goods, highly sensitive, or high-value cargo may require special regulations or customized solutions. Hellmann reviews each shipment individually and ensures that even complex or non-standard cargo is shipped safely and in full compliance with international regulations.

Seafreight is especially efficient for:

• Large volumes and heavy cargo: Containerized goods, raw materials, machinery parts, and heavy lift cargo.
• Project cargo: Industrial plants, turbines, vehicles, and other oversized shipments.
• Non-urgent shipments: Goods where transit time is less critical and cost efficiency and capacity optimization are key.
• Temperature-controlled or specialized cargo: Food products, pharmaceuticals, and other goods requiring a controlled transport environment.

For all these cargo types, Hellmann delivers customized sea freight solutions with professional handling, customs clearance, real-time tracking, and specialized services — ensuring a safe, reliable, and cost-efficient transport experience for your global supply chain.

Yes, many types of dangerous goods can be transported by sea freight; however, they are subject to strict international regulations, in particular the IMDG Code. Not all substances are approved for sea freight, and approved goods must meet specific requirements regarding packaging, labeling, documentation, and storage.

Hellmann has dedicated dangerous goods specialists who support you in handling your hazardous cargo safely and in full compliance with all regulations. Please contact us in advance so we can assess whether your dangerous goods are eligible for sea freight transport.

 

The transport of dangerous goods by sea freight is governed by international and national regulations, including:

• IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code): The key regulatory framework for the safe transport of hazardous materials by sea.
• National regulations: Additional requirements may apply depending on the port of departure and destination.
• Correct classification: All dangerous goods must be properly classified and clearly labeled according to their hazard class.
• Special packaging: Only approved UN-certified packaging and safety containers are permitted.
• Documentation: Complete and accurate shipping documents, such as the Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods, are mandatory.

Hellmann manages the entire process, from compliant packaging and documentation to full regulatory adherence, ensuring that your dangerous goods shipments are transported safely, efficiently, and in accordance with all applicable sea freight regulations.

1. Cargo volume or weight

• LCL shipments (Less than Container Load): Pricing is usually based on cargo volume measured in cubic meters (CBM).
• FCL shipments (Full Container Load): Charged at a flat rate per container, regardless of the exact cargo weight or volume.

2. Volumetric weight vs. gross weight

Gross weight refers to the actual physical weight of the shipment, including packaging. Depending on the shipment characteristics, either the gross weight or the volume (volumetric weight) is used as the basis for calculating seafreight costs.

• Lightweight but bulky cargo (e.g. furniture or machine housings) is often charged based on volume.
• Standard CBM formula: Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) = Volume in cubic meters (m³)

3. Special cargo requirements

• Dangerous goods: Require special packaging, documentation, and compliance with the IMDG Code.
• Temperature-controlled cargo: Transported in reefer containers or insulated units with continuous cold chain monitoring.
• High-value cargo: Additional security measures increase transport costs.
• Heavy lift and oversized cargo: Requires special containers, lifting equipment, or dedicated project cargo solutions.

4. Service levels

• FCL (Full Container Load): Direct transport, fast and secure, charged per container.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Consolidated shipments shared between multiple customers; cost-efficient for smaller volumes.
• Sea freight express services: Faster handling and priority space allocation at higher rates.

Additional Services (Ancillary Charges)

• Pre-carriage (pickup): Collection from the shipper’s premises.
• On-carriage (delivery): Final delivery at the destination.
• Customs clearance: Handling of import and export documentation.
• Terminal Handling Charges (THC): Fees for port handling, storage, and documentation.
• Cargo insurance: Optional coverage against loss or damage.
• Fuel surcharges (BAF): Adjustments based on current fuel prices.

Cost example: An LCL shipment with a cargo volume of 2 CBM on a high-demand trade lane during peak season can result in significantly higher sea freight costs due to volume-based pricing, seasonal surcharges, Terminal Handling Charges, and fuel surcharges—compared to an identical shipment transported during off-peak season on a standard route.

Sea freight offers a wide range of benefits for international shipping. Below are the key advantages in detail:

1. Cost efficiency for large volumes

Sea freight is highly economical when transporting large quantities of goods.

• Large shipments: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) enable cost-efficient transport over long distances.
• More cost-effective than airfreight: Especially for heavy or bulk cargo, sea freight provides significant cost advantages.

2. Global reach and flexibility

Containers and vessels connect almost every port worldwide.

• Versatile transport options: In addition to FCL and LCL, solutions such as break-bulk, RoRo, and project cargo are available.
• Door-to-door solutions: End-to-end services including pre-carriage and on-carriage allow direct delivery to the consignee.

3. Sustainable transport solutions

Sea freight can be designed as an environmentally responsible transport option.

• Cleaner sea freight: CO₂ reduction through the use of sustainable marine fuels and optimized routing.
• Transparent emissions reporting: Companies receive comprehensive CO₂ data across the entire supply chain.

4. Safe and reliable deliveries

Modern systems enhance transparency and predictability.

• Smart Tracking: Real-time shipment visibility, including estimated arrival times.
• Compliance with international regulations: SOLAS VGM, IMO 2020, and Incoterms® 2020 ensure legally compliant and standardized processes.

Conclusion

Sea freight is ideal for large volumes, offers high flexibility and sustainability, and—supported by digital tools such as Smart Tracking—provides full supply chain transparency and planning reliability. It combines cost efficiency with safety, making it an optimal solution for many international shipments.

In sea freight, limits mainly depend on the container type and the vessel. In general, the following options apply:

1. Restrictions for standard containers (FCL / LCL)

Most goods are transported in 20-foot or 40-foot containers.

Size limits:

• 20-foot container (internal dimensions): approx. 5.9 m length × 2.35 m width × 2.39 m height
• 40-foot container (internal dimensions): approx. 12.03 m length × 2.35 m width × 2.39 m height
• 20-foot High Cube (20' HC)(internal dimensions): approx. 5.9 m length × 2.35 m width × 2.69 m height
• 40-foot High Cube (40' HC)(internal dimensions): approx. 12.03 m length × 2.35 m width × 2.69 m height
• LCL shipments: Typically consolidated on pallets or in cartons; height and weight must be suitable for stacking and stability.

Weight limits:

• Maximum net cargo weight per standard container: approx. 28–30 metric tons
• Maximum gross weight: approx. 30–32 metric tons (including container tare weight)
• Additional deck and hold limits of the vessel must also be considered.

2. Restrictions for open-top and flat-rack containers

Used for oversized or bulky cargo that does not fit into standard containers.

Size considerations:

• Open-top and flat-rack containers allow cargo exceeding standard height or width.
• Length, width, and height must comply with vessel load capacity and stowage plans.

Weight considerations:

• Maximum weight depends on container type and vessel capacity.
• Heavy project or machinery cargo often requires load distribution across dedicated sections.

3. Project cargo / oversized cargo

For extremely large, heavy, or irregularly shaped goods such as wind turbines, industrial plants, vessels, or vehicles.

• Transport is usually carried out on specialized vessels, such as heavy-lift or RoRo ships.
• Single-unit weights can reach several tons, with dimensions often exceeding several meters.
• Each shipment is individually planned, taking into account stability, loading height, sea conditions, and port infrastructure.

Additional key factors

• Stackability and cargo securing: Non-stackable cargo requires special securing and dedicated space on board.
• Route and port capabilities: Not all ports can handle oversized cargo; water depth and crane capacity are critical.
• Packaging: Protection against seawater, moisture, and vibration is essential.

For particularly large, heavy, or sensitive shipments, Hellmann offers customized sea freight solutions including detailed planning, stowage, and customs clearance.

Special services in sea freight cover all transport solutions beyond standard container shipping. They are required when cargo involves specific requirements related to size, weight, safety, or handling.

1. Temperature-controlled transport (cool chain)

One of the most common special services for goods requiring constant temperature conditions.

• Typical cargo: Food products (fish, meat, fruit, flowers), pharmaceuticals, medical samples
• Requirements: Use of reefer containers or insulated units, uninterrupted cold chain, continuous temperature monitoring

2. Dangerous goods transport (DG)

For substances that pose a risk to health, safety, or the environment.

Typical cargo:

• Lithium batteries (Class 9), e.g. in laptops and mobile devices
• Chemicals, gases, flammable liquids such as paints, coatings, and aerosols

Special requirements:

• Strict regulations: Compliance with international dangerous goods regulations
• Certified personnel: Only trained staff may pack and declare dangerous goods
• UN-certified packaging: Tested packaging designed to withstand defined stresses
• Documentation: A correctly completed Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods is mandatory
• Segregation rules: Certain dangerous goods must not be stored or loaded together

3. Project cargo / heavy lift (oversized cargo)

For particularly large or heavy goods that do not fit into standard containers.

Typical cargo:

• Machinery components
• Vehicles
• Industrial plants
• Offshore equipment

Special requirements:

• Use of flat-racks or open-top containers
• Deployment of specialized vessels
• Precise load planning
• Special lifting and handling equipment

4. High-value cargo

For goods of high monetary value or critical importance.

Typical cargo:

• Precious metals
• Works of art
• High-end electronics
• Prototypes

Special requirements:

• Secure storage
• GPS tracking
• Discreet and priority handling

5. Charter vessels and customized routes

For shipments with special requirements regarding speed, destination ports, or flexibility.

Use cases:

• Transport to ports without regular liner services
• Humanitarian aid shipments
• Large-scale project cargo

Special requirements:

• Individual route planning
• Direct handling
• Maximum flexibility

6. Combined dangerous goods and special solutions

In many cases, temperature control, dangerous goods regulations, and heavy cargo solutions must be combined. This requires advanced logistics planning and close coordination with port authorities and vessel operators.

Special services in sea freight ensure that even complex, sensitive, or high-value shipments are transported safely, efficiently, and on schedule. Hellmann delivers tailored solutions worldwide—from standard containers to highly specialized sea freight projects.

Express sea freight is a priority sea freight solution for particularly urgent shipments. It offers shorter transit times than standard container services and is ideal for time-critical cargo.

Key features:

• Accelerated transit times: Optimized routes and direct sailings
• Priority handling: Preferential treatment at ports and on board
• Flexible departures: Booking on the next available vessel
• Higher costs: Premium service for urgent shipments
• Tracking and transparency: Real-time tracking from port to port

Typical use cases:

• Emergency spare parts or production materials
• Perishable or temperature-controlled goods
• Time-critical commercial cargo or project shipments