What are the key differences between fast and slow shipping for FBA (French Shipping)?
In this article, Weefreight will explain in detail, hoping it will be helpful.
Routes and Ports of Call: Fast shipping routes are more direct, typically traveling directly from the port of departure to the destination port with fewer stops, thus minimizing transit time. Slow shipping, on the other hand, arranges multiple transfers and calls at multiple ports to maximize load factors, resulting in slower logistics timeliness.
Shipping Time: Fast shipping offers faster timeliness. For example, the regular CLX ship from Matson Express departs from Ningbo or Shanghai and arrives at the port approximately 11 days after sailing. The container is picked up in 1-2 days, and the entire warehousing process takes approximately 15-18 days. Zim Express ships depart from Shenzhen Yantian and arrive at the port 13 days after sailing, with the container picked up in 1-3 days, for a total transit time of approximately 16-20 days. Yantian OA Alliance Express ships arrive at the port 14-16 days after sailing, with the container picked up in 2-4 days, for a total transit time of approximately 18-22 days. Slower ships have longer transit times: scheduled general cargo ships are delivered by UPS 18-25 days after sailing, while non-scheduled general cargo ships are delivered by UPS 40-45 days after sailing.
Unloading Speed: Express ships generally have priority unloading rights. For example, Matson Express’s CLX service unloads at Matson’s independent Pier C terminal, allowing full container unloading within 48 hours, offering a certain advantage even in port congestion. Slower ships, on the other hand, typically unload at regular ports, with slower unloading times, potentially taking three days or even a week.
Shipping Cost: Express shipping costs are higher, typically 30%-50% higher than slower shipping. This is because express shipping has higher operating costs, yet offers faster shipping speeds and superior service. Slow shipping, on the other hand, offers lower shipping costs and is suitable for less time-sensitive, more cost-sensitive goods.
Cargo Types: Express shipping primarily carries high-value, urgently needed goods, as it allows for faster delivery to Amazon’s FBA warehouses, resulting in faster inventory turnover and shorter customer wait times. Slow shipping is more suitable for transporting bulky, heavy, or lower-value goods.
Generally speaking, the time difference between express and slow shipping is approximately 10-30 days. The specific time difference can be affected by various factors, including shipping routes, port congestion, and weather.
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