Ocean Sea Freight Ocean and Sea Freight Forwarding 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the term 'FCL' stand for in ocean freight shipping?
- Full Container Load (Correct answer)
- Freight Clearance License
- Forward Cargo Logistics
- Federal Customs Levy
Correct answer: Full Container Load
FCL means Full Container Load, where a shipper leases an entire container for their exclusive use.
Question 2: A shipper needs to transport 5 cubic meters of cargo. Which ocean freight mode is most cost-effective?
- FCL
- LCL (Correct answer)
- Bulk carrier
- RORO
Correct answer: LCL
LCL (Less than Container Load) is ideal for small shipments that don't fill an entire container, sharing space and cost with other shippers.
Question 3: Which document serves as the contract of carriage between the shipper and the ocean carrier?
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (Correct answer)
- Certificate of Origin
Correct answer: Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading (B/L) is the primary document that serves as a receipt, contract of carriage, and document of title in ocean freight.
Question 4: What is a 'demurrage' charge in ocean freight?
- A fee for loading cargo onto the vessel
- A penalty for keeping a container beyond the free time at the port (Correct answer)
- A surcharge for hazardous materials
- A fee paid to the customs broker
Correct answer: A penalty for keeping a container beyond the free time at the port
Demurrage is a penalty fee charged when a shipper or consignee keeps a container at the port terminal beyond the allowed free time.
Question 5: What does 'ETA' stand for in shipping terminology?
- Export Tax Assessment
- Estimated Time of Arrival (Correct answer)
- Equipment Transfer Agreement
- Electronic Trade Authorization
Correct answer: Estimated Time of Arrival
ETA stands for Estimated Time of Arrival, indicating when a vessel or shipment is expected to reach its destination.
Question 6: Which Incoterm places maximum responsibility on the buyer in an international ocean shipment?
- DDP
- CIF
- FOB
- EXW (Correct answer)
Correct answer: EXW
EXW (Ex Works) places the minimum obligation on the seller, meaning the buyer is responsible for all transportation, insurance, and export/import clearance.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of a freight forwarder in ocean shipping?
- To own and operate cargo vessels
- To act as an intermediary arranging shipment logistics on behalf of shippers (Correct answer)
- To inspect cargo for customs compliance
- To insure cargo against maritime risks
Correct answer: To act as an intermediary arranging shipment logistics on behalf of shippers
A freight forwarder coordinates and arranges international shipments on behalf of shippers, handling documentation, booking, and logistics.
What does the term 'FCL' stand for in ocean freight shipping?