Full Container Loads (FCL)
Licensed by the FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) and bonded as an NVOCC (Non-vessel Operating Common Carrier), MERIDIAN WORLDWIDE carries volume-based service contracts with steam lines. This purchasing power allows us to pass on wholesale-level rates to our clients. Pricing for "in gauge" cargo is given as a flat, per container rate. Pricing for Special Equipment Containers - i.e. Flatracks and Open-Tops - is based on the volume and weight of the cargo.

Container Types:

Standard: 20', 40' & *45'
Reefer: 20' & 40'
High Cube: 40'
Flatrack: 20' & 40'
Open-Top: 20' & 40'
*45' Containers are only used by a few ocean carriers.

Please see our "Ocean Container Specs" page for more extensive information regarding container specifications.

Components of an FCL Ocean Freight Transaction:

  1) A Booking Sheet is issued - information includes:

Port of Loading
Port of Destination
Container Type
Cut-off Date at the pier
Departure Date
Arrival Date
Booking Number
Vessel Name
Voyage Number

  2) Container Drayage between the relevant Port of Load and supplier.

  3) Container is loaded by the supplier.

Has cargo been appropriately braced and blocked?
Does cargo require special climatic provisions?

  4) Container and Seal Numbers are noted.

  5) Quantity of cargo inside the container noted - weight and volume.

  6) Container Drayage from the supplier to the Port of Load.

  7) Ocean freight conveyance from Port to Port.

  8) All relevant Documentation issued.

  9) Terminal Receiving at Port of Destination.

10) Customs Clearance Entry.

11) Delivery to final destination / consignee

Less Than Container Load (LCL):
Working with a network of steam lines, MERIDIAN WORLDWIDE is able to secure preferred rate levels via Carrier to Carrier Contracts for sending your partial, or consolidated loads. Space inside the container is shared among multiple companies shipping to the same destination port. Pricing is based on whichever is greater - volume (Cubic Meter) or weight (1000 kgs). Except for extremely dense cargo, the volume almost always determines the rates. Loading is included in this service and captured in the Per Cubic Meter Rate. You have the option of dropping off at a consolidation terminal or having us pick up the freight from you or a supplier. Cargo may also be "drop-shipped" to the consolidation depot. All lots are properly segregated and monitored. Rates are provided for Minimum Lots, 1 - 5 Cbm, 6 - 10 Cbm, 11 - 15 Cbm, 16 - 20 Cbm

Bulk Freight:
This mode of shipping is suitable only for very large quantities (volume & weight) of product. Cargo may be Dry or Liquid and stowed Above or Below Deck. Product is typically packed in bags or drums, unless pumped directly into special hulls on the vessel. Charter and inducement sailings are available.