Welcome To DocShipper
Sea Freight Services From & To Qatar
Introduction
This page will guide you into all the details needed related to sea freight or shipping from and to Qatar. There are two types of shipping methods to keep in mind concerning sea freight. FCL & LCL, that stands for (full container load- less than a container load).
Shipping by sea offers a chance to contribute to the scale of economies, due to freight forwarder companies that allows us to deliver huge amounts of containers used per shipment, making it the most common way of shipping used today.
DocShipper Qatar Info: The DocShipper group offers sea cargo services in Qatar in a unique solution that combines the entire import/export process. As our slogan states, "Time is money, we save you both!" Our role is to support, assist, and guide you through the entire cycle.
Interested in our services? Need personalized information? Our experts will send you a free quote within 24 hours. Have a question? Call us now.
Sea Freight Shipping From Qatar: Rates, Time And Procedure
Maritime transport is a reliable means of transportation for large volumes, with options designed to accommodate cargo of different sizes. The two main container shipping services methodsin Qatar are Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL).
LCL services from Qatar
In case a client does not have enough material to book a complete size container, we would advise them to negotiate with the consolidator to book a place on an LCL container “Less Container Load”, which specifically means sharing a container along with other parties.
FCL services from Qatar
If the customer decides to ship material in a container compartment using the FCL method (Full Container Load). Keep in mind that the customer does not need to completely load the reserved container, the choice of using all the space or leaving an unfilled space in the holder is simply left to the customer. The consolidator organizes a full container (FCL) in addition to consolidating the goods of other clients. In other words, the freight forwarder company that books a full container agrees on the material from other clients and packs all of them in a single container that has been registered for FCL (Full Container Load). The freight company delivers the product either by the place of the intended destination or transshipment locations, to other recipients and other ports. When the merchandise reaches its location, the shipping company delivers them separately to each client and collects any due fees.
Note DocShipper: We advise our customers to use FCL containers if their shipment is 15 m³ because it will save them money and will not cost as much as an LCL shipping strategy, even if the container is only half full. Need a quote? Contact us via WhatsApp for a free estimate!
We Work With The Best Shipping Lines
Sea Freight From Qatar – Estimated Time Of Transit
How much time is needed to send a container to Qatar ?
City | Average Transit Time |
Fos/Mer | 62 days |
Busan | 37 days |
Shanghai | 26 days |
Singapore | 20 days |
Mumbai | 17 days |
Rotterdam | 45 days |
Le havre | 55 days |
Los Angeles | 35-40 days |
Barcelona | 53 days |
*The delays related to the table above excludes unexpected steps for example procedures related to clearance can in some occasions postpone the goods for a couple of days.
Operational ports in Qatar for international sea freight.
Hamad Port
Hamad Port, located in Umm Al-Houl near Doha, is Qatar's premier maritime trade gateway. Covering an area of 28.5 square kilometers, the port can handle 7.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually. It boasts a 4 km long, 700-meter-wide, and 17-meter-deep channel, capable of accommodating the world's largest vessels. Opened in 2016, Hamad Port has quickly become one of the largest and most advanced ports in the Middle East, playing a critical role in supporting Qatar's economy by efficiently managing a significant volume of containerized goods, bulk commodities, and vehicles. With its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location, Hamad Port is a key hub for international shipping in Qatar and in the region.
Doha Port
Doha port is one of the busiest commercial ports that Qatar operates on today, handling several types of material and cargo. Milaha Port Services took the operations and management control of Doha’s Port in 2011, and created a one-stop shop employing sophisticated technology and streamlined steps to enhance the cargo clearance process, in addition to health , environmental and customs procedures . A advanced short- and long-term planning system was also executed that made waiting time less, if at all, for vessels in the harbor area.
Ras Laffan Port
The port of Ras Laffan is situated almost 80 Km to the north from Doha city by the northern east coast of Qatar, The port of Ras Laffan has an added value with is strategic location, it is right in the middle of the industrial zone in Qatar, that makes it a very busy port. Port of Ras Laffan is one of the biggest hydrocarbon & liquefied natural gas LNG exporter that exports a yearly amount of approximately seventy seven million-tons. With its multiple facilities this port can host more than one type of carrier or ship. The list of types of vessels are listed below.
- LPG carriers
- LNG carriers
- Supply vessel
- Dry cargo carrier
- ballast tankers accommodates large loads (300,000 DWT)
How To Receive And Understand A Sea Freight Quotation?
What Information Is Needed By DocShipper Qatar To Give A Detailed Quotation?
Incoterms
It is commonly used by import and export experts. incoterms relatively give more details that focus on the roles that should be played during the transport of material through the client and the shipping company. A more detailed explanation of the necessary information concerning “incoterms” will be available in the following sections of this page.
The weight (Kg) & The volume(m3)
Your load plus the volume are the two components that could have the greatest impact on your shipping order. they absolutely need attention from both parties of the transaction.
Note DocShipper Qatar: Freight forwarder companies would charge you according to the heaviest load of total weight and the volumetric weight while shipping internationally. The weight in total is the one measured with a scale, in kg or tons. Volumetric weight is calculated differently, by multiplying the volume:m3 by 1,000
The products nature
Some merchandise is trickier than different types of goods during the transportation phase: some are delicate, and others are hazardous… thus it is important to follow the rules and regulations that have been set internationally to establish safety measures so that everything is safe and under control in addition to paying close attention to minor issues during departure and the shipment arrival
Arrival address and departure
Important aspects of a freight quotation: arrival and departure point. This method facilitates the computation of prices related to the departure and arrival of merchandise shipped between the ports.
Packaging requirements
Special packaging should be done for each type of product to make sure that a secure shipment. sometimes, it might even be a requirement to follow a specific way of packing for the products to be shipped legally.
Tips DocShipper Qatar: One of the most important phases during the shipping process is packaging because it gives us the chance to set the products correctly and most safely from departure till they arrive at their destination, not neglecting this point is a vital process.
How to find the cheapest sea freight prices?
Our team which is based on experts in import/export logistics constructed a group of 7 main points to take into consideration if you want to make shipments using sea shipping.
- Understand what your business is about.
- Find more information related to the market prices.
- Having the best shipping method LCL or FCL.
- Quotation auditing.
- Plan effectively.
- Your merchandise packaging should be in the correct manner.
- The faster the delivery the more the cost.
Our Department of Maritime Freight – Our action plan
- Merchandise is sensitive to temperature changes.
- Dangerous products.
- Large shipments by the volume of cargo.
- Delicate product.
- Personal merchandise.
Note: DocShipper is a sea transport company in Qatar freight forwarder who organizes the transport of your goods from the supplier's warehouse to the final destination. We'll take care of everything, from packing and customs clearance to administrative formalities, whatever the mode of shipment (air, sea, road or rail). Contact us to receive a free quote in less than 24 hours. A question? Call us via WhatsApp.
DocShipper Qatar Sea freight department Scope of services
Shipping Dry goods temperature by ocean Freight from Qatar
Our Qatar Sea Freight department excels in transporting dry goods by ocean freight, ensuring reliable and cost-effective shipping solutions. Whether you’re exporting electronics, textiles, or industrial materials, we manage the logistics with precision. Benefit from competitive rates and efficient transit times to global destinations.
Shipping goods under controlled temperature by ocean Freight from Qatar
For temperature-sensitive shipments requiring controlled environments, our Sea Freight services in Qatar provide tailored solutions. From pharmaceuticals to perishable goods, we maintain strict temperature controls throughout the journey, ensuring product integrity and compliance with international standards.
Shipping Bulk Cargo by Sea Freight from Qatar
Handling large-scale shipments efficiently is our expertise. Whether you’re exporting minerals, grains, or construction materials, our Qatar Sea Freight department offers comprehensive solutions for bulk cargo. Benefit from specialized equipment and dedicated logistics management to streamline your supply chain.
Shipping Out of Gauge by Ocean Freight from Qatar
Transporting oversized or irregularly shaped cargo demands specialized expertise. Our Qatar Sea Freight team manages out-of-gauge shipments with precision, utilizing flat racks, open-top containers, and other customized solutions. Ensure your unique cargo reaches its destination safely and on schedule.
Shipping Roll-on Roll-off by Sea Freight from Qatar
Efficiently transport vehicles, heavy machinery, and other rolling stock with our Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) services from Qatar. Our Sea Freight department ensures smooth handling and secure loading/unloading at ports worldwide. Trust our expertise in RoRo logistics for seamless transportation solutions.
Insurance of sea freight – The DocShipper coverage plan
Why should we have insurance on our cargo?
International logistics isn’t an easy task. There are different risks concerning the transportation of the product through all the steps related to shipment. These risks associated with sea freight are natural and are as follows: processing mistakes, human mistakes or simply environmental-related risks In either case, there would be an undeniable threat, that’s why it is always a better idea to be covered by an insurance company for instance if something was stolen, damaged or loss of material.
Sea freight insurance cost?
The cost of coverage varies according to the assessed exposures. Several considerations would be taken into account, for example, the location that the goods are being shipped to, material handling, the packing & the type of goods.
DocShipper Qatar Info: Insuring fees are usually calculated according to the type of merchandise and shipping: about 0.95 percent for commercial goods in addition to 3.1 percent for private merchandise.
Declared value - Finding the right balance
Under the above-mentioned conditions, the coverage shall also be based on the declared price of the items. Insurance package, in the event of a claim, depends on the reported cost. This is an essential factor to consider, since carelessness may result in misunderstandings and disagreements ( further custom duties would be exercised on the goods claimed worth).
Do not under-report your goods: when customs clearance check the container, if customs are in doubt about costs of the shipment, significant fees would be placed as penalties by the customs officials. In the event of a dispute, your coverage plan would only cover the priced value of the goods.
Avoid over-reporting your merchandise: However, when you add value to the consignment, the customs charges may be quite high.
Why would you choose to do business with a local freight company like DocShipper Qatar?
Competitiveness
With its proven and accredited logistics organization, combined with its knowledge, and experience in addition to the network in the field, DocShipper Qatar can deliver the most competitive prices than any other reputable company in the industry.
Agile
Besides the fact that we are low-priced, we also emphasize the versatility of our workforce. We handle each transaction in the best possible way to deliver a suitable service that is flexible and responsive to all needs and expectations.
Packaging
Our packaging strategy depends upon the type and size of the product; each product has its distinct characteristics and a specific way of handling during the process of packaging, ensuring optimal protection and efficiency.
Operational Efficiency and Flexibility.
DocShipper has always aimed for customer satisfaction it is one of our main goals. That’s why our logistics experts can guide you through the whole procedure of your shipment for it to maintain a flexible and efficient voyage.
Specialized service
DocShipper Qatar is a specialist responsible for guaranteeing the safety of maritime transport from dispatch to arrival. The specialist will be at your disposal to supply the client to improve the efficiency of your operations and prevent any potential discrepancy with the classical "customer support".
A Local Qatar Freight Forwarder – DocShipper
The wide field of logistics makes it a little tricky in terms of importers, the risk of being scammed or having a poor handling of your shipment falls upon your responsibility to choose a local trustworthy freight forwarder like DocShipper Qatar.
Note: Are you planning to ship goods by sea? Whether it's a groupage or a full container, DocShipper is an ocean freight forwarder in Qatar that handles all procedures with all stakeholders throughout the entire logistics chain.
One single point of contact, dedicated tracking, peace of mind, expertise... DocShipper Qatar makes import/export more pleasant.
Interested in our services? Contact us to receive a free quote within 24 hours. We will answer all your questions. Call us now and for free.
Advantages and disadvantages of maritime freight
Advantages of sea freight
- The cheapest for bigger loads
- Unlimited volume
- It is an environmentally friendly method
Inconveniences of maritime freight transport
- Duration of the delay
- In weather-related terms.
- More manipulations
The step by step procedure for international shipping of containers
Step 1: Conveying Merchandise from Export Suppliers to your shipping company's depot.
When we start shipping your goods, our first focus is on clear communication with you. We work closely to understand all your needs, especially regarding how your items are packed and shipped. By working closely with your suppliers, we make sure your merchandise is collected safely and brought to our shipping depot.
Step 2: Transfer of goods to the port.
Upon authorization of shipment papers by our Export Services team, your shipment is promptly forwarded to the designated harbor of dispatch. Our team meticulously prepares all necessary documentation, including invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin, ensuring compliance with international regulations for smooth customs clearance.
Step 3: Presenting documents for export customs clearance
To legally export goods, we must clear customs by providing the necessary documents, including a packing checklist that details the type and quantity of items. Our team handles this process diligently, ensuring compliance with regulations. This ensures smooth approval from customs, allowing for the efficient shipment of goods to international destinations.
Step 4: The shipment is transported from the port of departure to the port of arrival.
Once the goods are loaded aboard for shipping, the next step is transporting them to their destination. Depending on the route and distance, this journey typically takes between 10 to 45 days for the vessel to reach the destination port. Upon arrival, the merchandise undergoes clearance procedures before being released for onward delivery. Throughout this transit period, our team monitors the shipment closely to ensure timely arrival and efficient handling at the destination port.
Step 5: Clearance of products from local authorities.
After the goods reach their destination, they would be subjected to domestic tariffs. We would be working with domestic officials to fix the customs clearance for all goods that have been cleared after the tax procedure.
After the cargo reaches the customs offices, the necessary papers should be supplied to the customs to determine the tax liability. As a result, we will connect with the appointed "customs broker" who is designated by the local officials in addition to the customer.
Once the customs duties have been paid, the merchandise is cleared and can be delivered.
Step 6: Delivery from the port of arrival to your final location.
To finalize the shipment process, it will be done using our dedicated transportation logistical group to dispatch the item to the requested destination. We will take care of the unloading upon delivery if it is necessary.For the last point, it is recommended that it be cleared through an agent on the customs of the port location.
DocShipper Qatar Note:
Whether you are a large company, an SME, a start-up, or an individual, DocShipper organizes your shipment from A to Z, without you having to intervene. Tell us about your project so our experts can find the most suitable solution for your shipment and offer you advice on how to save on transportation costs.
We will answer all your questions!
The incoterms in international maritime freight
EXW
When the customer chooses EXW, it means that the complete process will be the responsibility of the customer: from the supplier to the location desired. So the responsibility would be to take care of all factors of the process to get connected to a freight forwarder like DocShipper Qatar that offers services such as door-to-door.
FOB (free on board)
During the purchase of a deal using FOB, means that the seller is in charge of transporting the shipment for delivery until the arrival at the destination port, having a professional term used is FOB setting, in other words, the merchandise and the shipment have already been authorized to be exported through the national Customs and has been loaded on to the vessel.
Cost and freight (C&F) or Cost, insurance and freight (CIF)
Shipping with CFR or CIF is a concept related to FOB Incoterms, with the sole exception of the fact that shipping whether by air or by sea the costs would be added to the original customer liabilities ... Notice there is a distinction between the CIF & CFR that is the coverage which is available with going CIF.
DAT
For example, such an incoterm can be utilized to purchase the merchandise and transport it via the port: Doha port It is therefore in your hands to collect the goods in the harbor's designated zone. It should be noted that the DAT Incoterm consists of all domestic shipments to identify the off-loading of the cargo, then unbundling costs (if any) and customs clearance.
DAP
Our final Inco-term for this section is DAP, it represents the door-to-door approach, in other words, technically speaking, all goods are transported to the desired destination, your depot, workroom, or home.
Are there door-to-door services in sea freight offered by DocShipper?
DocShipper has developed an amount of significant knowledge in the international shipping business and now proposes to offer a door-to-door shipping service. With a first class solution that offers end-to-end assistance for all processes from beginning to end, the goods would be delivered at the customer’s ease, where the least amount of effort is taken, and won't be disturbed at any stage of the journey.
Note DocShipper: Beware, several officers mistakenly misinterpret DAT/DAP incoterms as CIF/CFR incoterms. CFR/CIF Incoterms exclude import taxes for container unloading and clearance at the customs which includes entry customs fees.
Documents required when shipping products to Qatar by sea freight
The Bill of Lading (BL)
The BL is one of the most important documents required to clear your goods. As the CO is certifying the origin of your goods, the BL is witnessing of the payment transfer from the importer to the freight forwarder, and the issuance of the LC (Letter of Credit).
1 = Shipper, 2 = Consignee, 3 = Notify party, 4 = Vessel No., 5 = Port of loading/discharge, 6 = Place of receipt/delivery, 7 = Containers No, 8 = Goods description, 9 = Net weight, 10 = Dimensions / volume
The shipping company and/or its agent shall provide this certificate as proof that the transportation of merchandise to the client can take place. It also represents that accepted merchandise would have receipts for shipment and is required to be submitted for receipt on delivery. This agreement shall include:
- A list of the consignors and consignees.
- The arrival and departure port names.
- The ship’s name.
- The arrival and departure dates.
- For each consignment, the quantity of goods carried and the number of packages.
- Brand & quantity of package.
- For each shipment, weight and volume.
- Freight fees in addition to tariffs.
Commercial quotations
The documents are needed for local authorities to calculate the precise amount of the shipment and to also identify any possible further tax liabilities. many important specifications must be pointed out in a commercial quotation, for example:
- Given information about the seller & buyer.
- The sales date and conditions.
- The cargo packaging.
- Detailed product description.
- Overall unit value.
- Liability shipping, insurance in addition to different fees.
Packing checklist
The parcel checklist is a necessary component of all forms of cross-border maritime transportation by: air, sea, rail, and road freight. Just like a business quote, the loading checklist should contain all the details of the shipment.
DocShipper Qatar Note: Compared to the business offer, is it between a single supplier and a single buyer? The packaging list is used to make a record of past orders made from different suppliers.
Certificate of Origin (C/O)
The certificate of origin (C/O) represents a record that has been used logistically & internationally. Either on a hard copy or in a digital form, with the support of the government agency that certifies the accuracy of reported information the freight forwarder will complete the CO. For example, sometimes Chinese Suppliers may name this report as "Form A". The parcel checklist is a necessary component of all forms of cross-border maritime transportation by: air, sea, rail, and road freight. Just like the commercial quotation, the packing checklist should contain all the details of the shipment.
Insurance certificate
Evidence of an agreement by the customer and the insurance company that will cover the shipment is provided in an insurance certificate. The certificate provides an explanation of the cost of the coverage as well as the terms and conditions of the contract.
Comparing - Air freight & Sea freight
Air freight vs. Sea Freight
Shipping by sea is the most economical method of transportation for shipments above a specific amount of goods by a large margin. It is usually preferable to transport merchandise selecting sea freight only after the space needed went above 2M3 certain circumstances 1.5m3). In the case of reduced volumes, it is recommended that the freight used should be by air.
Sending full containers in water is very simple. the most favored way of delivering used by all major industrial corporations, even though they have slower transport duration, the savings achieved are to be considered.
- Twenty-foot container = 33 m3
- 40 feet container = 67 m3
- 40-ft container HQ = 77 m3
Delaying
By far the most time-consuming mode of transportation concerning hold-ups is sea freight. For instance, a postponement with Qatar and China would take:
- From five to seven days using air freight
- Forty to forty-five days by sea
Flexibility
Maritime freight, unlike air and rail freight, is very flexible in two respects: The size of the shipment and the type of products. After all, when it comes to a 20-metre truck or a small 3 m3 package, and there would be no limitations on the size of the parcel, then sea shipping is the way to go. Besides the size, and the kind of products, it also matters. For instance, Lithium or other liquids cannot be sent by planes.
Sea Freight - DocShipper Qatar Recommendations
Certainly, when it comes to the " cost " associated with your potential shipment, marine freight is the right decision. As discussed previously, the way of shipment is more advantageous for most cargoes and shipments. However, in the case of small packages ( typically smaller than 1.4 m3 & 1.9m3), a faster option like air freight would be advisable.
DocShipper Note: Do you have a specific shipment to send? We are here to help. Feel free to contact us for more information on this matter.
FAQ |Sea Freight Shipping from Qatar
⚓ When is sea freight financially advantageous?
There is no exact volume or weight at which sea freight becomes cost-effective. However, we generally notice that from 2 cubic meters or 200 Kgs, sea freight becomes interesting. For smaller volumes, air freight will be more competitive and much faster.
🚢 Less Container Load (LCL) or Full Container Load (FCL), which option to choose?
If we consider only the financial factor, a full container (FCL) becomes cost-effective from around 15 cubic meters. Note that this volume represents less than half the capacity of a 20-foot container (33 cubic meters). The full container also has a security advantage: the container is sealed from departure to arrival. For shipments to Qatar, this ensures your goods remain secure throughout their journey.
🧾 How is sea freight billed?
Take the example of shipping goods from Qatar to the United States. You will face three classes of charges: export charges (in Qatar), import charges (in the USA), and international freight charges. Export and import are generally customized solutions including pickup and delivery. For international freight, in LCL, you will be billed based on the number of cubic meters (for example, 30 USD/m³). If you opt for a full container, you will be billed per container (for example, 1500 USD / 20-foot container).
🇶🇦 How to choose the departure port in Qatar?
The departure (and arrival) port will be selected based on two main factors: the distance between the origin (or destination) and the departure (or arrival) terminal. The second factor is the traffic at this terminal. Naturally, the busier the port, the lower the charges will be. For shipments from Qatar, it’s possible that goods transit through major regional hubs like Jebel Ali in the UAE.
🗺️ What are the main shipping companies operating from Qatar?
As a significant player in the world of import/export, most Shipping Lines operate from Qatar’s main port, Hamad Port. DocShipper will choose the shipping line that best fits your budget and timing: MAERSK, CMA-CGM, MSC, COSCO, EVERGREEN, HANJIN, OOCL, K LINE… for your shipments from Qatar.
📏 What are the different container sizes?
Most goods are shipped in standard-sized containers. Although there are specific containers like semi-open containers, the majority of volume is shipped in 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot HQ containers which have capacities of 33 cubic meters, 67 cubic meters, and 76 cubic meters respectively. These standard sizes are widely used for efficient shipping from Qatar.
🔍 What documents are required for sea freight shipments to Qatar?
To ensure smooth processing of your sea freight shipment to Qatar, you will need several key documents. These typically include the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and any relevant import permits. Additionally, depending on the type of goods, you might need specific certificates such as sanitary or phytosanitary certificates for food and agricultural products. Make sure all documents are accurately filled out to avoid any delays in customs clearance.
DocShipper Advise : We help you with the entire sourcing process, so don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!
- Having trouble finding the appropriate product? Enjoy our sourcing services, we directly find the right suppliers for you!
- You don't trust your supplier? Ask our experts to do quality control to guarantee the condition of your goods!
- Do you need help with the logistics? Our international freight department supports you with door to door services!
- You don't want to handle distribution? Our 3PL department will handle the storage, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery!
DocShipper | Your dedicated freight forwarder in Qatar !
Due to our attractive pricing, many customers trust our services and we thanks them. Stop overpaying the services and save money with our tailored package matching will all type of shipment, from small volume to full container, let us find the best and cost-effective solution.
Communication is important, which is why we strive to discuss in the most suitable way for you!