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Ocean freight · transatlanticB/L

Across the Atlantic, one pallet or a hundred boxes.

Cost-effective, reliable ocean transport connecting European markets to the United States, with ISF filing and US customs brokerage built in.

Port of loading

RTM HAM

Port of discharge

NY/NJ LA/LB

East Coast
10–20 days
West Coast
25–35 days
IncludedISFfiled 24 h before loading

Flexible options for every shipment.

Tailored sea freight for your budget and timeline. We specialise in transatlantic trade lanes.

FCL

Full container load

Exclusive use of a 20ft, 40ft or 40ft High Cube container. Ideal for large-volume shipments from Europe to the USA.

LCL

Less than container load

Cost-effective consolidation for smaller shipments. Pay only for the space you use.

OOG

Project cargo

Oversized, heavy or complex equipment that doesn't fit a standard container, on flat racks and specialised equipment.

Container sizes, to scale

20′ standard6.06 m × 2.59 mUp to 33 CBM · payload about 21,000 kg
40′ standard12.19 m × 2.59 mUp to 67 CBM · up to 26,000 kg of cargo
40′ High Cube12.19 m × 2.90 mOne foot taller, for light, bulky goods

The Zekix advantage on the water.

European import specialists

Deep expertise in European export regulations and US import compliance. We navigate the complexity so you don't have to.

Customs brokerage included

Freight and customs as one service. Your ISF and entry summary go in correctly and on time.

Reliable transit times

We pick carriers and routes that balance cost and speed, and keep your supply chain moving.

What moves your rate.

Four things decide an ocean rate. Tell us about them and we'll come back with a detailed quote.

Request a detailed quote
  1. 01Container size & type20ft, 40ft, High Cube, or specialised equipment such as reefers and flat racks.
  2. 02Origin & destinationDistance and route between European ports (Rotterdam, Hamburg) and US ports (NY/NJ, LA/LB).
  3. 03SeasonalityRates move with global demand, peak seasons and fuel surcharges (BAF).
  4. 04IncotermsTerms of sale such as FOB, EXW or DDP decide who carries which costs and risks.

Sea freight questions.

Common questions from forwarders and importers. Anything else, email office@zekix.net.

  1. Q01What is the transit time from Europe to the USA?

    It depends on route and service. Typically 10–20 days to the East Coast and 25–35 days to the West Coast from the major European ports.

  2. Q02Should I choose FCL or LCL?

    If you have enough cargo to fill a container (about 33 CBM for a 20ft, 67 CBM for a 40ft), FCL is usually cheaper and faster. For smaller volumes, LCL is the better choice.

  3. Q03Do you offer door-to-door service?

    Yes. We handle the whole chain: pickup in Europe, ocean freight, US customs clearance and final delivery to your warehouse or facility.

  4. Q04How do I track my sea freight shipment?

    We provide tracking for every shipment, with updates on container status, vessel location and estimated arrival.

  5. Q05What are the dimensions and weight limits for containers?

    A 20ft container holds up to 33 CBM and 28,000 kg gross (max payload about 21,000 kg). A 40ft holds 67 CBM and up to 26,000 kg of cargo. A 40ft High Cube adds a foot of height, ideal for light, bulky goods.

  6. Q06What are demurrage and detention fees?

    Demurrage is charged when a container sits at the port beyond its free time (typically 3–5 days). Detention applies when you keep the container past the allowed period after pickup. Both can cost $75–150 a day; we coordinate timely pickups to avoid them.

  7. Q07Do I need marine cargo insurance?

    It is not mandatory, but we highly recommend it. Carrier liability is limited to around $500 per container. Marine cargo insurance typically costs 0.2–0.5% of the cargo value and covers loss, damage and general average contributions.

  8. Q08What happens if there are port delays or congestion?

    Congestion can add days or weeks, especially at major US ports. We monitor vessel schedules closely, update you proactively, and look at alternative routing where possible.

  9. Q09When do I need to file ISF (Importer Security Filing)?

    At least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the origin port. Late or inaccurate ISF can mean $5,000 fines and cargo holds. ISF filing is part of our service.

  10. Q10What is a Bill of Lading and why does it matter?

    The Bill of Lading is your contract of carriage and proof of ownership; you need the original to claim cargo at destination. We provide both the Master BOL (carrier-issued) and House BOL (forwarder-issued).

  11. Q11How can I prevent moisture damage in containers?

    Condensation can damage cargo on ocean transit. Use desiccant bags, moisture barriers and proper ventilation, or climate-controlled containers for sensitive goods. We can advise for your specific cargo.

  12. Q12Can I change the destination port after booking?

    It depends on timing and the carrier. Before the vessel departs, changes are easier but may carry fees; after departure, rerouting is complex and expensive. Contact us straight away if you need a change.

  13. Q13How does LCL consolidation work?

    Your cargo shares container space with other shippers. We consolidate at origin, ship by ocean and deconsolidate at destination. It takes 3–7 days longer than FCL but is cost-effective for smaller volumes.

  14. Q14How far in advance should I book sea freight?

    For standard FCL, 1–2 weeks ahead. In peak season (August to October) or for specialised equipment, 3–4 weeks. LCL needs less lead time but benefits from early booking.

Got a box for the US? Hand it over.

Let Zekix handle your imports from Europe with precision and care. Someone in Houston replies within 24 hours.

Consignee · direct line
Hours

Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM CST
Sat 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM CST

Office

909 Silber Rd #59, Houston, TX 77024-3636