FCL and LCL Ocean Freight for Chilean Companies
We optimise your maritime supply chain with Full Container and consolidated cargo solutions. End-to-end management from origin to final destination.
Ocean Freight FCL and LCL: Import and Export from Chile
Ocean freight accounts for 90% of global trade by volume and is the backbone of Chile's international trade. The ports of Valparaíso, San Antonio and San Vicente-Talcahuano are the main gateways for goods entering and leaving Chile, processing millions of tonnes of cargo each year. FirstCargo specialises in FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load) ocean freight, offering comprehensive solutions for Chilean importers and exporters across all sectors.
FCL service is ideal when your cargo occupies at least 60–70% of a standard container (20' or 40'), as it guarantees container exclusivity, lower risk of damage and more predictable transit times. LCL or consolidated cargo, on the other hand, allows companies with smaller volumes to access competitive rates by sharing container space with other cargo, without sacrificing security or traceability.
Our team coordinates with the main shipping lines operating in Chile: Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, Evergreen and others. We manage the booking, Bill of Lading (BL) issuance, coordination with Chilean Port Terminals and all procedures with Chile's National Customs Service for the entry or exit of goods. From planning the most efficient route to warehouse delivery, we are your complete partner in maritime logistics.
Why choose this service with FirstCargo?
FCL and LCL Without Volume Limits
We handle everything from small LCL consolidated parcels to multi-container FCL projects on any maritime route.
Chile's Main Ports
Presence and experience operating at the ports of Valparaíso, San Antonio, San Vicente and Arica, with access to all port terminals.
Complete Document Management
Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, SAG Phytosanitary Certificate, Packing List and coordination with shipping lines, ports and Chilean Customs.
Optimised Global Routes
Access to the main transpacific (China, Asia), transatlantic (Europe) and South American coastal routes with optimised transit times.
Special Containers
We manage refrigerated (reefer), open-top, flat rack and tank containers for special cargo such as food products, oversized machinery or bulk liquids.
Marine Insurance
Comprehensive cargo protection with marine insurance policies covering total loss, partial damage and general average during transit.
Step-by-Step Process
Quotation and Route Planning
We analyse your cargo (weight, volume, cargo type) and the most efficient route. We present FCL and LCL options with comparative transit times and costs.
Booking and Port Coordination
We make the space reservation with the selected shipping line and coordinate cargo entry at the port terminal, container handover (for FCL) and certified weighing.
Clearance and Document Issuance
We prepare all export or import documents: BL, export/import declarations as applicable, certificates of origin to take advantage of active FTAs, and SAG documents if required.
Sailing and Tracking
We monitor the vessel and container position throughout the transit. We keep you informed of any changes to the ETA or incidents en route.
Customs Clearance and Delivery
Upon arrival at the Chilean port, we initiate customs clearance. We coordinate port pickup and distribution to your warehouse or distribution centre.
Why trust FirstCargo?
With over 30 years in Chile's international trade market, FirstCargo has developed consolidated relationships with the main shipping lines, port terminals and Chile's National Customs Directorate. We know the processing times at each terminal, the specific requirements of each regional customs office, and best practices for avoiding demurrage and delays.
Our maritime operations team works closely with international agents at the world's main ports, ensuring smooth coordination at both ends of the chain. This translates into fewer documentary errors, faster clearances and lower operating costs for your company. We handle cargo of all types: from household appliances and textiles to heavy machinery, controlled chemical products and food products under strict temperature conditions.
Contact an ExecutiveFrequently Asked Questions
An FCL container from the southern Chinese ports (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Ningbo) to the port of San Antonio or Valparaíso takes an average of 28 to 38 calendar days, including transit through the Panama Canal. Direct routes can reduce this time to 25–30 days.
FCL (Full Container Load) means your cargo occupies an entire container, either 20 or 40 feet. It is more cost-effective per tonne for large volumes and offers greater security. LCL (Less than Container Load) or consolidated cargo is when your goods share the container with other shippers. It is ideal for volumes below 15–18 CBM (cubic metres).
Yes, we operate at all major Chilean ports: San Antonio, Valparaíso, San Vicente (Talcahuano), Arica, Iquique and Puerto Montt. We also coordinate with Argentine ports for triangulated land cargo.
Yes, we specialise in reefer containers for food products, fruits, vegetables, fish and seafood. We manage the SAG, SERNAPESCA requirements and temperature protocols required by destination markets, especially in Europe and Asia.
Need to import or export by sea?
Quote your FCL container or LCL cargo with FirstCargo and receive the best maritime rate in the Chilean market.
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