Question 1

Do you handle imports and exports?

Accepted Answer

We manage both import and export shipments globally, coordinating the full movement from origin to final delivery.

Question 2

What's the difference between FCL and LCL sea freight?

Accepted Answer

FCL (Full Container Load) uses a dedicated container for your cargo, while LCL (Less than Container Load) shares space with multiple shippers in one container. SCT can advise on the most efficient option based on volume and cost.

Question 3

How much cargo fits into a 20ft, 40ft and 40ft High Cube container?

Accepted Answer

Container capacity depends on both volume (cubic metres) and permissible cargo weight.

Container Type Approx. Internal Volume Typical Maximum Payload:
20ft Container ±33 CBM ±28 tons
40ft Container ±67 CBM ±26–28 tons
40ft High Cube ±76 CBM ±26–28 tons

Payload limits vary by shipping line, commodity, packaging configuration, and road transport restrictions.

As a general guide:
20ft containers are better suited to heavier cargo.
40ft and 40ft HC containers are typically used for lighter, higher-volume cargo.
40ft High Cube containers provide additional height, making them ideal for bulky cargo or palletised freight requiring extra cubic capacity.

SCT can assist in determining the most efficient and compliant container option for your shipment.

Question 4

What is a NOR container and how can it be used?

Accepted Answer

A NOR (Non-Operating Reefer) container is a refrigerated container used as standard dry cargo equipment with the refrigeration unit switched off. NOR containers can provide additional equipment availability and may offer cost advantages on certain trade lanes. Cargo suitability, moisture sensitivity, and shipping line restrictions must however be considered before use.

Question 5

What are the container gross weight limits on South African roads and rail?

Accepted Answer

South African transport regulations apply legal weight limits to the total gross vehicle mass, including the container tare and cargo weight. While standard shipping containers may technically allow payloads of up to ±28 tons, cargo loaded for road transport in South Africa should generally not exceed approximately 27 tons to remain within legal road and axle load limitations, depending on the container type, truck configuration, and routing. Rail limits may differ by operator and route.

Question 6

How is air freight charged and what is chargeable weight?

Accepted Answer

Air freight rates are based on chargeable weight - the higher of your shipment's actual weight and its volumetric weight (calculated from dimensions). A large but light box can therefore be charged at a higher rate than its actual weight suggests.

Question 7

What Incoterms do you work with?

Accepted Answer

SCT operates across all Incoterms® 2020, including EXW, FCA, FOB, CIF, CFR, DAP and DDP. Our team will help you select the right term for your trade agreement and risk appetite.

Question 8

Do you handle specialised cargo?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We manage reefer (refrigerated) containers for temperature-sensitive goods such as perishables and pharmaceuticals, as well as specialist handling for hazardous materials, oversized cargo and break-bulk shipments.

Question 9

What happens if my shipment is rolled over or a sailing is blank?

Accepted Answer

Blank sailings (cancelled voyages) and roll-overs (cargo bumped to the next vessel) do occur. SCT monitors your shipments proactively, notifies you immediately, and rebooks on the next available vessel while adjusting your ETA.

Question 10

What causes shipping delays?

Accepted Answer

Delays can result from port congestion, customs inspections, documentation discrepancies, or vessel schedule changes. We proactively monitor shipments and keep you informed at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions