Ocean freight is generally the most cost-efficient international mode for larger commercial shipments. Canadian importers commonly choose between FCL (full container load) and LCL (less-than-container load), and the right choice depends on volume, timing and the total door-to-door cost, not just the ocean rate.
FCL vs. LCL
FCL reserves the container for one shipper. LCL shares container space and adds consolidation and deconsolidation handling. LCL can be economical at lower volumes, but origin and destination fees matter. We typically start comparing a full container once a shipment reaches about 13 cubic metres, and LCL minimums are usually around 1 cubic metre. Our CBM calculation guide shows how to work out your volume, and FCL vs LCL shipping to Canada compares the costs in more detail.
Containers and gateways
Standard options are 20' and 40' containers and 40' high cubes. Ocean freight from Asia arrives at Canada's west coast ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert, while cargo from Europe and some Asian services can arrive through Montreal or Halifax. From the port, containers continue to inland destinations such as Calgary, Toronto and Montreal by rail, or are transloaded into domestic 53' trailers. As a planning figure, Shanghai to Vancouver is about 14 to 18 days port to port.
Charges to ask about
- Origin pickup and export handling
- Ocean linehaul
- Destination terminal / deconsolidation charges
- Customs brokerage and taxes/duties (normally separate unless explicitly stated)
- Port or warehouse pickup, drayage and final delivery
- Demurrage/detention/storage if free time is exceeded
Incoterms decide who books the freight
If your supplier sells on FOB or FCA terms, you or your forwarder book the ocean leg and control the cost. On CFR or CIF terms the supplier books it, and destination charges in Canada can come as a surprise. Our Incoterms guide for Canadian importers explains each term.
Customs and documents
Ocean shipments need a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading, and Canadian importers need a business number with an import-export account and CARM access. Clearance is coordinated through licensed customs brokers; see customs clearance in Canada and the import documents checklist.
Planning around peak seasons
Space out of China tightens before Chinese New Year and Golden Week. If you need stock early in 2027, read Chinese New Year 2027 shipping and book early.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between FCL and LCL ocean freight?
FCL (full container load) gives one shipper the whole container. LCL (less than container load) shares a container with other shippers and you pay for the space you use, with extra consolidation and deconsolidation handling at each end.
How long does ocean freight from China to Canada take?
As a planning figure, about 14 to 18 days port to port from Shanghai to Vancouver, plus origin handling, customs and inland delivery. Eastern Canada adds roughly a week by rail or truck.
Which Canadian ports handle ocean freight from Asia?
Most Asian cargo arrives at Vancouver or Prince Rupert on the west coast and continues inland by rail or truck. Some services call Montreal or Halifax on the east coast.
When should I use a full container instead of LCL?
Compare full container pricing once your shipment reaches about 13 cubic metres, since LCL charges per cubic metre at both origin and destination and can overtake the cost of a full container.