Ocean Freight
FCL Costa Rica

What is FCL and when does it make sense?

FCL (Full Container Load) is the ocean freight mode where your entire shipment occupies an exclusive container, sealed from origin to destination. Unlike LCL, space isn't shared with other companies — reducing damage risk and streamlining customs.

It's the ideal option when your cargo volume justifies a full unit — typically from 15–20 CBM — or when product sensitivity requires minimal handling.

Container types we coordinate

• 20 ft (TEU) — ~33 CBM, max 28,000 kg: Ideal for dense, heavy cargo like machinery, metals or canned food.
• 40 ft (FEU) — ~67 CBM, max 26,000 kg: The most used for imports from China and Asia. Balance between volume and cost.
• 40 HC (High Cube) — ~76 CBM: One foot taller than the standard. Perfect for furniture, textiles or any light, voluminous cargo.
• Reefer (refrigerated): Temperature controlled for fruits, vegetables, dairy, pharmaceuticals and cold chain products.
• Open Top / Flat Rack: For heavy machinery or cargo exceeding standard dimensions.

Transit times to and from Costa Rica

• China / Asia → Costa Rica: 30–40 days (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Busan)
• USA East Coast → Costa Rica: 8–12 days (Miami, Houston, New York)
• USA West Coast → Costa Rica: 14–20 days (Los Angeles, Long Beach)
• Europe → Costa Rica: 18–28 days (Hamburg, Rotterdam, Barcelona, Valencia)
• Central America → Costa Rica: 5–10 days

The FCL process with VS Logistics — step by step

• 1. Quote: All-in rate with freight, origin/destination THC, B/L and local services in under 24 hours.
• 2. Booking: We book space with the ocean line (Maersk, MSC, COSCO, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd or EVERGREEN) based on best rate and frequency.
• 3. Stuffing: We coordinate loading and sealing of the container at the supplier's warehouse.
• 4. Documentation: Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, certificates of origin and special permits.
• 5. Tracking: Real-time tracking throughout ocean transit.
• 6. Customs clearance in CR: We coordinate with customs broker at the ports of Caldera, Limón or Juan Santamaría Airport.
• 7. Final delivery: Door-to-door transport to your warehouse in Costa Rica.