How to Ship Steel Coils from China to Djibouti | Case Study

We’re proud to share a recent milestone in our global logistics operations—the successful transport of hundreds of tons of steel coils from China to Djibouti, East Africa.

This shipment demonstrates the complexity and importance of project cargo logistics, particularly when handling heavy industrial materials across long ocean routes and into developing markets. Whether you're shipping for construction, infrastructure, or manufacturing, understanding the key steps and challenges of steel coil transport is essential.

What Are Steel Coils and Why Do They Matter?

Steel coils are tightly wound strips of hot-rolled or cold-rolled steel used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Infrastructure and construction (e.g., bridges, pipelines, roofing)

• Shipbuilding and machinery

• Automotive and heavy equipment manufacturing

Due to their dense weight, bulky cylindrical form, and sensitivity to moisture, steel coils require careful logistics planning from end to end. As such, they are often treated as project cargo—specialized freight that doesn’t fit into standard shipping categories and needs custom solutions.

Why Steel Coil Transport Is Challenging

The process of moving steel coils internationally involves navigating several logistical hurdles. Here are some of the key concerns in project cargo shipping:

1. Weight and Load Distribution

Steel coils can weigh several tons each. If loaded improperly, they risk damaging containers or vehicles. Careful weight distribution and support structures are required.

2. Cargo Securing and Shape

Because of their rounded shape, coils must be secured with cradles, wedges, or coil racks to prevent rolling. Industry-standard lashing and blocking are also essential.

3. Moisture Sensitivity

Steel is prone to rust. Coils must be wrapped in moisture-resistant film and often shipped with desiccants or in ventilated containers to avoid corrosion.

4. Port Infrastructure

Not all ports—particularly in East Africa—have specialized equipment for handling heavy project cargo. Advance planning ensures the right cranes and forklifts are available.

5. Customs and Regulatory Compliance

Steel often requires specific documentation for customs clearance, such as certificates of origin and material composition reports. Delays can occur without proper preparation.

Why Djibouti? A Strategic Gateway for African Trade

Djibouti is a growing logistics hub in East Africa, serving not only its own economy but also acting as the primary port access for landlocked countries like Ethiopia. However, successful delivery to Djibouti means navigating:

• Port congestion and varying infrastructure capabilities

• Manual or semi-digitized customs processes

• Complex inland distribution planning if the cargo is transshipped to nearby countries

That’s why project cargo freight forwarders with regional experience are key to managing risk and maintaining schedules.

Key Steps in Steel Coil Transport from China to Djibouti

While specific project details remain confidential, the shipment followed core best practices commonly used in the project cargo logistics industry:

✅ Pre-shipment Planning

• Assessment of coil dimensions and weight

• Selection of proper container type (20' or 40' GP or OT)

• Export documentation preparation

• Marine cargo insurance coverage

✅ Specialized Packaging and Moisture Control

• Application of VCI film to prevent rust

• Addition of desiccants and proper container ventilation

• Use of reinforced wooden flooring to handle concentrated loads

✅ Lashing and Stabilization

• Custom cradles and blocking systems to hold the coils in place

• Heavy-duty lashing straps and cross-bracing to prevent internal movement

• Alignment with IMO and container safety standards

✅ Port-to-Port Coordination

• Vessel booking with suitable handling ports

• Ground coordination at origin and destination terminals

• Equipment checks to ensure unloading support in Djibouti 

✅ Real-Time Monitoring

• Container tracking across ocean leg

• Communication between carriers, port agents, and local handlers

• Contingency planning for potential delays

Shipping Cost from China to Djibouti

When planning project cargo shipping, one of the most frequent questions is:

“What is the shipping cost from China to Djibouti?”

The answer depends on several variables, including:

• Weight and volume of the cargo

• Container type

• Shipping season and available capacity

• Port fees, customs duties, and inland handling

For heavy cargo like steel coils, breakbulk or flat-rack container service may also be considered, impacting the total cost. Working with experienced project cargo freight forwarders ensures you receive the best routing and pricing options based on real-time market conditions.

Supporting Industrial Projects Through Smart Logistics

This shipment is one example of how experienced freight partners manage complex, heavy, and sensitive cargo across international borders. The success of steel coil transport lies not only in physical movement but in planning, coordination, and risk management.

Whether you're moving steel, machinery, or other industrial goods, the principles remain the same:

✅ Secure the cargo correctly

✅ Understand destination requirements

✅ Plan for infrastructure limitations

✅ Track and communicate from start to finish

Need Help With Project Cargo Shipping?

If you’re planning to move project cargo such as steel coils, oversized equipment, or heavy industrial parts to Africa, Latin America, or Southeast Asia, choosing the right logistics partner is critical.

Talk to our team today via info@yqn.com and get a custom logistics plan tailored to your cargo and destination.