Guide to Shipping Cargo to Sarawak 2025 — Cost & How To

Need to ship cargo to Sarawak from Peninsular Malaysia? Whether you are relocating, sending office equipment, or shipping personal belongings to family in Sarawak, understanding the shipping process and costs is the most important first step. Many people are confused about the best way to ship goods across the South China Sea, how much it costs, and how long it takes. In this article, we will break down everything for you.

Shipping cargo to Sarawak differs from shipping within the Peninsula because it involves sea transport. Goods need to be loaded into containers and shipped via cargo vessel from Port Klang to destination ports in Sarawak such as Kuching, Bintulu or Sibu. This process requires careful planning in terms of packing, documentation, ship schedules and budget. OCANIA Sdn. Bhd. offers a complete and trusted cargo shipping service to simplify your affairs.

Overview of Cargo Shipping to Sarawak

Cargo shipping from Peninsular Malaysia to Sarawak is done via sea transport. Goods are loaded into containers at Port Klang and shipped via cargo vessel to destination ports in Sarawak. This process involves several parties including the shipping company, customs, origin port and destination port.

There are two main methods for shipping cargo to Sarawak:

Cargo Shipping Methods to Sarawak:

Full Container Load (FCL) — Suitable if you have a large volume of goods and require an entire container. This option is safer as your goods are not mixed with other people's items.
Less Container Load (LCL) — Suitable if your goods do not fill an entire container. Your goods will be shared with other customers' items in one container. Cost is calculated based on the space (CBM) used.

Both methods have their own advantages. If you are relocating and have lots of furniture and belongings, FCL may be more cost-effective. However, if you are only sending a few boxes of personal items, LCL is the more economical choice.

Cargo Shipping Costs to Sarawak

Cargo shipping costs to Sarawak are calculated based on several key factors including cargo volume (CBM - Cubic Metre), cargo weight, container type and destination in Sarawak. Below are the latest estimated shipping costs:

Shipping Type	Destination	Estimated Cost	Note
LCL (Per CBM)	Kuching	RM 150 - RM 250	Minimum 1 CBM
LCL (Per CBM)	Bintulu	RM 180 - RM 280	Minimum 1 CBM
LCL (Per CBM)	Sibu	RM 200 - RM 300	Minimum 1 CBM
FCL 20ft	Kuching	RM 3,500 - RM 5,000	~33 CBM
FCL 20ft	Bintulu	RM 4,000 - RM 5,500	~33 CBM
FCL 40ft	Kuching	RM 5,500 - RM 7,500	~67 CBM

* Prices are estimates and subject to change. Contact Ocania for an accurate quotation based on your goods. Prices include 6% SST.

How to Calculate CBM (Cubic Metre):

CBM is calculated by multiplying the length x width x height of the goods (in metres). Example calculations:

1 large box (1m x 0.5m x 0.5m) = 0.25 CBM
1 queen bed (2m x 1.5m x 0.3m) = 0.9 CBM
1 standard refrigerator = 0.5 - 0.8 CBM
1 washing machine = 0.3 - 0.5 CBM
1 set 3-seater sofa = 1.5 - 2.5 CBM

For accurate calculations, contact Ocania and provide your list of goods. Our staff will help calculate the total CBM required.

Cargo Shipping Process to Sarawak — Step by Step

Below are the complete steps for the cargo shipping process from Peninsular Malaysia to Sarawak through OCANIA Sdn. Bhd.:

Enquiry and Quotation
Contact Ocania via phone, WhatsApp or the website form. Provide the list of items you wish to ship, your destination in Sarawak and your desired shipping date. Our staff will prepare a quotation within 24 hours.
Booking Confirmation
After receiving the quotation, confirm your booking and make a deposit payment. Ocania will confirm the suitable ship schedule for your shipment.
Packing Your Goods
Pack your goods safely using appropriate packing materials. Ocania also offers professional packing services if needed (additional charges apply).
Collection / Drop-off of Goods
You can deliver your goods to Ocania's warehouse in the Port Klang area, or use the pickup service where Ocania's truck will come to collect your goods at your location.
Loading into Container
Your goods will be carefully loaded into the container by experienced workers. Each item will be arranged and secured so it does not move during the voyage.
Documentation and Customs
Ocania will handle all required documents including the waybill, packing list and customs clearance at the origin port.
Voyage to Sarawak
Your container will be loaded onto the ship and sail to the destination port in Sarawak. Voyage duration depends on the destination (2-5 days).
Customs Clearance in Sarawak
When the ship arrives, customs clearance will be carried out at the destination port. This process usually takes 1-2 working days.
Delivery to Address / Collection at Port
You can choose to collect your goods at the port (port to port) or use the delivery service to your address (door to door). The door to door service involves additional charges.

Destination Ports in Sarawak

Sarawak has several main ports that receive cargo shipments from Peninsular Malaysia. Each port covers a different service area. Below is complete information about each port:

Port	Duration from Port Klang	Coverage Area	Status
Kuching Port	2 - 4 days	Kuching, Sri Aman, Samarahan, Lundu, Serian	ACTIVE
Bintulu Port	3 - 4 days	Bintulu, Mukah, Tatau, Belaga	ACTIVE
Sibu Port	3 - 5 days	Sibu, Sarikei, Kanowit, Kapit	ACTIVE

Choosing the Right Port:

Kuching Port — The most popular choice with the highest sailing frequency. Suitable for shipments to the Kuching area and southwestern Sarawak.
Bintulu Port — Suitable for shipments to central Sarawak. This port also receives bulk goods and construction materials.
Sibu Port — Covers the interior of Sarawak including Kapit and Kanowit. Sailing frequency is lower compared to Kuching.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

There are several types of goods that are prohibited or restricted from being shipped via cargo vessel to Sarawak. Make sure you understand this list before making a shipment to avoid problems at customs:

PROHIBITED Items:

Explosives and flammable materials
Firearms and ammunition
Drugs and illegal substances
Hazardous and toxic chemicals
Radioactive materials
Cash and valuable documents
Pirated goods

RESTRICTED Items (Permit Required):

Food and beverages in large quantities
Medicines and supplements
Agricultural materials (fertilizers, pesticides)
Animal and plant products
Cigarettes and tobacco
Alcohol
Certain telecommunications equipment

If you are unsure whether your goods can be shipped, contact Ocania for advice. Our team will help you understand the relevant customs regulations and ensure your goods can be shipped without any issues.

Cargo packing process — Safe packing of goods for sea shipping

Packing Tips for Cargo Shipping to Sarawak

Proper packing is the key to ensuring your goods arrive in Sarawak safely. Sea voyages can cause vibrations, moisture and movement of goods. Here are the packing tips we recommend:

Use double-walled cardboard boxes — Double-walled boxes are stronger and more pressure-resistant than regular boxes. Suitable for heavy items.
Wrap fragile items with bubble wrap — Plates, bowls, mirrors and glass items should be individually wrapped with bubble wrap and placed in boxes with extra cushioning.
Use pallets for heavy items — Large furniture and electrical appliances should be placed on wooden pallets for easier loading and additional protection.
Fill empty spaces in boxes — Use styrofoam, newspaper or cushioning material to fill empty spaces in boxes so items do not move during transport.
Label each box clearly — Write the box contents, box number (e.g. 1/10, 2/10), recipient's name and destination address on each box.
Moisture protection — Wrap items sensitive to moisture (electronics, books, clothing) with thick plastic or silica gel to prevent damage from seawater.
Remove moving parts — For furniture, remove table legs, drawer handles and detachable parts. Wrap each part separately.
Empty electrical appliances — Drain water from washing machines, remove food from refrigerators and ensure all electrical appliances are dry before packing.

Recommended Packing Materials:

Double-walled corrugated cardboard boxes
Bubble wrap (at least 2 layers for fragile items)
High-quality packing tape (2-inch brown tape)
Stretch wrap / shrink wrap for furniture
Styrofoam chips or packing peanuts
Silica gel packets for moisture control
Marker pens and label stickers
Wooden pallets (for heavy items exceeding 50kg)

Containers at port — Containers ready for loading onto ship to Sarawak

Ocania Cargo Shipping Services to Sarawak

OCANIA Sdn. Bhd. offers various cargo shipping service options to Sarawak to meet every customer's needs:

Service	Description	Suitable For
Port to Port	Shipping from origin port to destination port	Customers who can deliver and collect themselves
Door to Port	Pickup at your location, deliver to destination port	Peninsular customers who cannot deliver to port
Port to Door	From origin port, deliver to address in Sarawak	Customers without transport in Sarawak
Door to Door	Pickup at your location, deliver directly to address in Sarawak	Complete hassle-free service

Each service has a different cost. The Door to Door service is the most convenient as Ocania handles everything from start to finish, but it involves additional charges for land transport at both ends. For more information, visit our Cargo Shipping to Sabah & Sarawak page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Shipping Cargo to Sarawak

How long does it take to ship cargo to Sarawak?

Shipping duration depends on the destination. To Kuching: 2-4 days sailing, to Bintulu: 3-4 days, to Sibu: 3-5 days. Add 1-2 days for customs clearance and 1-3 days for delivery to address (if door to door).

What is the minimum amount of goods that can be shipped?

For LCL (shared container) shipments, the minimum is 1 CBM. If your goods are less than 1 CBM, you will still be charged the minimum 1 CBM rate. There is no maximum limit for shipments.

Is insurance provided for shipped goods?

Yes, Ocania provides marine insurance options to protect your goods during transit. This insurance covers damage due to weather, maritime accidents and more. Contact Ocania for insurance rate information.

Can I ship a car and goods in one container?

Yes, you can ship a vehicle together with goods in one container (FCL). This is a cost-saving option if you are relocating and need to ship your car and belongings simultaneously. Visit Vehicle Shipping for more information.

Is a packing service provided?

Yes, Ocania offers professional packing services with additional charges. Our experienced workers will pack your goods using high-quality materials to ensure maximum protection.

How do I pay for cargo shipping?

Ocania accepts payment via bank transfer and cash. A deposit is required to confirm the booking, and the remaining balance can be settled before or during goods handover.

Can I track my goods during transit?

Yes, Ocania will update you on your shipment status regularly via WhatsApp or phone. You will be notified when your goods are loaded onto the ship, during the voyage, and when they arrive at the destination port.