warehouse

Still Importing your goods Through Klaipėda But Storing in Kaunas or Vilnius?

Warehousing overview

You’re not alone. Many businesses do it without questioning — but the truth is, you could be overspending by hundreds of euros per shipment.

 

Let’s break it down. The majority of logistics costs don’t come from storing or distributing your goods. They come from one simple thing: moving containers away from the port. 

 

One Change = Big Savings 

Here’s what it costs to handle one 20-foot container (20 pallets):

 

  • Stored in Klaipėda: €1,136 + VAT
  • Stored in Kaunas: €1,484 + VAT
  • Stored in Vilnius: €1,590 + VAT

 

That’s up to €454 saved just by keeping your goods where they arrive. 

 

Why Are You Paying More? 

  • Transport from the port inland costs significantly more
  • Storage & distribution prices are nearly identical everywhere

 

So why not keep it simple — and cost-effective? 

 

Make Smarter, Leaner, Greener Moves 

  • Slash transport costs
  • Eliminate unnecessary kilometers
  • Speed up distribution
  • Increase flexibility
  • Reduce your carbon footprint 

 

This Isn’t Just Cost Cutting — It’s Smart Logistics 

In today’s economy, efficiency is everything. And for SMBs, optimizing logistics can make the difference between getting by and getting ahead. 

 

Let’s Save You Money 

Our team specializes in helping businesses just like yours lower logistics costs with simple, effective strategies.

 

Let’s talk. We’ll show you how much you could be saving — starting today.

energy storage components transportation

How energy storage components reach Lithuania: challenges and solutions

The energy storage development in Lithuania is gaining momentum, but we rarely think about the logistical challenges behind these projects. How to ensure that all the necessary components – batteries, inverters and transformers, manufactured in different corners of the world, reach Lithuania on time and safely? Mindaugas Danyla, our Business Development Manager, shares his insights.

Main challenges

According to Mindaugas, the main logistics challenge is the coordinated delivery of various energy storage components to Lithuania. “Batteries are usually manufactured in China, inverters in Italy, and transformers in Turkey. All these components must reach Lithuania on time so that project developers can meet the planned deadlines,” he emphasizes.

In addition, batteries are classified as dangerous goods, therefore their transportation requires special permits and special attention. “In recent years, several cases of fires have been recorded on ships transporting this type of cargo from China. This reminds us that, safety must be the number one priority,” shares M. Danyla.

Restrictions

“A big problem is the weight of the batteries. A standard container usually does not exceed 30-32 tons, while energy storage batteries can weigh up to 45 tons. Therefore, it is necessary to use specialized platforms and carefully plan transportation routes, as they are not suitable for linear container transportation,” explains M. Danyla.

“Most oversized cargo carriers do not have ADR licenses, which are necessary for dangerous goods, which can really complicate logistics planning for inexperienced companies. Over the past 17 years, we have accumulated extensive experience and have an extensive list of companies with which we can cooperate in this matter. We are also members of the PANGEA logistics network and work with reliable partners in more than 95 countries around the world.” – explains M. Danyla

Logistics solutions – combined delivery to Lithuania

“We import batteries from China by sea as partial loads, we transport inverters from Italy by rail to Germany and then they are transferred to ferry lines, and transformers from Turkey arrive by ship or road transport. All cargo reaches us at the final stage, and we continue to deliver them to various facilities throughout Lithuania – Kelmė, Mažeikiai, Anykščiai, Kruonis, Panevėžys, etc.”, – says Mindaugas Danyla.

In order to avoid delays, cargo often arrives earlier than the scheduled start of the project. Therefore, it is extremely important to have a reliable warehousing infrastructure and ensure that all components are loaded, assembled and prepared for installation in a timely manner according to the project schedule.

Summary

As Mindaugas Danyla emphasizes, “properly planned logistics is one of the key factors in successful energy storage projects in Lithuania. Only by ensuring safe, timely and coordinated delivery, we help project developers meet their commitments and achieve the desired results.”

Want to learn more about the logistics of energy storage components? Contact our team – we will help you find solutions for your project!

Freight forwarder Algirdas

The professionalism of a freight forwarder that does not end even outside of work

We want to tell you a story about a well-known colleague, Algirdas Pauliukevičius. For many of us, Algirdas is a reliable team member – a freight forwarder. However, he is not limited to that, he additionally serves in the Klaipėda Fire and Rescue Service.

 

On August 26, Algirdas, while off duty, witnessed a traffic accident – a car hit a woman. He could have just passed by, but no – he stopped. Without hesitation, he rushed to help and provided first aid to the victim until the medics arrived.

 

This act is not just the fulfillment of duty. It is an example of humanity, courage and responsibility that inspires us all.

Algirdas is a freight forwarder, but did you know what it is?

A forwarder is a specialist who organizes cargo transport and manages import and export processes. Algirdas, perfectly reveals the essence of this profession – it is not only document management, but also comprehensive logistics management.

 

The responsibilities of a freight forwarder include:

 

  • Choosing the most economically advantageous route.
  • Selecting the right vehicle according to the type of cargo.
  • Preparing all necessary documents (transportation, insurance, customs).
  • Coordination of cargo warehousing.
  • Constant monitoring of cargo movement.
  • Communication with senders, recipients and carriers.

 

Freight forwarding is an invisible bridge through which cargo moves. The purpose of this service is to ensure efficient and economical movement of goods on a “door-to-door” basis. In modern logistics, this means individually tailored solutions for each client, which even include those actions that the client himself may not think about.

Klaipėda Fire Rescue Service Specialist

The position of a specialist in the Klaipėda Fire and Rescue Service requires not only professional knowledge, but also personal qualities – responsibility, quick decision-making skills and a real motivation to help others.

 

This work requires constant vigilance and the ability to work in a team – qualities that are also perfectly transferred to Algirdas’ main activity as a freight forwarder.

 

The experience of a fire rescue service specialist gives Algirdas a unique approach to risk and crisis management – competencies that are invaluable both in the field of logistics and in everyday life.

 

Thus, Algirdas is a person who is simultaneously able to be a professional freight forwarder, ensuring smooth logistics, and a courageous rescuer, ready to help every person in distress.

 

His example reminds us that true professionalism does not end outside the boundaries of work – it is a way of life.

bill of lading

What is a Master Bill of Lading & House Bill of Lading?

In international trade and freight transport, the Bill of Lading (B/L) is one of the most important documents. It acts as a receipt for goods, a contract of carriage, and a document of title to the goods. However, in the logistics chain, two main types of bills of lading are often encountered: the Master Bill of Lading (MBL) and the House Bill of Lading (HBL). Although both documents perform similar functions, they are issued by different entities and used for different purposes.

What is a Master Bill of Lading (MBL)?

The Master Bill of Lading (MBL) is issued by the direct carrier—the shipping line or airline. This document is the official contract between the carrier and the shipper. In the case of consolidated shipments, where goods from several different exporters are transported in a single container, the shipper on the MBL is usually listed as the freight forwarder or NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier), and the consignee is the forwarder’s agent or office at the destination port. Thus, the MBL covers the entire consolidated shipment as a single unit.

What is a House Bill of Lading (HBL)?

The House Bill of Lading (HBL) is issued by a freight forwarder or NVOCC to the direct shipper (the exporter). This document is a contract between the exporter and the forwarder, confirming that the forwarder has received the goods for shipment. The HBL lists the actual shipper of the goods and the actual consignee (the importer). A separate HBL is issued for each individual shipment within a consolidated cargo. This allows each exporter to have a separate document for their portion of the goods.

Key Differences

The main difference between these two documents is the issuing party. The MBL is issued by the carrier (e.g., the shipping line), while the HBL is issued by the freight forwarder or NVOCC. Other important differences include:

  • Scope: A single MBL can cover an entire container with many different shipments, while a separate HBL will be issued for each of those shipments.
  • Contractual Relationship: The MBL formalizes the contract between the carrier and the freight forwarder. The HBL formalizes the contract between the freight forwarder and the owner of the goods.

Both bills of lading must reflect identical information about the cargo: container count, weight, dimensions, seal numbers, and a description of the goods. The only differing data are the shipper, consignee, and notify party details. This system of documents ensures a smooth logistics process, allowing for the effective management of both consolidated and individual shipments.

Importing from China

Importing from China? Don’t get caught off guard!

Every day, at least 3–5 small or even medium-sized businesses fall victim to hidden shipping costs from overseas sellers. According to our data, 40% of all LCL (less-than-container-load) shipments arriving in containers include cases where the client receives an unpleasant “surprise” — unexpected extra charges.

 

This is especially common when shipping larger items that don’t fit into a parcel locker. If your shipment is small enough for a locker, you’ll likely avoid extra costs. But if your goods are classed as larger cargo — from half a pallet or more — it’s critical to check exactly what is included in the quoted “door-to-door” delivery price.

 

Here’s one real case that caught our attention:

 

A client bought a boat from China for 3,500 USD + 400 USD for sea freight to Klaipėda. The seller promised delivery “right to the door.”

 

The reality? Upon arrival, the client had to pay:

 

  • Local charges: 1,600 EUR
  • Customs duty: 1,200 EUR
  • Customs brokerage & delivery to door: 300 EUR
    Total surprise cost: over 3,100 EUR in extras.

 

If the client had shipped with us from the start:

 

  • Sea transport with all charges included: ~500 USD
  • Customs brokerage & delivery: 300 EUR
  • Plus, we would have advised them to register for VAT (they have an individual business), saving another 1,100 EUR in customs duty.

 

💡 Bottom line: They would have saved between 1,500 and 2,600 EUR on this single shipment.

 

When a shipper says “everything is included,” always ask for a full cost breakdown — including all local charges and duties — before you agree. In shipping, the cheapest quote often turns out to be the most expensive choice.

 

📧 Contact us and we will help you to avoid this kind of situations – info@tlclogistics.lt.

LCL & FCL

LCL or FCL? When to choose which and what does it mean for your business?

LCL or FCL? When to choose which and what does it mean for your business?

When choosing a method of sea freight transportation – LCL (partial container load) or FCL (full container load) – it is important to evaluate not only the price, but also the entire logistics chain.

LCL (Less than Container Load) – when your cargo does not occupy an entire container and is transported together with shipments from other companies.

Useful when:

  • Small shipments.
  • Frequent supply of goods is important, and you apply the Just on time logistics model.
  • You do not want to wait until you accumulate a full container.

Possible disadvantages:

  • Longer delivery time (more loading points) increases from 3 to 7 days.
  • Higher risk of damage (due to more frequent loading/reloading), (proper packaging of goods is important).
  • Limited flexibility in terms of time.

FCL (Full Container Load) – when an entire container is rented to one shipper.

Useful when:

  • You have a larger quantity of goods or use a Just in case logistics model.
  • You are looking for faster delivery.
  • Higher value goods or goods that are sensitive to reloading.

Potential disadvantages:

  • Higher costs for smaller loads.
  • Requires storage capabilities.

Which one should you choose for your business – LCL or FCL?

The choice depends on your shipment size, delivery frequency, seasonality and strategy. An efficient freight forwarding method can help you optimize delivery costs, reduce risks and ensure smoother supply chain operations.

  • LCL: Choose when you are shipping smaller loads and want to avoid additional storage costs that may arise when bringing in larger quantities of cargo.
  • FCL: Choose when you are shipping a large load or when the safety of goods and speed of delivery are of paramount importance.

Important

Congestion in major European ports – Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg. In case of disruptions, FCL shipments often have priority and are processed faster. LCL shipments that require additional operations (cargo collection and distribution) may face longer procedures.

Monthly overview

Overview of EU Logistics in June 2025

Summary  

June 2025 saw persistent port congestion in Europe, with major hubs like Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Hamburg experiencing significant delays expected to last until at least August. Lithuania announced the expansion of its toll road network for commercial vehicles from July 2025, aiming for improved infrastructure funding and traffic management. Meanwhile, Klaipėda port in Lithuania reported robust cargo and container growth and investment in green hydrogen.

1. Europe Port Congestion to Extend Through Summer  

Congestion at Europe’s key container ports shows no sign of easing, with delays in Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Hamburg expected to persist until at least August 2025. As many as 11 ships were anchored off Rotterdam on a single day in early June, while Antwerp saw berth waiting times rise from 32 hours in week 13 to 44 hours by week 20—an increase of 37%. Hamburg also reported vessel queues, with average waiting times up to six days. The main drivers include strong demand, industrial action, and hinterland transport challenges. Carriers such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC have responded by rerouting services, extending transit times, and skipping congested ports.

Outlook:

With the peak shipping season approaching, these disruptions are likely to continue affecting schedules, costs, and inventory planning across Europe. 

2. Lithuania Expands Toll Road Network  

From July 1, 2025, Lithuania will expand its toll road network for commercial vehicles by an additional 1,151 km, bringing the total tolled network to 2,851 km. The policy targets only commercial cargo and passenger transport (M2, M3, N1, N2, and N3 vehicles), with private cars remaining exempt. The government expects to raise €3.5 million in the second half of 2025 and up to €77 million in 2026, addressing the poor technical condition of many roads—only 56.4% of main and 57.4% of regional roads currently meet quality standards.  

Outlook: 

This expansion will increase operational costs for logistics companies using Lithuanian roads and may shift traffic patterns, particularly for cross-Baltic transport flows.

3. Klaipėda Port Posts Record Cargo and Container Growth  

Klaipėda port reported a 17% year-on-year increase in total cargo handled and a 38% surge in container throughput (to 5.3 million tons or 582,300 TEU) in the first half of 2025. Ro-ro cargo also rose by 6%. This contrasts with neighboring Baltic ports, where Riga and Liepaja saw cargo declines of 7%, while Ventspils grew by 15%.

Outlook: 

Klaipėda’s performance strengthens its role as a regional logistics hub, particularly as supply chain disruptions continue elsewhere in Europe.

4. Start of construction of the Hydrogen Station

The port of Klaipėda is confidently moving towards the goal of becoming the first in Lithuania and the Baltic States to produce and supply green hydrogen to ships, various equipment used in the port and private transport. The tender announced by the Klaipėda State Seaport Authority is already being completed, a contract will be signed with the winner soon, so construction work is planned to begin this summer. The hydrogen production facility will be installed in a standard 40-foot sea container. The station is intended to produce 127 tons of hydrogen per year. In preparation for its production, the possibilities of using these fuels are also being planned.

Outlook:

These steps mark an important breakthrough in the field of sustainable energy, and the port of Klaipėda is becoming a significant center of green technologies both in Lithuania and in the entire Baltic region.

Conclusion  

June 2025 underscored the complexity and volatility of the European logistics environment. Persistent port congestion, regulatory changes in road freight, and shifting Baltic port dynamics mean that adaptability and proactive planning remain essential for logistics operators and supply chain managers.

ISO_certificate

We’ve renewed the highly regarded ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications

The received certificates confirm that the quality and environmental protection management systems implemented in our company meet the latest requirements of international standards.

 

Our commitment to the very best in services—shipping agency, container freight, 3PL logistics, and transportation of cargo—guarantees that our clients receive a professional and high-quality service. ISO 9001 certification proves that we are maintaining the very highest standards in the services that we provide.

 

Our commitment to ensuring that environmentally sustainable practices revolve all our logistics is formally recognized by our certification in ISO 14001.

 

We have been operating in the logistics sector since 2008, so the desire to maintain a high level of service quality encourages the company to improve and grow. ISO certificates confirm that the organization of the company’s activities is carried out: professionally, transparently, ethically, and most importantly – with high quality.

 




     

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