#Cargo shipping companies in India

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Choose Affordable Bulk Shipping by Quickshift

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Air Cargo Company in India – Reliable and Efficient Logistics Solutions

Looking for a trusted air cargo company in India? We offer seamless, fast, and secure transportation of goods across domestic and international locations. With advanced logistics systems, expert teams, and a customer-centric approach, we ensure timely delivery and safe handling of shipments. Whether it’s commercial cargo, perishables, or urgent packages, we cater to all needs with professionalism, making us a leading name in air cargo services in India.

[safenconnectlogistics]

The Benefits of Outsourcing Your Logistics Needs

Outsourcing your logistics needs to a trusted partner like Safe N Connect can significantly enhance your business's efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Safe N Connect, a leader in Railway Logistics Services, offers specialized solutions that cater to diverse cargo requirements, including Cargo transportation services and handling of Cargo Agents for Perishables Goods. By leveraging the expertise of Freight forwarders in India like Safe N Connect, businesses can streamline their supply chains, reduce operational costs, and ensure timely deliveries. Additionally, with a focus on comprehensive Logistics transportation services and Cargo logistics services, Safe N Connect provides a seamless, end-to-end logistics experience that is crucial for businesses aiming to maintain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced market.

[beemawala]

What is commercial inland marine insurance ?

Commercial Inland Marine Insurance is a comprehensive policy.Provides 24/7, 365-day coverage.Safeguards businesses involved in importing, exporting, or transporting goods within India.Covers goods in transit via various modes, including road, rail, and air.Protects against potential damage, loss, accidents, and perils during operations Key Benefits in a Nutshell

Extensive coverage for various risks. Damage due to accidents, theft, natural disasters, and fire incidents included. General expenses like contributions to general average, salvage costs, and sue and labour expenses covered. Protection against liabilities arising from collisions, contact with other vessels, or property damage. Coverage for delays in transit, quarantine compensation, temperature-controlled cargo, and mor

[goldenfreightforwardingmarketing]

RORO Shipping Company in Canada | Car Auction Shipping Services | GFFCA 𝑹𝑶𝑹𝑶 𝑺𝒉𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒚! At 𝑮𝑭𝑭𝑪𝑨, our 𝑹𝑶𝑹𝑶 (𝑹𝒐𝒍𝒍-𝒐𝒏/𝑹𝒐𝒍𝒍-𝒐𝒇𝒇) 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 ensures your cargo rolls on and off effortlessly. From cars to heavy machinery, we make transport smooth and secure. . 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒍𝒆-𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑮𝑭𝑭𝑪𝑨! 📞 +𝟏 (𝟒𝟏𝟔) 𝟖𝟕𝟑-𝟒𝟓𝟗𝟒 📧 𝒊𝒏𝒇𝒐@𝒈𝒇𝒇𝒄𝒂.𝒄𝒐𝒎 🌐 𝒈𝒇𝒇𝒄𝒂.𝒄𝒐𝒎

[courierduniablog]

How to Calculate Courier Charges from India to UK

International Courier from India to UK might seem like a difficult task, but it’s easier than you think! Whether you're a small business owner, a student, or just sending a gift to a friend, understanding how to calculate courier charges is important. This is a short guide to help you get started with the process of courier charges from India to UK. We’ll cover everything you need to know in easy-to-understand steps.

Best International Courier Services in Gurgaon by CourierDunia

We offers exceptional International courier Services in Gurgaon, ensuring your packages reach their destinations swiftly and securely. Based in the heart of India’s capital, CourierDunia provides reliable and efficient delivery solutions for all your global shipping needs. With a strong customer satisfaction, our International Courier in Gurgaon services guarantee timely deliveries and real-time tracking, giving you peace of mind every step of the way. Whether you're sending documents, parcels, or specialized items, trust CourierDunia to handle your shipments with care and professionalism.

1. Understanding the Concept of International Shipping

Before diving into the specifics of calculating courier charges from India to UK. It's essential to some fundamental concepts. Here’s an in-depth look at what you need to know:

An international courier is a service that delivers packages from one country to another. For example, if you want to send a parcel from India, you will use an international courier in India. This service ensures your package reaches its destination safely and on time.

Why Use an International Courier?

Using an international courier has many benefits:

Speed: International couriers deliver packages quickly.

Safety: They ensure your package is handled with care.

Tracking: You can track your package at every step of the journey.

When sending an international courier services from India to UK, or any other place, these services ensure your package reaches its destination efficiently.

2. Choosing the Right International Courier Service

There are many International Courier in India, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in terms of cost and delivery time. Sending a package internationally is more than just dropping it off and hoping for the best. The right courier service, such as CourierDunia, can make all the difference in terms of speed, cost, and reliability.

Reliability

A good courier service ensures that your package arrives safely and on time. They handle your items with care and provide consistent service, giving you peace of mind.

Speed

Reliable courier services from India to UK offer different delivery options to meet your needs. Whether you need express delivery for urgent shipments or standard delivery for non-urgent packages, you can choose the option that best suits your timeline.

Cost-Effective

A good courier service provides the best value for your money. They provide competitive prices without sacrificing the quality of their offerings. This balance helps you manage your shipping budget effectively.

Tracking

One of the significant advantages of using a reputable International courier in India can track your package every step of the way. Real-time tracking allows you to monitor the progress of your shipment, ensuring transparency and peace of mind.

Customer Support

A quality courier service must have outstanding customer service. They provide help and support when you need it, whether it's answering your queries, resolving issues, or providing updates on your shipment. Reliable customer support ensures a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience.

By choosing a good courier service like CourierDunia, you can enjoy these benefits and ensure that your packages are handled professionally and efficiently. These services have their own rates and delivery times. When planning International shipping from India to UK, comparing these services can help you find the best option.

3. Factors Affecting Courier Charges

Courier charges from India to UK are influenced by several factors. Understanding these will help you estimate the cost accurately. For instance, knowing the India to UK shipping cost per kg can provide a clearer idea of the overall expense.

Weight and Dimensions of the Package

The weight and size of your package are the primary factors that determine the cost. Most courier services have a rate chart based on weight. Heavier and larger packages cost more to ship.

Distance Between the Two Countries

The distance between India and UK also affects the shipping cost. Longer distances usually mean higher costs. However, established routes like international shipping cost from India to UK might have more competitive rates due to higher volume.

Delivery Speed

Courier services offer different delivery speeds to suit your needs:

Standard Delivery: This option takes longer but is more affordable. It's ideal for packages that are not time-sensitive.

Express Delivery: This is a faster option, but it comes at a higher cost. It's perfect for urgent deliveries that need to reach their destination quickly.

Choosing the right delivery speed is important when sending an International Shipping from India to UK, or any other country. It helps balance cost and urgency according to your specific requirements.

Additional Services

Additional services like insurance, tracking, and signature on delivery can add to the cost of International Shipping from India to UK. These are optional but provide extra security for your package, ensuring it reaches its destination safely and securely despite the complexities of international logistics and customs procedures.

4. How to Calculate Courier Charges

Now that you understand the factors affecting courier charges, let's see how to calculate them.

Step 1: Weigh Your Package

The first step is to weigh your package. Use a weighing scale to find the exact weight in kilograms or pounds. This measurement is crucial as it directly influences the Shipping Charges from India to UK. Most courier services have specific weight categories, and knowing the precise weight of your package will help you get an accurate estimate.

Step 2: Measure the Dimensions

Next, measure the length, width, and height of your package in centimeters or inches. This is important because some courier services use dimensional weight for pricing. Dimensional weight is calculated based on the size of the package, not just its actual weight. By providing accurate dimensions, you ensure that your shipping charges from India to UK is calculated correctly.

Step 3: Choose a Courier Service

Based on your needs and budget, choose a courier service. Visit their website or contact their customer service to get a rate quote. Be sure to provide the accurate weight and dimensions of your package to receive an accurate estimate. This will help you compare costs and find the best option for your shipping to UK from India.

Step 4: Check for Additional Charges

Look out for any additional charges such as fuel surcharges, remote area surcharges, or customs fees. These extra costs can significantly increase the overall shipping expense. It's important to account for these potential charges when calculating the total cost to avoid any surprises.

Step 5: Calculate the Total Cost

Add the base rate and any additional charges to calculate the total cost. This final amount is what you will need to pay to send your package from India to UK. By including both the base rate and any extra fees, you’ll get a clear picture of the overall shipping charges from India to UK.

5. Tips to Save on Courier Charges

Sending an international courier from India to UK price may be different, or any other country can be expensive. Here are some tips to help you save money:

Compare Rates

Don’t settle for the first courier service you find. Compare rates from different providers to find the best deal. Many websites allow you to compare rates from multiple couriers.

Use Standard Delivery

If your package is not urgent, opt for standard delivery. It's slower but much cheaper than express delivery. This can significantly reduce the courier price from India to UK.

Pack Efficiently

Pack your items efficiently to reduce the size and weight of your package. Use bubble wrap and sturdy boxes to protect your items without adding unnecessary weight, which can help you save on courier rates from India to UK.

Ship in Bulk

If you have multiple packages, try to ship them together. Many courier services offer discounts for bulk shipping, reducing the overall courier cost to UK from India.

Check for Discounts

Look for discounts and promotional offers. Many courier services offer special rates for students, businesses, and frequent shippers. When researching India to UK courier charges, these discounts can significantly reduce your expenses.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

When sending an international courier from India to UK, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a smooth experience:

Incorrect Address

Double-check the address to avoid delays and additional charges for re-delivery.

Incomplete Documentation

Ensure all necessary documents are filled out correctly. Missing or incorrect documentation can cause delays.

Not Insuring Valuable Items

Always insure valuable items. It provides financial protection in case of loss or damage during transit.

Ignoring Customs Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of the destination country. Ignoring these can result in your package being held up or returned.

Conclusion

Calculating India to UK courier charges doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the factors that affect the cost and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can estimate the charges accurately. Remember to compare rates, choose the right service, and avoid common mistakes to ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping experience. Whether you’re sending an international courier from India to UK, these tips will help you navigate the process very smoothly.

[entailglobal]

The Role of Sea Freight in India's Global Trade Landscape

India, with its strategic geographical location and extensive coastline, has long been a pivotal player in global trade.  The country's robust sea freight infrastructure has played a crucial role in establishing and maintaining this position.  As global trade continues to expand, the importance of sea freight in India's trade landscape cannot be overstated.  Companies like Entail Global, a leading sea freight logistics company in India, are instrumental in facilitating efficient and effective maritime trade operations.

The Importance of Sea Freight in Global Trade

Sea freight is the backbone of global trade, accounting for around 80% of the world’s total trade volume.  It is the most cost-effective and efficient mode of transporting large quantities of goods over long distances.  Sea freight's ability to handle various cargo types, including bulk, break-bulk, and containerized cargo, makes it indispensable for international trade.

India's Strategic Advantage

India’s geographical location provides a natural advantage for sea freight.  The country has a vast coastline of over 7,500 kilometers, dotted with major and minor ports.  Key ports like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam serve as vital gateways for international trade.  These ports are equipped with modern infrastructure to handle the complexities of global shipping and are supported by a network of logistics companies, including international shipping brokers in India.

Role of Sea Freight Logistics Companies

Sea freight logistics companies in India, such as Entail Global, play a critical role in the seamless movement of goods across borders.  These companies offer a wide range of services that include cargo handling, transportation, warehousing, and distribution.  Their expertise ensures that goods are transported efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

1.   Efficient Cargo Handling

Handling cargo efficiently is crucial for minimizing delays and ensuring the smooth flow of goods.  Sea freight logistics companies are equipped with the necessary technology and skilled workforce to manage cargo operations effectively.  This includes loading and unloading goods, container handling, and ensuring that cargo is properly secured for transit.

2.   Custom Clearance Services

Cargo and sea freight custom clearance services are essential for the smooth transit of goods through international borders.  Sea freight logistics companies handle the complex documentation and regulatory requirements needed for customs clearance.  This includes preparing shipping documents, managing import/export duties, and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.

3.   Transportation and Distribution

Beyond the port, sea freight logistics companies manage the transportation and distribution of goods to their final destinations.  This involves coordinating with various stakeholders, including shipping lines, port authorities, and inland transport providers.  Effective transportation and distribution networks are crucial for maintaining the integrity and timely delivery of goods.

The Role of International Shipping Brokers

International shipping brokers in India are integral to the sea freight logistics ecosystem.  These brokers act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, negotiating the best shipping rates and terms.  Their deep understanding of the global shipping market allows them to provide valuable insights and solutions tailored to the specific needs of their clients.

Negotiating Shipping Rates

Shipping brokers leverage their industry knowledge and relationships with carriers to negotiate competitive shipping rates.  This helps businesses manage their shipping costs effectively, ensuring that they remain competitive in the global market.

Route Optimization

Choosing the most efficient shipping routes is critical for reducing transit times and costs.  Shipping brokers analyze various factors, including shipping schedules, port congestion, and weather conditions, to recommend the best routes for their clients’ shipments.

Risk Management

International shipping involves inherent risks, such as delays, damage, and loss of cargo.  Shipping brokers provide risk management services, including insurance solutions and contingency planning, to mitigate these risks and ensure the safe delivery of goods.

Enhancing India's Global Trade Competitiveness

Sea freight plays a vital role in enhancing India's competitiveness in the global trade landscape.  The efficiency and cost-effectiveness of sea freight logistics contribute to the overall reduction of supply chain costs.  This, in turn, makes Indian goods more competitive in international markets.

1.   Export Growth

Sea freight enables Indian exporters to reach global markets efficiently.  The ability to transport large volumes of goods at competitive rates helps Indian exporters capitalize on international trade opportunities.  This is particularly important for sectors such as textiles, automotive, and agriculture, which rely heavily on export markets.

2.   Import Efficiency

Sea freight is equally important for importing goods into India.  Efficient sea freight logistics ensure that raw materials and components needed for manufacturing are delivered in a timely manner.  This supports the country’s industrial base and helps maintain the smooth functioning of production processes.

Technological Advancements in Sea Freight

Technological advancements are continuously transforming the sea freight industry.  Innovations such as automation, digitalization, and blockchain are enhancing the efficiency and transparency of sea freight operations.

1.   Automation and Digitalization

Automation and digitalization are streamlining various aspects of sea freight logistics.  Automated systems for cargo handling, real-time tracking, and electronic documentation are reducing operational inefficiencies and improving the accuracy of logistics processes.

2.   Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is being adopted to enhance the transparency and security of sea freight transactions.  By providing a tamper-proof ledger of transactions, blockchain helps reduce fraud, streamline customs processes, and improve the traceability of goods throughout the supply chain.

Sustainability in Sea Freight

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in the sea freight industry.  Efforts are being made to reduce the environmental impact of shipping operations through the adoption of cleaner fuels, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable practices.

1.   Cleaner Fuels

The shipping industry is shifting towards the use of cleaner fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and low-sulfur fuel oil, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  This transition is being driven by international regulations and the growing demand for environmentally friendly shipping solutions.

2.   Energy-Efficient Technologies

Energy-efficient technologies, such as advanced hull designs and propulsion systems, are being implemented to reduce the energy consumption of ships.  These innovations help lower the carbon footprint of sea freight operations and contribute to the sustainability of the global shipping industry.

Conclusion

The role of sea freight in India's global trade landscape is undeniably significant.  As the country continues to expand its trade horizons, the efficiency and effectiveness of its sea freight logistics will be crucial.  Companies like Entail Global, a leading sea freight logistics company in India, are at the forefront of this transformation, providing essential services that facilitate the smooth and efficient movement of goods across international borders.

With the support of sea freight logistics companies, international shipping brokers, and technological advancements, India is well-positioned to enhance its competitiveness in the global trade arena.  The ongoing focus on sustainability further ensures that the growth of sea freight operations aligns with the global commitment to environmental responsibility.

As we look to the future, the continued development and optimization of sea freight logistics will play a pivotal role in driving India's trade success, supporting economic growth, and fostering stronger connections with global markets.

[mihirvora]

 Smooth Operations: Custom Clearance Company Services for International Shipments

Navigating the complexities of global trade can be daunting without the right support, especially when it involves diverse regulatory environments and logistics challenges. Custom clearance companies play a pivotal role in smoothing these operations, ensuring that goods move swiftly and legally across borders. This article explores the indispensable services provided by custom clearance companies, focusing on key areas such as international cargo shipping, international ecommerce fulfillment, and specialized courier services like USA to India courier services.

The Role of Custom Clearance Companies

Custom clearance company specialize in facilitating the import and export of goods, ensuring compliance with various countries' legal frameworks. They act as a bridge between governments and businesses, handling necessary documentation, tax duties, and inspections. This not only speeds up the shipping process but also minimizes the risk of costly delays.

Enhancing USA to India Courier Services

For businesses engaged in frequent shipping from the USA to India, partnering with a proficient custom clearance company can significantly streamline the process. USA to India courier services benefit greatly from such partnerships, as these companies ensure that all regulatory requirements are met promptly, reducing transit times and enhancing customer satisfaction. Whether it's commercial cargo or personal parcels, having expert clearance services ensures a hassle-free transfer.

Streamlining International Cargo Shipping

International cargo shipping is the backbone of global trade, involving the transportation of goods by sea, air, or land across international borders. Custom clearance companies optimize this process by handling the complexities of cargo shipping regulations and paperwork. By doing so, they prevent delays caused by customs, ensuring that international cargo shipping remains efficient and effective.

Supporting International Ecommerce Fulfillment

The rise of ecommerce has increased the demand for competent international ecommerce fulfillment services. These companies are essential for businesses that sell goods internationally, providing storage, packaging, and shipping services. A custom clearance company plays a crucial role here, ensuring that international shipments meet all legal standards and reach their destinations without interruptions. This is especially important for businesses that rely on swift, reliable international ecommerce fulfillment to maintain customer trust and satisfaction.

Integrating Services for Comprehensive Support

The synergy between USA to India courier services, international cargo shipping, and international ecommerce fulfillment company can be significantly enhanced with the support of a custom clearance company. By integrating their services, businesses can enjoy seamless international operations, from the point of origin to the final destination. This integration helps in maintaining a steady flow of goods, even across the most challenging borders.

Conclusion

The services offered by custom clearance companies are indispensable in the realm of international trade. They provide critical support for USA to India courier services, facilitate efficient international cargo shipping, and enhance the capabilities of international ecommerce fulfillment companies. By ensuring compliance and smooth operational flow, these companies help businesses thrive in the competitive global marketplace, making them invaluable partners in international trade.

In conclusion, whether it's through enhanced USA to India courier services, streamlined international cargo shipping, or robust international ecommerce fulfillment, custom clearance companies are key to successful global business operations. Their expert handling of regulatory challenges ensures that businesses can focus on growth and customer service, confident that their international shipments are in good hands.

[jmycargo]

[ltwilliammowett]

The East India Company ships

The East and West India Company ships were not ship types in the usual sense. They were generic terms for a series of merchant ship types that travelled between Europe and the overseas colonies in the East and West. Common features of these ships were three masts, several cannons and a high bulwark to make it more difficult for attackers to board them. Their valuable cargo made the ships attractive targets, so they often travelled in convoys, accompanied by medium-armed merchant ships or frigates for protection. But let's go into more detail.

The East Indiaman 'Earl of Abergavenny', off Southsea, by Thomas Luny 1801

The ships of the East India Company were the ships of the English East India Company, a public limited company (shipowners at the early time of the East India Company contributed their ships to the company and received a certain share in the company in return. They received a proportionate share of the company's overall profits and received a dividend even if their own ship was lost, since the 18th century the company build their own ones as well.) which traded with Asia from 1600 to 1834. The company had a monopoly on trade with the East Indies, China and other regions, and its ships carried goods such as spices, tea, silk, cotton, porcelain and opium. The company also played an important role in the colonisation and administration of India and other territories.

East India Company ships at Deptford, by English School, c. 1660

The ships of the East India Company were known as East Indiamen or as Indiamen and were among the largest and most modern of their time. They were designed to withstand long voyages, carry heavy cargoes and defend themselves against pirates and enemy ships. They were also equipped with cannons and muskets and had a crew of sailors, soldiers, officers and passengers. Because of the need to carry heavy cannons, the hull of the East Indiamen - like most warships of the time - was much wider at the waterline than on the upper deck, so the guns on the upper deck were closer to the centreline to increase stability. This is known as a tumblehome. The ships usually had two complete decks for accommodation within the hull and a raised aft deck. The aft deck and the deck below were lit by galleries with square windows at the stern. To support the weight of the galleries, the hull lines were full towards the stern. As mentioned above, the ships were armed and painted to look like a warship and an attacker could not be sure if the embrasures were real or just painted, and some Indiamen carried a substantial armament.

Two views of an East Indiaman of the time of King William III, by Issac Sailmaker, 1685

The Royal Navy acquired several East Indiamen during the Napoleonic Wars and made them fourth rate ships (e.g. HMS Weymouth and HMS Madras), perpetuating the confusion of military ships with merchant vessels as prizes. In some cases, the East Indiamen successfully fended off attacks by the French. One of the most famous incidents occurred in 1804 when a fleet of East India ships and other merchant vessels under Commodore Nathaniel Dance successfully fought off a squadron commanded by Admiral Linois at the Battle of Pulo Aura in the Indian Ocean. And during this time, some of the ships were even travelling under the protection of a Letter of Marque, which allowed them to make their own prizes.

The East Indiaman 'Prince of Wales' disembarking troops off Gravesend, 1845, by John Lynn, 1845 or later - She was built by Green's of Blackwall in 1842 to a design known as that of the "Blackwall Frigates" - Indiamen with the single-decked appearance of frigates.

The ships of the India Companies were not only involved in trade, but also in exploration, diplomacy, warfare and scientific research. They visited many harbours and islands, built factories and forts, fought in battles and wars, negotiated treaties and alliances and collected samples and data. With the advent of the smaller and faster Blackwall Frigates in 1834 came the end of the great Indiamen as these small frigates sailed much faster.

[blueiscoool]

Chinese Porcelains Recovered From Centuries-Old Shipwreck Head to Auction

The porcelain vessels spent over 300 years at the bottom of the South China Sea.

Trawling the seabed near the south coast of Vietnam in 1989, a Vietnamese fisherman stumbled upon the remains of the wreck of a ship that was traveling from China to Jakarta when it sunk some three centuries before. Among the haul, which included everyday items like bamboo combs, tweezers, and dice, were a whopping 48,288 pieces of Qing dynasty porcelain. In Jakarta, traders of the globe-spanning Dutch East India Company had planned to transport the vessels to Holland. Some 28,000 were sold at a 1992 Christie’s auction in Amsterdam, their likely planned destination, for a total of $7.3 million.

Now, on October 10, a group of 20 of these vases, with all their historic resonance, is being offered in an online auction at Stair Galleries, in Hudson, New York, which handles traditional furniture and fine art. Ranging between five to eight inches-high and displaying intricate floral patterns typical of traditional Chinese pottery, the group bears a very modest high estimate of $1,200.

The “Vung Tau Cargo,” so called for the Vietnamese coastal city of Vũng Tàu, near which it was discovered, has had a notable history since it was raised from its watery grave by the state-owned Vietnam Salvage Corporation in a joint venture with none other than the famed Swedish treasure hunter Sverker Hallstrom.

As for the porcelain booty that wasn’t auctioned off at Christie’s Amsterdam in 1992, some went to Hallstrom’s personal collection, other pieces to the Vietnamese government. Others still fell into the hands of Alberto Pinto, a Parisian photographer and interior designer of Jewish-Moroccan origin, who acquired them at Sotheby’s in 1999. Pinto would then sell the 20 vessels now being offered at Stair at another Christie’s auction in 2006.

“Wear consistent with age and use,” the company’s online listing notes of the condition of the pieces, dryly enough in view of their history. It notes that five of the beakers have chipped rims, repairs or hairline cracks. Four of the vases and covers have some chips in the rims or feet, a few of them large. “Otherwise in good condition,” said the house.

“Some trademarks of ‘cargo porcelain’ have a somewhat cloudy appearance and in some cases encrustations of marine life,” said Lauren Anderson, director of exposition sales at Stair, adding that the cargo was “very fashionable with interior designers” like Pinto. Throughout his life but especially after becoming wealthy and successful, Pinto was known as a passionate collector of antique tableware, acquiring cutlery, porcelain, and linen from both Europe and Asia. (His collection also includes furniture, statues, and a sizable survey of Impressionist paintings, including Édouard Vuillard’s 1921 Lucien Guitry.)

By Tim Brinkhof.

[justforbooks]

Richard Woodman

Writer who drew on his own experience at sea in a series of novels and historical works about the British merchant navy

“The end was anticlimax. We slipped home unnoticed. Britain turned no hair at our arrival, as just as she has turned no hair at our extinction.” When Richard Woodman published Voyage East in 1988, he knew that the mercantile world depicted within it, which he had joined aged 16, was gone.

The first-person novel – which never reads like fiction – describes the voyage of a cargo liner carrying goods and passengers from Liverpool to Singapore, Hong Kong, Kobe and Shanghai in the mid-1960s. There is a moment, off the coast of Borneo, when the captain sees a vessel with half a dozen grey aluminium boxes on her foredeck: “What the devil are they?” he asks the pilot. “‘They’re containers, Captain,’ the Pilot replied, and no one on the bridge heard the sentence of death pronounced upon us.”

Woodman, who has died aged 80, became the memorialist of the merchant fleets. Between 2008 and 2016 he wrote the history of the British merchant navy in five volumes, followed by A Low Set of Blackguards, a two-volume history (2016-17) of the East India Company.

His outstanding contribution came through his three second world war convoy histories: Arctic Convoys (1994), Malta Convoys (2000) and The Real Cruel Sea (2005). These are works of passion, based on experience and scrupulous research.

The loss of life among merchant seamen was proportionately greater than in any of the armed services and the recognition they received far less. From the beginning of the war a seafarer’s pay was stopped the minute his ship was sunk. “Time spent fighting for his life on a float or lifeboat was an unpaid excursion,” wrote Woodman.

While Winston Churchill acknowledged the crucial importance of the Battle of the Atlantic to national survival, it was not until 2012 that those who had served in the Arctic convoys, and had taken the highest casualties of all, were retrospectively honoured.

Born in north London, Richard was the elder son of Rosalie (nee Cann) and Douglas Woodman, a civil service administrator. Though he was far from the sea, his imagination was captured by the works of Arthur Ransome, Daniel Defoe, RM Ballantyne and Alan Villiers, and his enthusiasm nurtured by Sea Scout membership.

He was the youngest member of the Sea Scout crew that sailed the ex-German yawl Nordwind in the 1960 Tall Ships race and, despite failing all but two of his O-levels, he was accepted as an indentured apprentice with the Alfred Holt (Blue Funnel) line in 1960.

His first long trip to Australia came as a midshipman on the SS Glenarty, returning via the US: “I had been round the world before I would have been allowed inside a British pub.” Life on board ship took place in an uncompromising, all-male environment: the almost compulsory swearing, drinking and sexist banter encouraged the development of “a carapace behind which we hid our private selves”.

Woodman responded eagerly to the hands-on education in seamanship and navigation, developed his writing and sketching through the log-keeping and read his way through the excellent ships’ libraries provided by the Marine Society. He completed his four-year apprenticeship and gained his second mate’s certificate. He was, however, in love and hated saying goodbye to his girlfriend, Christine Hite, an art student, for many months at a time.

He left Blue Funnel in the mid-1960s and went to work for the Ocean Weather Service, where he discovered how vicious the North Atlantic winter weather systems could be – and how pitilessly an ex-second world war corvette would roll. Fortunately it was not long before a temporary position became available with Trinity House, the corporation charged with the maintenance of navigation marks around England, Wales and the Channel Islands.

The position became permanent; he and Christine married in 1969 and settled in Harwich, Essex, near the Trinity House east coast depot, and he served the corporation for most of the rest of his life.

The work at sea was varied, challenging, sometimes dangerous. Precise navigation, seamanship and attention to detail were essential qualities, but Woodman also found time to write. His first novel, The Eye of the Fleet, was published in 1981. This introduced a series of 14 adventures featuring the young Nathaniel Drinkwater, a hero somewhat in the Horatio Hornblower mode but bearing the unmistakable stamp of a writer who was also a sailor.

Despite his professional career being in motorised vessels, Woodman loved traditional gaff-rigged yachts, particularly his own Kestrel and then Andromeda, in which he and Christine explored the east coast rivers and beyond. The action of his nautical novels often turns on neat, seamanlike manoeuvres as well as including varied and closely observed seascapes.

His productivity was astonishing. He often wrote two or three novels a year and soon added non-fiction to his output. When he became captain of Trinity House Vessel Patricia, he achieved this by having two desks, one from which he could conduct official business, the other hidden behind a door, with a page from the work in progress always ready in the typewriter.

Meanwhile, in his job he was extremely focused, conscientious and painstaking. Although some remember him as being of the “old school”, Jill Kernick, the first woman in almost 500 years to work at sea for Trinity House, credits him with helping her break through traditional barriers in the early 80s.

In 1997 Woodman retired to write full time, but was soon elected a Younger Brother of Trinity House, and then an Elder Brother, the first time a former employee was accorded this honour. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2003 but there was no let-up in his work rate. His last completed novel, A River in Borneo (2022), harks back to 60s Indonesia but sets its final scene in a Colchester hospice.

He is survived by Christine and their children, Abigail and Edward, and grandson, Arlo.

🔔 Richard Martin Woodman, master mariner and author, born 10 March 1944; died 2 October 2024

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[seagulls-paradise]

Legends speak of the Flying Dutchman, a spectral ship doomed to sail the seas forever without finding a safe haven. Originating in the 17th century during the Dutch East India Company's peak, this chilling story has intrigued sailors for ages. The earliest written version of this ghostly tale dates back to the 18th century. Sailors who come across this phantom ship reportedly receive unsettling messages intended for the living or the dead. Reports of sightings of the Flying Dutchman, emanating an ethereal glow, have persisted into the 19th and 20th centuries. In maritime lore, seeing this ghostly vessel is considered a foreboding omen. Legend has it that the Flying Dutchman was once a 17th-century cargo ship called a fluyt, now doomed to an eternal journey.

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[needsmoreresearch]

would not have thought Return of the Obra Dinn would be a fun family game but my husband is playing it and damned if we aren't all gathered round like "hmm would you describe that as being crushed by cargo or by a terrible beast? the cargo is a beast..." and "so do you think the cause of death is drowning or did the clawing by a terrible beast do it?" while also trying to look up what kind of hat a bosun's mate on an east india company ship would wear