Maritime Logistics · The Hague, Netherlands

Connecting the World Through Sea Transportation

MJM Marine is a full-service maritime logistics provider headquartered in The Hague. We deliver reliable ocean freight solutions — from containerised cargo to bulk commodities and project shipments — across every major trade lane worldwide.

120+ Countries Served
850+ Port Connections
15+ Years Experience
24/7 Operations Support

The Hague Hub

Strategically positioned at the heart of Europe's maritime gateway

Your Trusted Partner in Global Ocean Freight

Founded in The Hague — home to the International Court of Justice and a historic centre of Dutch maritime trade — MJM Marine has built its reputation on precision, transparency, and deep industry expertise. We manage the complete lifecycle of sea transportation, from initial cargo assessment and vessel booking to customs clearance and final delivery.

The Netherlands handles over 600 million tonnes of cargo annually through ports such as Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Vlissingen. Our proximity to these world-class facilities gives MJM Marine clients a decisive logistical advantage: faster transit times, competitive rates, and seamless intermodal connections across Europe and beyond.

  • ISO-certified quality management and environmental compliance
  • Direct partnerships with leading container lines and bulk carriers
  • In-house customs brokerage and trade compliance specialists
  • Real-time cargo tracking and proactive exception management
  • Dedicated account managers for every client relationship

Comprehensive Maritime Logistics Solutions

Whether you ship a single pallet or an entire vessel charter, MJM Marine provides end-to-end sea transportation services tailored to your cargo, timeline, and budget.

FCL Container Shipping

Full Container Load (FCL) services for businesses requiring exclusive use of a shipping container. Ideal for high-volume or sensitive cargo.

  • 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft High Cube containers
  • Reefer (refrigerated) containers
  • Open-top and flat-rack options
  • Door-to-port and port-to-port delivery

LCL Consolidation

Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping allows smaller shipments to share container space, reducing costs without compromising reliability.

  • Weekly consolidations to major destinations
  • CFS (Container Freight Station) handling
  • Flexible minimum shipment volumes
  • Consolidated customs documentation

Bulk Cargo Transport

Specialist handling of dry bulk and liquid bulk commodities aboard dedicated bulk carriers, from grain and coal to chemicals and petroleum products.

  • Dry bulk: grains, minerals, coal, fertilisers
  • Liquid bulk: crude oil, chemicals, LNG
  • Handysize to Capesize vessel chartering
  • Loading/unloading supervision at port

Project & Heavy Cargo

Complex, oversized, or high-value cargo requiring bespoke planning, specialised equipment, and multi-modal coordination.

  • Out-of-gauge (OOG) and breakbulk cargo
  • Industrial machinery and wind turbine components
  • Route surveys and lifting plans
  • On-site project management teams

Customs & Documentation

Navigating international trade regulations is complex. Our licensed customs brokers ensure your shipments comply with all import and export requirements.

  • Import/export declarations (EU & non-EU)
  • Bill of Lading and commercial invoice preparation
  • Certificate of Origin and phytosanitary certificates
  • HS code classification and duty optimisation

Marine Insurance & Risk

Protect your cargo against the inherent risks of ocean transport — from weather events and piracy to handling damage and general average contributions.

  • All-risk cargo insurance policies
  • Institute Cargo Clauses (A, B, C)
  • War and strikes risk coverage
  • Claims management and loss adjustment

Understanding Ocean Freight in Depth

Sea transportation remains the backbone of global trade, moving approximately 90% of the world's goods by volume. Explore the fundamentals of maritime shipping and how MJM Marine applies them to your supply chain.

How Sea Transportation Works

Ocean freight is the most cost-effective method of transporting large volumes of goods over long distances. A single container vessel can carry over 24,000 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), making it indispensable for international commerce. The process involves multiple stakeholders — shippers, freight forwarders, shipping lines, port operators, customs authorities, and inland carriers — all coordinated to move cargo from origin to destination.

Key Advantages

  • Cost efficiency: Sea freight costs a fraction of air freight for non-urgent, high-volume shipments
  • Capacity: Virtually unlimited cargo volume for bulk and containerised goods
  • Environmental footprint: Lowest CO₂ emissions per tonne-kilometre compared to air and road transport
  • Global reach: Over 850 active commercial ports worldwide connected by regular liner services
  • Versatility: Accommodates everything from electronics to raw materials, vehicles, and heavy machinery

Typical Transit Times

  • Europe → East Asia: 28–35 days via Suez Canal
  • Europe → North America (East Coast): 10–14 days
  • Europe → South America: 18–25 days
  • Europe → Middle East: 14–21 days
  • Europe → Africa (West): 12–18 days
  • Intra-Europe (short sea): 2–7 days

Transit times vary based on vessel schedule, port congestion, weather conditions, and customs processing. MJM Marine provides accurate ETAs and proactive delay notifications.

Container Types & Specifications

Selecting the right container is critical for cargo safety, cost optimisation, and regulatory compliance. MJM Marine advises on the optimal equipment for every shipment.

Standard Containers

  • 20ft Dry Container (TEU): Internal dimensions approx. 5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m. Max payload ~28,200 kg. Most common for general cargo.
  • 40ft Dry Container (FEU): Internal dimensions approx. 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m. Max payload ~26,700 kg. Double the capacity of a 20ft unit.
  • 40ft High Cube: Extra 30cm height (2.69m internal). Preferred for lightweight, voluminous cargo such as furniture and textiles.
  • 45ft High Cube: Extended length for maximum cubic capacity on certain trade lanes.

Specialised Equipment

  • Reefer Container: Temperature-controlled units (-30°C to +30°C) for perishables, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
  • Open Top: Removable roof for cargo that must be loaded from above (e.g. machinery).
  • Flat Rack: Collapsible sides for oversized cargo exceeding standard dimensions.
  • Tank Container (ISO Tank): For liquids, gases, and powders — built to ISO standards for safe intermodal transport.
  • Hard-top / Ventilated: For moisture-sensitive or odour-emitting cargo requiring airflow.

Incoterms & Responsibility Allocation

International Commercial Terms (Incoterms® 2020) define the obligations, costs, and risks between buyer and seller in international trade. Choosing the right Incoterm prevents disputes and ensures clarity on who arranges transport, insurance, and customs clearance.

Common Sea Freight Incoterms

  • EXW (Ex Works): Seller makes goods available at their premises. Buyer bears all transport costs and risks from that point.
  • FOB (Free on Board): Seller delivers goods on board the vessel at the named port of shipment. Risk transfers when cargo crosses the ship's rail.
  • CFR (Cost and Freight): Seller pays transport to the destination port. Risk transfers at the port of shipment.
  • CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): Same as CFR, but seller also provides minimum marine insurance.
  • DAP (Delivered at Place): Seller delivers to the named destination, ready for unloading. Buyer handles import customs.
  • DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Seller bears all costs and risks including import duties and taxes to the final destination.

MJM Marine Guidance

Our trade compliance team helps you select the Incoterm that best aligns with your commercial objectives, risk tolerance, and operational capabilities. We provide detailed cost breakdowns for each scenario so you can make informed decisions before booking.

  • Incoterm selection workshops for new exporters
  • Contract review and liability mapping
  • Insurance gap analysis under CIF vs. CIP terms
  • Multi-party trade facilitation ( triangular shipments)

Essential Shipping Documentation

Accurate documentation is the foundation of smooth customs clearance and dispute-free delivery. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the leading cause of shipment delays at port.

Core Documents

  • Bill of Lading (B/L): Title document issued by the carrier. Can be negotiable (Original B/L) or non-negotiable (Sea Waybill/Express B/L).
  • Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods, value, and terms of sale. Required for customs valuation.
  • Packing List: Itemised list of contents, weights, and dimensions of each package or container.
  • Certificate of Origin: Confirms country of manufacture. May qualify goods for preferential tariff rates under trade agreements.
  • Insurance Certificate: Proof of cargo insurance coverage for the transit period.

Additional Documents (Cargo-Specific)

  • MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): Required for dangerous goods (IMDG classification).
  • Phytosanitary Certificate: For agricultural products and plant-based materials.
  • Health Certificate: For food, animal products, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Export/Import Licences: For controlled goods (dual-use items, strategic commodities).
  • Fumigation Certificate: Required by many countries for wooden packaging (ISPM 15 compliance).

Sustainable Sea Transportation

The maritime industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation toward decarbonisation. MJM Marine is committed to helping clients reduce the environmental impact of their supply chains while maintaining operational excellence.

Industry Initiatives

  • IMO 2030 & 2050 Targets: International Maritime Organisation goals to reduce CO₂ emissions by 40% (2030) and 70% (2050) compared to 2008 levels.
  • Alternative Fuels: LNG, biofuels, methanol, and ammonia-powered vessels entering commercial service.
  • Slow Steaming: Reduced vessel speeds to lower fuel consumption and emissions on major trade routes.
  • Port Electrification: Shore-side power (cold ironing) at major European ports including Rotterdam.

MJM Marine Green Services

  • Carbon footprint reporting per shipment (Well-to-Wake methodology)
  • Carbon offset programmes through verified maritime projects
  • Carrier selection based on CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) ratings
  • Modal shift consulting: optimising sea-road-rail intermodal routes
  • EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) compliance support for maritime transport

From Quote to Delivery in Five Steps

Our streamlined process ensures transparency and control at every stage of your sea shipment.

1

Enquiry & Quote

Submit your cargo details. We provide a competitive, all-inclusive freight quotation within 24 hours.

2

Booking & Planning

We reserve vessel space, arrange inland transport, and prepare all required shipping documentation.

3

Origin Handling

Cargo is collected, inspected, packed (if needed), and delivered to the port of loading with full customs export clearance.

4

Ocean Transit

Your shipment sails on schedule. Track progress in real time via our online portal with milestone notifications.

5

Destination Delivery

Import customs cleared, cargo discharged, and delivered to your door or warehouse — on time, every time.

The MJM Marine Difference

What sets us apart in a competitive maritime logistics market.

01

The Hague Advantage

Located minutes from Rotterdam — Europe's largest port — and connected to Amsterdam Schiphol for seamless air-sea intermodal solutions.

02

Transparent Pricing

No hidden surcharges. Every quote includes a detailed cost breakdown: ocean freight, THC, documentation, customs, and inland haulage.

03

Expert Team

Our freight forwarders, customs brokers, and operations specialists average 12+ years in maritime logistics and international trade.

04

Technology-Driven

Digital booking platform, API integrations with ERP systems, automated document generation, and AI-powered delay prediction.

Major Shipping Routes from the Netherlands

MJM Marine operates regular services and spot bookings on the world's busiest trade corridors, with Rotterdam and Amsterdam as primary load ports.

Trade Lane Key Destinations Frequency Transit Time Service Type
Asia — Far East Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Busan, Tokyo Weekly 28–35 days FCL / LCL
North America — East Coast New York, Savannah, Charleston, Montreal Weekly 10–14 days FCL / LCL
North America — West Coast Los Angeles, Long Beach, Vancouver, Seattle Bi-weekly 18–22 days FCL
Middle East & Indian Subcontinent Dubai, Jeddah, Mumbai, Colombo, Karachi Weekly 14–21 days FCL / LCL / Bulk
South America — East Coast Santos, Buenos Aires, Montevideo Bi-weekly 18–25 days FCL / Bulk
Africa — West & East Lagos, Durban, Mombasa, Tema, Casablanca Weekly 12–22 days FCL / LCL
Intra-Europe (Short Sea) UK, Scandinavia, Baltic, Mediterranean Daily 2–7 days FCL / RoRo
Australasia & Oceania Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland Bi-weekly 35–42 days FCL

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about sea transportation and working with MJM Marine.

FCL (Full Container Load) means you book an entire container exclusively for your cargo — best for shipments over 15 cubic metres. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your goods share container space with other shippers — ideal for smaller volumes. LCL is more cost-effective for small shipments but has longer transit times due to consolidation and deconsolidation at CFS warehouses.

Ocean freight rates depend on several factors: container type and size, origin and destination ports, cargo weight and volume, fuel surcharges (BAF), currency adjustment factors (CAF), peak season surcharges, and any special handling requirements. For LCL, rates are typically calculated per cubic metre (CBM) or per tonne, whichever is greater. MJM Marine provides fully itemised quotes with no hidden fees.

The Bill of Lading (B/L) serves three functions: it is a receipt confirming the carrier has received the cargo, a contract of carriage outlining terms of transport, and a document of title that can be used to claim the goods at destination. An Original Bill of Lading must be surrendered (or telex released) before cargo can be collected. Losing an Original B/L can cause significant delays and costs.

Dangerous goods must comply with the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code). Requirements include proper classification (UN number), approved packaging, labelling, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD). Not all vessels accept all DG classes. MJM Marine's certified DG specialists handle classification, documentation, and carrier approval to ensure safe, compliant transport.

The Hague is the administrative and diplomatic capital of the Netherlands, hosting the International Court of Justice, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, and numerous maritime law firms and insurers. It sits within the Randstad economic region, with Rotterdam (Europe's largest port, handling 470M+ tonnes annually) just 30 minutes away. This proximity provides MJM Marine clients with direct access to world-class port infrastructure, intermodal connections, and a deep pool of maritime expertise.

Yes. We offer complete door-to-door logistics including origin pickup, export customs clearance, ocean freight, import customs clearance, and final delivery to your warehouse or facility. Our inland transport network covers all of the Netherlands and extends across the EU via road, rail, and barge connections from Rotterdam and Amsterdam ports.

Let's Move Your Cargo

Ready to ship? Contact our team in The Hague for a competitive freight quotation or to discuss your maritime logistics requirements.

  • Office Address Prinses Beatrixlaan 582
    2595 BM The Hague
    South Holland, Netherlands
  • Business Hours Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 18:00 CET
    Saturday: 09:00 – 13:00 CET
    24/7 emergency operations line available