Question 1

What's the difference between FCL and LCL ocean shipping?

Accepted Answer

FCL (Full Container Load) means a container is used exclusively by one shipper, suitable for larger volumes — typically a 20GP holds about 28 CBM and a 40HQ about 68 CBM. LCL (Less-than-Container Load) consolidates shipments from multiple shippers in one container, ideal for smaller volumes (usually under 15 CBM). FCL is charged per container; LCL per CBM. We recommend choosing based on volume — FCL is typically more economical above 15 CBM.

Question 2

How are ocean freight costs calculated?

Accepted Answer

Ocean freight costs include: basic ocean freight, origin port charges (THC, documentation fees, customs fees, etc.), destination port charges (DTHC, clearance fees, etc.), and inland transport. FCL is charged by container type (20GP/40GP/40HQ); LCL by volume (CBM) or weight (tons), whichever is greater. Costs vary by route, carrier, and season. We provide transparent quotes with all fee breakdowns.

Question 3

What are typical ocean shipping transit times?

Accepted Answer

Transit times vary by route: Southeast Asia 3-7 days, Japan/Korea 3-5 days, Middle East 15-20 days, Europe 25-35 days, US West Coast 12-18 days, US East Coast 25-30 days, South America 30-45 days, Africa 25-40 days. These are sea transit times excluding terminal handling and customs clearance at both ends.

Question 4

What documents are needed for ocean shipping?

Accepted Answer

Export ocean shipping typically requires: 1) Packing List detailing quantity, weight, and volume; 2) Commercial Invoice with cargo value and trade terms; 3) Customs Power of Attorney; 4) For special goods, MSDS, inspection certificates, etc. may be needed. We provide a detailed document checklist based on your cargo type.

Question 5

What's the difference between air freight and international express?

Accepted Answer

Air freight suits larger volumes (typically 45kg+), charged per kg, requiring customs clearance and pickup or agent handling. International express (DHL, FedEx, etc.) suits small parcels with door-to-door service, charged by actual or volumetric weight. For 100kg+ shipments, air freight is usually more economical. We recommend the optimal solution based on volume and urgency.

Question 6

How is volumetric weight calculated for air freight?

Accepted Answer

Air freight volumetric formula: Length(cm) × Width(cm) × Height(cm) ÷ 6000 = Volumetric Weight (kg). Charges are based on the greater of actual or volumetric weight. For example, a 50kg item measuring 100×80×60cm has volumetric weight of 100×80×60÷6000 = 80kg, so it would be charged at 80kg. We recommend efficient packaging to reduce volume and costs.

Question 7

How long does export customs clearance take?

Accepted Answer

Normally, export customs clearance takes 1-2 business days with complete documentation and accurate classification. If customs inspection is required, it may take an additional 1-3 business days. We provide pre-classification and pre-review services to identify potential issues before declaration, ensuring first-time clearance.

Question 8

What is an HS code and how do I determine the correct one?

Accepted Answer

The HS (Harmonized System) code is an internationally standardized product classification system. China uses 10-digit codes where the first 6 digits are internationally standardized. The HS code determines tariff rates, regulatory requirements, and inspection needs. Our classification team can accurately classify goods based on material, use, and function to avoid clearance delays or penalties.

Question 9

Which goods require commodity inspection for export?

Accepted Answer

According to Chinese customs regulations, goods listed in the Inspection & Quarantine Catalog require inspection. Common categories include food, cosmetics, electronics, textiles, toys, chemicals, and medical devices. We can confirm whether your goods require inspection by checking the HS code's regulatory conditions.

Question 10

Is cargo transportation insurance necessary?

Accepted Answer

Highly recommended. International transport involves risks including maritime hazards, handling damage, and natural disasters. Without insurance, cargo damage could result in significant financial loss. Ocean insurance premiums are typically only 0.1%-0.3% of cargo value. We recommend at minimum WA/WPA coverage, and All Risks for high-value goods.

Question 11

What is the insurance claims process?

Accepted Answer

Upon discovering damage: 1) Document damage with photos and file written claim with carrier at delivery; 2) Report to insurer within 48 hours; 3) Prepare claim documents (policy, B/L, packing list, commercial invoice, inspection report, claim letter); 4) Insurer reviews and processes compensation. We assist throughout the entire claims process.

Question 12

How does cooperation work for first-time clients?

Accepted Answer

The process is straightforward: 1) Online consultation: Provide cargo details (commodity, weight, volume, POL, POD, timeline); 2) Proposal & quote: We provide transport solution and detailed pricing; 3) Confirm partnership: Sign cooperation agreement after quote confirmation; 4) Arrange transport: Pickup, booking, customs per your timeline; 5) Full tracking: Dedicated tracking with regular updates; 6) Delivery confirmation: Confirm receipt upon delivery. You just provide the basic information — we handle everything else.

Question 13

Which ports do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We have local teams at six key Chinese ports: Ningbo, Wenzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Tianjin, and Qingdao, providing port-to-door and door-to-port services. International routes cover 200+ ports and major airports worldwide, including Southeast Asia (Singapore, Port Klang, Laem Chabang), Japan/Korea (Tokyo, Busan), Europe (Hamburg, Rotterdam, Felixstowe), North America (Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver), and Middle East (Jebel Ali, Dammam).

Question 14

Do you offer door pickup services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer door pickup services in major cities across China. Simply provide the pickup address, contact person, and cargo details, and we'll arrange vehicle pickup. Coverage includes factories and warehouses, with appropriate vehicle selection based on cargo volume (small van, 4.2m, 6.8m, 9.6m, 13m trucks, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

Ocean Freight

Air Freight

Customs

Cargo Insurance

Service Process

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