Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

Three common container types: 20GP (small) interior approx 5.9×2.35×2.39m, ~33 CBM capacity, ~28 tons max cargo; 40GP (standard) interior approx 12.03×2.35×2.39m, ~67 CBM, ~26 tons; 40HQ (high cube) interior approx 12.03×2.35×2.69m, ~76 CBM, ~26 tons. Tips: choose 40HQ for bulky light cargo, 20GP for heavy cargo, 40GP for general goods. Tell us your cargo details and we'll recommend the best option.

Oversized (overheight, overwidth, overlength) and overweight cargo requires special containers or breakbulk vessels. Common solutions: Open Top (OT) for overheight cargo; Flat Rack (FR) for overwidth/overweight cargo; Platform containers for heavy machinery. Overweight cargo requires confirming destination port lifting capacity. We have extensive project cargo experience and can provide lashing/securing solutions with on-site supervision.

LCL shipping to Spain is charged per CBM (cubic meter) or per ton, whichever is greater. We ship from Ningbo port to major Spanish ports including Barcelona, Valencia, and Algeciras. LCL costs include ocean freight, origin port charges, and destination port charges, varying by destination and cargo volume. Transit time is typically 25-35 days by sea, plus 5-7 days for port handling and customs at both ends. Use our online LCL rate calculator for instant estimates.

The minimum for LCL (Less-than-Container-Load) shipping is typically 1 CBM or 1 ton, charged at the greater value. Even small shipments with just a few cartons can be sent via LCL. If your cargo exceeds 15 CBM, FCL (Full Container Load) is usually more cost-effective. We can recommend the best option based on your cargo volume and also offer door-to-door LCL services to Spain.

For LCL exports to Spain you need: 1) Packing List detailing quantity, weight and volume; 2) Commercial Invoice with cargo value and trade terms; 3) Customs power of attorney. For customs clearance in Spain, the consignee's EORI number and the goods' HS code are also required. Some products may need CE certification or a Certificate of Origin. We provide a complete document checklist and step-by-step guidance before shipment.

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.

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.

We can assess them, but the route and documents depend on the cargo. Lithium battery products usually require MSDS and UN38.3 documentation, and some shipments must move as dangerous goods or through approved channels. Liquids and powders need ingredient details and, when required, MSDS or transport classification documents. Rates and transit times vary by airline, route, and compliance requirements, so please share the product name, composition, packaging, and photos before booking.

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.

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.

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.

China's export tax rebate policy refunds VAT paid on exported goods, with rates varying by product (5%-13%). Process: 1) Obtain customs declaration and VAT invoice after export; 2) File rebate application in the tax system; 3) Tax authority reviews and disburses rebate. We provide customs documentation to support your rebate application, but the actual filing is handled by your finance team or tax agent.

Import clearance typically requires: 1) Commercial invoice and packing list; 2) Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB); 3) Customs power of attorney; 4) Purchase contract; 5) Import license for restricted goods. Special commodities may need Certificate of Origin, health certificates, or CCC certification. We provide a complete document checklist before cargo arrives to ensure smooth clearance.

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).

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.).

Yes, we offer warehousing in Ningbo, Shanghai, Shenzhen and other locations, including: short-term storage (holding cargo after arrival), sorting & repackaging (unpacking, sorting, repackaging), labeling & repacking (relabeling for destination markets), and consolidation (combining multiple shipments). Warehousing is charged by area and duration. We can customize a warehousing and distribution plan for your needs.

We provide milestone tracking and proactive updates for key events such as booking confirmation, container loading, vessel departure, in transit, arrival, customs clearance, release, and pickup. You can also use the tracking link we provide, or check the relevant carrier website with the B/L number, air waybill number, or container number.

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.

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.

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.

These trade terms define where cost, responsibility, and risk transfer between buyer and seller. Under EXW, the buyer arranges pickup from the factory and most transport steps. Under FOB, the seller delivers the cargo on board at the origin port, then risk transfers to the buyer. Under CIF, the seller covers ocean freight and insurance to the destination port. Under DDP, the seller handles most costs and risks through delivery at the buyer's named place, including destination customs clearance and duties. The right term depends on how both parties want to split logistics control, customs work, and cost responsibility.

Quote validity depends on market conditions. Ocean freight quotes are commonly valid for 1-2 weeks, while air freight quotes are often valid for 3-7 days; validity may be shorter during peak season or when space is tight. To request a quote, send the commodity, package count, weight, volume, origin, destination, trade term, and target timeline. Once the information is complete, we will return an executable quote as quickly as possible.