Here is a general FAQ list covering key areas such as shipping processes, documentation, costs, and liability.
What exactly does a freight forwarder do?
A freight forwarder acts as an intermediary between you and various transport carriers (ocean, air, truck, rail). We manage the logistics of moving your goods from origin to destination, including booking cargo space, customs documentation, warehousing, insurance, and tracking.
What’s the difference between FCL and LCL?
- FCL (Full Container Load): You book an entire container exclusively for your cargo. Best for large volumes (typically over 15 CBM).
- LCL (Less than Container Load): You share container space with other shippers’ goods. Best for smaller shipments. You pay only for the cubic meters (CBM) you use.
What are Incoterms, and which ones do you recommend?
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) define buyer/seller responsibilities for costs, risk, and insurance. Common terms include:
- EXW (Ex Works): The buyer picks up the goods from the seller’s location.
- FOB (Free on Board): Seller loads goods onto vessel; buyer assumes risk from there.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): Seller covers freight & insurance to destination port.
We help you choose the optimal term based on your risk tolerance and budget.
What documents do I need to ship internationally?
Typical required documents:
- Commercial Invoice (with harmonized code)
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (ocean) or Air Waybill (air)
- Certificate of Origin (for trade agreements)
- Export/Import licenses (if applicable)
- Dangerous Goods Declaration (for hazardous items)
Will you handle customs clearance for both origin and destination?
Yes. We can manage export clearance at origin and work with licensed customs brokers at destination for import clearance. However, you are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of your commodity classification (HS code) and providing complete documentation.
What are customs duties and taxes? Who pays them?
Duties/taxes are fees imposed by the destination country, based on product value, HS code, and trade agreements. The importer of record (usually the buyer) is liable.
How is freight cost calculated?
Factors include:
- Air freight: Chargeable weight (actual vs. dimensional weight)
- Ocean freight: Container size (20’/40’), or per CBM for LCL
- Fuel surcharges, security fees, terminal handling charges
- Origin/destination trucking, customs fees, insurance
How long does international shipping take?
- Air freight: 3–7 days (door-to-door)
- Ocean freight (FCL/LCL): 20–45 days, depending on route (e.g., Asia to US East Coast: ~25–35 days). Note that port congestion, customs exams, and weather can add delays.
Always check with us for the transit time for your particular shipment.
What happens if my goods are damaged or lost?
You must note damage on the delivery receipt and notify us within 7 days (for air) or 14 days (for ocean) of delivery. We’ll file a claim with the carrier, but compensation is limited per the governing convention (e.g., Hague-Visby Rules for ocean). Your own cargo insurance provides faster, fuller recovery.
Are there items you cannot ship?
Yes. Prohibited items typically include: hazardous waste, counterfeit goods, narcotics, live animals (except specialized handlers), firearms without license, cash, and perishables without cold chain capability. Always check with us first.
What is a bonded warehouse?
A bonded warehouse is a secure facility authorized by customs to store imported goods without paying duties until the goods are released for sale or re-export. Useful for deferred duty payment.
How do I get started with a quote?
Contact us with: origin & destination postal codes, approximate weight (kg) or volume (CBM), commodity description, and preferred shipping date. We’ll respond within 24 hours with options (air, ocean, express).