Table of Contents

• International Shipping: An Overview
• How to Ship From China to Your Country: Step by Step
• Incoterms: The Language of International Trade
• Essential Documents for International Shipping Success
• What Are Your Shipping Options From China?
• Soaring Through the Skies: Getting Goods by Air Freight Shipping
• Setting Sail: Shipping Goods by Sea From China
• Understanding Shipping Container Volume Options
• Cargo Insurance vs. Freight Insurance: Know the Difference
• Top Shipping Ports in China: Optimize Transport Costs
• Exploring Land and Rail Shipping Opportunities
• Navigating Railway Shipping Modes
• Accelerating Shipping With Courier Services
• Shipping Times and Costs From China
• Flat Rate International Shipping: A Streamlined Approach
• How Long Does Shipping From China Take? Understanding Transit Times
• The Final Word: Successfully Navigating Shipping From China
• FAQ

Navigating the complexities of shipping from China can be overwhelming, especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Our Ultimate Guide simplifies the process, providing a clear roadmap to successfully ship your goods, handle essential paperwork, and collaborate with suppliers and shippers for timely delivery.

Here, you'll uncover crucial information on international shipping documents, various shipping options, and critical factors to consider when making decisions. You'll also learn about shipping costs and their components, plus valuable tips to save money when importing goods from China.

Dive into our Ultimate Guide to Shipping from China, and you'll soon be well-equipped to engage with suppliers, shipping companies, and freight forwarders, making informed choices that optimize costs and ensure the safe and timely arrival of your goods.

International Shipping: An Overview

"International shipping" encompasses the transfer of goods from one country (the country of origin) to another (the destination country). As a multifaceted process that involves crossing national borders, international shipping from China, or any other country, is subject to numerous laws and regulations at both the origin and destination. To optimize your shipping processes, reduce costs, and ensure timely deliveries, it's essential to understand and comply with international shipping rules, accurately prepare required paperwork, and familiarize yourself with industry terminology.

Navigating country-specific rules adds an extra layer of complexity compared to domestic shipping. Prohibitions, limitations, and controls can govern cross-border trade for certain goods. Import duties, regulations, anti-dumping duties, and certification requirements can vary depending on the product classification.

To receive your shipments from China efficiently and cost-effectively, it's crucial to grasp the specific requirements at both ends. Engaging freight forwarders or agents experienced in shipping goods from China to your home country can simplify the process, as they understand the intricacies and best practices for seamless transportation.

How to Ship From China to Your Country: Step by Step

To better understand the steps involved in international shipping, take a look at the infographic below which we will break down into 6 fundamental steps:

1. Request quotes, order goods, and agree on incoterms

• Importer (consignee) orders goods from the supplier (consignor).
• Request a quote, review the proforma invoice, and create a purchase order.
• Agree on incoterms, which allocate costs and risks between buyer and seller.

2. Engage a freight forwarder

• Select a freight forwarder to manage transportation.

3. Review the Commercial Invoice

• Supplier provides an order confirmation and commercial invoice. Store the invoice safely, as it's required for customs clearance.

4. Arrange export with freight forwarder

• Freight forwarder contacts their overseas partner for export arrangements.
• Prepare required documents for customs clearance.

5. Transport goods to depot/port and process export customs clearance

• Supplier books the export shipment.
• Goods are transported to a depot or port for export.
• Goods undergo export customs clearance and are placed in international transit.

6. Import clearance and transport goods to the buyer

• Goods arrive at the destination and undergo import clearance.
• Imported goods may be subject to taxes, tariffs, and/or charges.
• Goods are delivered to the buyer or agreed delivery point, based on shipment type and incoterms.

Mastering Key Terms in International Shipping

Discover essential terms and incoterms you'll encounter in the world of international shipping. This knowledge
will help you navigate the process of shipping goods from China with ease and confidence.

General Terms: The Building Blocks of International Shipping

• Freight Forwarding: The art of coordinating and shipping goods from one location to another using one or multiple carriers and modes of transportation, such as air, sea, road, or rail.
• Freight Forwarder: A pivotal player acting as an agent for importers, exporters, or companies, orchestrating the safe, efficient, and cost-effective transportation of goods between countries. Modern freight forwarders leverage cutting-edge computer systems to determine the optimal transport method, considering the type of goods and the client's delivery requirements. They also manage tasks like packaging, labeling, and documentation.
• Customs Broker: A vital link between government agencies and your goods, customs brokers prepare and submit documentation necessary for notifying or obtaining clearance. They may also coordinate local delivery through trucking companies. Typically, customs brokers operate at major airports and harbors with significant international traffic.
• Consignee: The ultimate recipient of the shipped goods. Upon clearing customs, the consignee takes ownership and is generally responsible for import duties and taxes.
• HS code: A crucial element in international shipping, the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS Code) assigns a 6 to 10 digit number to all transported goods. These codes enable customs to identify products shipped across borders. The first six digits identify the Chapter, Heading, and Sub-Heading applicable to your product, consistent across all countries.

Incoterms: The Language of International Trade

Incoterms—short for International Commercial Terms—are a set of globally accepted rules related to international commercial law, published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). They provide standard definitions and interpretations for commonly used commercial terms in contracts for the sale of goods.

To ensure clarity, incoterms are explicitly stated on all relevant shipping documents, specifying which party bears the costs and risks of each transaction.

Incoterms Decoded: What They Mean For Your Shipment

• EXW (Ex Works): The supplier is responsible for preparing goods for dispatch at their factory. The freight forwarder or carrier handles the shipment from the factory to the destination.
• DAP (Delivered At Place): Goods are delivered to a named destination.
• FOB (Free on Board): Goods are transported to a named port of shipment.

Additional Incoterms:

• FCA (Free Carrier)
• CPT (Carriage Paid To)
• CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)
• CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid to)
• DPU (Delivered At Place Unloaded)
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Incoterms for Sea and Inland Waterway Transport:

• FAS (Free Alongside Ship)
• FOB (Free on Board)
• CFR (Cost and Freight)
• CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)

Now with all the key and incoterms in international shipping at hand, you'll be better prepared to navigate the
complexities of shipping goods from China and beyond.

Essential Documents for International Shipping Success

Navigating the world of international shipping requires a thorough understanding of crucial documents to ensure a smooth process. We've compiled a list of the most commonly used documents and explained their roles in the shipping process.

Fig. 3: Important Shipping Documents

Commercial Invoice: The Key to Taxes and Duties

A commercial invoice is a vital export and import document used by customs authorities to calculate taxes and duties on shipped items. Prepared by the shipper, it provides information on each shipment, including a description of the goods, their value, and details about the shipper.

Bill of Lading: The Cornerstone of Shipping Contracts

A mandatory document for shipping from China and most other locations, the Bill of Lading (BL) is a receipt
acknowledging cargo has been loaded. It outlines the contract's terms and serves as a document of title for
the shipped goods.

The Bill of Lading includes:

• Shipping company
• Exporting company (seller)
• Buyer
• Shipped products
• Shipment volume
• Incoterm used

An Electronic Bill of Lading is a digital alternative with the same functions and legal status as a paper Bill of Lading.

Packing List: A Detailed Account of Your Shipment

A packing list is an essential shipping document that itemizes the contents of each package, including weights, measurements, and quantities. It must be included with every carton or package and often contains a copy inside as well.

A typical packing list features:

• Shipping address, order date, and contact information
• Itemized list of shipped items
• Quantity of each item
• SKU or UPC barcodes for each item
• Packing slip (or packing list number)
• Purchase order number for traceability
• A list of out-of-stock items, if applicable

Certificate of Origin: The Birth Certificate of Your Products

A Certificate of Origin (CO) is a formal document that declares a product's country of origin or manufacture. It
includes information about the product, its destination, and the country of export.

A Certificate of Origin is required for cross-border trade by many free trade agreements and treaties to
determine import eligibility, duties, duty concessions, and preferential treatment. COs can be in paper or digital format and must be approved by the relevant chamber of commerce or customs authority.

Customs Declaration: Safeguarding Your Country’s Borders

Customs declarations are documents that detail and describe goods being imported or exported. Customs
authorities use these declarations to control the types of goods entering or leaving a country.

Import customs declarations protect a country from harmful or dangerous goods that could damage its economy or environment.

Export customs declarations are used to enforce restrictions on certain goods and serve as surveillance
measures. By understanding these essential documents in international shipping, you'll be better equipped to handle the complexities of importing and exporting goods across borders.

What Are Your Shipping Options From China?

When importing goods from China, finding the right shipping method that balances cost, speed, and safety is
essential. Several factors come into play, such as convenience and administrative requirements. Common
shipping methods include air, sea, and express shipping via couriers. Road and rail routes are also viable options for countries in Europe or Russia.

Soaring Through the Skies: Getting Goods by Air Freight Shipping

Air freight is the fastest option for shipping goods from China, with delivery to your doorstep in a matter of days. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports that 35% of global trade by value ($6 trillion worth) is transported by air, though it accounts for less than 5% of the volume.

Air Cargo Categories

Air cargo falls into two groups: special and general.

• Special cargo requires extra precautions due to the nature, dimensions, weight, or value of the goods. These items may need specific packaging, labeling, documentation, and handling throughout the transport chain. Examples include dangerous goods, perishable items, wet cargo, live animals, and time or temperature-sensitive products.
• General cargo encompasses items that don't require special handling. This includes retail and consumer goods, dry goods, hardware, and textiles. However, mobile phones, laptops, and tablets are exceptions.

Check out the IATA article on What Types of Cargo are Transported by Air for more details.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Air Freight

Air freight is ideal when time is of the essence, but it comes at a higher cost compared to other shipping methods. Many companies use a mix of air and sea shipping to balance time and cost.

Steps for Shipping by Air from China

Shipping by air freight from China is a relatively easy process that requires minimal effort on your part. The key steps are:

1. Employ a freight forwarding company.

2. Provide shipment details, including supplier information.

3. Have your cargo delivered to the airport through arrangements made by your shipper and freight forwarder.

4. The freight company handles export clearance.

5. Your cargo is loaded onto a plane and flown to the destination country.

6. Unloaded cargo goes through customs.

7. Pay taxes and custom fees.

8. Custom-cleared cargo is delivered to your address.

It's essential to understand these steps, even if your supplier handles them. Choose a freight forwarding
company with a base in your country for better cargo monitoring and support.

Setting Sail: Shipping Goods by Sea From China

Sea shipping is the most popular option for shipping goods from China due to its cost-effectiveness. Here's a
simplified diagram of the entire process involving sea freight:

Fig. 4 Shipping Goods From China by Sea

Key Terms in Sea Shipping

When evaluating sea freight costs, you'll encounter these terms:

• FCL: Full Container Load
• LCL: Less (than) Container Load
• FTL: Full Truck Load
• LTL: Less Than Truckload

Deciding Between LCL and FCL Shipping

Your choice between LCL and FCL Shipping depends on your product volume and other factors. FCL shipping has several advantages, including easier tracking, safer transportation, and lower overall cost per unit. However, LCL shipping may be a better option for smaller shipments.

As a rule of thumb:

• Choose LCL for loads between 1cbm and 8cbm.
• For loads between 8cbm and 15cbm, consider FCL or LCL based on practical considerations.
• For loads over 15cbm, opt for FCL without hesitation.

LCC Shipping: A Cost Saving Alternative

LCC shipping, or Lower Cost Carrier shipping, is another alternative to consider when shipping goods from China. It offers a balance between cost and speed, making it an attractive option for businesses with medium-sized shipments or tight deadlines. While LCC shipping may not be as fast as air freight or as cost-effective as sea freight, it can provide a happy medium for those seeking a compromise. Always assess your shipping needs and priorities before deciding on the best shipping method for your business.

Understanding Shipping Container Volume Options

There are four primary shipping container volumes: 20 feet, 40 feet, 40 feet High Cube, and 45 feet High Cube. When planning to import full container loads, consider the following options:

Fig. 5: Dimensions and Capacity of Standard Containers

Cargo Insurance vs. Freight Insurance: Know the Difference

Cargo insurance protects the manufacturers and sellers or senders of goods, while freight insurance covers carriers and freight forwarders.

Freight Insurance (CIF)

Freight insurance covers losses or damages of ships, cargo, terminals, and transport between the point of origin and the shipment's final destination. Common incoterms for shipping from China include EXW, FOB, CFR, and CIF. Understand the responsibilities of sellers and buyers under each incoterm and how prices are determined.

EXW VS. FOB Shipping: Responsibilities and Benefits

• EXW shipping: The supplier is responsible for making goods ready for dispatch at the factory. The freight forwarder or carrier handles the shipment from the factory to the destination.
• FOB shipping: The supplier forwards the goods to the port of loading and onto the vessel. Responsibility then transfers to the freight forwarder until final delivery. FOB is ideal when you have a close relationship with the supplier and local transportation companies, leading to competitive shipping rates since Chinese suppliers manage the initial transportation process.

Choosing Between CFR and CIF

• CFR stands for cost and freight. CFR requires that the seller arranges for the transport of goods by sea to the destination required by the buyer. CFR terms includes the cost of shipping but excludes the cost of purchasing marine insurance.
• CIF stands for cost, insurance, and freight. While CIF basis is similar to CFR, it also requires that the seller take out an agreed amount of marine insurance so that the shipment is protected against loss, damage, or destruction of the order being shipped.

In international shipping, the relevant incoterm is clearly defined in the proforma invoice or in the quotation given to you. If it is not, make sure that you clarify it before entering into an agreement for an international shipment.

Container Tracking: Stay Informed

Container tracking services allow real-time tracking of international shipments from China. Track containers using the container number, Bill of Lading number, or booking number. Advanced transportation management systems (TMS) can provide valuable insights into the location and status of your shipment.

Container tracking services allow real-time tracking of international shipments from China. Track containers using the container number, Bill of Lading number, or booking number. Advanced transportation management systems (TMS) can provide valuable insights into the location and status of your shipment.

Top Shipping Ports in China: Optimize Transport Costs

In order to optimize your transport costs, its worthwhile to consider where your suppliers are located. Komacut is located in Guangzhou, China. Primarily, we use the shipping ports in:

• Guangzhou
• Shenzhen
• Hong Kong
• As well as other key docks such as Shanghai, Qingdao,
• Ningbo, Tianjin, Xiamen, and Dalian.

Exploring Land and Rail Shipping Opportunities

Seamlessly transport goods from China using extensive road and rail networks connecting the country with Eurasia, Central Asia, the ASEAN, and other regions. Comprehensive land and rail cargo services manage end-to-end overland shipping operations, handling everything from:

• Cargo pick-up and consolidation
• Customs clearance
• Cost-effective long-haul trucking
• Combined sea-land and air-land services
• Door-to-door delivery

Evaluate cost efficiencies and timeframes when selecting an overland shipping service for your goods from China, and consider firms that specialize in specific industries and markets.

To Europe and Russia Embracing China’s Rail Connectivity

China's rail routes connect to top European and Russian cities, providing two main routes for shipping containers from China:

• Northern route—via the Trans-Siberian Railway—traverses Russia and Belarus
• Southern route—passes through Kazakhstan, Russia, and Belarus

Regardless of the route, transport times from China to Europe don't exceed three weeks.
The China-Europe Railway Express serves as a vital transit route for Chinese exports, while also
carrying a smaller volume of goods from Europe to various Chinese cities. Boasting 73 routes,
the network connects China with:

• Kazakhstan
• Russia
• Belarus
• Poland
• Germany
• Czech Republic
• France
• Spain

Notable Rail Lines Include:

Yiwu–Madrid railway line: Spanning 8,046 miles (12,874 km) and holding the title for the longest freight railway route globally. Yiwu–London Railway Line: Covering roughly 7,500 miles (12,000 km) and ranking as the second longest. Yu'Xin'Ou Railway: Links the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing with Duisburg, Germany, passing through the Dzungarian Gate into Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, and Poland before reaching its destination. Cargo rail journeys from China to Europe typically take 15-18 days, depending on the route, which is about half the time taken by sea. Rail shipping remains 3.5 times cheaper than sea freight, and trains' fuel efficiency compared to trucks makes rail shipping competitively priced.

Popular Goods Shipped by Rail

Chinese manufacturers primarily ship:

• Textiles
• Footwear
• Electronic equipment
• Household appliances

In 2021, Chinese manufacturers sought to bypass shipping delays by exporting goods over land, leading to a sharp rise in transcontinental rail freight between China and Europe.

Navigating Railway Shipping Modes

• Intercontinental railway shipping offers three primary options: Single Container FCL and LCL, and Block
• Train. Single rail container FCL provides multiple weekly departures from China to Europe, door-to-door solutions, and cross-border trucking where needed.
• Rail LCL is similar to FCL and offers door-to-door services from China to Europe. Some services may use Poland as a hub for final leg distribution to EU countries and the UK. Rail LCL may include EXW, FOB services, and door delivery to most EU destinations.
• Block Train refers to an entire train dedicated to one customer, requiring large cargo volumes. This option is typically not viable for most businesses.

Accelerating Shipping With Courier Services

Courier services offer an alternative for shipping goods from China worldwide, catering to time-sensitive cargo requiring prompt delivery. Choose between standard courier and express courier services, with the latter being the most expensive shipping mode. A wide selection of couriers is available when shipping from China, including international services such as:

• FedEx
• DHL
• UPS

Shipping Times and Costs From China

Discover how shipping times and costs vary depending on the city of origin, destination, and chosen mode of transportation for goods shipped from China. Get an idea of approximate costs and durations for air, sea, road, and rail shipments to key destinations using our table below:

Fig. 8: Table Showing Shipping Times and Costs from China [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

Factors Influencing Shipping Costs

Shipping costs comprise several elements, including:

• Local fees
• Transit fees
• Destination fees
• Miscellaneous or extra costs
• Changing documents
• Container storage at port (Demurrage)

Here's a general ranking of international shipping methods from China based on costs:

Landed Cost in Sea Freight

Landed cost is the total cost that the buyer or importer must pay, which includes the cost of goods, freight costs, local charges, duty, and taxes. Here's a formula for landed cost of a shipment:

Fig. 9: Formula for Landed Cost

Responsibilities for Landed Cost Elements

• Seller or supplier receives the EXW/FOB cost
• Freight forwarder receives the door-to-door freight
• Custom duties, taxes, and fees are paid by the custom broker to customs

Port Handling Fees

Also called 'Terminal Handling Charges,' port handling fees are the responsibility of the seller. As the buyer, you'll eventually bear this cost, so it's helpful to know what's included in these fees. Port handling fees cover labor and equipment costs for the following:

• Transferring cargo from the seller's vehicle to the stack and to the conveyance before departure
• Transferring cargo from the arriving conveyance to the stack upon arrival
• Transferring cargo from stack to the buyer's vehicle

Components of Landed Cost the Landed Cost of an Import Includes:

• Transportation to the port of loading
• Bill of Lading
• Export customs declaration
• Fees at loading port
• Ocean freight charge
• Insurance
• Destination port fees
• Import Security Filing or ISF
• ISF Bond *
• Entry Bond *
• Import customs clearance *
• Customs duties and taxes
• Entry and messenger fees
• Merchandise processing fees
• Harbor maintenance fees
• Duties specific to the goods being shipped (vary by product type)
• Transportation from the port of destination

* These components are soley related to items destined for US ports.

Calculating your total landed cost can be done through extensive research or by engaging a freight forwarder. A freight forwarder can help you understand cost elements and guide you in finding the optimal way to ship goods from China to the US, Europe, or other destinations while minimizing costs.

Fig. 10: Landed Cost Components for Importing Goods

* These components are solely related to items destined for US ports. Please note that the actual costs will depend on the specific circumstances of each shipment. To get accurate cost estimates, consult a freight forwarder or conduct extensive research.

Flat Rate International Shipping: A Streamlined Approach

Understanding Flat Rate International Shipping

Flat rate international shipping presents a hassle-free solution for transporting goods from China. It charges a fixed price for specific package sizes, regardless of weight or destination. This approach sets itself apart from traditional shipping options, which determine costs based on weight, volume, and destination.

Advantages of Flat Rate International Shipping

Choosing flat rate international shipping comes with several perks:

• Simplicity: Enjoy stress-free pricing without the need to weigh packages or manually calculate shipping costs.
• Predictable costs: A fixed rate ensures you know the shipping expenses upfront, streamlining your budgeting process.
• Savings for small shipments: Shipping small packages can benefit from a flat rate fee, potentially making it the cheapest option.

Drawbacks of Flat Rate International Shipping

• Despite its advantages, flat rate international shipping has some limitations:
• Size and weight constraints: Flat rate shipping often enforces package size and weight restrictions, which might not be suitable for all cargo types.
• Limited options: Not all shipping companies provide flat rate services, and certain destinations may not be covered.

Comparing Flat Rate International Shipping to Other Methods

To determine the best shipping method for your business, compare flat rate international shipping with alternatives like FCL, LCL, LCC, air freight, and express courier services. Assess factors such as shipment size,
delivery speed, and cost to identify the most appropriate option for your specific needs.

By thoroughly examining flat rate international shipping and its pros and cons, you can make an informed decision on whether this efficient approach aligns with your business's shipping needs.

How Long Does Shipping From China Take? Understanding Transit Times

The duration of shipping from China depends on several factors, including the chosen shipping method, destination, and potential delays due to customs or other unforeseen issues. Here's a breakdown of approximate transit times for different shipping options:

• Air Freight: Shipping goods by air is the fastest method, with transit times typically ranging from 3 to 7 days. However, air freight can be significantly more expensive than other options, making it suitable for time-sensitive or high-value shipments.
• Sea Freight: Sea shipping is the most common and cost-effective method for transporting goods from China. Transit times can vary greatly depending on the destination and shipping route, but they typically range from 15 to 45 days.
• Courier Services: Courier services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer express shipping with transit times of 2 to 5 days. While this option is faster than air freight, it can be more expensive and is usually reserved for smaller shipments or urgent deliveries.
• Land Shipping: Shipping goods by land from China is an option for neighboring countries or regions connected by road or rail networks. Transit times for land shipping can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the distance and infrastructure.

Customs Clearance and Other Delays

It's important to note that shipping times can be affected by factors such as customs clearance, documentation issues, and unforeseen delays. Properly preparing your shipping documents and working with experienced suppliers and freight forwarders can help minimize these risks and ensure a smoother shipping process.

The Final Word: Successfully Navigating Shipping From China

By understanding the intricacies of international shipping, you can make informed decisions when importing goods from China. With the right knowledge and support from trusted freight forwarders, you can optimize your shipping strategies, reduce costs, and ensure the timely arrival of your products. Now that you're equipped with this comprehensive guide, you're ready to navigate the complex world of shipping from China with confidence. Embrace the journey, and watch your business thrive as you conquer the global market. Be sure to look our for our next article on Tips to Save Time & Money Shipping Goods from China, where you'll discover valuable insights to enhance your shipping process, from selecting the right shipping mode to navigating Chinese holidays.

For added convenience and to have this information at your disposal, download the PDF version of this guide.

Whether you’re ordering finished products from a turnkey manufacturer, or having parts produced, you’ll need to have a way to get your parts from your manufacturer to your end location. For those interested in the seamless procurement of custom metal components, our article on 'Guide to Buying Custom Metal Parts Online' offers invaluable insights into simplifying the purchasing process.

FAQ

How can I reduce shipping costs from China?

To reduce shipping costs from China, consider the following strategies:

• Coordinate with suppliers and plan shipping dates
• Choose the right shipping mode to balance cost and timing
• Select appropriate shipping terms
• Partner with reputable, experienced suppliers and freight forwarders
• Prepare shipping documents in advance
• Complete export and import clearance paperwork correctly
• Avoid shipping during local and Chinese holidays
• Steer clear of last-minute air freight bookings
• Optimize order volumes and packaging efficiency
• Insure your cargo

How often do freight costs change?

Freight costs can change daily or weekly due to the volatile nature of the global freight market. Shipping quotes often have short expiration periods as a result.

What do I need to get a shipping quotation?

To request a shipping quote, provide the destination (city, state, country, and zip code) and specify any special handling requirements for the type of goods being shipped.

What is the cheapest way to ship from China?

Generally, sea freight is the cheapest shipping method from China. In contrast, express air freight, especially last-minute bookings, can be quite expensive.

Which is the best Incoterm if I want to keep track of costs?

For overseas purchases, consider DAT (Delivered At Terminal), DAP (Delivered At Place), or DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Incoterms. These terms make you responsible only for customs formalities, inland transport costs, and unloading at your premises in your home country.

How do I estimate air freight costs?

Air freight rates are calculated using the following formula: Length (cm) x width (cm) x height (cm) / 6000. This equation determines the volume weight in kg and considers 1 cubic meter as equal to 167 kg.

Can Komacut ship products to our factory or suppliers in China?

Yes, Komacut can ship products to factories in China for assembly or consolidation purposes. Note that VAT differences may apply depending on the buyer's location.

Can Komacut arrange for export shipment on our behalf?

Yes, Komacut can handle shipments for products they manufacture. They work with a network of freight forwarders to ship goods to customers in various countries.

Is there a difference between a freight forwarder and a shipper?

Yes, a freight forwarder manages end-to-end transportation, including transporting goods between ports. In contrast, a shipper (or shipping line service) only transports goods from port to port via sea routes and does not handle final delivery.

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