FAQ

How do I get a shipping quote? What information is required?

You can request a quote via our website form, call us at 0532-86611089, or email us. To ensure a fast and accurate quote, please provide: origin, destination, service type (FCL/LCL/air/rail, etc.), container type and quantity or cargo weight/volume, cargo type, and estimated shipment date. We typically respond within 24 hours; final quotes are subject to manual confirmation.

What other common fees apply besides ocean freight?

Common charges include: THC at the port of loading, documentation fees, seal fees, customs declaration fees, trucking fees, storage fees, as well as THC at the destination port, bill of exchange fees, and customs clearance fees. Actual costs vary by port, carrier, and service scope; all items will be clearly itemized in our quotation and invoice.

How is consolidation warehousing charged?

Consolidation fees typically include: warehousing (per shipment or by volume), storage (per day per volume), loading/unloading and labeling (per transaction), and container loading. Consolidating multiple shipments into one container reduces per-shipment ocean freight costs. Please provide your cargo details and estimated storage duration for a detailed quote.

What fees are typically included in a quote?

Ocean FCL quotes typically include ocean freight and origin port local charges (e.g., THC, documentation fee, seal fee). Whether customs clearance fees, trucking, and destination port charges are included depends on the Incoterm specified (e.g., FOB, CIF, DDP). Please specify your desired Incoterm when requesting a quote; we will itemize all cost components in our quotation.

What documents are required for air freight?

For air export, please provide: commercial invoice, packing list, customs declaration authorization, and declaration details. Special cargo (e.g., items with batteries, liquids, powders) requires additional documents such as MSDS and transport condition assessment reports. Please share your shipment details in advance so we can confirm required documentation and secure space availability.

How is LCL freight cost calculated?

LCL charges are calculated per revenue ton (weight or volume, whichever is higher), subject to a minimum charge (e.g., 1 CBM). In addition to ocean freight, costs include origin port delivery fees, customs clearance fees, and destination port distribution fees. Provide the cargo weight and volume for a detailed cost breakdown.

What documents are required for export customs declaration?

Generally required: Customs Power of Attorney, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Declaration Elements (product name, material, usage, HS code, etc.). Some products also require Inspection Clearance Certificate, Export License, or Certificate of Origin. Ensure all document details are consistent before the cutoff time. We can assist with pre-review and coordinate with customs brokers.

What should I do if the Bill of Lading number cannot be found?

Please verify that the Bill of Lading number is entered correctly (watch out for easily confused characters like the letter O and digit 0). If you still cannot find it after confirming, the data may not be synchronized yet or the Bill of Lading number has not been entered into the system. Please call 0532-86611089 or contact your dedicated customer service agent for manual assistance.

What is the estimated transit time for China-Europe Railway Express?

Estimated transit time for China-Europe Railway Express is approximately 18-25 days, varying by origin (e.g., Xi'an, Chongqing, Yiwu) and destination station (e.g., Hamburg, Duisburg, Malaszewicze). It falls between sea and air freight in speed, making it ideal for inland European destinations where both time and cost matter. Actual transit times are subject to the railway operator's schedule.

When is the Bill of Lading issued? What is the difference between a telex release and an original Bill of Lading?

Bills of lading are typically issued after the vessel has departed. Original bills must be mailed to the consignee for cargo pickup, which takes longer. Telex Release eliminates the need for physical documents; the consignee can pick up goods by presenting identification, making the process faster. Choose based on your payment terms: if using a letter of credit, original bills are usually required for document submission.

Where is the warehouse located, and what operational services do you offer?

We operate partner warehouses near major ports of loading, offering cargo handling, short- and long-term storage, consolidation, sorting and labeling, palletizing and wrapping, and inventory management. For the latest details on warehouse locations, sizes, and capabilities, please contact customer service.

How long after an LCL shipment arrives at the port can I pick up my cargo?

LCL cargo must be discharged into the destination port warehouse for consolidation first. Unpacking and sorting typically take 2-5 business days. Consignees can pick up goods once customs clearance is complete. During peak seasons or if inspections are required, timelines may extend; we will notify consignees in advance regarding document exchange and pickup arrangements.

Which goods are suitable for rail transport?

Ideal for goods with transit time requirements higher than sea freight but where value or profit margins cannot justify air freight, such as home appliances, machinery, auto parts, and e-commerce inventory. Also suitable for European inland destinations (rail reaches inland stations directly, reducing transshipment). Hazardous materials require prior confirmation of rail carrier conditions.

How do I schedule a tow service? Which areas are covered?

For container pickup or delivery, please schedule at least 1-2 days in advance. Provide the container type, pickup location (port/terminal), and the destination address with loading or delivery time requirements. We serve major ports of origin and surrounding provinces and cities. During peak seasons, book early to ensure vehicle availability.

What is a Certificate of Origin? How do I apply for one?

A Certificate of Origin (CO, FORM E, FORM A, etc.) is an official document verifying the country of origin of goods, allowing the consignee to claim tariff preferences in the destination country. It can be applied for through the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade or Customs before or after shipment, typically requiring documents such as the invoice and packing list. We can assist customers with the application process and required documentation.

What is the minimum shipment quantity for LCL?

LCL shipments typically start at 1 CBM. Volumes under 1 CBM are charged as 1 CBM. Small e-commerce shipments and samples are eligible for LCL consolidation, with support for destination port distribution, customs clearance, and delivery. Please contact us to confirm your specific arrangement.

What port services are available at the destination?

Leveraging our port partnership network across six key regions—Southeast Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, North America (US/Canada), and South Asia (India/Pakistan)—we offer document exchange, customs clearance support, deconsolidation, warehousing, and last-mile delivery. Service offerings vary by port; please confirm specific destination services with our customer service team before booking.

How long is the quote valid?

Ocean and air freight rates fluctuate based on carrier capacity, seasonality, and market conditions. Standard quotes are typically valid for 7-15 days; validity may be shorter during peak seasons or on special routes. For quotes exceeding the validity period, please reconfirm with our sales team. Final pricing is subject to manual confirmation.

How often is tracking information updated?

Node status is typically updated within 1 business days after key milestones, such as booking confirmation, loading, departure, transshipment, or arrival. If there are delays or changes to the schedule, we will promptly update the estimated time of arrival and notify you proactively.

How do payment methods and billing cycles work?

We accept corporate transfers. Long-term partners may negotiate payment terms. All charges are itemized on your invoice; contact your dedicated customer service representative if you have any questions about the statement. First-time customers are generally required to settle all fees prior to vessel departure or document release.

What should I do if my LCL shipment arrives damaged or short?

Please inspect the shipment upon pickup or unboxing. If damage or shortages are found, immediately take photos as evidence, note them on the delivery receipt, and contact the destination port warehouse and our customer service team. We will assist in filing claims with the responsible parties (carrier, warehouse, or insurer). For high-value shipments, we recommend purchasing cargo insurance.

Who is responsible for the destination port charges?

Costs at the destination port depend on the trade terms and quote scope: under FOB, the consignee bears destination port charges; under CIF, the consignee covers local destination fees; under DDP, the shipper covers all costs including customs clearance and delivery at the destination. Please specify your preferred trade term when requesting a quote so we can provide an accurate estimate.

How do I check my shipment status?

Track your shipment on the official website by entering your Bill of Lading or Container Number. The page displays the port of loading, port of discharge, vessel and voyage number, estimated departure and arrival dates, and a timeline of key milestones including booking confirmed, loaded on board, departed, transshipped, arrived at destination, and cargo delivered. A quick access link is also available on the homepage.

How do I pick up my shipment after it arrives at the port?

Upon arrival, the consignee must exchange the original Bill of Lading or telex release for the Delivery Order (D/O). After completing customs clearance at the destination port and settling local charges, cargo pickup can be arranged. For LCL shipments, collection is only possible after the warehouse unloads and sorts the containers. If needed, we can coordinate with our destination agent to provide guidance on D/O exchange and customs clearance.

Lu ICP Prep 2026063811 No. -1