Shipping from China: frequently asked questions

You send us the cargo details and destination. We reply with one or more routing options, usually a cheaper one and a faster one. Each quote lists what's included (pickup, export customs, freight, import clearance, duties and delivery) and what isn't. Freight rates move, so quotes are usually valid for about 7 days, and each quote shows its validity.

Product name and material, number of cartons, weight and dimensions per carton (or total weight and volume), supplier city, delivery address or Amazon fulfillment center, preferred shipping mode or deadline, and whether you want DDP. Mention batteries, liquids, powders, magnets or branded goods. The more accurate your details, the more accurate the quote.

Yes. Send the product type, quantity and a rough total weight, and we'll give you an estimate. We'll confirm the price once your supplier sends the packing list.

CBM is cubic meters: carton length × width × height in meters, times the number of cartons. Shared-container (LCL) sea freight is priced mainly by CBM, with weight also taken into account, and usually has a minimum charge of 1 CBM.

Payment is usually by bank transfer (T/T) or through Alibaba.com Trade Assurance, and is normally due before cargo is released for delivery. The exact terms and currency are on your quote.

Yes. We collect from suppliers across China, consolidate everything at our warehouses in China and ship it as one consignment. Your suppliers can also deliver to our warehouse themselves. See warehousing and consolidation.

We handle export customs in China on every shipment, and arrange import clearance at destination on DDP shipments. If you have your own broker, we'll send them the documents.

At minimum, a commercial invoice and a packing list, which we can help your supplier prepare. Some products also need certificates, test reports or safety data sheets, and some destinations require importer registrations, like an EORI number in the UK and EU. Our lane pages cover the basics for the USA, UK, Canada and Europe.

Express shipments get the carrier's tracking number. For sea, air and rail freight we share the container or air waybill number and update you at the main milestones: pickup, departure, arrival, customs release and delivery.

Not automatically. Carriers' standard liability for loss or damage is limited and often covers only part of the value of your goods. Cargo insurance is available on request through third-party insurers. Ask for it with your quote and we'll add the cover and premium.

We tell you what's happened and what your options are. Customs holds are usually resolved by providing more documents or information. If an extra duty or inspection fee applies, we'll explain it before it's paid.

Yes. Many customers start with samples or a small air or express shipment before moving a full sea shipment.