Frequently Asked Questions About China Freight

China stands as a global leader in both manufacturing and exports, and is a key sourcing destination for many businesses globally. However, the freight process involved can feel complicated. In this guide, we answer frequently asked questions about China freight to provide a clearer understanding of the process, help you make informed decisions, and enhance your supply chain.

Q: What Are the Main Freight Transport Options When Shipping From China?

There are numerous freight methods for moving goods from China. Each has its own advantages depending on budget, quantity of goods being transported, time-sensitivity, and destination. These include:

• Sea freight: The most economical option for large and non-urgent shipments.
• Air freight: A fast and reliable choice, commonly used for urgent or high-value goods.
• Rail freight: Also considered a reliable option, it offers quicker transit than sea freight shipping and is less expensive than air freight.
• Road freight: A cost-effective and adaptable option where goods are transported overland by lorries.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Ship Goods From China to the UK?

The transit time of goods depends on the shipping method chosen as well as the destination. 

• Air freight: For direct shipments, it takes one day. But, for transhipments, air freight can take three to four days from China to the UK.
• Road freight: Between 14 – 16 days.
• Rail freight: Between 18 – 24 days.
• Sea freight: Up to six weeks (35 – 42 days).

Bear in mind that these estimates provided do not account for delays, such as customs clearance, public holidays, and port congestion, which can all have an impact on total delivery time.

Q: What Is FCL and LCL Shipping, and How Do I Decide Between Them?

FCL stands for Full Container Load, while LCL stands for Less than Container Load. 

FCL packing involves paying for exclusive use of a container and using all the space inside to ship your goods. This option is recommended when shipping a large volume (typically more than 15 cubic metres) as it generally works out to be more efficient and cost-effective. FCL also reduces handling and risk of damage.

On the other hand, with LCL shipping, you share container space with other shipments, and so it is more suited to smaller volumes. This option may take longer because of the additional steps involved in consolidation and deconsolidation. If you have goods that are delicate or prone to delays, you may wish to consider FCL even if you have a smaller load. 

At KG Logistics, we offer both LCL and FCL as part of our sea and air freight services.

Q: What Are Incoterms and Why Do They Matter When Importing?

International Commercial Terms, or Incoterms, are a set of 11 internationally recognised rules defining who is responsible for various stages of the shipping process. For instance, Ex Works (EXW) is where the buyer handles everything from pickup at the premises of the supplier. Delivered duty paid (DDP) is where the seller takes on all of the risk, expenses, and responsibility associated with transporting goods until the buyer receives the goods at the destination port.

It is important to understand Incoterms to avoid confusion and hidden costs, so always clarify them before confirming any order. For more detailed information, check out this comprehensive guide on Incoterms.

Q: What Affects the Cost of Shipping Goods From China?

The cost of shipping goods from China goes beyond just weight and distance travelled. There are also other factors involved, including:

• The mode of transportation selected.
• The shipment size and weight.
• Fuel surcharges and port handling fees.
• Origin location and final destination (including whether it’s door-to-door or port-to-port).
• Time of year (prices are typically higher during peak seasons).
• The Incoterms agreed upon with your chosen supplier.

Q: What Documents Will I Need to Import From China?

You will need to present numerous documents to import from China and ensure a straightforward customs process. These can typically include:

• Commercial invoice explaining the value, origin, and description of the goods.
• Packing list detailing the dimensions and contents of every package.
• Certificate of origin, which is sometimes needed in order to qualify for trade agreements.
• Bill of lading or air waybill, which serves as a receipt for shipped goods.
• Product certifications or import licences, depending on the country of destination, as well as the goods involved.
• A letter of credit, which serves as a conditional payment guarantee from the buyer’s bank to the seller.

It is important to ensure you include all required documents and ensure they are correct, as failure to do so is a common cause of delays at the border. For more information on the documents needed for your shipments, consult our international freight forwarders at KG Logistics for expert guidance.

Q: Which Chinese Ports and Airports Are Most Commonly Used?

Seven out of the planet’s 10 busiest and biggest ports are situated in China. These include Shanghai (currently the world’s largest port), Shenzhen, Ningbo-Zhousan, and Guangzhou.

In terms of airports, Beijing Capital International Airport (the busiest airport in China), Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport are all popular choices.

Q: How Do Chinese Holidays Impact Freight Schedules?

Chinese holidays significantly impact freight schedules, causing major disruptions to supply chains. During Chinese New Year, factories close for two weeks or more, and the logistics industry slows down substantially. Commonly, production can halt a week or two before the holidays, there are limited customs and port operations during the break, and there are often backlogs and price surges immediately following.

Check out our guide “Impact of Chinese New Year on China Freight Forwarding” for more details.

Aside from the Chinese New Year, other Chinese holidays may have an impact and cause disruptions, though generally to a smaller extent. These include Golden Week and Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day). Therefore, it is essential that you plan ahead by at least a month to avoid these holidays impacting your shipping.

Q: Is Cargo Insurance Necessary for Shipments From China?

Cargo insurance is not legally required or mandatory; however, it is strongly recommended as it can help you claim compensation if products sustain damage during transport. With international shipping, there are multiple risks involved, such as damage, handling errors, loss, and theft. By choosing a comprehensive insurance policy, you can enjoy peace of mind, particularly if you have fragile or high-value goods.

Q: Can I Track My Shipment From China?

Yes, the majority of freight shipments from China can be tracked along the journey. Here is how you can do so for each mode of transport:

• Sea freight: Use the container number or bill of lading.
• Air freight: Use the air waybill number.
• Rail and road freight: Forwarders generally provide a shipping reference or online tracking link you can use to monitor your shipments.

KG Logistics: Your China Freight and Logistics Partner

Looking for a smarter and more streamlined way to import from China? KG Logistics is here to help. We specialise in transportation logistics, including China freight, and our team has decades of combined experience with our cost-effective and efficient solutions. We can assist with the paperwork, customs clearances, and compliance, so your shipments move quickly and without delay.

Whether you need help with road, rail, sea, or air freight from China, KG Logistics is on hand with professional guidance. Get in touch with us to streamline your freight operations today.