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- What is shipping from China?
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- How do I cut shipping costs from China?
- How long does FedEx shipping take from China to the USA?
- How much is freight from China? The shipping cost.
- How long does shipping from China take?
- Insider's guide to shipping expert: what you need to know before shipping
When it comes to shipping from China, you don't have a bundle of shipping methods. Cost cannot be the only element for most companies, but it is generally essential and decisive.
Different shipping options can have a significant impact on both freight costs and delivery time. As a result, we must always decide which approach is the most cost-effective. Here are the shipping options available for businesses:
- Regular Post
A standard China Post (or Hong Kong Post) shipping option is common for small businesses. Regular posts can take up to 25 weeks. However, it is the cheapest option for modest shipments. This method is often used to deliver samples and packages. Small businesses prefer to wait rather than pay additional shipping costs.
You can monitor and track your courier via the internet. The information is not updated in real-time. This mode has a reasonable pricing plan.
The downside to this service is that there is no tracking. This can result in delays in deliveries.
- Express Courier
Most people who are just starting out with their shipment will find that using a courier service from the shipping company is the best option. DHL, UPS, and FedEx are three of the most commonly utilized courier companies in China. TNT is popular in Europe but not common in China.
You get quick delivery times and online tracking with a courier service. Most courier shipments arrive in less than 25 business days. Keep in mind that the benefits of different couriers may vary depending on the region they are shipping to. With your cargo specifics, you can contact us for the most appropriate courier.
The advantage to this type of channel is that you get deliveries on time. All you have to do when the shipment comes in is to sign the document. The majority of the time, delivery is prompt and dependable. When an issue arises, a tracking number is provided to assist in the resolution of the situation.
Pitfall: The cost is significantly more than that of mail service.
- Air Freight
If the weight of the supplied items exceeds the normal capacity of couriers, 500kg, air shipment may be the best option in this case. Costs will be substantially cheaper with air freight than with courier services. This method is often used when the cargo is not too heavy and there are tight deadlines or a stricter security check. Transit times vary depending on flight schedules, but they often run from 2 to 10 days, which is not terrible.
When the products reach the target airport, it requires more labor than normal. You must handle all documentation and customs clearance on your own (unlike courier firms). This may appear difficult for many newcomers. Of course, you may always pay a customs broker or a shipping company to tackle these processes for you.
If the charged weight exceeds 250kg, we recommend that you consider air freight. If you're shipping less than 250kg, international couriers are the way to go.
- Sea Freight
Sea transportation takes a long time, yet; it can transport a large number of products, lowering prices. A vital advantage of this mode is that a variety of cargo can be shipped. That is the primary reason this method is commonly utilized and preferred option in logistics.
Despite the extended delivery period, sea freight will be your best option if you prepare ahead and have the time to wait. It will take anything from 3 days to 60 days, depending on your location.
You'll be responsible for the documentation, customs clearance, and transportation of products from the port to your warehouse facility, just like you would with air freight. However, if you pick drop-to-door service, freight rates will be higher. The waiting period for your product to be delivered to the location is also longer.
- Your Acquaintance Brings Their Own
This method is common but has some challenges. For example, you might have someone in China who might be coming to visit. The first disadvantage is the quantity. A person cannot carry considerable quantities to the destination. Even if they do, it will require customs clearance. The person might also have to pay a significant fee.
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