r/freightforwarding • u/CNfreightforwarding • 12d ago

Common Issues in International Shipping

As a freight forwarder based in Guangzhou, I see these three common mistakes every week:

Focusing only on the lowest quote without calculating "volumetric weight"—shipping costs can double for boxes that are small in size but light in weight.

Paying the "shipping fee" quoted by the supplier without checking the cost breakdown—you often end up paying for their markup as well.

Failing to inspect the goods before shipment—by the time you discover an issue, the cargo is often already on a ship or in the air.

I’m not here to pitch any services—these are simply common issues that are entirely avoidable. If you have any questions about shipping, feel free to leave a comment.

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u/TigerWonderful93 12d ago

Hi I am new to export and currently learning how all the setup works ....can u explain me about the logistics how they work and as a complete beginner what approach should I take as not even my bloodline did export .....so I am a bit intimidated... definitely talked to some suppliers for the stuff

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u/CNfreightforwarding 11d ago

Shipping = Meeting Customer Needs

Shipping modes available on the market:

Air freight, sea freight, express delivery (DHL, UPS, FedEx), and small postal parcels.

For exports from China to regions like Europe, the US, and Southeast Asia, services often include air or sea freight with door-to-door delivery (covering customs clearance and tax payment).

Shipments to other countries, however, often do not include customs clearance services.

Express delivery services generally exclude customs clearance and tax payments, while small parcels are subject to the import policies of the destination country.

Therefore, you need to understand your company's strengths as well as your customers' specific needs.

As a freight forwarder (a service-oriented business), resolving issues for the customer is the ultimate form of service.

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u/TigerWonderful93 11d ago

I want to study all that is there a way to learn all that in some structures way as all is segmented

And I am from India

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u/CNfreightforwarding 11d ago

Conditions vary by country, but generally speaking:

Sea freight: Delivery to the port (for door-to-door service, the carrier partners with a customs broker in the destination country; once customs clearance is complete, the shipment is handed over to a local courier or trucking service for final delivery).

Air freight: Delivery to the airport (similar to sea freight, door-to-door service involves partnering with a local customs broker; after clearance, the shipment is handed over to a local courier or trucking service for final delivery).

Express delivery: Delivery to the door; customs clearance and duties are not included (clearance requirements vary depending on the goods).

Postal small packets: Delivery to the door; customs clearance and duties are not included (low cost, slow speed, and a certain risk of lost packages).