What makes up the shipment cost?
| Cost group | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| China origin | Pickup, receiving, measuring, export documentation and any agreed packing. |
| Ocean freight | LCL or FCL basis, minimum charges, proposed routing and validity. |
| US destination | Terminal or CFS handling, deconsolidation, broker and entry arrangements. |
| Import charges | Applicable duties, taxes, bonds and separately agreed regulatory work. |
| Final delivery | ZIP code, appointment, equipment, waiting and unloading arrangements. |
| Exceptional costs | Examination, hold, storage, demurrage, detention or redelivery terms where applicable. |
Not every quote includes every item. Ask which amounts are fixed, which are estimated and which are payable only if an event occurs. Regulatory and inspection costs should not disappear behind a vague “all included” description.
Calculate the cargo before asking for a rate
A rectangular carton measuring 0.50 × 0.40 × 0.30 metres has a volume of 0.06 CBM. Twenty identical cartons have a loose-carton volume of 1.20 CBM.
Palletisation, overhang and restrictions on stacking can change the space used. Give the finished cargo dimensions and gross weight. Ask how weight-or-measure billing, minimums and rounding apply to the specific LCL quote.
How food and supplements affect the proposal
Product review, seal protection, special handling and storage requirements can affect suitable transport options. A rate for ordinary dry cargo may not be suitable for a heat-sensitive gummy or an ingredient requiring a particular environment.
The proposed service must also fit your importer and delivery arrangements. A lower ocean-only rate can produce a higher complete cost if destination handling and delivery have been excluded.
Compare like-for-like proposals
- Use the same cargo measurements, pickup city and delivery ZIP code.
- Compare the same transport start and end points.
- Check duties, broker work, appointments and accessorial exclusions.
- Record quote validity and what changes if cargo or dates change.
Request a quotation for your cargo, route and delivery requirements.
Request a shipment-specific proposal
Provide the product name, pack format, dimensions, weight, China origin and destination ZIP. Add storage limits and importer information, then prepare a shipment enquiry.
Questions about this shipment
Is there a universal price per kilogram?
No. Food and supplement ocean freight depends on the route, cargo format, chargeable size, product requirements and the agreed scope. Request a quote for the actual shipment.
Does a delivered rate automatically include duties?
No. Confirm duties, taxes, regulatory work and exceptional charges in writing. The delivery address alone does not define all import responsibilities.