How do export freight forwarders determine the optimal transportation method?

Transportation method selection requires comprehensive consideration ofCargo characteristics, delivery time requirements, cost budgetThree key factors:

• Maritime TransportationSuitable for:
  • Bulk cargo (single shipment over 20 cubic meters)
  • Delivery time requirement over 30 days
  • Cost-sensitive projects
• Air TransportationApplicable for:
  • High-value precision instruments
  • Emergency replenishment orders
  • Sample shipments weighing <500kg

New China-Europe Rail Express service to be added in 2025, recommended for electromechanical products with 10-15 day delivery requirements, 40% faster than ocean shipping and 30% lower cost than air freight.

What hidden costs are included in export freight charges?

In addition to the basic freight, special attention should be paid to:

• Terminal Handling Charges (THC): Unified at ￥580/20GP at major domestic ports starting 2025
• Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF): Currently floating at $28/TEU for ocean shipping, updated on the 1st of each month
• Peak Season Surcharge (PSS): Additional $500-800/container for Europe-America routes during Q4 annually
• Special cargo lashing fee: Irregular-shaped items incur additional ￥200-500/cubic meter

Pro tip: Require freight forwarders to provideALL-IN Quotation, specifically confirm destination port cost allocation terms.

What details should be noted when preparing export documents?

In 2025, the General Administration of Customs will implement theElectronic Customs Declaration Document Integration PlatformFor products that require the addition of inhibitors or stabilizers, relevant instructions should be provided to ensure the stability of the chemical products during transportation and storage.

• Commercial Invoice:
  • The first 6 digits of the HS CODE must be marked
  • Declared value must not deviate from payment documents by more than 5%
• List in detail the model, product name, number of pieces, weight, etc. of the goods.
  • Must specify packaging material codes (e.g. CTN=carton)
  • Items exceeding 2 cubic meters require separate labeling
• It is recommended to verify through the following methods::
  • RCEP certificate utilization rate reached 78% by 2025
  • For the ASEAN FORM E, pay attention to the change in the filling rules of column 13

How to handle customs clearance delays at destination ports?

After implementation of new EU customs regulations in 2024, a three-step response method is recommended:

1. Prevention phase:
   • Confirm the validity of the EORI number in advance
   • Chemical products require preparation of SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
2. Emergency response:
   • Submit amended declaration within 48 hours
   • Apply for temporary storage extension (requires payment of demurrage)
3. Dispute resolution:
   • Activate customs advance ruling mechanism
   • For disputes exceeding $50,000, initiate AEO mutual recognition procedure

Which clauses in freight forwarder contracts require special attention?

Based on the 2025 revised version of Incoterms:

• Liability division:
  • Clearly define risk ownership before loading under FOB terms
  • DDP terms require agreement on tax payment responsibilities in destination countries
• Compensation standards:
  • Maritime compensation based on bill of lading recorded weight
  • Air transport subject to Montreal Convention liability limits
• Dispute resolution:
  • Recommended to choose China Maritime Arbitration Commission
  • Contract shall specify application of Chinese Maritime Code

How to evaluate freight forwarders professional competence?

It is recommended toThree-dimensional evaluation system:

• Qualification verification:
  • Verify FIATA membership certificate (valid period)
  • AAA credit enterprise of China International Freight Forwarders Association
• Operational capability:
  • Require provision of same-category export cases from last 3 months
  • Test emergency response speed (e.g. port change)
• System integration:
  • Confirm EDI electronic data exchange support
  • Verify real-time performance of cargo tracking system