How to Choose ReliableThe MaritimeLCL freight forwarder?

It is recommended to evaluate the agency along the following dimensions:

• Operating Qualification: Verify the CIFA (China International Freight Forwarders Association) filing status and FIATA membership credentials
• Route coverage: Focus on the density of direct-call services in the target market (e.g., the new Middle East route to be launched in 2025).
• CFS Management: Assess the operational compliance of the container freight station and require the provision of a real-time monitoring system
• Risk protection: Confirm whether cargo insurance and an abnormal-compensation plan are provided

How are LCL (Less-than-Container Load) export charges calculated for ocean freight?

Typical cost structure includes:

• Basic freight (charged per CBM or TON)
• Port miscellaneous charges:
  • Document fee (averaging ￥350–500)
  • Customs clearance fee (including commodity inspection, approx. ￥800–1,200)
• SpecialAdditional fees:
  • The EU's new additions in 2025The carbon tariffsAdvance payment
  • Dangerous Goods LCL Surcharge (if applicable)

Request for Agent ProvisionExact cost checklist, verify whether the destination port LCL Service Charge is included.

How can the risk of cargo damage be prevented?

Mitigate risk through a triple-layer safeguard mechanism:

• Packaging specifications: Execute ISTA 3E testing standard
• Stacking plan: Require the agent to provide the cargo stowage plan.
• monitoring means: Choose a freight forwarder that supports RFID cargo tracking

Mandatory use at select ports starting from 2025Smart Container, enabling real-time monitoring of temperature and humidity changes.

Customs clearanceWhat documents need to be prepared?

• Basic documents:
  • Commercial Invoice (must indicate LCL Shipment)
  • Packing list (showing sub-marks information)
• Special Documents:
  • Certificate of Origin (note the new RCEP format)
  • Dangerous Goods Transport Declaration (if applicable)

The EU will fully implement it in 2025.Electronic Customs Clearance System, it is recommended to confirm the EDI integration capability of the agent in advance.

How to avoid high destination port charges?

Focus on the three key cost-control points:

• Free storage period: Confirm the free-time period promised by the agent
• Demurrage charges: Choose a carrier that offers Free Demurrage
• Unboxing fee: Confirm in advance whether it is included in the quotation

Request for Agent ProvisionEstimated Destination Charges, and confirm together with the local customer.

How is the transit time for LCL sea freight guaranteed?

Three strategies for optimizing timeliness:

• Cut-off time: Stay on top of the latest cut-off times for each port (e.g., Shanghai Port will implement 72-hour advance customs declaration in 2025).
• Transfer Options: Prioritize direct sailings (e.g., hub ports such as Singapore and Hamburg)
• Contingency plan: Confirm the agent's emergency devanning service

How should special cargo be handled?

Key operating points for special cargo:

• Oversized cargo: Single items exceeding 2 tons must be declared in advance
• Temperature - controlled Cargo: Select an agent with access to specialized containers such as CMA CGM Reefers
• Dangerous goods: A complete MSDS and dangerous-goods packaging certificate must be provided.

How to track the status of LCL shipments?

Modern LCL (Less-than-Container Load) agents should provide:

• Online Visual Tracking System
• Key Milestone Alerts (Cut-off, Loading, Arrival)
• Anomaly Alert (e.g., AIS vessel movement alerts to be activated in 2025)

How do you choose the correct trade term?

Based on the risk-sharing recommendation:

• FOB terms: Suitable for routine transactions with mature buyers
• The CIF provisions: It is recommended to purchase marine cargo insurance alongside
• DDP terms: Need to confirm the destination country's customs clearance capability of the agent

How to effectively protect your rights when encountering a dispute?

It is recommended to adopt a four - step processing procedure:

1. Immediately request the agent to issueAccident report
2. Apply through the China Council for the Promotion of International TradeAverage assessment
3. Initiated in accordance with the agency agreementClaims Procedure
4. Major disputes may be submitted for applicationMaritime Arbitration(e.g., the London Maritime Arbitrators Association)