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International Shipping Guide
International Shipping Guide
Everything You Need to Know to Ship International Cargo
International freight can seem complex — but once you understand the key steps, the documentation, and the roles of the people involved, it becomes a manageable and repeatable process. This guide walks you through every stage of a typical international shipment, from the moment you place your purchase order in China to the moment your cargo is delivered to your warehouse. Whether you are a first-time importer or an experienced buyer looking to optimise your logistics, this guide will give you a solid foundation.
Placing Your Order & Arranging Freight
Pro-Forma Invoice
Before any freight can be booked, your supplier must provide a pro-forma invoice with: full description of goods, HS codes, unit prices, total value, country of origin, and Incoterms. Without this, your freight forwarder cannot accurately quote or file the necessary import declarations.
Incoterms Selection
Incoterms define who is responsible for freight, insurance, and risk at each point in the journey. EXW means you collect from the factory. FOB means the supplier delivers to the port. CIF includes ocean freight and insurance. DDP means the supplier delivers to your door, duties paid. Most importers from China use FOB.
Getting a Freight Quote
Provide your freight forwarder with: origin city or port, destination port, cargo dimensions and weight (CBM and kg), HS code, commodity description, and required transit time. The quote you receive should include ocean freight, origin charges, destination port charges, and customs clearance fees.
Understanding Container Options
FCL — Full Container Load
You fill an entire container — either 20ft or 40ft. FCL is cost-effective for shipments over 15 CBM. Your cargo travels sealed from origin to destination — less handling, less risk of damage.
LCL — Less than Container Load
Multiple shippers' cargo is consolidated in one container. You pay per CBM. Cost-effective for shipments under 12 CBM. Slightly longer transit time due to consolidation and deconsolidation.
Reefer Containers
Refrigerated containers for temperature-sensitive cargo — food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals. Available in FCL and LCL. Temperature can be set from -25°C to +25°C.
Breakbulk / Special Containers
For cargo that doesn't fit standard containers — open-top for tall items, flat-rack for wide/heavy items, and breakbulk for items too large for any container.
Shipping Documentation Explained
Bill of Lading (B/L)
The most important shipping document. Issued by the carrier, it acts as a receipt for the cargo, evidence of the contract of carriage, and a document of title (for original B/Ls). Never release payment for goods until you hold the original B/L or a telex release has been issued.
Certificate of Origin (COO)
Certifies where the goods were manufactured. Required for most international shipments and essential for claiming preferential tariff rates under free trade agreements. Issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) for China-origin goods.
Commercial Invoice
The buyer–seller invoice that forms the basis of customs valuation. Must include: seller and buyer details, goods description, HS codes, quantity, unit value, total value, currency, country of origin, and Incoterms.
Customs Clearance Explained
ISF 10+2 Filing (USA)
For US-bound ocean freight, an Importer Security Filing (ISF) must be submitted to US CBP at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a vessel at the foreign port. Your customs broker files this on your behalf. Failure to file on time results in $5,000 fines.
Formal Entry
Once cargo arrives at the US port, your broker files a formal entry with CBP, submitting your commercial invoice, packing list, B/L, and COO. CBP may release the cargo immediately or hold it for examination. After duty payment, cargo is released.
Antidumping & Section 301 Duties
Some China-origin products are subject to additional antidumping or Section 301 tariffs on top of standard duty rates. Your freight forwarder and customs broker should advise you of these additional costs before you commit to purchasing from China.
Your Top Questions Answered
Get Expert Help for Your Shipment
Need Expert Logistics Advice?
Our freight specialists are ready to turn your questions into a concrete shipping plan. Contact Marwest LLC for a free consultation tailored to your cargo and destination.
