How to choose a reliable export freight forwarder?

According to the World Banks 2024 Logistics Performance Index, professional freight forwarders can reduce corporate transportation costs by 18%-25%. It is recommended to screen from three dimensions:

• Qualification verification:Check the China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA) registration certificate
• Service Network:Request at least 5 local customs clearance cases for destination ports
• Risk control:Confirm they have Freight Forwarder Liability Insurance (FFL)

What is the complete process for export freight forwarding?

Under the latest 2025 Incoterms? version, the standard process includes:

• Pre - preparation Stage
  • Signing a service agreement (must specify applicable Incoterms? 2025 terms)
  • Obtaining pre-confirmation of commodity HS codes
• Transportation execution phase
  • Booking and container allocation (Note IMO 2025 low sulfur fuel surcharge adjustment)
  • Dual customs declaration (China export + destination country import)

What hidden costs are included in freight forwarding fees?

Actual expenditure data from a home appliance export company in 2024 shows that hidden costs account for 12.3% of total freight, mainly including:

• Documentation surcharges:ENS/AMS declaration fees (New EU carbon tax declaration item added in 2025)
• Regulatory storage fees:Detention charges from customs inspection (Hourly billing implemented from 2025)
• Exchange rate adjustment fees:Spread costs from forward exchange locking

What can freight forwarders do during customs inspection?

Customs inspection rate for AEO certified enterprises has decreased to 3.2% in 2025. Professional agents should provide:

• Preventive measures:Commodity classification advance ruling application
• Response during inspection:On-site inspection accompaniment (Requires pre-registered customs pass)
• Post-event relief:Support for classification dispute administrative reconsideration

How to avoid destination port abandonment risks?

Cross-border cargo abandonment cases increased by 15% year-on-year in 2024. Recommended measures:

• Payment control:Require agents to provide Cash Against Documents (CAD) service
• Credit screening:Verify buyer qualifications through Sinosure
• Emergency response:Sign 15-day free demurrage guarantee clause at destination port

What to pay attention to for special cargo transportation?

According to IMO 2025 new regulations, special attention is required for special cargo transportation:

• Dangerous goods:File MSDS and UN numbers 6 weeks in advance
• Cold chain cargo:Require full-process temperature-controlled GPS records
• Oversized cargo:Confirm transshipment port lifting equipment capacity

How can freight forwarders assist with compliant declarations?

New regulations implemented by major global economies in 2025 include:

• EU CBAM carbon tariff pre-declaration
• U.S. UFLPA Xinjiang Act traceability proof
• Application of RCEP origin accumulation rules

Professional agents should provide declaration templates and compliance training services.

Impact of electronic bill of lading adoption on exports?

Chinas electronic bill of lading adoption rate has reached 63% in 2025. Confirm agent support for:

• DCSA electronic bill of lading platform integration
• Blockchain notarization service
• 24-hour electronic cargo release guarantee

How to control transportation time deviation?

It is recommended to specify the following key indicators in the contract:

• Booking confirmation time limit (no more than 48 hours during peak season)
• Document submission deadline before customs cutoff
• Total transportation time fluctuation range (±3 days)

How to effectively claim compensation for cargo damage?

International 2025Maritime TransportationThe average claims settlement period has been shortened to 45 days. Recommendations:

• Take seven-sided sealing video during container loading
• Request the agent to issue a Container Load Plan (CLP)
• Choose an insurance company that covers warehouse to warehouse clauses