GENERAL SHIPPING QUESTIONS

In order to ship internationally, we will require at a minimum a commercial invoice and packing list. Additionally, either a signed SLI (Shipper’s Letter of Instruction) is required IF you have not completed the export declaration online during the booking process. Some countries and or special commodities may require specific additional documentation. When shipping a new product or to a new country please check on the specific requirements in order to avoid any delays in shipping. You can check with our country-specific documentation requirements in our FAQs.

If you are temporarily exporting or importing your shipment for any reason, whether it be for a trade show or for any other reason its important to consider who will pay the destination duties and taxes before you ship. In some countries, a temporary import can be made and the duties and taxes can be refunded once exported. This can still be a drain on budgets as duties and taxes can be in excess of 20-40% of the value of the commodity you are shipping. Additionally, the refund process with the foreign customs agency can take months. Alternatively, you can also consider setting up a Carnet for your shipment. A Carnet is an international customs and temporary export-import document. It is used to clear customs in 87 countries and territories without paying duties and import taxes on merchandise that will be re-exported within 12 months. You can set up a Carnet and Exfreight can process the export and import clearances with it and defer any duties and taxes. Exfreight does not set up Carnets but we can process your shipment once you have set up a Carnet. There are additional fees to process export and import clearances with Carnets. Please check with operations for the additional fees which range from an additional 100 – 350 dollars per customs entry.

DOOR TO PORT Includes: pick-up from shipper, basic customs export declaration, Ocean or Air freight to PORT only. Door to Port Does not include: destination terminal fees, customs entry, delivery, import duties and taxes, storage charges, exam fees or any other destination services.

DOOR TO DOOR Includes: pick-up from the shipper, basic customs export declaration, Ocean or Air freight, destination terminal fees, basic customs entry fee, delivery to consignee address with a loading dock (within regular shipping and receiving hours)

Door to door Does not include: destination duties and taxes, special import permit (if applicable), exam fees, storage charges (if incurred), any other destination services.

ExFreight offers: LTL (Groupage), Full Truckload and Volume LTL services within the USA, Canada, and Europe. You can get rates instantly online through Exfresso. Full truckload rates only appear for shipments weighing over 10,000 lbs. The rates are all density-based and if in Europe include the loading meter and cubic density calculations so you don’t have to worry about figuring out your NMFC class or loading meters. In addition to that Exfresso calculates the linear foot and cubic capacity of your shipments and will disqualify carriers IF you are over that carriers maximum thresholds. We take the confusion and complication out of shipping so you can count on the rates generated in Exfresso being correct.

Shipping by air (via airplane) is the fastest and most efficient way to transport goods domestically & internationally. The trade-off that comes with choosing air freight over ocean freight shipping is that costs are usually much higher. With that said, our Exfresso system can help you find the most effective air freight transportation for your goods at the best rates. We make it a priority to provide you with all the information needed to complete the shipping process flawlessly from start to finish. We’ll assist with the preparation of legal documents and we’ll also ensure speedy delivery of your goods. With service to over 150 countries worldwide, we provide global coverage and faster delivery times than other modes of transport. Airfreight is Ideal for shipments over 150 pounds and up. For shipments weighing less than 150 lbs check our courier rates. Our Airfreight service offers a maximum dimension per piece of 317 cm long x 241 cm wide x 297 cm tall || 125 in. long x 95 in. wide x 117 in. tall for both Door to Door and Door to Airport service.

Ocean Freight is the least expensive mode for the transport of cargo worldwide. Exfreight offers door to door and door to port services to over 150 countries worldwide, so no matter where you are shipping to we have you covered. ExFreight is a licensed and bonded NVOCC offering both full container load (FCL) and less than full container (LCL) load shipping services for moving your cargo. (FCL) Full Container Load is a cost-effective way to ship large loads and rates are typically lower when shipping a full container load. This is generally defined as 12+ pallets. In addition, FCL shipping usually means that your shipment will be safer because it will not be consolidated with other cargo allowing you to save money on crating or packaging. (LCL) Less than Container Load is shipping your items in a shared container with other businesses freight. If you’re shipping a smaller load, LCL can potentially save you money vs. having to pay for an entire container space. Consolidating your goods with other items being shipped can also help you ship faster in certain cases. LCL is ideal for smaller ocean shipments however it requires additional packaging to ensure safe transit.

Accessorials are additional services that are over and above the standard service. They cover many different things from special delivery addresses to specific timed delivery requests. Here is a list of our accessorials that require additional fees:

• Liftgate at Pickup or Delivery

• Construction Site Pickup or Delivery

• Hotel Pickup or Delivery

• Inside Pickup or Delivery

• Limited Access Pickup or Delivery

• Residential Pickup or Delivery

• School Pickup or Delivery

• Appointment Pickup or Delivery

• Delivery Notification

• Sort and Segment

• Amazon FBA Delivery

• Ocean CFS Pickup or Delivery

• Airline Pickup or Delivery

• Canadian Border Fee

• Hazardous Materials

• Overlength 8′-12′

• Overlength 12′-20′

• Overlength 20′-28′

• Overlength 28′ and Over

• TSA Program Carrier

If you would like to learn more about each one of these accessorials please navigate to the accessorial FAQ category which will outline each accessorial.

The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as the Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers to classify commodities. It came into effect in 1988 and has since been developed and maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO). Each commodity has its own unique 6 digit number. The HS code is not to be confused with the HTS number or Schedule B number. The HTS number: Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is administered by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC), and the U.S. export classification system, the Schedule B is administered by the U.S. Census Bureau, Foreign Trade Division. Both the HTS and Schedule B numbers use the international HS codes for their first 4- and 6-digit headings and subheadings. Since greater commodity detail are needed than the 4- and 6-digit HS headings and subheadings, the HTS and Schedule B classification systems expand their coverage to statistical descriptions at the 10-digit level. HS numbers and Schedule B numbers will be the same up to the first 6 digits as the importing country’s classification code. A Schedule B number is a 10-digit number used in the United States to classify physical goods for export to another country. The Schedule B is based on the international Harmonized System (HS) of 6-digit commodity classification codes. There is a Schedule B number for every physical product, from paperclips to airplanes. In the US a HTS code is used for the classification of imports while a schedule B number is used for classifications on exports. In most of the rest of the world a H.S. code is used for classification of each commodity.

Please email our customer service representatives at ops@exfreight.com or you can call during our regular operating hours Monday to Friday 9am-8pm EST at 877-208-5645

If your shipment was already picked up we can arrange to bring the shipment back to your facility. Charges will apply for pick up and redelivery charges. Remember to include the pick up location and our bill of lading number in the email.

The National Classification Committee publishes guidelines to identify the freight class that relates to average density, stow ability, and valuation. ExFreight uses dimensional based pricing so your class will be based on the total average density of your shipment. Please use the density chart below to find your freight class.

50lbs or greater per cubic foot = class 50

35lbs-49.9lbs per cubic foot = class 55

30lbs-34.9lbs per cubic foot = class 60

22.5lbs-29.9lbs per cubic foot = class 65

15lbs-22.4lbs per cubic foot = class 70

13.5lbs-14.9lbs per cubic foot = class 77.5

12lbs-13.4lbs per cubic foot = class 92.5

9lbs-11.9lbs per cubic foot = class 100

8lbs-8.9lbs per cubic foot = class 110

7lbs-7.9lbs per cubic foot = class 125

6lbs-6.9lbs per cubic foot = class 150

5lbs-5.9lbs per cubic foot = class 200

3lbs-4.9lbs per cubic foot = class 250

2lbs-2.9lbs per cubic foot = class 300

1lbs-1.9lbs per cubic foot = class 400

>1lbs per cubic foot = class 500

The higher the class the higher the rate.

If your shipment is booked to PORT basis, when the cargo arrives at the destination port the consignee listed on the bill of lading will be notified of the arrival. The consignee will then have to arrange customs clearance with the local customs office, pay any applicable duties and taxes and the arrange pick up from the port or airport. There will also be destination port charges. The charges range in price depending on destination country, size of shipment, and type of transport. Ocean freight always has a higher destination port fees compared to airfreight. If you wish to know the destination port fees prior to shipping please check with our customer service reps.

IMPORTANT: All international shipments are subject to destination charges. In general these charges include:

1 – Destination Country Government (Customs) related charges, i.e. duty and taxes (if any), harbor fees, fee on entry filing by a destination Customs Broker etc.;

2 – Destination terminal(s) handling charges and fees (THC);

3 – Service fee from carrier’s destination agent on handling and delivery (if you requesting delivery to your door) of your shipment. Destination charges vary depending on a destination country and carrier.

IF you have booked your shipment to DOOR basis then the above mentioned fees are included in your quote from Exfreight. Our destination agent will contact the consignee and file the destination customs entry. The consignee will have to pay any duties and taxes due before the shipment is delivered. Failure to pay the duties and taxes before free time expires may result in storage fees. If incurred these storage fees would also need to be paid before delivery. If there are special import licenses required or a customs exam requested by the destination customs authority these additional fees or services will also be billed to the consignee prior to delivery.

Shipments are typically picked up on same day they are booked. We usually need a 4 hour window from ready time to close time in order to get a truck to your location. If the truck misses the pick up due to time constraints it will automatically come the next morning. Full container ocean shipments may take 48-72 hours to schedule a pick up as we need to secure a container and space on the vessel before we bring the container for you to load the cargo in.

A Pro Forma invoice is used for the creation of a sale on the request of the buyer before the placement of the order. It is not a confirmation of the sale like a commercial invoice.

• Confirm your selling Inco-terms.

• Find your items schedule B and HS code.

• Figure out if you need an export license.

• Check to confirm you are not shipping to an embargoed country.

• Confirm your item is not considered hazmat for shipping ocean or air.

• Get a quote to ship your shipment.

• Prepare export documents ( commercial Invoice, packing list, and country specific documents required).

• Make sure you file an export declaration if you need one 2500 dollars per commodity.

• Package and label your shipment according to the mode of transport.

• Make sure your pickup driver knows if you have any special pick up requirements liftgate, residential no dock, truck access.

• If you are shipping a Full container create a dock receipt and note the container number, seal number and total weight and pcs loaded in each container.

• If you are shipping an ocean shipment fill out the VGM form and submit it to ocean carrier

• Ensure the carrier prepares the Airwaybill or Ocean bill of lading properly. If you have sold on an L/C (letter of credit) you will need to make sure the LC terms are followed on the BOL (bill of lading)

• If you are not responsible for paying destination duties and taxes ensure that the carrier is aware that the consignee is responsible for destination duties and taxes so they don’t bill you.

• If you sold this on a LC (letter of credit) submit the bill of lading or airwaybill to the bank along with the other required documents to fulfill the LC once the shipment departs.

• Provide tracking details to your buyer.

• If you ship ocean and you requested an original bill of lading, the consignee will require the original bill of lading at destination in order to pick up or release the cargo so you will have to arrange to send the original bill of lading to the buyer at destination OR surrender the original bill of lading at origin to the carrier.

• Ensure that your buyer recovers the cargo from the destination port before free time expires. If the buyer or consignee abandons the cargo you as the shipper will be responsible destination demurrage and detention and additional fees to destroy the cargo.

• Know your Incoterms and negotiate the price you are willing to pay for the commodity accordingly. Buying under FOB terms is easier to manage as it will allow you to quote the freight on a PORT to DOOR basis and control possible export customs issues at the origin
• Classify the commodity you are importing and find out what the duty rate would be. You can check with our importing team to confirm your HS code selection and the duty rate.
• Figure out your freight costs to the door and the applicable total duty and taxes.
• Check if the commodity you are importing needs any special import permits or documents: FDA, Fish and Wildlife, Lacey act.
• Consider using an L/C (letter of credit) to buy whatever you are importing to limit the risk of being scammed into prepaying for a commodity that never ships.
• Examine your shipping options Air or Ocean – Air will be more expensive but faster and will require less packaging and limit possible damage. Ocean will be cheaper but it will be a longer transit time and if you are not shipping as a full container you have exposure to damage risks. If you have a high-value item the cash flow savings from a faster transit time may offset the higher freight cost.
• Set up a customs broker and sign your Power of attorney with them. If you are using Exfreight our services to door include customs entry.
• If shipping by ocean to the USA remember to have your customs broker file the ISF 72 hours prior to your shipment sailing. If you are using Exfreight we include this service in our freight quote.
• Track your shipment
• Make sure your customs broker files the customs entry before arrival at the port. If you delay the customs entry you may end up incurring storage when the freight arrives. Typically Airfreight allows 24-48 hours free time on arrival and Ocean Freight provides approximately 5-10 days depending on the port of arrival. If you use Exfreight to door service, the customs entry is included in our service.
• Pay destination terminal fees. If you delay you could incur storage. If you use Exfreight our door service includes these fees
• If your shipment is selected for a VACIS or intensive exam you can work with your customs broker to provide any further documentation that Customs requires. These are randomly selected exams on imports. If your shipment has been selected for an intensive exam additional fees will be required to be paid to the terminal. If you use Exfreight we will work with Customs to ensure they receive any additional documentation required and in the case of an intensive exam we will pay the terminal fees on your behalf and bill you for it.
• Arrange to pick up or have your freight delivered from the port/ airport before free time expires. If you are using Exfreight and have selected to door service we will arrange this for you.
• Remember to notify the delivery carrier of any delivery site issues – no dock height, special delivery times, lift gate requirements, residential delivery, truck accessibility
• Inspect freight for damage or missing cartons on delivery and note the damage on the BOL if found OR notify the carrier immediately if found after delivery.
• If it’s a full container delivery, call the driver to come and pick up the container to return before detention is incurred

• Expertise in Logistics and Transportation: A Freight forwarder is well-versed in the complexities of the supply chain and possess deep knowledge of the logistics and transportation sectors. This expertise ensures that they can navigate through any logistical challenges that may arise during the shipping process.

• Saves Time and Hassle: By managing the details of the shipping process, from paperwork to customs clearance, a freight forwarder saves businesses a significant amount of time and hassle. This allows companies to focus on their core business activities.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: Thanks to their extensive networks and relationships with various carriers, a freight forwarder can negotiate better rates for shipping. They can also provide more cost-effective solutions by consolidating shipments or finding the best routes.
• Versatility and Flexibility: Freight forwarders can handle a wide variety of shipments, from small to large, and provide flexible solutions tailored to specific needs. This versatility is crucial in adapting to the changing requirements of businesses.
• Risk Management: With their knowledge of shipping regulations and insurance options, a freight forwarder help mitigate risks associated with global trade. They ensure compliance with international laws and can offer advice on how to protect shipments.
• Improved Efficiency and Reliability: Freight forwarders streamline the shipping process, making it more efficient and reliable. They have systems in place to track shipments and ensure timely delivery.
• Customer Service and Support: They offer dedicated customer service and support, ensuring that any queries or issues are promptly addressed. This support is vital in resolving any unexpected problems during transit.
• Global Network and Local Expertise: A Freight forwarder has a global network of agents and partners, providing them with local expertise in various markets. This is particularly beneficial for navigating local customs and logistics challenges.

A freight forwarder is an essential service provider for businesses and individuals who need to transport goods over long distances, particularly across international borders. They are especially crucial for those who require logistical support, expert guidance on customs, and a streamlined shipping process.

A small business owner in the United States, producing handcrafted furniture, receives a large order from a buyer in France. The business owner needs a freight forwarder to handle the complexities of international shipping, including route planning, carrier negotiations, customs clearance, and ensuring the furniture arrives safely and on time.

A freight forwarder, also commonly referred to as a forwarding agent, is a key player in the supply chain and logistics industry. Their primary role is to organize and facilitate the transportation of goods across international borders for companies and individuals. They act as an intermediary between the shipper and various transportation services such as ocean shipping on cargo ships, trucking, expedited shipping by air freight, and moving goods by rail.

BCO stands for Beneficial Cargo Owner. In the shipping industry, a BCO refers to the actual owner of the cargo being shipped, as opposed to third-party logistics providers or freight forwarders. They are typically companies that import and export goods for their own use and have a direct relationship with the carriers.

A company like Apple, which imports electronic components for its products, can be considered a BCO. They own the cargo and are responsible for the logistics of moving their goods from the manufacturer to their destination.

NVOCC stands for Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier. It is a type of company within the freight and logistics industry that organizes shipments for individuals or corporations. NVOCCs do not own the carrying vessels but function as carriers by issuing their own bills of lading or air waybills and assuming responsibility for the shipments.

An NVOCC like ExFreight may not own cargo ships, but it provides ocean freight forwarding services. They consolidate smaller shipments into container loads, manage the transportation and logistics, and ensure compliance with shipping regulations.

In today’s interconnected world, the movement of goods across international borders is a complex puzzle, with each piece needing to fit perfectly for smooth global trade. At the center of this intricate process is a key player known as a freight forwarder. But what exactly does a freight forwarder do, and why are they so crucial in the logistics industry? Let’s unpack this from ExFreight’s perspective, utilizing our expertise in cargo freight services to shed light on their indispensable role.

The Essential Role of a Freight Forwarder

A freight forwarder acts as a bridge between businesses that need to ship goods and the transportation services that execute the actual movement of those goods across seas, skies, and lands. Think of them as the architects of transport, designing the most efficient and cost-effective routes for your cargo. But their role goes beyond mere coordination; they are the maestros of the logistics symphony, ensuring each note plays at the right time.

Comprehensive Services for Seamless Shipping

Freight forwarding encompasses a suite of services tailored to navigate the complexities of international shipping. These services include:

• Arranging Freight Transportation: A freight forwarder orchestrates the entire journey of goods, selecting the optimal mix of air, sea, rail, and road transport to meet deadlines and budget constraints.
• Documentation Assistance: They demystify the daunting world of international shipping paperwork, from commercial invoices to bill of lading documents, ensuring your cargo complies with global shipping standards.
• Customs Clearance: With an in-depth understanding of customs regulations worldwide, freight forwarders streamline the clearance process, preventing costly delays.
• Cargo Insurance: Recognizing the risks involved in transporting goods across continents, they provide or arrange insurance coverage, offering peace of mind that your cargo is protected against loss or damage.

The Value of Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder

Selecting the right freight forwarder, like ExFreight, means entrusting your cargo to experts who prioritize efficiency, security, and cost-effectiveness. Our vast network of carriers and in-depth industry knowledge allows us to negotiate competitive freight quotes, ensuring your goods are not just shipped but are delivered with care and precision.

By leveraging the expertise of a seasoned freight forwarder, businesses can focus on what they do best, leaving the logistical acrobatics to us. We tackle the challenges of freight forwarding head-on, from choosing the most reliable shipping routes to handling unexpected hurdles in international transport.

The ExFreight Difference in Cargo Freight Services

At ExFreight, we pride ourselves on our ability to simplify the complexities of freight forwarding for our clients. Our commitment to innovation, coupled with our comprehensive approach to cargo freight services, sets us apart. We understand that every shipment is unique, and we tailor our solutions to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring their cargo reaches its destination safely, on time, and within budget.

Final Thoughts

A freight forwarder is much more than a middleman in the shipping industry. They are essential partners in the global trade ecosystem, ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of goods across international borders. At ExFreight, our role as a freight forwarder is to make your logistics seamless, secure, and straightforward. Let us navigate the complexities of cargo freight services for you, delivering not just your goods, but also peace of mind and satisfaction.

Freight Shipping & Logistics Services | ExFreight | USA

The six most common reasons cargo gets held up in customs – FreightWaves

Shipping without a freight forwarder is certainly possible, especially for those who have the expertise, resources, and time to handle the complexities of the shipping process. This includes managing logistics, customs clearance, and coordinating with carriers directly.

A business that frequently ships goods and has established relationships with carriers may opt to manage shipments in-house. They handle all aspects, from booking cargo space to managing documentation and customs clearance, without the intermediary services of a freight forwarder.

A freight forwarder primarily coordinates and facilitates the shipping of goods for other entities, but in some cases, they may act as a carrier. This transition occurs particularly in situations where the freight forwarder assumes responsibility for the cargo and becomes the beneficial owner of the goods during transit. This means they are liable for any damage or loss that occurs while the goods are in their custody, similar to a traditional carrier.

Consider a freight forwarding company that, under certain contracts, agrees to take full responsibility for the goods during transportation. In this scenario, if any damage occurs to the cargo while in transit, the freight forwarder, acting as the carrier, would be liable for the damage, just as if they owned the transport assets.

Freight forwarders are generally considered safe and reliable for shipping goods. They are experts in managing the logistics of transportation, ensuring that shipments are handled securely and reach their destination efficiently. They abide by industry regulations and standards to maintain safety and security in the shipping process.

An established freight forwarder like ExFreight, with a track record of safely transporting goods worldwide, uses a network of vetted carriers and follows stringent security protocols. This includes overseeing the packaging, warehousing, and transportation, minimizing risks of damage or loss.

The fastest method for transporting freight is air freight. This mode of transport is highly efficient for long-distance and time-sensitive shipments, offering the quickest transit times across global distances. Ideal for high-value, perishable, or urgent cargo, air freight ensures prompt delivery and reduced handling times. While it is typically more expensive than other methods like ocean or ground shipping, its speed is unmatched. Companies like ExFreight provide comprehensive air freight services, including real-time tracking and expert handling, to facilitate swift and secure transportation of goods.

The fastest form of freight transport is air freight. Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive shipments as it offers the quickest transit times compared to other modes like ocean, rail, or road transport. It’s particularly effective for long-distance shipping, enabling goods to be moved across continents in a matter of hours. This speed, however, comes at a higher cost, making air freight suitable for high-value, perishable, or urgent goods. Companies like ExFreight provide seamless air freight services with real-time tracking and efficient handling, ensuring rapid delivery of cargo to its destination.

The cheapest freight method typically depends on the type of goods, their weight, volume, and the distance they need to travel. Generally, ocean freight is considered the most cost-effective option for large shipments that are not time-sensitive, as it offers lower rates per cubic meter and can accommodate larger volumes over long distances. Rail and trucking are often more affordable for land transport, especially for medium-sized shipments. Air freight, while fastest, is usually the most expensive. However, LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping can be a cost-effective solution for smaller shipments, sharing the transportation cost with other goods.

Factory FOB Cost, where FOB stands for “Free on Board,” refers to the cost of goods directly from the factory, including all expenses up to the point where the goods are loaded onto a shipping vessel at the departure port. This cost encompasses the price of manufacturing the goods and any other costs incurred by the seller until the goods are on board the vessel. Under the FOB terms, the seller is responsible for all charges and risks until the goods are loaded onto the ship, after which the buyer assumes responsibility for the freight and any further costs associated with the goods’ transportation.

FOB, standing for “Free on Board” or “Freight on Board,” is a term used in international shipping to indicate who is responsible for the goods and their transportation costs at various points during shipment. The FOB selling price refers to the cost of goods sold by a seller, including the expenses incurred until the goods are loaded onto the shipping vessel at the specified departure port. In an FOB transaction, the seller assumes all risks and costs until the goods are loaded onto the vessel. After loading, the buyer becomes responsible for any further risks and costs associated with the transportation.

Pricing freight rates is a comprehensive process that involves evaluating several key factors. These include the type of goods being shipped, their weight and volume, the distance between the origin and destination, and the chosen mode of transport (air, sea, or land). Additionally, freight rates are influenced by market demand, fuel costs, and any specific handling or delivery requirements (e.g., refrigerated goods, hazardous materials). Freight forwarders like ExFreight utilize advanced digital platforms to analyze these variables, offering customers competitive and transparent pricing tailored to their specific shipping needs.

Estimating freight charges involves calculating the cost to ship goods from one location to another. This estimation is influenced by various factors, including the type of goods, their weight, volume, transportation mode (air, sea, land), and the distance between origin and destination. To accurately estimate freight charges, shippers need to consider these elements. Additionally, factors like fuel costs, carrier rates, and any special handling requirements (like refrigeration or hazardous material handling) can affect the overall cost. Using ExFreight’s digital tools, shippers can conveniently input their shipment details to receive a precise estimate that takes all these variables into account.

Obtaining a freight quote is the process of getting an estimate for the cost of shipping goods from one location to another. This quote typically considers factors like the type of goods, their weight and dimensions, the mode of transportation, and the distance between the origin and destination. With ExFreight, you can easily receive an instant freight quote for both door-to-door and door-to-port services. This streamlined process involves entering shipment details into ExFreight’s online platform, which then provides a prompt and accurate quote using their extensive network and digital freight technology.

The cheapest form of freight transportation typically depends on the specific needs of the shipment, including factors such as weight, size, distance, and time sensitivity. Generally, ocean freight is considered the most cost-effective for international shipping of large, heavy, or bulky items over long distances. It offers lower rates due to the capacity to move large volumes of goods. For domestic transport or shorter distances, rail and trucking can be more economical, especially for medium-sized shipments. Air freight is usually the most expensive option, though it’s the fastest. For smaller shipments, LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping offers a balance of cost-efficiency and speed, as it allows for sharing transportation costs with other shippers.

Calculating shipping fees involves considering several factors that influence the overall cost. These include the weight and dimensions of the shipment, the distance it needs to travel, the shipping mode (air, sea, or land), and the speed of delivery required. Additional factors like fuel surcharges, insurance costs, and any special handling requirements (such as for fragile or hazardous materials) also play a role. Most freight companies provide online calculators or quote tools where customers can input their shipment details to receive an estimated shipping fee. For a more precise quote, customers may need to contact the freight company directly with detailed information about their shipment.

Freight costs typically encompass a range of fees associated with the transportation of goods. These include but are not limited to, transportation charges (based on mode of transport, distance, and weight/volume of the cargo), fuel surcharges, and any applicable tariffs or duties. Additionally, there may be handling fees, insurance costs, storage charges if warehousing is required, and accessorial charges for additional services like residential delivery, inside delivery, or liftgate services. These costs can vary depending on the specific requirements of the shipment, the origin and destination of the goods, and the current market conditions.

Payment for freight shipping typically depends on the terms agreed upon between the shipper and the carrier or freight forwarder. Common methods include prepaid shipping, where the sender pays for the shipping costs upfront, and collect on delivery (COD), where the receiver pays for the shipping costs upon delivery. Other arrangements can include third-party billing, where a different entity bears the shipping costs. Payments can be made through various channels, such as direct bank transfers, credit cards, online payment platforms, or through established accounts with the shipping company. The specific payment method and terms should be clarified and agreed upon before the shipment is dispatched to ensure a smooth transaction.

FOB, or Free On Board, is a shipping term used in international trade to indicate who is responsible for the goods at various points during transport. Under FOB terms, the seller is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto a transport vehicle (usually a ship) at the specified departure port. Once the goods are loaded, the responsibility shifts to the buyer. This includes risks of loss or damage as well as any additional transportation costs. The FOB term also requires the seller to clear the goods for export. FOB is one of the Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) established by the International Chamber of Commerce to facilitate international trade.

The party responsible for paying freight shipping costs can vary depending on the agreed terms between the buyer and seller. In commercial transactions, shipping terms like Free On Board (FOB), Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF), and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) define who bears the shipping costs. For example, under FOB, the seller is responsible for transportation costs to the shipping point, after which the buyer pays for the main carriage. In CIF, the seller covers costs, including insurance and freight to the destination port. In consumer shipping, typically, the seller or the online platform includes shipping costs in the product price or charges it separately at checkout. In B2B transactions, the party responsible for shipping costs is often determined by the contract or agreement.

FOB, or Free On Board, is a shipping term used in international trade to indicate who is responsible for the goods at various points during transport. Under FOB terms, the seller is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto a transport vehicle (usually a ship) at the specified departure port. Once the goods are loaded, the responsibility shifts to the buyer. This includes risks of loss or damage as well as any additional transportation costs. The FOB term also requires the seller to clear the goods for export. FOB is one of the Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) established by the International Chamber of Commerce to facilitate international trade.

The party responsible for paying freight shipping costs can vary depending on the agreed terms between the buyer and seller. In commercial transactions, shipping terms like Free On Board (FOB), Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF), and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) define who bears the shipping costs. For example, under FOB, the seller is responsible for transportation costs to the shipping point, after which the buyer pays for the main carriage. In CIF, the seller covers costs, including insurance and freight to the destination port. In consumer shipping, typically, the seller or the online platform includes shipping costs in the product price or charges it separately at checkout. In B2B transactions, the party responsible for shipping costs is often determined by the contract or agreement.

Freight refers to goods or commodities transported in bulk by truck, train, ship, or aircraft. In the logistics and transportation industry, freight is synonymous with large shipments of goods that are moved from one point to another. An example of freight can be a shipment of electronics from a manufacturer to a distribution center, a bulk order of agricultural products transported from a farm to a processing facility, or a consignment of auto parts delivered from a supplier to an automobile assembly plant. Freight can vary in size, type, and transportation mode, including Less Than Truckload (LTL), Full Truckload (FTL), ocean freight, and air freight, depending on the shipment’s requirements.

Freight shipping refers to the process of transporting commodities, goods, and cargo by land, sea, or air. It encompasses the movement of large quantities of goods, usually done in bulk, and is critical in the supply chain and logistics industry. Freight can be shipped through various modes such as trucks (over-the-road), trains (rail), ships (ocean freight), and planes (air freight). Each mode has its own advantages, depending on factors like the size and weight of the cargo, the destination, cost considerations, and delivery timelines. Companies like ExFreight specialize in offering diverse freight shipping options, utilizing advanced technology for efficiency and tracking.