Air freight from China: 7 import tips

China is the world's largest exporter. Below are seven tips that will help with importing goods from the PRC to Ukraine.

What is "high season" and how can it affect transportation?

High season in air transport occurs when the period of active e-commerce begins, and companies prepare for holidays such as Christmas, Golden Week, Chinese New Year, etc. To avoid extra costs, be sure to plan delivery. To optimize the flow of goods, if possible, reserve space for your cargo several weeks in advance. Since warehouses are usually overloaded during the pre-holiday period, processing goods will take more time. The cost of delivery during the high season will also be higher.

What is "magnetic control" and how can it affect cargo?

Magnetic objects are classified as dangerous goods, and exporting them by air to China is possible but has some restrictions. Since magnetic fields can interfere with air transport navigation systems, magnetic control is carried out before loading.

Audio equipment is also subject to control: speakers, microphones, hair dryers, mobile phones, and computers, as well as some packaging materials.

How to ship your goods – in boxes or on pallets?

Each option has its own pros and cons, and the choice, of course, depends on the type of your goods. The shipper is responsible for ensuring that the goods are properly packed and prepared for transport, and that they can withstand the stresses of transportation.

If the boxes are overfilled and heavier cargo is placed on top of them, the goods may be damaged. In addition, the material from which the box is made is soft enough and therefore cannot protect the cargo. You can ask the forwarder to place your shipments on pallets to minimize the risk of damage.

On the other hand, in high season, it may be easier to get space on air transport to ship boxes than pallets. Using pallets can also increase transportation costs, as the weight and volume of the packaging are added to the cargo.

Consolidated shipments and direct shipments – what to choose?

Consolidated shipments can be chosen if your shipments are small or if you need to deliver goods to multiple destinations in China at once. Then you can send the products as part of a consolidated cargo, i.e., together with the cargo of other shippers, which will help save on delivery.

What to know about domestic transportation in China?

In China, especially in large cities, there is a heavy load on the transportation infrastructure: traffic jams are often observed on the roads, and the difference between peak and off-peak loads is minimal. To avoid unnecessary costs and delays, be attentive and adhere to deadlines when booking, shipping, etc.

What to know about export licenses and customs procedures?

The shipper must have an export license, which gives them the right to export goods from China, otherwise, they will not pass customs clearance. If the shipper does not have an export license, and you export goods on EXW (Ex Works) terms, you will be charged for the export license.