Category: <span>China Freight News</span>

When it comes to shipping lithium batteries from China, there are many safety regulations you must follow.

Comply with IATA regulations, label battery properly and use recommended packaging procedures, amongst others.

That’s why this guide explores all the vital aspects you should know about shipping lithium batteries from China.

Let’s dive right in.

What is Lithium Battery?

Lithium battery is a type of battery made up of various types of cathodes and lithium anodes.

They may be in metal form or in the electrolyte.

IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), has grouped Lithium batteries into:

• Lithium metal batteries
• Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium metal batteries are generally the primary non-rechargeable batteries having lithium metal as their anode.

They are mostly used in devices such as calculators, watches, cameras, defibrillators, and temperature data loggers.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are rechargeable and have an electrolyte containing an ionic form of lithium.

This battery type is mostly found in laptops, mobile phones, electronic bikes, and power tools.

The classification helps to safely transport the various Lithium Batteries.

Are Lithium Batteries Categorized as Dangerous Goods when Shipping from China?

Yes, Lithium Batteries are classified as Class 9 dangerous goods.

The batteries contain high electric energy levels to keep devices functioning for a while.

If not properly handled, they can short circuit, overheat and consequently catch fire.

Depending on the mode of transport you would like to use, you are required to comply with the safety protocols put in place.

Which Quality Standards Should Lithium Battery Comply with?

Almost all Lithium Batteries should pass UN DOT 38.3, T1-T5 tests:

• T1 – Attitude Simulation (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)
• T2 – Thermal Test (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)
• T3 – Vibration (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)
• T4 –Shock (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)
• T5 – External Short Circuit (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)

T6-T8 are for specific Lithium Batteries:

• T6 – Impact (Primary and Secondary Cells)
• T7 – Overcharge (Secondary Batteries)
• T8 – Forced Discharge (Primary and Secondary Cells)

What are the Top Lithium Battery Brands from China?

The top ten Lithium Battery Brands from China include:

• CATL manufactured by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. based in Fujian Province
• BYD IT manufactured by BYD Co., Ltd. based in Guangdong Province.
• LISHEN manufactured by Tianjin Lishen Battery Co., Ltd. based in Tinajin.
• Guoxuan manufactured by Hefei Guoxuan Gaoke Power Energy Co., Ltd. based in Anhui Province.
• BAK manufactured by Shenzhen BAK Battery Co., Ltd. based in Guangdong Province.
• Desay Battery manufactured by Huizhou Desay Group Co., Ltd. based in Guangdong Province.
• CALB Lithium Battery manufactured by China Aviation Lithium Battery Co., Ltd. based in Henan Province.
• COSLIGHT manufactured by Harbin Coslight Group Co., Ltd.) based in Heilongjiang.
• SCUD manufactured by SCUD Group (Fujian) Electronics Co., Ltd. based in Fujian Province.
• EVE manufactured by Huizhou EVE Energy Co., Ltd. based in Guangdong Province.

What are the Consequences of not Complying with Safety Rules and Regulations when Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

Not complying with Safety Rules and Regulations when shipping Lithium Batteries may lead to rejection of your shipment by the courier you have chosen.

Moreover, a fine may be levied on your shipment, which may be an additional cost to you.

In a worst-case scenario, your company could be blacklisted.

Consequently, you may not be able to ship in the future.

A more tragic consequence is that your shipment may cause an accident.

If you do not strictly adhere to the protocols put in place during transportation, the Lithium batteries may catch fire leading to either a plane crash or a ship capsizing.

These accidents may lead to the death of the people on board.

Is there a Recommended Packaging Process when Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

Yes there is.

Proper packaging is among the safety protocols when shipping Lithium Batteries.

The batteries should be packed in a way that separates them in order to prevent damage to terminals and short-circuiting.

Which Documents do you need to Ship Lithium Batteries from China?

Majorly you will require the following documents:

• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• Non-dangerous certificate
• Test summary report
• Dangerous package certificate issued by Commodity Inspection Bureau
• UN 38.3 test report

Apart from these vital shipping documents for shipping lithium batteries, you will need:

• Commercial invoice
• Bill of lading
• Airway bill
• Insurance certificate
• Packing list
• Certificate of origin

In case you’re not sure of the specific documents you may need, contact your freight forwarder.

Freight forwarder will handle all the customs clearance process for you.

Which Types of Lithium Batteries can you Ship from China?

Some of the available types of lithium batteries are:

·  Lithium-Ion Battery

Lithium Ion or Li-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries with an ionic form of lithium in its electrolyte.

This battery type is mostly found in laptops, mobile phones, electronic bikes, and power tools.

They are labeled UN3480 when being transported separately, and UN3091 when being transported with equipment or in equipment.

For Lithium-Ion batteries packaged separately IATA advises the following safety measures for shipping in passengers aircraft:

• Batteries should have a less than 30 percent state of charge (SoC) of its rated capacity. In the case of a SoC more than 30 percent, the battery may be shipped underwritten conditions established by State of Origin and the State of the Operator.

Of course, in accordance to the IATA guidelines.

• Li-ion batteries may be shipped as cargo in a passenger aircraft under approval by the State of Origin, State of Destination, and State of the Operator.

Where the lithium ion meets the required passenger aircraft weight requirement.

• In the case of an urgent medical emergency, one consignment of Li-ion batteries can be transported in a passenger aircraft preceding consent by State of Origin and the State of the Operator.

Apart from the above exemptions, Li-ion batteries can be transported on passenger aircraft provided there is the consent of all concerned countries.

Other important safety measures include testing, labeling, and packaging as per the dangerous goods set guidelines.

· Lithium Polymer Battery

This type of battery, unlike the Li-ion batteries liquid electrolyte, uses a gel-like electrolyte.

It has a shorter life cycle and stores less energy compared to the same size Li-ion battery.

However, the Lithium polymer is more than Li-ion battery since it has a low risk of leaking electrolyte.

This type of battery is majorly found in smartphones.

It is classified in the same category as Lithium-ion battery, that is, UN3480 and UN3091.

IATA places Lithium polymer batteries in the same category as Li-ion battery thus they have similar safety measures.

Additionally, if the Lithium polymer battery is in the device, caution should be taken to prevent the device from powering up.

· Lithium Metal Battery

Lithium metal batteries are generally the primary non-rechargeable batteries having lithium metal as their anode.

They are mostly used in devices such as calculators, watches, cameras, defibrillators, and temperature data loggers.

These types of batteries are prohibited from being transported as cargo in passenger aircraft except when:

• They meet IATA’s quantity limit.
• In a case of urgent medical need
• An exemption is issued by all states concerned.

For safety; appropriate packaging, testing, and labeling should be done during shipping as per the dangerous goods standards

What are the Safety Requirements when Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

There are various safety requirements depending on the mode of transport.

Lithium batteries from China are mostly transported by the ocean or by air.

Here are some safety regulations for both of the transport modes.

· Corresponding UN Number

The lithium battery ought to be labeled with the corresponding UN number as follows:

UN3090 – Lithium metal batteries

UN3480 – Lithium-ion batteries

UN3091 – Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment

UN3091 – Lithium metal batteries packed with equipment

UN3481 – Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment

UN3481 – Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment

1. The batteries must pass the UN DOT 38.3, T1-T8 tests, and 1.2m drop packaging tests. The T1-T8 tests are as follows:

T1 – Attitude Simulation (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)

T2 – Thermal Test (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)

T3 – Vibration (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)

T4 – Shock (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)

T5 – External Short Circuit (Primary and Secondary Cells and Batteries)

T6 – Impact (Primary and Secondary Cells)

T7 – Overcharge (Secondary Batteries)

T8 – Forced Discharge (Primary and Secondary Cells)

2. Class 9 label of dangerous goods and operation label of ‘only for all-cargo aircraft transportation’ must be affixed on the packaging.
3. Batteries being shipped by air should have a design that prevents them from bursting when being transported.
4. Batteries should have a strong packaging that prevents external short-circuiting or contact with conductive materials.

When the battery is in a piece of equipment, you should consider the following safety regulations:

1. The packaging method should prevent the battery from powering up during shipping.
2. The equipment should be waterproof, if not, it should be wrapped with an inner lining (for example plastic bag) to make it waterproof.
3. The battery should be fixed within the equipment to prevent it from moving during shipping.
4. Load the Lithium batteries on pallets with corner protectors to avoid strong vibration during handling.

 Are there Risks involve when Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

Yes, there are risks that are based on economic losses or legal liabilities when shipping Lithium Batteries from China.

The risks are as below:

Owing to the lengthy nature of UN 38.3 report (which takes about a month), there can be delayed.

This can lead to loss of orders, loss of customer trust, and ultimately most batteries go to waste.

If your batteries have poor packaging, you can be charged with high fines.

In other instances, poor packaging can lead to the destruction of your Lithium Batteries.

Most extremely, poor packaging may cause accidents during shipping.

How much does it Cost to Ship Lithium Batteries from China?

Depending on the classification of the batteries, the cost varies.

If the battery is classified as an ordinary cargo, the cost will be similar to other ordinary cargo being transported by ocean or air.

However, if the battery is classified as dangerous cargo, the cost may be 1.5 or twice that of the ordinary cargo.

How much Taxes/Duties will you Pay to Import Lithium Batteries from China?

The amount of tax/duties you pay will depend on:

• Incoterms you use
• Volume of the lithium batteries you are exporting
• Regulations of the country of destination

Is there Recommended Labeling Requirement in Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

Yes.

There is a recommended labeling requirement in shipping Lithium Batteries from China.

The outer package of the lithium battery must be affixed with Class 9 dangerous goods label, which has been marked with a UN number.

If you are shipping your Lithium Batteries by air, you ought to affix a “Cargo Aircraft Only”(CAO) label.

The label acts as a warning to the shipping company not to load your consignment to a passenger aircraft.

IATA requires a Dangerous Good (DG) handling label for certain types of Lithium Batteries.

There are two types of DG handling labels: DG Handling Label for Lithium Metal Batteries, and DG Handling Label for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

Both labels contain a slot for the phone number of the person shipping the package.

Do you need Insurance when Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

As a seller you will need insurance as a contractual requirement if you have:

• Carriage and Insurance Paid to (CIP), or
• Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) agreement with the buyer of the lithium batteries.

As a buyer of Lithium Batteries, you can opt for insurance if you have paid for the batteries before delivery.

This is to reduce financial loss in case of loss or damage to the batteries.

A carrier may need insurance to cover the carrier’s limited liability.

However, the law normally exempts carriers from the responsibility of loss during transit resulting from natural disasters.

In case of Product Return Policy, Can you ship Defective Lithium Batteries to China?

International Air Transport Association (IATA) forbids the shipping of Lithium batteries cited as damaged or defective by the manufacturer.

This is majorly done for safety reasons.

However, any shipment for disposal or recycle must first be approved by China before it is shipped.

Importantly, defective lithium batteries can be shipped back to China by vessel (sea), rail or road, in case of a return policy.

The shipping back process should comply with Cost and Freight (CFR) regulations.

Can you Ship Batteries from China via Mail?

Yes.

But due to the dangerous nature of the batteries, you should consider using reputable courier services such as FedEx, USPS, UPS, and DHL.

These couriers have well-trained personnel to handle dangerous goods such as batteries.

To mail your battery you have to ensure the following:

They must not be defective.

You get approval from the national authority if they are weighing more than 35 Kg.

Package your batteries safely to avoid short-circuiting.

If you are mailing lithium batteries ensure the package is labeled as a dangerous good and you have the necessary documentation.

Consider using specialized packaging for safety purposes.

When Shipping Lithium Batteries from China, Is there Restrictions in Quantity you can Ship?

Yes.

The quantity limit varies depending on the Packing Instructions (PI) from IATA’s Section II guidelines.

For PI965, (Lithium Ion Batteries not contained in equipment):

• Cells greater than 20Wh, and Batteries greater than 100Wh.Both labeled as Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO) and with a 30% State of Charge (SoC).

The maximum weight per package is 35 Kg, with no limit on the number of packages.

• Cells less than or equal to 20Wh, and Batteries less than or equal to 100Wh.

Both labeled as Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO) and with a 30% SoC.

The maximum weight per package should be 10 Kg, with no limit on the number of packages.

• When individual cells are less than 2.7Wh the maximum weight is 2.5Kg.

The same applies if the cells are greater than 2.7Wh but less than or equal to 20Wh.

Which is an equivalent of 8 cells; or the batteries are greater than 2.7Wh but less than or equal to 100Wh, an equivalent of 2 batteries.

These are also labeled CAO. The number of packages should only be 1.

For PI966, (Lithium Ion Batteries packed with equipment):

• Cells greater than 20Wh, and batteries greater than 100 Wh.

The maximum weight per package on passenger aircraft is 5Kg, and 35Kg on CAO; with no limit on the number of packages.

• Cells less than or equal to 20Wh, and batteries less than or equal to 100Wh.

The maximum weight per package on both passenger aircraft and CAO is 5 Kg; with no limit on the number of packages.

For PI967, (Lithium Ion Batteries Contained With Equipment):

• Cells greater than 20Wh, and batteries less than 100Wh.

The maximum weight per package is 5 Kg on the passenger aircraft and 35 Kg on CAO; with no limit on the number of packages.

• Cells less than or equal to 20Wh, and batteries less than or equal to 100Wh.

The maximum weight per package on both passenger aircraft and CAO is 5 Kg; with no limit on the number of packages.

For PI968, (Loose Lithium Metal Batteries):

• Cells containing more than 1 gram of lithium, and batteries containing 2 grams; labeled CAO.

The maximum weight per package is 35 Kg; with no limit on the number of packages.

• Cells containing 1 gram or less of lithium, and batteries containing 2 grams or less of lithium; labeled CAO and is mostly for high volume shipping.

The maximum weight is 2.5 Kg per package; with no limit on the number of packages.

• When cells contain 0.3 grams or less of lithium the maximum weight is 2.5 Kg.

The same applies if the lithium content in cells is greater than 0.3 grams but less than or equal to 1 gram, an equivalent of 8 cells.

Or the lithium content in batteries is more than 0.3 grams but less than 2 grams, an equivalent of 2 batteries.

For PI969, (Lithium Metal Batteries Packed With Equipment):

• Cells containing lithium greater than 1 gram, and batteries containing more than 2 grams of lithium.

The maximum weight per package is 5 Kg on passenger aircraft and 35 Kg on CAO; with no limit on the number of packages.

• Cells with 1 gram of lithium or less, and batteries with 2grams of lithium or less. The maximum weight per package is 5Kg on both the passenger aircraft and CAO; with no limit on the number of packages.

For PI970, (Lithium Metal Batteries Contained in Equipment):

• Cells containing lithium greater than 1 gram, and batteries containing more than 2 grams of lithium.

The maximum weight per package is 5 Kg on passenger aircraft and 35 Kg on CAO; with no limit on the number of packages.

• Cells with 1 gram of lithium or less, and batteries with 2grams of lithium or less. The maximum weight per package is 5Kg on both the passenger aircraft and CAO; with no limit on the number of packages.

How do you Prevent Short-Circuiting When Shipping Lithium Batteries from China?

Ways of preventing short circuit while shipping your lithium batteries include:

Protecting exposed terminals with non-conductive materials such as plastic caps or tapes.

Packaging each battery in a fully enclosed non-conductive material, such as plastic bag, before packaging the batteries together

When you are shipping batteries together with equipment, ensure you separate the battery from conductive parts of the equipment.

You can use various non-conductive material.

You should also ensure the outer packaging is strong enough to protect the batteries from coming into contact with outside conductive materials.

Can you Ship Devices with Lithium Batteries from China when Active?

Devices with minimal chances of overheating can be shipped when active.

Examples of such devices are temperature loggers and watches.

However, for devices with a high probability of overheating, you cannot ship them when they are active.

Also, take precautions they do not accidentally power up during transportation.

You can do this by putting a protective cap over the device’s switch.

What are the Regulations for Shipping Lithium Batteries from China via Ocean Freight

The guidelines of shipping Lithium Batteries to any destination by ocean freight are contained in the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

Here are some regulations you should follow when using ocean freight:

• The outer package must be affixed with a class 9 dangerous goods labeled, marked with a UN number
• All batteries must undergo the UN38.3 tests and 1.2 meter drop packaging test; and pass them.
• The batteries must have measures to prevent external circuits; and design that prevents bursting under normal shipping conditions; while being transported via ocean freight from China.
• Batteries should be packed in a strong outer non-conductive packaging to prevent short circuiting and damage.
• If the battery is in the equipment, the packaging should be able to prevent it from accidental activation during shipping.
• The outer package must be waterproof, or alternatively use an inner lining for example a plastic bag to make it waterproof.
• Lithium Batteries must be reinforced in the container with adherence to the reinforcement strength and method requirements of the importing country. Otherwise, poor reinforcement may lead to the detention of your container.
• For Lithium batteries exported from China to North America, ensure Class 9 dangerous goods labeled is placed at the container’s specified locations.

What should you Know when Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally from China?

• The major shipping means of Lithium Batteries from China are Sea and air.
• Lithium batteries are to be labeled as Class 9 dangerous goods and should comply with UN 38.3 tests standards.
• Lithium batteries from China can be shipped separately, in the equipment, or with the equipment.
• You are required to have a test summary before shipping Lithium Batteries.
• Depending on your chosen mode of transport you should adhere to International Air Transport Association (IATA) or International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG), regulations.
• You should package your lithium batteries with strict observance of the Packaging Instructions (PI)

Can YOU Ship Lithium Batteries from China via Courier Services?

Yes. Below are some of the Courier services and their requirements:

· DHL

DHL requires full adherence of the following regulations to ship Lithium Batteries internationally:

• IATA rules and regulations on the transport of Lithium Batteries
• Packaging Instructions (PI) ranging from PI965 – PI970, as per the UN numbers classifications.
• Producers and successive distributors of batteries or cells produced later than 30 June 2003 should avail a test summary which follows UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.

· United States Postal Services (USPS)

USPS is permitting specific quantities of Lithium batteries (when placed in the device they are to operate) and ship them internationally if permitted by the destination country.

However, they cannot ship to the postal operators in Germany and Italy who are not accepting items containing Lithium Batteries.

· TNT

TNT Air Network forbids all Lithium batteries packed separately.

The lithium batteries must be contained in the equipment or packed with the equipment.

The Lithium batteries should comply with IATA DGR 3.9.2.6 which requires:

• Each battery meets the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria
• Each battery is designed to preclude a violent rapture during normal transportation conditions
• Each battery is equipped with a means of preventing external short circuit
• Each battery is equipped with a means of preventing reverse current flow
• Batteries must have been manufactured under quality management program

The lithium batteries should have also passed the UN 38.3 tests.

· FedEx

TNT will soon become FedEx, so the requirement will be more or less similar.

FedEx requires full compliance of IATA and ICAO dangerous goods regulations before shipping Lithium batteries.

For packaging, to comply with Section II IATA shipping requirements, FedEx requires:

• Individual packaging of lithium batteries
• Protection of lithium batteries to prevent short circuit
• Ensure the battery has passed UN 38.3 test requirements
• Complete enclosure of lithium batteries
• Lithium batteries should be placed in a sturdy container
• Correct labeling and documentation

Importantly, all the listed courier services offer international services, inclusive of shipping from China to the rest of the world, and prohibit shipping of defective or recalled lithium batteries.

· UPS

Effective from 1 January 2017 UPS requires that all lithium batteries shipped by air be treated as dangerous goods.

The courier also requires shippers to consent to a UPS Dangerous Goods service agreement before shipping by air lithium batteries without equipment..

What are the Rules and Regulations for Shipping Lithium Battery by Air from China

The important rules and regulations for shipping Lithium Battery by Air from China as per the International Air Transport Association (IATA) are:

• No shipping of defective batteries by air.
• Lithium batteries should be labeled as Class 9 Dangerous Goods.
• Weight limit per package should be applied depending on watt-hour (Wh) and lithium content level.
• All Lithium batteries must pass the UN 38.3 test and the 1.2 meter drop test.
• A test summary should be provided by manufacturers and subsequent distributors.
• Batteries must not share a package with other dangerous goods.
• The outer packaging must be strong
• An over pack of packages containing batteries must not be placed with other items labelled as dangerous goods.
• All Lithium-ion batteries must be shipped at a state of charge (SoC) not exceeding 30 percent of their rated capacity, if otherwise; China has to approve the shipping.
• All lithium batteries shipped by themselves are prohibited for transport as cargo on passenger aircraft. They ought to be labeled Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO).

Additionally you can notify the airline transporting your lithium battery consignment so that they can act effectively in case of an emergency.

Why should you Import Lithium Batteries from China?

Out of the 2019’s 316 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of global lithium cell manufacturing capacity, China accounted for 73 percent of the capacity.

Being the greatest producer of Lithium Batteries in the world places, China is at a better place to offer you, as their buyer, a cheaper market price.

What is the Classification of Lithium Battery when Shipping from China?

Lithium Batteries are classified according to UN 38.3 numbers as below:

• UN3090 – Lithium metal batteries
• UN3480 – Lithium-ion batteries
• UN3091 – Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment
• UN3091 – Lithium metal batteries packed with equipment
• UN3481 – Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment
• UN3481 – Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment

Should you Ship Lithium Batteries from China separately or when Packed in Equipment?

Provided you adhere to the dangerous g

I know you would like to import wine from China.

Or, you want to learn more about Chinese wine market.

That’s why this guide covers everything you need to know about importing wine from China.

Whether you want to know more about Chinese wine brands, import documents, quality, taxes, or HS codes – every information is right here.

Keep reading to learn more.

Why Should You Import Wine from China?

China is a very good producer of many wonderful things and among them is wine.

You should consider importing wine from China because of the ease if importing from China.

Here are other reasons which should compel you to import wine from China.

· Marketable Wine

You are sure of selling the wine that you will get from China due to the very high demand of wine.

Implying that the Chinese make very high-quality wine from different products that is on high demand.

· Affordable Prices

Apart from the marketability, you should also consider importing wine from China because it is cheap.

You will get high-quality wine at affordable prices while the cost of importing it from China is also manageable.

· Profitable Wine

Whenever you factor in the cost of importing wine and get the difference from the sales, you will realize a profit.

In other words, importing wine from China is a lucrative business that will earn you great profits from the sales.

· Ease of Conducting Business

You will also find it easy to conduct business in China thus making the process of importing wine quite simple.

The logistics of importing wine is very simple with clear rules that you must adhere to simplify business transactions.

Which Incoterms Do You Use When Importing Wine from China?

You should also be aware of the established commercial regulations when importing wine from China.

Incoterms will help you make the process of international transactions very simple depending on the type of incoterms.

Here are the main incoterms that you should consider looking at.

· Ex Works (EXW)

You will choose Ex Works (EXW) when you want the wine seller in China to deliver the wine to your premises.

As a buyer, you are responsible for clearing the cost of loading, clearing goods for export and custom clearance.

· Free Carrier (FCA)

In this case, you will leave the responsibility of delivering wine to the destination of choice on the seller.

You are responsible for paying for every possible fee and then dictating the destination for delivering goods.

· Carriage Paid To (CPT)

You will agree with the wine seller to deliver wine to an agreed warehouse or to a carrier of your choice.

In this case, the wine seller is responsible for transporting the wine to the carrier and cease responsibility from that point.

· Carriage and Insurance Paid To (CIP)

Here, the seller of wine will deliver the wine to the carrier that you will choose and cover the cost of delivery.

Apart from that, the seller will also pay for minimum coverage of insurance and leave other options to the buyer.

· Delivered at Terminal (DAT)

As a wine supplier, you will be responsible for delivering wine at the terminal which the buyer will choose.

As a buyer, you will assume responsibility of the other costs till the wine arrives at the destination of choice.

· Delivered at Place (DAP)

Here, the seller will deliver goods at the destination the buyer will choose and can go ahead with unloading the goods.

As a seller, you will be responsible for all the risks of transporting wine all the way to the point of unloading.

· Delivered Duty Paid (DDP)

At this point, the seller will deliver the wine at the port and then clear all the fees for exporting wine.

The seller will pay for all the expenses such as transporting to destination and clear with all import and export fees.

· Free Alongside Ship (FAS)

You will cease responsibility on the wine as long as you deliver the goods alongside the transporting vessel.

As a buyer, you will take all the responsibility such as loading of wine and subsequent shipping to final destination.

· Free on Board (FOB)

You will deliver the goods all the way to the shipping vessel and ensure that the wine is on the shipping vessel.

After that, the buyer will assume all the responsibility of transporting the wine all the way to the destination.

· Cost and Freight (CFR)

As a seller, you will pay for every transaction for delivering the goods until it reaches the ship or delivery point.

After that, the buyer will assume responsibility of ensuring the wine is safe on board up to the final destination.

· Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF)

Here, the buyer will contact an insurance company to cover minimum insurance cost of wine during delivery.

In other words, your wine seller will pay for minimum insurance coverage and allow you to make further insurance choices.

What Should you Consider when Before you Import Wine from China?

Well, before you decide to import wine from China, there are particular factors that you have to consider.

Here are the main factors that you should consider to help in making the right decisions.

i. Identification of Import Rights

You must make sure that you have the right import rights of importing wine from China to your country.

This involves having the right documents that will allow you to import wine from China to your country.

ii. Identification of Goods

You must also have proper knowledge on the type of goods that you would like to import from China to your country.

In this case, you will look at the market where you will deliver the goods and if you can sell them.

iii. Ensure the Permit for the Goods

Here, you will have to know if your country will permit the importation of wine from China.

There are countries which do not permit the importation of wine hence making importation from China impossible.

iv. Classification of Goods and Calculation of Landed Cost

Here, you will determine the tariff classification number for the wine you are importing as well as certificate of origin.

You will use these details to have a rough estimate on the duty you will pay alongside other importation costs.

v. Finding the Right Wine Supplier

After placing every importation permit in order, you are now free to look for a wine supplier in China and order.

There are specific guidelines that you will follow to help you get a trustworthy wine supplier in China before ordering.

vi. Transportation of Wine

You will also look at how you will transport the wine from China all the way to the country of choice.

Here, you can make a deal with your seller to help you in the distribution or transportation of wine to the destination.

vii. Tracking Services

It is also important to look at the tracking services of the wine cargo while on transit to your destination of choice.

After that, the cargo will arrive at your destination for pick up and further processing if need be.

How Much Does It Cost to Import Wine from China?

Well, the overall cost of importing wine from China will depend on quite a number of factors.

Here are the main factors that you have to take under consideration when calculating the cost.

· Cost of Wine

First, you must know the cost of wine you are importing by looking at the quality as well as quantity.

Obviously, the higher the quality and quantity of wine you purchase, the more money you will pay.

· Mode of Transport

Your mode of transport will also dictate the overall cost of transporting wine to your destination of choice.

The safer and faster the mode of transport, the higher the cost of transporting the wine to your destination.

· Destination of Delivery

Here, you will have to look at the distance that you will cover from China all the way to destination of choice.

Apart from that, you will have to factor in the cost of custom duties and taxes at the destination point.

There is a price calculator which will help you determine the cost you will pay for importing wine from China.

You will have to factor in all the above details in the price calculator to get the right price estimates for importation.

How Do You Find the Best Wine Suppliers in China?

You can simply find a reputable wine supplier in China by looking or combing through the internet.

When looking through the internet, you should consider the recommendations from other wine importers.

This information will make it very simple to know the kind of supplier is reputable and will not let you down.

Apart from that, you can also attend China wine trade fairs where you can meet different wine suppliers from China.

At the trade fairs, you have the opportunity to taste the wine and exchange contact details with different suppliers.

There are cases where you might opt to travel all the way to China to look for a wine supplier.

This is a seldom scenario since communication is very easy over the internet with the suppliers.

You MUST be very careful during this process to avoid falling in the hands of scam artists.

Who are the Leading Wine Suppliers in China?

When looking for wine suppliers in China, you are likely to come across the leading wine suppliers.

Here is a list of the leading wine suppliers in China to whom you can trust with the supply of wine.

• ASC Fine Wines in Beijing
• Summer Gate Wine Suppliers
• FWP Wine Suppliers (The Paradox)
• Jointek Fine Wine Company
• Jebsen and Company Wine Suppliers Limited
• Links Concept Company Limited
• Globus Wine Company
• The Wine Republic
• Roque Fine Wines
• Fancy Cellar Wine Distributors
• Xianzu Trading Company Limited

You can get all the information about their location, prices and services offered through their websites.

You can trust such wine suppliers in China since they have been in the business for a very long time.

Which are the Best Chinese Wines?

You should consider getting the best Chinese wines when importing from China.

These are the best wines that have proper taste and great aroma making them quite pricy.

Here is a table detailing some of the best types of wines that you can import from China.

These are the top selling wines that you should consider to import from China.

You are sure of getting a good market for them since the demand is also very high.

How Do You Transport Wine from China?

As soon as you secure your wine cargo, you will have to transport it from supplier to the destination.

The means of transport that you will use will depend on the destination, speed and types of goods.

The most common means of transport that you can use to move wine from China are:

· Road Transport

You can use the great road infrastructure that connects China to other neighboring countries.

It is the most convenient means of importing wine from China if the destination is close enough.

Despite that, it is the cheapest mode of transport and will take longer if distance is long.

· Rail Transport

You can also opt for railway transport especially when the destination has a railway connection with China.

It is a convenient mode of transport that will cost you less while ensuring the wine cargo is safe on board.

You will use this mode of transport when importing large quantities of wine to a country with good railway networks.

· Sea Transport

You can also rely on sea freight which is often quite slow, cheaper and convenient transportation of large wine quantities.

It is capable of transporting wine to different destinations all over the world in conjunction with other forms of transport.

• Air Transport

This is the fastest means of transport that you can use to import or transport wine from China.

Air freight is quite costly and you must prepare to pay higher prices in comparison to the other forms of transport.

How do you Track Shipment when Importing Wine from China?

You need to track your wine shipment from China to know the right location of the cargo on transit.

First, you must have the right shipping and tracking codes and details of the wine shipment.

The company transporting the wine from China will provide you with all the details that you need for tracking.

You should note that every cargo has a unique code depending on the company transporting the cargo.

You will use a tracking software which will help you in the tracking process of the wine cargo.

The software will give you the right location of the wine cargo while on transit.

Apart from that, you can also call in at the customer service desk to get the right information on your cargo.

They will check the reference number against their tracking system and then give you the right details.

What is the HS Code for Wine?

HS Code is a harmonized system code that you will use when dealing with the shipment of different products.

Since we are importing wine, you will have a unique harmonized system code for shipment of wine.

The HS code for wine is 2204 followed by other codes that will identify the wine you are importing from China.

What is the Significance of Having Correct Commodity Code for Importing Wine?

You must have the right commodity code when importing wine from China to other countries.

Depending on the destination country, you will realize that the commodity code will vary considerably.

You should have the correct commodity code to help in classification of goods for the purpose of.

• Complete declaration of the goods among other types of paperwork
• To help in identifying the VAT duty to pay
• Checking for duty reliefs on the wine you are importing

Do I Have to Pay VAT when Importing Wine from China?

Yes, you will have to pay VAT when importing wine from China.

You will pay VAT on top of the total sum of customs value as well as import duty.

This will happen especially when you are VAT registered which allows you to claim it back through standard VAT return.

After paying the VAT, you will receive a certificate which will prove that you have already made payments.

How do you handle Custom Clearance when Importing Wine from China?

You can handle custom clearance when importing wine from China through a number of different ways.

One of the simplest ways is allowing the freight forwarder to handle all the necessary processes.

You can use express shipping companies such as DHL, or UPS to handle all these transactions.

Apart from that, you will also have a great time importing through online shopping platforms.

Alibaba is one of the shopping platforms which will also take care of custom clearance for you.

In case you are importing wine on your own, you can simply identify the custom clearance charges.

With that information, you will pay for the custom clearance and obtain all the necessary documents you need.

How can I Avoid Scammers When Importing Wine from China?

You might be afraid of importing wine from China due to the possibility of being scammed.

Well, this is true as there are people posing as suppliers yet they are scammers.

You can avoid being a victim of scam artists by dealing with reputable suppliers with plenty of experience.

You can ask for referrals from other wine importers who would recommend particular wine suppliers.

Apart from that, you can use qualified online platforms such as Alibaba, AliExpress, and DH gate.

They have reputable wine sellers on their platform and money back guarantees if the supplier is fake.

You should also be weary if wine suppliers posing with wine at lower prices than the normal suppliers.

Which Quality Certifications Must Chinese Wine Manufacturers Adhere to?

You have to ensure that the wine you are importing from China is of very high quality.

This is possible through testing and certification through the quality certification systems.

Here are some of the main quality certificates that you must look out for.

• AQSIS Order 27 (2012) for prepackaged wine labeling
• AQSIQ Declaration 55 (2012)
• AQSIQ Declaration 59 (2011)
• AQSIQ Decree 144
• Food Security Law of the People’s Republic of China (2015)
• SAIC Quality Certificates
• GB (GUOBIAO) Quality Certificates

How Do You Package the Wine Before Shipping or Importing it from China?

Since most of the wine packages are made of glass, you need to be very careful when packaging wine.

It is among the fragile products that you must label as fragile and ensure proper positioning of the bottles.

To avoid cracking or breaking the bottles, here are some of the ways of packaging wine for transportation.

· Use Boxes with Dividers

You will package the wine bottles in boxes with dividers which will help in separating them from knocking against each other.

It will help in securing the wine bottles from cracking thus ensuring that it arrives safe at the destination.

· Reinforcement of the Bottom Part

You must also have proper reinforcement at the bottom of the package to ensure that wine doesn’t fall off.

This will increase the security of transporting the bottles from one place to another without falling off the bottom.

· Ensure Tight Cocks on the Bottles

You must also take care of spillage from the bottle by ensuring that you place a tight cock over the bottle.

It is important to make it tight to prevent the cork from falling off during the transportation process.

· Wrap the Bottles

You can use a bubble wrap or paper to wrap the bottles to absorb the shock on the bottles during transportation.

After wrapping, you should secure the bottle with shipping tape to ensure that the wrapper does not fall off.

· Seal the Top of the Box

After placing the boxes in the box with dividers, you will seal the top of the box generously with enough tape.

Sealing the top of the box will help in making the box more secure in case of objects fall from above the box.

· Proper Labeling of the Package

You must label the package properly with information that will let the handler know that the products are fragile.

You must also indicate the part that will face up using arrows and proper labeling on the package.

How do you Test Quality of Wine from China?

Well, the testing process will depend purely on the mode of purchasing the products.

In case you are purchasing the goods online, you will have to trust the supplier.

It is the reason why you have to purchase the goods from reputable suppliers who can be trusted.

Apart from that, international regulatory rules also protect you from getting low quality products.

Purchasing through online platforms such as Alibaba will also ensure that you get the right quality of goods.

On the other hand, in case you are purchasing from China, you have the opportunity of visiting the supplier.

You can ask for samples from the supplier who will allow you to have a taste of the wine to determine the quality.

Which Information should you Include on Chinese Wine Labels?

As soon as you are ready to transport wine from China, you must have all the labels in the right place.

You must have all the labels on the goods before the goods leave China for proper inspection.

Here is the main information that you must have on the labels.

• Name of the Products
• Address and Contact of Chinese distributor
• Storage Instructions
• Date of production
• Retention date
• Food additives added
• Barcode
• Type of production harvest (e.g., “dry red”)
• Alcohol content
• Country of origin (for diluted spirits and beverages with malt products)
• Net content
• Date of manufacture

Do You Have Quantity Limitations When Importing Wine from China?

No, we do not have quantity limitations when it comes to importing wine from China.

You have the freedom of purchasing any quantity of wine that you wish to have and we will supply.

What are the Necessary Documents for Importing Wine from China?

It is also very important to have the right documents for importing wine from China.

Here are some of the most important import documents that you should as a requirement for importing wine from China.

• Commercial invoice
• Customs declaration by value
• Freight insurance document
• Export Package List
• Certificate of Insurance
• Certificate of Origin
• Health Certificate
• Certificate of Authenticity/Free Sale
• Export certificate specific to wine

Which Import Taxes and Duties Must You Pay When Importing Wine from China?

There are specific import taxes and duties that you will have to pay when importing wine from China.

Here are the main import taxes and duties that you will have to pay close attention to.

• TVA at a rate of 17%
• Customs duty at a rate of 14%.
• Excise tax at a rate of 10%.

Why do you Need Freight Forwarders to Import Wine from China?

You should consider using a freight forwarder as the best mode of transporting wine from China.

A freight forwarder will help in taking care of all the logistical needs for importing wine from China.

You will avoid a lot of issues that come with transportation of wine from China.

In other words, you will not have to travel all the way to China to get the goods that you want.

Apart from that, they have better communication language that they use to communicate.

They can get the best deals from the best suppliers at a smaller fee making them very important.

Can you Import Wine from Alibaba?

Yes, you can import wine from China through Alibaba.

Alibaba is an online platform that connects you to a credible supplier of wine in China.

It also protects you from dealers who do not practice absolute faith in conducting business.

Through this platform, the cost you will pay will assist in purchasing the goods plus all the other logistics.

The best past, you can find many wine suppliers on Alibaba.

Can I Use Sourcing Agents When Importing Wine from China?

Yes, you should consider using sourcing agents when importing wine from China.

You must, however, be very careful when choosing the sourcing agents for importation of wine.

In other words, you should look for sourcing agents with the following:

• Long Experiences
• Proper Knowledge on wine products
• Information on the best deals
• High level of professionalism
• Ability to provide additional services

Which Online Platforms Do You Use to Import Wine from China?

There are quite a number of online platforms that you can use to shop for wine in China.

Here is a list of the main online platforms where you can import wine.

• Alibaba
• AliExpress
• Amazon China
• Taobao
• com

How Do Wine Factories and Wine Trading Companies in China Compare?

Well, you can either decide to import wine from wine factories or wine trading companies in China.

Wine factories are the main producers of wine in China who can also sell the wine directly to you.

You have the opportunity of testing the wine at the wine factories before you make a purchase.

Apart from that, you can also decide on making custom wine through negotiation by the company.

In addition to that, you can order as much wine as you want at cheaper prices.

On the other hand, wine trading companies will purchase wine from the wine companies.

They will sell the wine to you at higher prices in comparison to the price at the wine factories.

How Do You Get Best Prices when Importing Wine from China?

You will get the best prices when importing wine from China through proper negotiations of the prices.

Also, you will use a good agent who can negotiate the best prices of wine with the wine suppliers.

Apart from that, you can also purchase high quantities of wine from China to get the best prices.

In other words, you can get a good discount by purchasing wine in bulk.

You can go through the bank and transfer money to the accounts of the wine suppliers in China.

Which are the Leading Chine Wine Market?

China has three leading wine markets where you can purchase your wine for import purposes.

Here are the main Chinese wine markets that you have to take a closer look at.

• Guangdong Province with 909 million dollars of imports
• Shanghai Province with 735.5 million dollars of imports
• Zhejiang Province with 189 million dollars of imports
• Fujian Province with 136.3 million dollars of imports

The other leading Chinese markets with over 100 million dollars of imports are:

• Beijing Province
• Tianjin Province
• Shandong Province

At Tj chinafreight Chine, we help you find and import all your favorite Chinese wines.

Contact us today for all your wine imports from China.

Understanding the cost of shipping your goods from China to the U.S.A. is critical in planning your shipment.

While you may forget some of these costs, we have prepared this simple guide for you to understand all cost of shipping a container from China to U.S.A.

Have a look.

Types of Container to use when Shipping from China to the U.S.A.

You have different types of shipping containers available for shipping your cargo from China to the U.S.A.

The choice of which container to use depends on the type and size of your cargo.

These containers include:

· Reefer Shipping Containers

These are normal containers that have a modification to include refrigerators.

This modification allows you to ship goods that require refrigeration.

These containers, mostly available in 20-foot sizes, have partitions to include cold, chill, and freezing sections.

This facilitates the shipping of your cargo safely from China to the U.S.A.

· Standard Shipping Containers

These containers are the common types that you can find in the market.

Normallyprimary material for these shipping containers is usually aluminum or steel.

The price of steel and aluminum containers differs, with aluminum having the highest payload.

This is because they are water-resistant and airtight.

Standard shipping containers have an opening at one end, which you can use to load your cargo into it.

They are mainly available in 20- and 40-foot sizes.

You can use these containers to ship most dry goods, such as barrel pallets, sacks, and boxes.

· Double Door Shipping Containers

Double door containers have two on either of its ends having the same specifications.

The dual door nature facilitates the loading and unloading of your cargo safely.

The advantage of these containers is it allows you to customize them to meet your specifications.

They are available in either 20- or 40-foot sizes.

· Open Top Shipping Container

The top part of these containers is open and has doors on its end, which you can open and close at your convenience.

These containers are useful if you are shipping large cargo such as machinery which cannot fit in a standard container.

However, you need to note that these containers’ pricing is usually expensive compared to the standard container types.

If your cargo protrudes over the container’s height, you have to pay more compared to if the cargo is not protruding.

This is because protrusion implies you cannot stack other containers on top of it.

Loading o these containers depends on the quantity of your cargo.

That is, you either can load it as full container load or less than container load.

Factors Determining Ocean Freight Rates from China to the U.S.A.

The main factors that determine the ocean freights rates for your cargo from China to the U.S.A. are:

· Season

Shipping from China to the U.S.A. has two peak shipping seasons.

The first one starts from mid-august and ends around mid-October.

The second season starts in January and ends in February.

When shipping during these times, you have to pay more since there is a higher demand for cargo space.

However, during the off-peak seasons, the shipping cost is less.

Weather is another seasonal factor that affects your shipping.

When the weather conditions are not conducive, most ships tend to dock, thereby limiting their supply.

This causes the shipping cost to increase.

· Service Charge and Fees

Service fees are chargeable at all the ports that your cargo docks on the way to your port of destination.

These charges vary from one port to another.

Therefore, you have to include all the charges before deciding on the final freight charge rate for your cargo.

· Bunker Fluctuation

Each time a ship stops to fuel, you have to pay for it.

This increases the ocean freight charge rate for your cargo.

It is essential to understand that oil prices keep fluctuating; hence, you cannot accurately determine the exact cost you are to pay.

In certain circumstances, you will receive a fuel surcharge invoice for you to pay.

· Container Capacity

This is a critical aspect if you are paying for a full container load.

You should always aim to fill your container when you are shipping anF.C.L. since you are charged for it whole regardless if it is partially empty.

If you are shipping under L.C.L., you have to pay for the space that your cargo occupies or its weight.

· Currency

Global currency around the world keeps fluctuating depending on their market performance.

Your currency may be strong when you start shipping but end up weak by your cargo arrives at your port.

This forces you to pay more for your freight charges as opposed to when the shipping started.

Calculating Cost to Ship a Container from China to the U.S.A.

Several factors affect the cost of shipping your container from China to the U.S.A.

They include:

· Origin and Destination Port

The longer the distance from the two ports, the higher the cost of shipping your container.

However, before selecting the ports, you have to consider the distance between the ports, your final destination, and your supplier’s address.

· Size

The shipping cost for your cargo varies depending on the size.

For instance, shipping a 40ft is costly compared to shipping a 20ft container.

Therefore, you have to consider the shipping container that you want before using it to minimize the shipping cost.

· Condition

The condition of the shipping container affects the shipping cost.

The condition includes the cost of the container at the time of shipping.

For instance, a brand-new shipping container is likely to cost more compared to a used container.

A brand-new container has features such as waterproof and an effective locking mechanism.

· Customization

Additional features on a particular shipping container attract additional costs.

Such features include refrigerator, windows, ventilation, and insulation.

· Delivery

The further the distance your point of destination, the higher the shipping cost you have to pay.

Therefore, you have to check for the nearest port of destination and origin before deciding to ship your cargo.

· Quantity

The advantage of purchasing goods in large quantities is that you gain a bulk discount from your manufacturer.

So, it is better to purchase your goods in bulk if you save on your shipping cost.

An approximate shipping cost from different ports in China to Different ports in the U.S.A. include:

How Shipping Container Type Determine Cost to Ship Container from China to the U.S.A.

The different types of shipping containers cost differently due to their unique characteristics.

For instance, a new shipping container is expensive compared to an older container.

The size of the container also has an impact cost of shipping your cargo.

That is, it is costly to ship on a 40ft container than it is to ship on a 20ft container due to the size of your cargo.

The different types of containers affect the final cost of your cargo.

It is cheaper to ship using a 20ft standard container than to ship a 20ft reefer container.

This is due to the unique conditions that are present in such a container.

Before deciding which container to use, you must consider the volume and type of cargo.

You also have to consult your freight forwarder on the available containers before deciding which one to use.

Estimated Transit Time when Shipping from China to the U.S.A.

Estimated transit time for your goods when shipping from China to the U.S.A. depends on the mode of transport you are using.

It also depends on the distance between the port of origin and your port of destination.

Air transport is faster compared to ocean freight.

It can take between 6 and 8 days for your cargo to arrive in the U.S.A. from China when using air freight.

Other factors affecting ocean freight makes it to take longer compared to air freight.

Such factors include climatic conditions and the number of stops that the voyage makes.

How does the Cost of L.C.L. Shipping from China to the U.S.A. compare to the Cost of F.C.L. Shipping from China to the U.S.A?

The unit cost for L.C.L. shipping from China to the U.S.A. is relatively higher than that of F.C.L. shipping from China to the U.S.A.

However, for economic sense, when shipping via F.C.L., your cargo must exceed 15 cubic meters.

How do you Reduce the Cost of Shipping Containers from China to the U.S.A?

It is possible to reduce the cost of shipping your container from China to the U.S.A. by considering the following tips:

· Select the Right Shipping Forwarder

Different shipping forwarder prices their services differently.

Checking with the other forwarders before deciding which one to use is critical.

The shipping forwarder you select should be reliable and allows for price negotiation.

They should also readily provide information on the progress of shipping your cargo.

· Buy Large Quantities of your Cargo

You can reduce the cost of your shipping by purchasing large quantities of your cargo.

Large amounts reduce the overall purchasing cost due to economies of scale.

You also reduce the shipping cost since your shipping forwarder will use the weight to calculate your shipping cost.

· Choose the Right Shipping Method

There are two main shipping methods that you can use to ship your cargo from China to the U.S.A.

These shipping methods have different costs, which you have to compare before deciding which one to use.

You have to consider the nature of your cargo before deciding which shipping method to use.

· Optimize your Packaging

Packing your cargo using improper packaging material or wrong packaging increase occupied space and volume.

This tends to increase the shipping cost.

You should package your material using the recommended packaging material.

It would be best if you also packaged it appropriately to reduce the space that it covers.

You can engage your freight forwarder to assist you with the packaging of your cargo.

Trusted Shipping Companies when Importing from China to the U.S.A.

There are several shipping companies available for shipping your cargo from China to the U.S.A.

However, not all of them are legit, which can prove a challenge when you import from China.

The only sure way of having a legit shipping company is by engaging your freight forwarder.

Some of the shipping companies they can recommend for you include:

• Evergreen Marine
• Ocean Network Express
• Hapag Lloyd
• CMA CGM Group
• COSCO
• Mediterranean Shipping Company
• P Moller-Maersk Group
• Hamburg Süd Group

How do you Choose Port of Origin and Destination when Shipping from China to the U.S.A.

Important considerations when selecting the port of origin and destination for shipment of your cargo from China to the U.S.A. include:

· Location

It would help if you searched for a port near where you are purchasing your products in China.

The port you select in the U.S.A. should also be near your address.

This is vital in reducing the transportation cost to and from the ports.

It is also easier to access these ports within time, reducing the overall time it takes to have your cargo.

· Cost

The overall cost of the different ports differs hence the need to analyzes them before deciding on the use of a particular port.

This is important if the ports are close to your destination and where you are purchasing your cargo.

· Infrastructure and Equipment

Infrastructure and equipment are essential in the safe handling of your cargo at the port.

They minimize damage and ensure they arrive in the same condition they left your manufacturer

Equipment facilitates the quick and efficient handling of your product, thereby ensuring its quick arrival.

· Customs Clearance Procedure

The custom clearance procedures for different products differ from one port to another.

It may be simple to clear certain goods from one port to remove in another harbor.

Therefore, you have to check on the customs clearance of the different ports before deciding on the best one to use.

· Port Size

The size of a given port can facilitate the shipment of your cargo.

Larger ports tend to have numerous vessels calling at them.

This implies that there are vessels ready to ship your cargo.

The advantage of numerous vessels is it allows for negotiation of the shipping cost.

· Climate

Bad climatic conditions and frequent occurrence of natural disaster affects the docking capabilities of various vessels.

This affects the number of vessels available in a particular port.

In China, the available ports for shipping your cargo to the U.S.A. include:

· Ningbo-Zhoushan Port

This port is in the Zhoushan and Ningbo region of Zhejiang province.

It is one of China’s busiest ports, which assures you of quality warehousing and faster custom clearance services.

· Hong Kong Port

Faster clearance of China’s exports is the priority of this port due to the numerous destinations.

This is advantageous since it reduces the cost of warehousing as you wait for customs clearance.

· Shanghai Port

This port’s location is in Shanghai city, which is along the edges of the Yangtze river delta.

Several manufacturing companies within this city from where you can purchase your cargo before shipping to the U.S.A.

· Shenzhen Port

Shenzhen is a part of your choice to ship your cargo from cities such as Hong Kong.

The advantage you have with this port is its ideal location, which connects it to several ports in the U.S.A.

You can check the map below for more ports in China.

You may use one of the following ports to receive your goods from China:

· Port of Virginia

The location of this port is ideal for importing machinery and general cargoes.

It enjoys large and well-equipped warehouses that allow for the shipment of your cargo from China.

· Port of Los Angels

This port is one of the busiest ports as per the container volume that it can handle.

It can handle around 4.5 million TEU annually.

This is advantageous since you have an assurance of world-class services for your cargo.

· Georgia Ports

The main ports that you find here are Brunswick and Savannah.

These ports are ideal for importing auto industry-related cargoes.

New York and New Jersey port

This is one port that allows for the shipping of consumer products from China.

It is on the eastern coastline of New York and New Jersey.

The map below shows other sea ports in China:

How does the cost of Shipping 20ft Container from China to the U.S.A. compare to the Cost of Shipping40ft Container from China to the U.S.A?

The cost of shipping a 20ft container from China to the U.S.A. is relatively higher than shipping a 40ft container due to different factors.

For instance, when shipping a 20ft container, you need specialized equipment for handling your cargo.

Such equipment is usually expensive hence an increase in the cost of shipping a 20ft container.

You pay less when you ship a 40ft container than when you ship a 20ft container

This is due to the economies of scale you enjoy because of shipping a large volume of your cargo.

How Freight Forwarder Help Reduce Cost to Ship a Container from China to the USA

A freight forwarder can help reduce the cost of shipping your container from China to the U.S.A. in the following ways:

· Warehousing Cost

Most freight forwarders either have a connection with China warehouse facility provides or own their facilities.

As such, they can negotiate for the best price for storing your cargo as you wait for customs clearance.

Other freight forwarders allow you to store your cargo in their warehouse free of charge or at a minimal cost.

This reduces your freight cost.

· Customs Clearance

A freight forwarder can help you reduce your freight cost by handling your customs clearance for you.

This ensures that they deal with the customs authorities direct instead of having middlemen.

Intermediaries increase the cost since you have to pay them for their services, some of which don’t do anything.

· Logistics Charges

If you are to handle the cost of transporting your cargo all by yourself, you will spend more.

However, by engaging a freight forwarder, this cost reduces significantly.

They do this by consolidating your cargo with others and transporting it as a single load.

You, therefore, get to pay a fraction of the total amount.

Buying vs. Renting Shipping Container when Importing from China to the U.S.A.

Buying a shipping container when importing your cargo is expensive compared to renting one.

However, after purchasing a container, it becomes yours forever.

Which means you won’t have to pay a subsequent payment for renting one.

Buying is the best option if you are a long-term importer since it gives you a return on your investment.

It is also advisable to buy a container if you are to fill your container with your cargo.

This saves you on the shipping cost since the cost is on a full container cost.

Alternatively, you can rent the available space to other importers, which save you cash

You have an assurance for the security of your cargo.

This is because you only have to lock up your cargo and wait for it at the destination port, thereby reducing tampering with your cargo.

Renting is the best option if you are a one-time importer and you are shipping L.C.L. goods.

This saves you resources and ensures your cargo arrives safely at your port of destination.

However, renting a container can be dangerous since there is a possibility of tampering with your goods.

When shipping, there is a consolidation of goods, which can cause damage during the loading or unloading process.

Type of Cargo to Ship in Container from China to the U.S.A.

You can ship a variety of cargoes from China to the U.S.A. Common cargo includes:

• Machinery and vehicles
• Electronics
• Pharmaceutical products
• Cosmetics
• Foodstuff
• Clothing

How do F.O.B. and C.I.F.determine the Cost to Ship a Container from China to the U.S.A.?

The cost of F.O.B. is relatively cheaper compared to that of C.I.F. shipping from China to the U.S.A.

This is because your cargo’s responsibility shifts to you once they are on board, and the voyage begins.

This allows you to negotiate with your forwarder for a cheaper price for your cargo’s insurance and freight.

C.I.F. places all the burden on your supplier.

This means they are responsible for the insurance and freight charges until the goods arrive at your destination.

As they do that, they are likely to hike the price for their profitability, making it expensive to ship under C.I.F.

The Document you need to Ship a Container from China to the U.S.A.

Essential documents you need to ship your container from China to the U.S.A. are:

· Bill of Landing

The importance of this is to identify your shipping company, your supplier, and your information as the importer.

Other information that it addresses includes the type and volume of your cargo and a general description of your cargo.

Your forwarder can use the bill of landing as a confirmation for the release of a letter of credit and as proof of shipment.

This is to facilitate their payment depending on the agreement you have with them.

· Commercial Invoice

The purpose of this document is to facilitate customs clearance.

You have to present this document to the customs authority who uses it to calculate your customs charges.

· Certificate of Origin

The certificate of origin indicates where the goods are coming from in China.

It can serve as an alternative to the commercial invoice in calculating your customs charges.

· Import License

An import license is a vital document when importing certain goods from China.

Such goods include foodstuff, animal and plants, medicines, and certain chemicals.

· Dangerous Goods Form

You have to include this form if you are shipping goods that the U.S. considers dangerous.

Such goods include chemicals, firearms, and ammunition.

If you are not sure of your cargo’s status, you must consult with the customs authorities or your forwarder before you import.

· A Letter of Credit

This document serves as a payment method for shipping your goods from China to the U.S.A.

You must hand this document over to your supplier upon receiving your goods.

You can obtain a letter of credit from your banking institution.

It is an undertaking from the bank that they can pay for your goods upon you receiving them should you fail to do so.

Modes of Payment when Shipping Container from China to the U.S.A.

There are two main modes of paying for your shipping container from China to the U.S.A.

That is a letter of credit and telegraphic transfer.

The choice of which mode of payment to use depends on the agreement you have with your shipping partner.

Letter of credit involves approaching your bank to act as an intermediary between you and your supplier.

The bank undertakes to pay your shipping partner once they are sure that you have received your goods.

When transacting, you submit the letter of credit to your shipping partner, who submits it to their bank.

It is the best payment option if you are new to shipping your container from China to the U.S.A.

However, a letter of credit works better if you are shipping a large volume of your cargo.

Telegraphic transfer is risky since it places the entire risk on you.

It works by you approaching your bank and requesting them to wire the payment to your supplier.

There is a need to ascertain your manufacturer’s credibility before engaging them to minimize risks when using a telegraphic transfer

The implication of Incoterms in Cost to Ship Container from China to the U.S.A.

The different incoterms available for shipping your cargo have other implications for both you and your supplier.

Incoterms play a critical role in defining the risks and roles of the parties involved in shipping your cargo from China to the U.S.A.

That is, they define who handles the risks on your goods when they occur.

They also describe sharing costs between you and your seller.

The different incoterms available for shipping your goods are:

· EXW

Ex-work is an incoterm that lets you cover costs like sea freights, insurance, customs clearance, and transportation cost.

This incoterm frees your supplier all costs and risks related to your cargo from their premises to your doorstep.

You, therefore, have to cover all the costsassociated with your shipment.

· F.O.B.

You have to cover the following costs under this incoterm: insurance, sea freight, and clearance fee at the destination port.

Other charges you pay are terminal fees at the port of destination and transportation fees from the destination port to your location.

F.O.B. is a common incoterm that most importers use due to its cost-effectiveness.

Using this incoterm allows you to negotiate for insurance and freight charges, thus saving on your shipping cost.

· C.F.R.

This incoterm places the following responsibilities on you as an importer: insurance, port clearance, and terminal fee at your destination.

You also have to pay for transporting your goods from the destination port to your premises.

· C.I.F.

Your duties as an importer under this incoterm include terminal fee and port clearance at your destination.

You also have to cover the cost of transporting your cargo from the port to your premises.

How does Exchange Rates Affect Cost to Ship a Container from China to the U.S.A?

The strength ofa given currency depends on its performance on the international market.

A weak currency is due to its weak performance, while a strong currency gains more in international trade.

Using a weak currency to pay for your import from China implies that you have to spend more for the same quantity of goods.

This is because you have to pay an equivalent of the other currency to receive your goods.

When importing from China to the U.S.A, the advantage you have is you are allowed to use the U.D. dollar for payment.

This is because most trader prefers trading using the dollar since it is a strong currency compared to other currencies.

How do you use a Container Shipping Cost Calculator when Importing from China to the U.S.A.

When using a shipping cost calculator when shipping from China to the U.S.A., it is essential to consider several parameters.

For instance, you have to understand your cargo volume, the port of origin, and destination.

You also have to include the shipping terms, determining who between the parties involved handles your shipping element.

Understanding the custom clearance charges is also essential in getting to know the right cost for your shipping.

It is essential to check with your freight forwarder if you don’t understand the entire cost of your shipping.

Cost of Ocean Freight from China vs. Cost of Air Freight from China to the U.S.A.

The cost of ocean freight is relatively cheaper than that of air freight from China to the U.S.A.

This is due to different factors.

Airfreight is faster and secure compared to ocean freight.

They are secure in the sense that once your cargo is on board, there is less risk of it getting lost.

This contrasts with ocean freight, where containers get tossed into the ocean at times, leading to the loss of your cargo.

The cost of air freight is also expensive due to the nature of the goods they ship.

Airfreight is ideal for shipping expensive items such as jewelry and perishable cargo such as flowers.

You have to ship such goods quickly for their security and reach their destination in record time.

One of the reasons why ocean freight is less depends on the high cargo load that it can ship.

That means there is a distribution of the shipping cost among the containers and the cargoes.

This reduces the individual shipping cost for your cargo.

Cost of Insurance when Shipping Container from China to the U.S.A.

The cost of insurance for shipping your container from China to the U.S.A. varies depending on your cargo and shipment method’s size.

Other factors that affect your insurance cost is the type of insurance you are purchasing, the value of goods, and courier loss history.

Ocean freight has a higher insurance cost than air freight due to the high risk involved during the voyage.

The variables that ascertain your insurance cost are the insurance rate your insurance offers, the value of your cargo, and shipping cost.

Different insurance providers can cover your cargo when shipping from China to the U.S.A.

However, a reliable freight forwarder can guide you on the best insurance cover for your shipment.

At Tj chinafreight, we offer cost effective container shipping solution from China to USA.

Contact us today for all your shipping needs from China to USA.

Are you a new seller or a well-established seller in California, and you have numerous questions for shipping from china to California?

Well, Tj chinafreight china has summarized all of your queries in a comprehensive manner in order to provide you with the most feasible options.

Tj chinafreight China has more than ten operating offices in four major cities of China; we are helping the sellers with the most advanced and innovative shipping solutions.

1. What methods are used for shipping goods from China to California?

Tj chinafreight china is offering a range of services as a freight forwarder; we are operating for more than a decade as a logistic partner for companies all over the world.

Firstly, you need to know about our services, and then we can help you decide about what stands best for you.

Here is the list of our services for you;

We are providing three modes of transportation; it includes sea shipping, air shipping as well as rail shipping.

Each of our transportation modes further includes particular services for shipping.

• Sea Shipping

Sea shipping is known as the most cost-effective mode of transportation.

Tj chinafreight china is operating for more than ten years with sea cargo ships, and we have developed quite an efficient way of delivering your products.

Sea shipping is usually more time consuming as compared to rail and air shipping, but it can be considered as one of the safest modes of transportation for your products.

We are offering the following set of services for shipping goods from China to California.

• FCL sea shipping to California
• LCL sea shipping to California
• OOG sea shipping to California
• BULK Cargo sea shipping to California
• Roll on and roll off sea shipping to California

If you have small shipments, then you should consider LCL; LCL is known as a shipment load of less than a container.

LCL is usually for new startups and e-commerce clients who want a low number of quantity to minimize their risk.

If you are a well-established seller, wholesaler, or manufacturer and you want a shipload of a full container, then you should switch to FCL; FCL is known as full container load.

FCL applies to the item weighting at least 20 CBM.

Many of our customers from china opt for OOG shipping, as china is the hub of manufacturing industries, so you might want to ship items that can’t be ship in a container due to its design and dimensions.

It is a cargo beyond the length of 12.5m, width 2.33m, and height more than 2.59m.

If you have such items to ship, then you should consider of gauge(OOG) shipping option.

On the other hand, if you are an individual or vehicles deals and you are considering importing vehicles from china, then Tj chinafreight china will provide you roll on and roll off service.

Under this service, we provide shipping of wheeled goods, such as four-wheeler vehicles.

• Air Shipping

We are providing cargo air shipping for our clients all over the world.

We are open for air shipping of your products from china to California; here is the list of services we are providing under air shipping.

• Normal goods air shipping to California
• Out of gauge products shipping to California
• Hazardous good air shipping to California

In the case of air shipping, you don’t need to worry about the amount minimum weight of freight; you can have air shipping even at 1 kg of weight.

If you want your OOG goods to reach you efficiently in the least time, then you should opt for an air shipping option.

Hazardous goods contain all those goods which are categorized as hazardous according to the UN hazardous goods transport list.

On shipping of less than one CBM, you should opt for air shipping.

If your per unit product is less than 2.2 lbs, then you should also consider air shipping.

If you are a seller on Amazon, then you should split your shipment on air and sea shipping; it will enable some of your inventory to reach in minimum time so that your sales won’t get any negative impact.

• Rail Shipping

We are offering a safe and efficient route of rail shipping from China to Europe, Russia, and Central Asia.

Rail shipping from China to California is not available due to no land route available, but if you are a California-based company and want to extend your business in Europe, Asia, and Russia, then rail shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation.

We are offering the following services under rail shipping;

• FCL ( Full container load)
• LCL(less than container load)
• Railway carriage

2. How much time does shipment need from China to California?

It depends on the mode of shipment you choose.

If you are opting for air shipping, then it might take 1 to 5 days for it.

If you are opting for sea shipping, then it might take 10 to 30 days.

The shipping time also depends on pickup and delivery points.

It also depends on the terms of shipping; terms of shipping can be;

• DDP( delivery duty paid)
• FOB( free on board)
• EXW( Ex-works)

EXW means that your freight forwarder has to take products from your supplier factory; EXW price includes only the product cost of your product.

For FOB, you are responsible for products until they are loaded on cargo ships.

In the case of DDP, the freight forwarder is responsible for clearance of all kinds of duty clearance, and products are delivered to your business address.

If you are opting for a warehousing facility, too, then it will also increase the delivery date of shipping.

3. Are there any restrictions on goods shipping from china to California?

No, there are no specific restrictions while shipping from China to Taiwan except the general guidelines that apply everywhere.

You are not permitted to ship; Acids, Aerosols, alcoholic beverages, non-domesticated animal skins, batteries containing liquids, bleach, gas, explosives, etc., are prohibited from shipping.

4. Is political instability between the USA and China leads to any hindrance of shipping from china to California?

A lot of our customers have inquired us related to this query, so we are here to address you with this problem.

USA and China are the world-leading economies, they might have political instability, but both of the countries need each other to drive their economies.

A very recent example was at the start of the pandemic when the largest part of china’s medical shipments was delivered to the USA.

There might be temporary delays, but no such example of trade blockade is seen in near history between the two countries.

A very major part of USA industries needs raw material from Chinese suppliers. Thus there can’t be any shipping blockade between the two countries.

5. What is the fastest method for shipping goods from China to California?

The delivery time varies on the types of service you opt for, plus the pickup, drop down, and warehousing time.

If you have no urgency of the timeline and you have bulk products, then you can opt for sea shipping.

In the event that you have no immediate need for tight dates and you have the mass number of items, at that point, you can decide on ocean delivering.

In the event that you have ordinary merchandise under 1 CBM and you have a period compel, at that point, we favor you to have air delivering.

On the off chance that you have the Weight of more than 1 CBM and you have tight cutoff times, at that point, we can part your shipment into air and ocean delivering so you can get a few supplies on schedule, and it will be financially effective for you.

Fastest shipping is the relationship of time, cash, and sort of items.

On the off chance that you have Bulk Cargo or Roll-On Roll-Off-, at that point, you have the solitary alternative of ocean dispatching.

In the event that you are thinking about transportation from China to California through sea cargo, you should think about utilizing FCL.

6. Is it cheap or expensive to ship goods from China to California?

Shipping isn’t expensive or cheap; it depends upon your strategy, timeline, products, and budget.

If you have an extended timeline, then you should opt for sea shipping; this will enable you to save thousands of dollars on shipping.

If your item is less than 2.2 lbs, then you should opt for air shipping because it won’t cost you much, and you will get shipment right on time.

If your items are more than 2.2 lbs and they have oversized dimensions, then you should consider using sea shipping, but if you have tight deadlines, then either you could have air shipping, or you can split your shipments in sea and air shipping.

Remember, this is always about the strategy you are opting for; you just need to contact our customer service, and we will let you know about the most feasible option.

7. How Tj chinafreight China facilitate its customer in shipping from China to California?

Tj chinafreight China is available to its customer around the clock.

Tj chinafreight china critically analyses the specifications and features of your product, then our logistics team advise you with the most efficient and safest option.

For our customer’s ease, we provide you with free storage warehousing facility of up to thirty days.

We can even provide labeling, packaging, and repackaging facility to our customers.

We know custom clearance is the real headache for our customers, so our law team handles it quite efficiently, and we deliver our products right in your footsteps.

We know that this pandemic has increased the level of uncertainty in you; we provide our customers with product insurance, which provide you with investment safety.

If you are a new seller and you don’t have much weight and mass, even then, Tj chinafreight china is here to tackle your situation.

We handle low-weight shipments, too; we can even offer you a consolidated shipping option too.

Most importantly, we are offering shipping plans to all of the regions of the world, no matter where you are located, you are just one step away from Tj chinafreight, china, and we will be here to deliver your items right to your business address.

8. Is Covid-19 having any impact on shipping goods from China to California?

Covid-19 has impacted businesses from all over the world.

It had a positive impact on you in a sense that due to very less demand for products, shipping all over the world has decreased significantly, due to which rates of shipping have decreased dramatically.

You can avail of this offer by smart thinking; this could lead you to save a lot of money.

Although covid has slow down the shipping industries, it didn’t halt the shipping industries.

We are shipping to our full potential to California, some of the areas might have a partial lockdown, which could lead to a bit of delay, but we stay in touch with international authorities so that we can avoid any unforeseen circumstances.

9. What arethe precautionary steps taken by your company in Covid-19 for shipping from China to California?

As we all know that Covid-19 had disastrous effects on businesses from all over the world.

Even in the time of this pandemic, Tj chinafreight China is completely operational to provide you with shipping solutions.

However, our logistics team have devised numerous precautionary steps and measurement to avoid any inconvenience.

Due to Covid-19, authorities from all over the world have placed additional restrictions on the shipping of products.

Tj chinafreight China provides you with the right set of certifications and approval information for your products.

In covid-19, many of the countries are either in partial or full lockdown; we are trying to get live updates for affected areas and provide those details to you; we plan shipping plan likewise so that your shipment doesn’t get stuck at any time.

We have made Proper SOPs for the handling of your items; we sanitize your product packaging at each step.

10. Why should we choose Tj chinafreight China over other freight forwarders for shipping from china to California?

Our company has established numerous international routes of shipping which enable us to provide you with efficient, cheap and safe service.

We have helped and assist almost have a million customers regarding their logistics and shipping problems and helped them save up to fifty percent cost on shipping due to effective solutions.

We are providing a warehousing facility of up to 30 days, while usually, freight forwarders provide you with 7 to 8 days of free shipping.

We have an alliance with the best airlines and cargo shipping companies; due to this, we can provide you with the most affordable prices.

Airlines and cargo shipping have confidence and trust in our dealings. Thus they give us the best offers and services.

We offer a range of shipping services for your products.

No matter what kind and type of your product is, we have experienced logistics people to provide you with the most feasible options.

We are providing Amazon FBA services, too; we can provide labeling, packaging, and shipping to the Amazon warehouse.

We can pick your products from anywhere in china and can deliver to drop-off your desire.

We provide you with live tracking of your shipment; our customer care service gives you regular updates on shipment status.

11. What is the pathway to get quotations from your company for shipping from china to California?

Tj chinafreight china has very few easy steps to get a price quotation.

Usually, we have set rates for every region and country, but our rates vary depending upon the type and mass of your shipment.

We have the following steps for a customized price quote.

Firstly, you need to visit the Tj chinafreight china website; you will go into the desired region of shipping.

Then you will get a brief form of the mode of shipping, the type of shipping you want, and some basic information about your business.

As soon as we get your response, our customer care person will get back to you at once.

He/she will inquire about your products, he/she will re-confirm all of the details from the form.

Now, you will be asked about the mode of shipping you want and what are the desired timelines in which you want your shipment to be delivered at your business address.

Our customer care representative will get these details to our logistics head; our logistics team will drive the feasibility of the plan.

As soon as our logistics team finalizes the plan, it will be forwarded to our finance team, and they will provide you with price quotations along with the breakdown of all costs.

12. What are your company’s experience and expertise in shipping goods from China to California?

Tj chinafreight china started its operation back in 2008; we came into existence at a time when the whole world was facing a recession.

A lot of established businesses were gone bankrupted at that time, but we survived this great recession with patience and effort.

In this timeline of 12 years, we have made a great partnership with world-leading airlines, rail, and sea shipping companies.

This enabled us to provide you with the most competitive prices, along with safety.

We have state of the art law team which handle all of the custom and duty clearance issues for you; they provide you with precise information about what is best for your product.

Usually, freight forwarders provide five to seven days of free warehousing facility, but for your ease, Tj chinafreight china provides you with 28 to 30 days of free warehousing facility all over china.

We are providing a range of solutions for product shipping; we have diverse shipping solutions of all types of products.

We are even providing OOG and bulk cargo shipping facilities.

We are also offering Amazon FBA shipping templates; we can label, pack, and ship your products directly to the Amazon warehouse.

We have over ten offices in four main cities of China; this enabled us to get better communication with your product supplier.

We value your product’s investment; that’s why we have shipping insurance, which provides you with safety against all of the risks.

13. What are the delivery options (DDP, EXW, FOB) you gave for shipping goods from China to California?

We are offering the following delivery options;

• Freight on board
• EXW Pickup and door delivery
• Door to door delivery
• Door to port Delivery
• Port to Door delivery
• DDP
• DDU

We are offering the following mode of payments for you;

• Payment through Alibaba via trade assurance
• Payoneer
• Paypal
• Western union
• International Bank transfer

Tj chinafreight china is well established in international air, sea, and rail shipping.

We provide our customers with real-time fright information along with competitive prices.

14. What items can you ship from china to California?

Tj chinafreight china is available for shipping of any kind of legal product from china to California, but you should understand that every product has its prerequisite of shipping.

Some items don’t need any certifications and particular details, they are from the non-medical and non-hazardous field, so there aren’t any complexities in the shipping of such products.

Then there come items that belong to a medical category, these medical items need special certifications and manufacturer details, and when all of the details are given to us, then we are able to get approval for them from custom and other checking authorities.

There is one more category to understand; this category is for items that can be hazardous to human health and usage.

These items include lithium, lead batteries as well as chemicals; for the shipments of such items, you should have approval from the manufacturer.

You should also make sure that your product supplier is following all of the safety and required quality tests; your forwarder should also be eligible for the shipping of such items.

Tj chinafreight china has all of the required certifications and experience for the shipping of such items.

If you want to know that your item lies in which category, please visit the UN website or get in touch with our customer care.

15. What identity or legal requirements do you need from clients for shipping from china to California?

When shipping internationally from China to California, the documents required for custom duties are as follows:

• Bill of Entry:
• Commercial Invoice.
• Bill of Lading / Airway bill
• Import License.
• Insurance certificate.
• Purchase order/Letter of Credit.
• Technical write-up, literature, etc., for specific goods, if any.
• Industrial License, if any.

16. What are your costing criteria for shipping from china to California?

Firstly, it depends that either you are taking air shipping or sea shipping to California.

Cost may differ due to pickup and drop-off points; these are some of the locations;

• Door to Door
• Port to Door
• Door to port
• Port to Port

The cost relies upon different factors, for example,

• The procedure for shipping (by air or sea, if by air classic or Express, if by air or sea door to door or any other services)
• type of goods
• mass of goods

Typically, international air freights can range from approximately $2.50 to $5.00/kilogram.

If you want to know further about efficient air shipping, then please visit this video.

https://youtu.be/-grQO7-KB34

The cost of shipping also affected due to the following services;

• FCL
• LCL
• BULK
• OOG
• Roll-on roll-off

A rough estimate of ocean freight is around 50 cents per kg.

The cost of shipping relies heavily on the mass of your product; if you are opting for a full container load, then you can get a huge cut in freight charges.

If you don’t have a load of the full container, then you can opt for LCL, and you can still avail of the maximum discount.

17. What is the best time for shipping, and how can we get discounts and special offers for shipping from china to California?

If you want to ship your package at the cheapest rate possible, you should ship during the holiday season and use Tj chinafreight CHINA as your shipment service rather than FedEx or DHL.

Tj chinafreight china is providing its services for more than ten years, and we have extended experience of shipping across the globe.

We regularly offer discounts and special offers to our dedicated customers to help them save their cost along with smooth shipping to their desired address.

Many freight forwarders are using online platforms, such as Alibaba, made in china, etc.

It would be best if you remain active on such websites.

These websites offer discounts and special vouchers multiple times in a year, and you should avail of those offers to save your cost and should forecast your shipping according to it.

18. Do you help in shifting cars and household items such as furniture, crockery, decoration pieces from china to California?

Yes, we offer shipping in all of the mentioned products; it just needs the right set of knowledge and freight forwarders to avoid any means of queries.

Fragile items need special handling, packaging, and shipping.

Some of the items of this category may require extra certifications and quality tests; for this, please connect with your production supplier please ensure that he is following all of the set guidelines.

We also help in shifting items such as cars and furniture.

These products require customized handling of transportation for both breaths of air as well as sea shipping.

We also assist in customs clearance of your favorite cars; simultaneously, we have Door Door delivery options for vehicles.

Tj chinafreight china is here to develop shipment plans even for your complicated items; we will brainstorm the safest and most effective mode of shipping for you.

19. Where are your offices located around the world?

We have physical stores in the four main cities of China.

We believe that these four cities have a major number of suppliers of products, so we have acquired offices there with more than 200 employees.

Our employees are 24/7 available to assist you with shipping to California.

Our offices are located in the following cities of china;

• Shangai
• Shenzen
• Ningbo
• Guangzhou

We develop close interaction with your suppliers, which enables a smooth flow of work between all of the stakeholders.

20. Do you offer a warehousing facility for goods shipping from china to California?

Tj chinafreight china understands the challenges you can face, so we offer you a warehousing facility within our premises, which enables the safety of your products.

We have several warehouses all over china; you can avail yourself of up to 28 to 30 days of free warehousing facility.

We have strict quality control for your products; we offer you product insurance too.

Along with the warehousing facility, we provide item labeling options too.

We also offer an additional packaging facility for you.

Simultaneously, we are also offering to consolidate shipping options of your products from our warehouse.

you’re importing from China, definitely, shipping container cost and price is an important parameter to consider.

That’s why this guide explores all the vital aspects affecting shipping container prices such as design, features, size, uses and design, just to mention a few.

So, if you want to get affordable shipping containers in China, read this guide.

What is a Shipping Container?

Shipping container is a metal container that you will use in securing cargo while transporting it to various destinations.

The metal material that makes the shipping containers make it strong enough to withstand shipment, handling and storage.

What are the Main Uses of Shipping Containers?

There are quite a number of things that you can do with the shipping container.

Here are the main things that you can simply perform with the help of a shipping container.

· Shipping of Cargo

You will use the shipping container for the main purpose of shipping cargo from one place to another.

It is available in different shapes and sizes that allow you to package and ship cargo to different destinations.

· Storage Unit of Cargo

During the shipping process, the shipping container will also act as the main storage facility for the cargo.

In other words, you will safely secure the cargo within the shipping container thus preserving its originality.

· Securing the Cargo

Apart from that, shipping containers help in protecting or securing cargo from damage.

Implying that, you can easily handle the cargo without the worry of causing damage while in the shipping container.

· Housing Purposes

In addition to that, you can also use a shipping container as a housing unit to live or reside in.

You can change the shipping container into a shipping container home and stay inside it.

What are the available Types of Shipping Container?

There are quite a lot of shipping container types that you can choose from depending on the application requirements.

Here are the main types of shipping containers that you can choose from.

· Intermodal Freight Containers

These are reusable storage and transport units that you will use to move products form one place to another.

You can choose among the different types and sizes of international freight containers which include:

i. High Cube Freight Containers

ii. Pallet Wide Freight Containers

iii. Open Top Freight Containers

iv. Side Loaders Freight Containers

v. Double Door or Tunnel-tainers

vi. Temperature Controlled Freight Containers

· Corrugated Boxes

This is the most common type of shipping containers that make up 90% of all shipping containers.

You will use corrugated fiberboard to manufacture corrugated boxes thus making them very light in weight.

Apart from that, you can recycle corrugated boxes due to the fact that they are very strong in nature.

· Wooden Shipping Containers

Just from the name, you will note that the main material for making this type of shipping containers is wood.

You will use this type of shipping container to ship dense and heavy products such as military or government equipment.

· Crate Shipping Containers

This is a large wooden or plastic container that you will use in the transportation of large and awkward types of cargo.

It comes complete with a self-supporting structure without or with a sheath that you can recycle or reuse.

· Intermediate Bulk Shipping Container

This is a container that you can employ in multiple shipping purposes such as storage, general transport, and general handling.

You can use it to transport, store, and handle different types of products and liquids due to their resistance to corrosion.

The main materials that you can use in the manufacture of IBC containers are:

i. Plastic or High-Density Polyethylene

ii. Composite Materials such as Plastic and Steel

iii. Carbon Steel Materials

iv. Stainless Steel of different grades such as 304, 316 and 316L.

You can also opt for the foldable type of intermediate bulk containers that will save on a lot of space.

· Bulk Box Shipping Containers

You can refer to a bulk box as skid box, bulk bin, or tore box.

You will use the bulk boxes for storage and shipment of bulk quantities of products through different destinations.

· Drum Shipping Containers

These are cylindrical types of shipping containers that you can make out of plastic, steel, or fiber materials.

You will use it for the transportation of different types of liquids as well as granular materials.

· Insulated Shipping Containers

You will use the insulated shipping containers to transport temperature-sensitive products including pharmaceuticals, food and other sensitive chemicals.

It will come in handy to maintain the freshness as well as the efficacy of different products within the cold chain.

· Unit Load Device

You will use the unit load devices in the transportation of different products, especially on commercial aircraft.

It is a special type of container that you can use to load freight, luggage, and mail among others on aircraft.

· Specialized Shipping Containers

These are special types of custom containers that you will use to transport special products including weapons and aviation components.

It has custom blocking, cushioning, lift rings, carrying handles, locks, and bracing that improve ease of shipping.

Which Factors Affect the Prices of Shipping Container?

Well, shipping of goods is one of the most important things that you can tie to the economy of the world.

Since it is a sensitive area, a slight change in the economy can have a profound effect on shipping container prices.

Here are some of the factors to consider when looking at the price of the shipping container.

· Size of the Shipping Container

Well, there are different sizes of shipping containers that you can purchase depending on the number of goods.

The bigger the size of the shipping container, the higher the amount of money you will pay for it.

· Type of Shipping Container

There are different types of shipping containers that you will use for different purposes such as refrigerated shipping containers.

Due to variation in quality and specialty, you will also realize that the price also changes in a similar manner.

· General Rate Increase

GRI is the adjustment of ocean freight prices in order to help in the recovery of low market movements by shipping lines.

Depending on the stability of the year, you will realize a change in the cost and prices of shipping containers.

· Shipping High Seasons

You should also take note of the shipping season such as shipping high seasons when demand for shipping peaks.

As a result of high demand for shipping services, you should also expect the cost of the shipping containers to increase.

· Emergency Bunker Surcharge (EBS)

There are charges such as the emergency bunker surcharge that often arises whenever the prices of fuel increases.

Here, an increase in the cost of fuel will force the shipping industry to increase the cost of shipping containers.

· Trucking Shortage

There are cases when you will experience trucking shortage in the shipping industry which often drives up demand.

An increase in demand generally means that you will have to pay more for the shipping containers as well.

· Age of the Shipping Container

Generally, you will pay a higher price for newer shipping containers than the price you will pay for older containers.

You will also realize that this may not be the case in all shipping containers due to special conditions of shipping containers.

· Customized Features

You may opt to have additional features on the shipping containers through the process of container customization.

An increase in the number of customized features on the container will definitely lead to an increase in the cost.

Does the Condition of a Shipping Container Affect Price?

Absolutely, the condition of the shipping container has a profound effect on the price of the shipping container.

You ought to understand that there is a relationship between the price range as well as the container condition.

In general terms, new shipping containers will cost you a lot more than the older shipping containers.

Despite that rule, you will note that there are cases when the rule does not apply on shipping container price.

In other words, there are particular cases when the older shipping container could be in a better condition than the new.

Some of the cases where you will pay more for older containers than new containers are:

• When the older container has gone through minimal wear and tear
• The damages on the older containers are very few and unnoticeable
• The storage conditions of the older containers are good

These are some of the circumstances where older containers in great condition still sell at higher prices.

What are the Main Price Points for Shipping Containers?

There are three price points where the cost of the shipping container you need may fall.

You should have proper knowledge on the type of container that you need by looking at your budget.

Here are the main price points that you should look at when considering the price of the shipping container.

· Most Affordable

In case you need a bargain for the shipping container, then you should opt for the most affordable shipping container.

This type of shipping container is often on a bad shape with damages which often lower the shipping container cost.

You can get such a container for a very low-price ranging between 1000 to 1500 US dollars.

· Middle-of-the-Road

In case you need to match quality and fair pricing, you should opt for the middle-of-the-road price range.

Here, you can either opt to rent or purchase a used shipping container that is in a good condition.

i. Renting a Shipping Container

Renting is a very good option when you want to possess and use the shipping container for a particular period.

As soon as you complete using the rented shipping container, you can simply call the owner to take it away.

You will pay between 75 to 200 US dollar a month for renting a shipping container from a local supplier.

This will depend on the condition type, as well as size of the shipping container you are renting.

ii. Purchasing a Used Shipping Container

You can also opt to purchase a used shipping container that is still in a very good condition.

In other words, you will be purchasing a long-lasting product at an affordable price to serve the purpose.

You will spend between 1400 to 2600 US dollars to purchase a used container depending on the condition and size.

iii. Most Expensive

You will get high-quality shipping containers that have never been used if you are willing to spend the money.

In other words, these are often brand-new containers that you will get straight from the manufacturer.

You will pay between 3000 to 5000 US dollars for a brand-new shipping container depending on size.

Do You Sell used Shipping Containers?

Yes, we do sell used shipping containers that are still in very good condition.

The condition of the used shipping containers also varies depending on the amount of usage.

How much does the Used Shipping Container Cost?

Well, the cost of the used shipping containers will vary depending on the type, condition and size of container.

Here, you can opt for the most affordable or middle-of-the-road shipping containers.

You will pay between 1000 to 1500 US dollars for the most affordable shipping containers.

On the other hand, you will pay between 1500 to 2600 US dollars for the middle-of-the-road shipping containers.

You will be able to note a difference between these types of containers by looking at the condition of the containers.

What should you Check when Purchasing Used Shipping Containers?

You have to be very observant and look at the type of shipping container you are purchasing before paying.

Here are some of things that you need to look at before you make payments for used shipping containers.

• Condition of the floor boards
• Check for dents and rust on the shipping container
• Request for information on previous repairs on the shipping containers
• Look at the seller reputation through social media and Better Business Bureau among other forums
• Check the condition of opening and closing of the doors

With all these factors in place, you should be in a position to determine the condition of the used shipping containers.

In other words, if the above conditions are in good shape, then you should consider getting such a container.

How does Sizes Affect Shipping Container Cost?

You will choose the size of a shipping container by looking at the quantity or type of goods you need to transport.

Here, you can opt for the standard shipping containers or the high cube shipping containers.

The dimension of the standard shipping containers are 8 feet wide by 8 feet and 6 inches high.

On the same note, you will get the standard length of the shipping containers at 20 or 40 feet long.

You should note that there is consistency in standard sizes of shipping containers according to ISO standards.

On the other hand, high cube shipping containers are often 9 feet wide by 6 feet tall.

You can also opt for the bigger version which has 10 feet in width and 6 feet height.

Apart from that you can also customize your own shipping container size at 20 to 30% extra fee.

How does Customization Affect Shipping Container Cost and Price?

You have the freedom of modifying your shipping container to suit your personal needs.

Implying that you can add windows, skylight, ventilation systems, doors and locking systems among others on the containers.

You should understand that the prices of the shipping containers will increase with increase in customization or additional features.

The more features you want on the shipping containers, the higher the price you will pay for the shipping container.

How do you get Discounts on Shipping Container Prices?

You can get a discount on shipping container prices through proper negotiation tactics.

There are cases when you might have to use people with better experience in purchasing the shipping containers.

Such people will help in driving the overall cost of the shipping containers lower.

Apart from that, you can also impress the seller to offer you a good discount through bulk purchases.

This involves purchasing a higher number of containers or bigger sized containers thus bringing the price down.

How much does it Cost to Rent Shipping Container?

You can opt to rent a shipping container if you intend to use it for a shorter period of time.

The cost of renting shipping containers will vary according to condition, type, size and period.

In many cases, most of the rented shipping containers are often used and come in different conditions.

After using the container and fulfilling the purpose, you will call the owner to come and pick it up.

You will pay between 75 to 200 US dollar per month depending on the type of shipping container.

Between Buying and Renting Shipping Container, Which Option is Affordable?

Well, you can either decide to buy or rent a shipping container.

The option that you will choose will depend entirely on the period of use of the shipping container.

In other words, renting of shipping containers is affordable when you want the shipping container for a short period.

The longer it takes to rent the shipping container, the higher the charges thus making it an expensive option.

You should opt to purchase a shipping container if you intend to use it for a very long time.

You might spend a higher initial cost in purchasing the container but the cost will be affordable in the long run.

Implying that, the affordability of the shipping containers will depend entirely on the purpose and period of use.

Does Time Affect Shipping Container Cost?

Absolutely, time is a factor that will affect the overall cost of the shipping container.

Time will affect the cost of shipping containers in different ways.

First, you can look at the effect of time in terms of how long you intend to use the shipping container.

Here, you can opt to rent a shipping container if you intend to use it for a short period of time.

On the other hand, you should purchase a shipping container if you intend to use it for a long period.

Secondly, time will also affect the cost of the shipping container in terms of condition.

In other words, you will pay lower prices for a shipping container that has been used for a long period.

On the flip side, you will pay more for shipping containers that have been used for a shorter period of time.

Are there Restrictions in Shipping Container Price?

Yes, there have to be restrictions on the price of shipping containers to protect both parties from exploitation.

Having restrictions on the price of shipping containers simply mean that you cannot overcharge a client.

It also means that you cannot purchase a shipping container at a price that will definitely hurt the supplier.

Apart from that, it creates price categories according to the condition of the shipping container.

In other words, you cannot purchase a particular type of shipping container beyond a particular price range.

How much will you Pay for a Lost or Damaged Shipping Container?

Lost or damaged shipping containers often bring additional charges on the user.

Such conditions often apply when you decide to rent a shipping container.

In that case, you will have to carter for the cost of repairing the damages or purchase another container.

Apart from that, there is an option of insuring the shipping containers to carter for such occurrences.

In case you have insurance, you can comfortably ask the insurance company to carter for the costs.

What is the Lifespan of Shipping Container?

The typical lifespan of service for a shipping container is 10 to 12 years.

Shipping containers are made of very strong material that are often very durable.

You should also note that the duration of service will depend on how you use the shipping containers.

If you take very good care of the shipping containers, you will use it for between 10 and 1 years.

What are Demurrage and Detention Charges in Shipping Containers?

Demurrage is the period that the container will spend outside the port.

On the other hand, detention is the period that the shipping container will spend in the port.

These are some of the factors that often affect the cost of renting a shipping container.

The cost of demurrage and detention of shipping containers will vary according to the shipping company.

Apart from that, the country where the shipping containers are, also affect the cost of the detention and demurrage.

In other words, the longer the period, the higher the amount of money you will pay for detention and demurrage.

How much do Refrigerated Shipping Container Cost?

Refrigerated shipping containers are special types of shipping containers that have refrigeration systems.

You will use the refrigerated shipping containers for transportation and storage of perishable goods such as food and other chemicals.

Refrigerated shipping containers often cost a lot more than normal shipping containers.

Since refrigeration are special features, you should note that it will increase the price through:

• Addition of refrigeration systems
• Consumption of power to maintain the refrigeration process
• Maintenance of the refrigeration system
• Size of the refrigerated shipping containers
• Condition of the refrigerated shipping container

Here are the prices that you will pay for the refrigerated shipping containers.

• New 20 feet refrigerated containers will cost between 5600 to 7000 US dollars
• Used 20 feet refrigerated containers will cost between 3900 to 4400 US dollars
• New 40 feet refrigerated shipping containers cost between 10,000 and 10,000 US dollars
• Used 40 feet refrigerated shipping containers cost between 4600 to 6300 US dollars
• New 40- feet -high cube refrigerated shipping containers cost between 10,000 to 12,400 US dollars
• Used 40 feet high cube refrigerated shipping containers cost between 4700 to 6400 US dollars

You can also decide to rent a refrigerated shipping container depending on the duration.

In this case, you can rent a refrigerated shipping container for 30 to 85 US dollars a day.

You can also opt for monthly rental services at 995 to 2445 US dollars every month.

How does the 20 ft Shipping Container Price compare to 40 FT Shipping Container Price?

Well, the main factor differentiating the 20 feet and 40 feet shipping containers is the size.

20 feet shipping containers are often smaller than the 40 ft shipping container.

Due to the variation in size, you will pay less for the 20 feet containers than the 40 ft containers.

You will pay more for the 40 ft shipping containers since it has more space for additional goods.

Do Shipping Containers for Dangerous Good have Safety Features?

Absolutely, there are safety features on the shipping containers that transport dangerous goods.

You must have safety features on the dangerous goods to prevent them from damage.

Apart from that, the safety features will keep you and other people away from the dangerous goods.

One of the most important safety features for dangerous goods is the lock system that keep the goods locked.

Who are the Leading Shipping Container Manufacturers in China?

You should consider purchasing your shipping containers from China who are the leading container manufacturer.

Here are the leading companies in China that manufacture different types of shipping containers.

• CIMC Shipping Container Manufacturers located in Shenzhen, China
• Singamas Shipping Container Manufacturers located in Shanghai, China
• CXIX Shipping Container Manufacturers located in Changzhou, China

Here is our top list of 50 Shipping Container Manufacturers in China.

Why is Shipping Container Price in China Affordable?

Well, China is the leading manufacturer of shipping containers in the whole world.

You can, therefore, opt to purchase your shipping containers from China because of the low prices.

In other words, there are plenty of shipping container manufacturers in China producing containers in bulk.

The higher the amount of supply, the lower the cost of the shipping containers.

Apart from that, the availability of raw materials and machines for manufacturing shipping containers also lowers the overall cost.

China has very good technology that simplifies the manufacturing process of shipping containers.

It eliminates the cost of labor thus reducing the cost of production hence lower shipping container prices.

How much does 53 Foot Shipping Container Cost?

You can get a 53-foot shipping container at 3000 to 5000 US dollar depending on the condition.

New 53-foot shipping containers will be on the higher end of the price range.

Apart from that, additional features such as refrigeration systems can drive the price beyond the price range.

You can get a refrigerated 53-foot shipping container at 12,000 to 14,000 US dollars.

The price range is often inclusive of the tax as well as the delivery fee.

Which is the Largest Shipping Container you can Buy?

The largest shipping container that you can buy is the high cube shipping container.

You will get this type of container at 9.5 feet or 2.89 meters high or 10 feet (2.99 m) high.

Apart from that, you will also look at the width of the container at 8ft 6 inches wide.

You will classify this type of shipping container under the 53 ft shipping containers.

How much does Insulated Shipping Container Cost?

You can opt for a shipping container that has extra insulation depending on the type of good you would like to ship.

The amount of money that you will pay for insulated shipping containers will depend on the size of insulated shipping containers.

Here are the main prices that you will pay for the insulated shipping containers.

• 20 ft containers with extra insulation will cost between 1500 to 2500 US dollars
• 40 ft containers with extra insulation will cost between 2800 to 3500 US dollars

In addition to that, the cost of insulated shipping containers will vary according to the type of insulation.

How much does it Cost to Transport Shipping Container?

The cost of transporting shipping containers will depend on quite a number of factors.

Here are the main factors that affect the cost of transporting shipping containers.

• Size of the Shipping Container
• Destination of the Shipping Container
• Transporting Company

You will pay between 3000 and 5000 US dollars to successfully transport your shipping container.

At Tj chinafreight, we help you get affordable and high quality shipping containers depending on your needs and requirements.

Contact us today for competitive shipping container cost and price.

In this guide, you will find all information you’re looking for about Conex container.

From design, dimensions, features, and category, among other factors that will help you find the best Conex containers.

So, before you buy Conex container, read this guide.

What is a Conex Container?

The term Conex was derived from the abbreviation ConEx, meaning Container Express.

Conex is used to identify all shipping containers.

The compatibly of these containers with trailers and the fact that they can interlock has made them be the preferred storage method during shipping.

What are the Dimensions of a Conex Container?

Currently, most Conex containers conform to two standard sizes: Forty-foot Equivalent Unit (FEU) and Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU).

As the names suggest, TEU containers are 20 feet long, while FEU containers are 40 feet long.

Notably, both of the containers are intermodal in nature.

The containers’ width is fixed at 8 feet and 8 feet 6 inches, for TEU and FEU containers respectively.

The fixed dimensions are to ensure even spacing and compatibility in trains and ships.

However, in exceptional cases where the commodities to be shipped or stored need large space, dimensions referred to as hi-cube are used.

These dimensions only affect the container’s height.

Hi-cube sizes maintain the container’s length and width, but with a height of 9 feet 6 inches.

Notably, some Conex containers do not conform to the above-listed dimensions.

For example, some containers are either 10, 25, 45, 48, or 53 feet long.

These types of containers are for cargo that needs larger or compact storage spaces.

How much do Conex Containers Cost?

The cost of a Conex container depends mainly on the container’s condition – whether it is used or a new shipping container.

How much you will pay for a Conex box will also be determined by the size, feature, and market price of the specific container.

What are the uses of a Conex Container?

Conex containers can be put to various uses.

Majorly the containers are used for shipping.

However, Conex containers continue to have more and more uses.

Below are some common uses of Conex containers.

· Shipping

The first and most common use is for transportation of cargos.

Ideally, even the features of these containers are to enable them to be efficient for transporting shipments.

· Storage

Secondly, Conex containers are used as storage facilities.

Say you buy a container to ship your cargo; what next after the shipment is delivered?

You can use the container as a storage facility instead of letting it use up your precious space.

However, you can buy a Conex container for the sole purpose of storage.

· Offices, Shops, and Residential

Among the most recent uses of Conex containers is as building materials for offices, shops, and residential houses.

With the construction industry continually evolving, Conex containers are being transformed into remarkable buildings.

Frequently, you may see Conex containers set up and designed into exquisite shops or even offices.

· Emergency Medical Facilities

These are mostly located along the road, building emergency medical facilities using traditional construction materials beats logic.

Consequently, Conex containers have been used as an affordable alternative to set up emergency medical facilities.

· Innovative Uses

The current world we live in is full of innovations.

Conex containers are also being innovatively used.

Some innovative uses of the containers include the construction of swimming pools, eco-bridges, playgrounds, and growing spaces like greenhouses or indoor farms.

What should you Consider when Buying a Conex Container?

There are several things you should put into account before purchasing a Conex container.

· Dimensions

Consider the dimensions of the container.

Look at the height and the length.

Will it serve its intended purpose?

Will the things you need to place inside the Conex box fit in?

What are the standard sizes of Conex containers?

If you answer these questions, then you will mitigate the risk of buying a container that may be useless to you.

· Condition

Is the Conex container new or used?

If used, how many times has it been used?

You can get these details from your dealer. Importantly, knowing the

Conex container’s condition will significantly determine the amount you pay for the box.

· The Intended Purpose of the Container

Are you planning to use the Conex container for the long term, or the usage is short-lived?

If you plan to use the box for the short-term, you may opt to buy a used container or even just rent a container.

This way, you will save on expenses.

Also, under purpose, do you intend to use the container for shipping or other purposes?

If your sole intention is to use the box for construction, you may consider buying a Conex container that can be easily modified.

· Roof

This especially applies to used containers. After some time, the Conex box may no-longer be watertight.

Take your time and confirm the condition of the roof.

You wouldn’t want to buy a container that leaks.

· Door and Floor

Guaranteed security is vital when purchasing a Conex container.

Look at the condition of the door locks.

Also, can the doors be opened and closed with ease?

For the floor, ensure it is in a good state.

Confirm whether the floor is made of wood or steel.

If it is wood, ensure that the timber used has not started rotting.

· Supplier’s/Seller’s Reputation

Don’t just take the seller or supplier at face value – Dig deep.

Run a background check on their reputation.

This way, you are guaranteed quality when purchasing a Conex container.

Besides, you will probably eliminate the risk of being conned.

· Legal Scope

Is the Conex container legal? To help you determine this, look at the following information on the container’s CSC plate:

• Manufacturer and Serial Number
• Container model
• Manufacture date
• Name and the address of the owner.
• Fumigation details
• Container number
• Approval number
• Maximum mass
• ACEP number
• Permitted stacking weight

Importantly, if you intend to use the Conex container for construction, consult with the local building codes to ascertain that your planned building is inhabitable by law.

· Special Considerations

There are some special aspects you will have to look at—for example, insulation.

Suppose you plan to use the container to transport cargo that requires extreme specific temperatures, either hot or cold.

In that case, you should ensure that the container’s insulation provides just that.

How Long can I Use a Conex Container?

How long a Conex container can last depends on the condition of the container.

For shipping, the typical lifespan of a box is about 10 to 12 years.

After its life span expires in the shipping industry, the container can be sold off in a secondary market to be used for storage and other purposes.

When sold, a used container can again last for another 10+ years.

What are the Types of Conex Containers?

Below are the types of Conex containers

• Flat rack container
• Dry storage container
• High Cube Containers
• Tunnel container
• Open top container
• Open side container
• Refrigerated ISO container
• Double doors container
• Insulated containers
• Tanks
• Half Height Containers
• Car Carriers
• Drums
• Swap bodies
• Special purpose containers

Why should I use a Conex Container?

· Versatile

Conex containers can be modified to serve various purposes.

Apart from being used in shipping, you can use the boxes for storage.

Additionally, you can use the containers as building materials to increase office spaces or build new structures altogether.

· Durable

Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, conex containers are durable.

They are majorly constructed using steel, which lasts long.

A Conex box can have a lifespan of more than 20 years.

· Cost-efficient

If you are looking for building materials to expand your office or set up new structures, opting for Conex containers can be cheaper than other building materials.

Moreover, owing to their modular shape, they are easy to set up or put together.

· Mobility

Mainly, Conex containers are meant to be mobile for ease during shipping.

As a result, moving the boxes around is relatively easy.

Can I rent a Conex Container?

Yes.

Renting a Conex container is considered the best economical option.

By renting, you enjoy the services of a box without buying the container.

Why should I Rent a Conex Container?

There are a couple of reasons that would make you rent a Conex container.

· Urgency

If you urgently need a shipping container, renting will be the best option.

The alternative option of buying might involve a lengthy process since you have to confirm the box adheres to all proper standards before purchasing it.

However, rental companies have containers that meet all the criteria and are available to be rented for urgent shipping.

· To Avoid Responsibility for the Container

Rental companies do the repair and maintenance of rental containers.

On the other hand, if you buy a container, all the maintenance and repair responsibilities will lie solely on your shoulders.

· To get Exactly what you Need

Conex containers come in various sizes and specifications.

Say you are shipping multiple cargos, and you need different types of containers; selecting the multiple boxes to buy may be cumbersome.

However, rental companies will provide you with many containers to choose from to meet your specific shipping needs.

· Reduced Costs

Just like renting any other commodity, it saves on cost if the intended use is short-lived.

However, if you plan on using the container for a more extended period, you may find the renting price exceeding the buying cost.

What are the Advantages of Buying a Conex Container?

Some of the advantages of using Conex containers include:

· Transportation Ease

The intermodal nature of the containers makes them be easily transported using various means of transport.

Importantly, long-distance shipping may involve using multiple forms of transportation, such as water and land.

Buying a Conex container is a surety that your shipment will reach you despite the various forms of transport used along the way.

· Durability

Conex containers are majorly manufactured from steel, which is a durable metal.

Moreover, an unused Conex container has a life span of above 20 years, while a used one can last over ten years.

This point out that buying a Conex box is a durable investment.

· Versatile

Conex containers can be used for various purposes. Initially, you can buy the container for shipping purposes.

Later, you can use the container for other purposes like construction and other innovative uses.

Alternatively, you can sell the container to a secondary buyer.

· Eco-friendly

If you are looking for an eco-friendly building material, then you should consider using containers as your primary building material.

Conex containers, when used as building materials, cause less harm to the environment.

· Security

Conex containers are also secure.

Made with steel and reinforced with locks, these containers will ensure the security of whatever you put inside

Is there an Option of Buying a used Conex Container?

Yes. When buying a Conex container, going for a used box is regarded as economical.

Most used containers still offer the services a brand-new container would offer.

How can I Determine the Condition of a Used Conex Container?

First, you can look at the time the container has been used.

A lengthy period of usage results to wear and tear of the container..

Also, check the areas the container has frequented.

If the box has been making regular trips to places with extreme climatic conditions, it may not be in the best condition.

Besides, the reputation of your seller can also help you gauge the condition of the container.

An incompetent seller may not hesitate to give you a container that is not in perfect condition.

After all, they have no reputation to protect.

Additionally, you can check the CSC plate of the container.

You will get the manufacturer’s information and the date of manufacture.

This information will help you determine the condition of the box.

Moreover, it will help you know if the container has complied with the set standards.

Lastly, you can personally do a check of the container.

Check for any rusts on the container. If the floor is made of wood, confirm whether there is any rot.

What Should I Consider when Selecting a Conex Container Seller?

You should consider the following:

· Time in the Business

The longer the time in the business, the more experience the seller has.

A lengthy time in selling containers is a clear indication that the supplier effectively meets customers’ needs.

· Location of the Seller

To save on costs, choose a seller nearest to you.

Otherwise, you may end up incurring an extra charge when buying a container if the seller is not covering the logistics.

· Mode of Delivery

Does the seller’s mode of delivery go well with you? Is the method of delivery affordable?

You can answer these questions by exploring all possible delivery options that will be convenient and pick the seller that offers them.

· Reviews

If you are looking for a seller online, Google reviews can help you handpick the right one.

A seller with a number of positive reviews is more likely to deliver quality and up to standard containers.

· Your Budget

This is important when making any type of purchase.

Choose a seller that is within your budget.

Importantly, remember that cheap is expensive.

Do opt for a cheap seller who gives you a container that will still require significant repair.

· Payment Terms

Transparency of the billing process will show the legitimacy of the supplier.

Additionally, it will help prevent possible swindling.

· Customer Care Service

Go for a seller that has a reliable customer care service.

This will help you get all the necessary information you require.

Moreover, you will continuously be updated on the status of your purchase by the customer care agents.

· Quality Certificate

Ensure the seller has put in place reliable quality check procedures and has quality certificates, for example, the ISO.

· After-sales Services

Ideally, you should consider a supplier with the best after-sales services.

Will they do maintenance services for you?

Will they partly cover the delivery cost? Will they provide you with further assistance after the finalization of the purchase?

Does using a Conex Container Guarantee security of my Goods?

To some extent, a Conex container will guarantee the security of your goods.

The fact that these containers are made of steel and reinforced with locks makes them secure.

However, you should also consider external factors.

For example, when using the container as storage facility, how secure is its location?

Or, when you are using the box for shipping, what is the security measures put in place by your freight forwarder

Who are the Top Suppliers of Conex Containers?

Majorly, top container manufacturers are China based.

They include:

• China International Marine Container Co., Ltd.
• Singamas Container Holdings Ltd.
• CXIC Group Containers Co., Ltd.
• China Eastern Containers
• China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited

Those outside China are:

• W & K Container Inc – USA
• Maersk Container Industry (MCI) – Denmark
• TLS Offshore Containers International – Singapore
• YMC Container Solutions UK
• DCM Hyundai –India

You can buy from the above listed companies if you are looking to have the manufacturer as your supplier.

However, there are various other suppliers who are online based and can still sell you the containers.

Can I purchase a Conex Container Online?

Yes, most companies in the Conex container business have online platforms to enable online purchase of containers.

What are the available Conex Container Sizes?

There are a variety of conex containers.  Below is a summary of sizes for the commonly used Conex containers.

 

Which is the Best Material for Making Conex Container?

Corten steel is the typical material used in the manufacture of containers.

Its self-healing/weathering trait, plus its strength, has made it an ideal material for building shipping boxes.

What are the Payment Options for Purchasing a Conex Container?

Payment options for buying a shipping container vary with your seller.

Most sellers have embraced mobile banking as a means of payment.

Most common payment methods are the use of cheques or bank transfers.

You can agree with your seller to pay some deposit and the remaining amount later, or fully pay the full amount before delivery.

Are their Third Party Sellers of Conex Containers?

Most people sell their Conex containers when they do not have any use for them.

This classifies them as third party sellers.

They mostly deal with used containers.

Can Conex Containers be Customized?

Among the important features of Conex containers is that they can be modified/customized.

This is what makes them versatile.

Most new containers can be modified.

Examples of modifications you can make on a Conex container include:

• Adding doors and windows
• Installing security systems
• Adding a ramp
• Adding interior walls
• Changing the roof and floor
• Adding insulation and lighting

What are some Requirements Before Buying a Conex Container?

Before purchasing a Conex container you should have the following considerations

· Know the Dimensions and Weight

Do you know the dimensions of the container you need?

You should also know the standard weights of the container.

Some frequently used dimensions are shown below to guide you.

 

· Do you want a New or Used Container

Knowing the condition of the box you want is also essential before making a purchase.

Your intended purpose will determine the state of the container you will buy.

For used containers, you should expect some wear and tear.

· Ensure the Container is Wind and Watertight

If you are to use the container for shipping across the ocean, ensure the box is not modified.

Unmodified containers usually are wind and watertight, ensuring the safety of your shipment.

· A Site to Place the Container

You cannot purchase something if you do not have a place to put it.

Consider the availability of a suitable spot to place your container after purchasing it.

Effectively prepare the site before the arrival of your container.

· Know the Mode of Delivery

You don’t expect your container to be exclusively transported by water if you are in a land-locked country.

You should consider the various methods of transport to be used before the box finally reaches you.

Can the Container be modified

Still, on the issue of intended purpose, know whether the container can be modified.

And if yes, do the available modifications satisfy your need?

It would be uncalled-for to buy a shipping box, yet it will not be of use to you.

· Competency of the Supplier

Put into account how your chosen supplier is capable of delivering.

Will he/she continue offering assistance after you have finalized the purchase?

Know whether the supplier will offer repair and maintenance.

Besides, you need to know what other customers say about the supplier and if they offer warranty.

What Security Features does a Conex Container have?

Conex containers are made of steel and have pre-installed locks which provide security to the contents of the container.

However, you can make some reinforcements on the security features such as:

• Installing shipping container lockboxes
• Using heavy duty padlocks
• Using steel-made bolts
• Setting up an alarm system
• Installing cross-bar locks

Notably, if you want to store chemicals, gas, or inflammable materials, other security features you should ensure include proper ventilation of the Conex container.

What is a One-Trip Container?

Just as the name suggests, this type of containers, although used, have only made one-trip.

The container is manufactured, loaded with a cargo, and then transported.

Upon reaching its destination, the cargo is unloaded and the container is sold.

The container has only made one trip, from the place of origin to the destination where it is resold.

Although used, one-trip containers are treated as new containers.

What are the Categories of Used Containers?

Some of the most common categories of used containers are:

· Cargo Worthy Containers

These are used containers which can still be used for cargo shipping.

They are mostly in good condition and somewhat cheaper than one-trip containers.

· Wind and Watertight (WWT) Containers

These containers have been used for shipping for a period of around 8 to 15 years.

They are much faded than the one-trip containers and they may have rust.

However, they are still wind and water proof.

Also, their floor, interior, locks, and doors are still intact.

· ‘As-Is’ Containers

As the name implies, these types of containers are sold in the condition they are in.

They might be damaged, contain rust, or even have some holes.

These containers are priced with respect to the amount of damage.

Besides, it is not is not compulsory they be wind or water tight.

Can Conex Containers be used for other Purposes Apart from Shipping?

Yes, you can use conex containers for other purposes including the ones listed below.

· Storage

Conex containers are used as storage facilities.

Say you buy a container to ship your cargo, what next after the shipment is delivered?

You can use the container as a storage facility instead of letting it use up your precious space.

However, you can buy a Conex container for the sole purpose of storage.

· Offices, Shops and Residential

Among the most recent uses of Conex containers is as building materials for offices, shops and residential houses.

With the construction industry constantly evolving, Conex containers are being transformed in to remarkable buildings.

Frequently, you may see Conex containers set up and designed into exquisite shops or even offices.

· Emergency Medical Facilities

Mostly located along the road, building emergency medical facilities using regular construction materials beats logic.

Consequently, Conex containers have been used as an affordable alternative to set up emergency medical facilities.

· Innovative Uses

The current world we live in is full of innovations.

Conex containers are also being innovatively used.

Some innovative uses of the containers include construction of swimming pools, eco-bridges, play grounds, and growing spaces like greenhouses or indoor farms.

What Modifications can I make on the Conex Container?

Conex containers can be modified in various ways to suit your needs.

Some common modifications on Conex boxes are:

• Adding doors and windows
• Installing security systems
• Adding a ramp
• Adding interior walls
• Changing the roof and floor
• Adding insulation and lighting

You can also modify the security features by:

• Installing shipping container lock boxes
• Using heavy duty padlocks
• Using steel-made bolts
• Setting up an alarm system
• Installing cross-bar locks

What are Marine Surveyor records?

These are simply the records that will show you how many trips a container, used in water shipping, has made since it was manufactured.

They will also show you the areas the container has frequented.

These records are important when purchasing a used container.

Are there Conex Container Homes?

Conex containers can be used as building materials to make homes.

Containers are considered as affordable construction materials.

Depending on the contractor you hire a simple conex container can be transformed into an exquisite home.

Can you Recommend Conex Storage ideas?

Conex containers are widely used for storage purpose. Some common Conex storage ideas include.

Farms

Farm equipment needs a storage facility.

Moreover, farm produce or harvest has to be stored appropriately.

Conex containers can be modified for these purposes.

Also, the containers are made to withstand adverse weather conditions, which is a plus if you store your farm produce in a Conex container.

You will be sure they will not be affected by the weather.

Warehouses have continued to serve and meet different business storage needs.

However, over the years warehouses have continued to revolutionize and they no longer offer storage services but help in the supply chain of merchandise.

Finding a good warehouse takes time, and one has to consider some various factors for you to find China warehouse that meets your needs.

If you are in China, then the best place to store your cargo would be Guangzhou.

Finding the location is the first step.

However, there are times you may need some guidance while locating a suitable warehouse in Guangzhou.

Are you wondering the steps you ought to take while trying to find a warehouse in Guangzhou China?

Keep on reading to find out.

Benefits Of Owning A Warehouse In Guangzhou China

Are you wondering why Guangzhou is the best place to own a warehouse? Here is a list of benefits you will experience.

1. Proximity To Ports

Guangzhou harbours 300 ports, making it the best place to facilitate the movement of shipments in and out of the city.

As ports are surrounding the area, it enhances the efficiency of handling of shipments.

2. Proximity To Factories

The city is best known for its myriad manufacturing plants.

This factor makes it easy for you to access the suppliers anytime you need a warehouse.

Also, with the many factories in the city, it is relatively easy to consolidate smaller shipments from different suppliers around the city.

3. Storage

Let us say that you have shipments that are yet to arrive for you to consolidate them.

Owning a warehouse is the perfect solution as you will store you other shipments as you wait for the others to arrive.

4. Product Assembly

Owning a warehouse in Guangzhou offers you the chance to conduct a simple product assembly.

This comes in handy for companies that do not have the space to do product assembly.

5. Location To Conduct Quality Check

Owning a warehouse in Guangzhou makes it easy to conduct a quality check of different products.

Having a warehouse provides a central location which improves quality control.

Cost Of Renting A Warehouse in Guangzhou China

The rates range between 5-15 USD.

However, it is vital to recognize that the charges tend to differ as many prevailing factors that influence them.

Factors Determining Cost Of Warehouse In Guangzhou China

Size of the warehouse: If you decide to buy a warehouse measuring 140 square meters, you are likely to pay more than those who buy one that measures 2 square meters.

Amenities available: A few warehouses have amenities in them, such as parking or elevators.

If such amenities are available in the warehouse, you are likely to pay more.

Location of the warehouse: Certain locations offer lower prices compared to others. For example, most warehouses in Pangyu district tend to be cheaper compared to other districts.

When To Own A Warehouse In Guangzhou China?

If you have goods in Guangzhou, then it is best to buy a warehouse in the same location.

Ways To Find Warehouse In Guangzhou China

There are various methods you could make use of to help you find a warehouse in Guangzhou China.

Here are some of the practices you can use:

1) Use Guangzhou Freight Forwarder To Find A Warehouse In Guangzhou China

A freight forwarder is a bureau that helps organize the shipments is safely from the manufacturer to the final point of distribution.

Licensed freight forwarders might help you find a warehouse, especially if your goods landed in a foreign country.

Therefore, if you are a foreigner using a freight forwarder is the best option to help you find a warehouse in Guangzhou.

Benefits Of Using A Freight Forwarder 

1. Freight forwarders are quite knowledgeable in matters to do with the supply chain.

This factor makes them the best to use when trying to find a warehouse in Guangzhou.

Their knowledge will come in handy as they know which warehouse is best for your cargo.

2. Handle unforeseen issues- It is not easy finding a warehouse by yourself.

There are few unforeseen issues you might come across while locating a suitable warehouse for your cargo.

Instead of handling the issues by yourself, a freight forwarder will come in handy and handle the issues.

3. Negotiable prices- The astonishing thing about freight forwarders is that you can quickly negotiate their prices.

This element makes it easy for you to find a freight forwarder that suits your budget.

4. Contract free- By using a freight forwarder, you are confident that you will not be tied down to a contract.

Disadvantages Of Using A Freight Forwarder

1. Although the freight forwarder’s prices are negotiable, the charges will increase your overall cost of shipment.
2. Finding a reliable freight forwarder you can trust and rely on tends to take time.

2) Using the Internet To Find A Warehouse In Guangzhou China

The internet is a global network that has made it easier for people to locate different things.

One of them being a warehouse in Guangzhou.

The only thing you need while using the internet to locate a warehouse is a functioning laptop or smartphone and WiFI and you good to go.

Benefits Of Using Internet

1. You can make it happen at the comfort of your home- The benefit of using the internet to find a warehouse in Guangzhou is that you do not have to leave your house for you to find a warehouse.
2. It is an inexpensive method to use- Using the internet does not cost you much.

This is the best method to use if you do not have funds to pay a third-party to help you locate a warehouse in Guangzhou.

3. There is a visual representation on the internet- Most warehouse owners tend to share photos of how the warehouse looks.

This, in turn, gives you an excellent visual representation of what you will be buying.

4. Filter mode- While using the internet, you do not have to go through all the pages while choosing a warehouse.

This is because you can easily filter out some of the pages that suit your needs. This helps to save time.

Disadvantages Of Using The Internet

1. There are times when the photos shared on the website do not reflect the actual locality or description of the Guangzhou warehouse.
2. It is easy to get duped while using the internet. Before buying the internet, ensure that you buy the warehouse from a reputable supplier.

3) Let China Sourcing Agent Help You Find A Warehouse In Guangzhou China

A sourcing agent is a professional or a firm that helps their client locate products or services at a low price.

A sourcing agent can come in handy when trying to find a warehouse in Guangzhou.

A professional sourcing agent acts as a middleman who invests in their time for you to find the best warehouse in Guangzhou China.

Benefits Of Using A China Sourcing Agent

1. Acts as a local representative- Once you hire a sourcing agent from China, they will represent you in business matters such as finding a warehouse.

Also, the professional will make sure that you obtain the best deal.

2. It is hard for you to get duped while using a sourcing agent.

It will be of benefit having a sourcing agent close to Guangzhou as it will be easy for them to identify a reputable warehouse supplier.

3. Value for your money- By using a sourcing agent, you necessarily do not have to travel to Guangzhou while trying to locate a warehouse.
4. Easy communication- It can be quite challenging trying to cut a deal with a person who does not talk your local language or is not conversant with English.

This is where a sourcing agent comes in and helps ease communication.

Disadvantages Of Using A Sourcing Agent

1. Lose direct communication with the warehouse owner- While using a sourcing agent, you will not directly communicate with the owner.

Hence if you have any issue with the warehouse, you can only communicate with them through the sourcing agent.

2. Cost- Sadly, the sourcing agent does not come cheap. Hence you ought to be prepared to spend some few bucks for you to find a reputable one.

4) Visit Guangzhou To Find A Warehouse

The other option you can use while finding a warehouse is by visiting Guangzhou and doing it yourself.

Benefits Of Visiting Guangzhou To Find A Warehouse

1. By visiting Guangzhou, you have the opportunity to filter out warehouses that do not meet your needs.

You’ll definitely wind up choosing a warehouse that you love.

2. You will have the opportunity to review the facility and see if it meets your standards.

This will offer you a visual representation of what to expect when you buy the warehouse.

3. Visiting Guangzhou will help you create a relationship between you and the warehouse owner.

Disadvantages Of Visiting Guangzhou To Find A Warehouse

1. It is quite expensive. This is particularly true, especially if you are a foreigner. This is because while travelling you will have to consider the travelling cost and the accommodation cost.
2. Time consuming- You are likely to waste a lot of time visiting Guangzhou to find a warehouse.

For the reason that it is not predictable to foretell when you might find a warehouse.

If you are in a rush to find a warehouse using a third-party might be the best option.

3. It is strenuous. It is quite tiresome moving from one city to another, trying to find a warehouse.

Language barrier issues- If you are a foreigner, it will be challenging to find the warehouse all by yourself.

This is specifically true if the owner you are dealing with is not conversant with your local language or English.

• Product Manufacturers Or Suppliers In China To Help You Find A Warehouse In Guangzhou China

A product manufacturer is a registered company or person who produces a finished product.

A supplier is a licensed person or company that provides services or products to other entities.

You can use the product manufacturer or supplier to help them find a warehouse.

Most of these manufacturers and suppliers are often well connected, and they can be of help while finding a warehouse.

This is because there are times the manufacturer or supplier might need a warehouse to store their supplies.

Benefits Of Using A Manufacturer Or Supplier

1. If you have a good relationship with the manufacturer or supplier, you may end up not paying for the service.

This is because there are suppliers who might willingly help you out without charging you.

2. It will not take long to find a warehouse.

For the reason that most manufacturers or suppliers have a deep network with other business owners.

It will be easy for them to recommend you a good warehouse.

3. Having a good relationship with a supplier or a product manufacturer will be of help while they are finding a warehouse.

The relationship will make it easy for them to identify a suitable warehouse for you as they understand your business needs.

Disadvantages Of Using A Product Manufacturer Or A Supplier

1. In a case where there is no contract involved and you are not paying the product manufacturer or supplier to find you a warehouse, the professional might not hastily look for the warehouse.
2. It is not easy to foretell when the product manufacturer or supplier will find you the warehouse in Guangzhou.

List Of Warehouse For Lease In Guangzhou

At Tj chinafreight, we offer warehouse in Guangzhou.

The best part – our Guangzhou warehouse services are free.

However, in case you don’t want to use our warehouses, Tj chinafreight team will help you find alternative warehouses in Guangzhou.

The list contains a list of warehouses available for lease in Guangzhou.

They include but are not limited to:

1. Warehouse available for lease in Guangzhou Shenzhen Shanghai
2. ESS Storage service available for lease in Ningbo Guangzhou
3. Storage warehouse and e-commerce fulfillment consolidate service in Shenzhen Guangzhou Foshan
4. Prefabricated warehouse In Guangzhou
5. Bonded warehouse in Guangzhou

Necessary Requirements To Own Or Rent A Warehouse In Guangzhou

There is a checklist you can make use of before you decide to own or rent a warehouse in Guangzhou.

The list includes:

1. One requirement you ought to know before owning a warehouse in Guangzhou is assessing how long your rental agreement will be.

Always ensure that you ask if the agreement has any break options.

2. Ensure that you know if your lease agreement will be outside or inside the Tenant Act.
3. Know the rent and do not forget to ask if the amount changes in future.
4. The other requirement is to have a good understanding of the space you are renting.
5. Inquire if the warehouse has any amenities, you could take advantage such as parking lots.

How Warehouse In Guangzhou Compares To China Fulfillment Center Location Of Guangzhou Warehouse

The term warehouse and fulfilment centre are often interchangeably used while talking about supply chain and logistics.

A fulfillment centre is a physical location from which a fulfillment provider completes their orders for e-commerce retailers.

A warehouse, on the flip side, is a building used to store goods.

This is how the two compare – the products in the warehouse are simply stored as they are intended to be used later.

Whereas fulfillment centres tend to house or store the products briefly, pack them, and deliver them to clients in a timely manner.

Therefore, warehouses in Guangzhou are simply used to store inventory whereas China’s fulfillment centre helps improve the customer experience during the ordering and delivery process.

In Guangzhou, Warehouses are best known to serve B2B customers.

Whereas Guangzhou China’s fulfillment centre tends to serve e-commerce businesses and B2C.

In Guangzhou, Warehouses can store inventory for several months or up to a year.

However, fulfillment centres in China can only store the inventory for not more than two months.

Safety And Security Measures In Guangzhou Warehouses

It may appear oblivious to some employees about safety and security measures set in warehouses in Guangzhou.

This is why it is imperative to nudge employees about the safety and security measures to avoid injuries or fatality cases.

This parallel logic ought to apply to the warehouse’s security measures.

The warehouses’ security systems ought to be updated to ensure the goods in the warehouse are safe.

Safety Measures In Guangzhou Warehouses

Given the nature of warehouses in Guangzhou, various activities could put the employees in harm’s way.

The common hazards in a warehouse include docks, forklifts, material storage, and hazardous chemicals.

· Forklifts

In case the employees are using forklifts to lift heavy materials, the employee must have undergone training before they use the forklift.

· Docks

When using forklifts on the docks, the employee is required to be careful.

For the reason that many accidents happen such as forklifts falling from docks.

If this happens, it may injure the driver, damage the forklift, and injure anyone around the area.

Therefore, to ensure that everyone is safe, the employees should drive the forklifts at a slow speed and never go in reverse.

· Material Storage

If materials are incorrectly stored, they could easily fall and injure anyone who is nearby.

Therefore, the employees are required to store the materials evenly and position the bulky goods in lower distances.

· Hazardous Chemicals

Warehouses that deal with hazardous chemicals need to have a Safety Data Sheet.

This document contains information about the hazardous chemicals, how to handle the chemicals, and first-aid guidelines.

· Security Measures 

Warehouses in Guangzhou ought to have secure security systems.

Warehouses tend to store materials, and the client entrusts the warehouse owner that their shipments are safe.

Here are some of the security measures warehouses in Guangzhou look out for:

· Security System

A good warehouse ought to have surveilling cameras that help warehouse operators view the warehouse from all possible angles.

Also having 24/7 surveillance will keep the clients at ease.

· Fencing

Fencing is considered the simplest form of protection; however, this does not mean that this form is of no importance.

This is because this method provides an extra layer of protection.

Fences, however, need to be continuously inspected as fences can be easily compromised.

· Employees

Employees who can quickly sense when something is wrong.

This benefit warehouses as they can help prevent security bridge.

Also, make sure that you do a thorough background on the new employees.

Features To Look For When Renting Warehouse In Guangzhou China

There are a few features you ought to look for before renting a warehouse in Guangzhou China. Here are some of them:

1. Ceiling height

Before renting a warehouse in Guangzhou China, it is ideal that you check on the ceiling height.

This will be of benefit, specifically if you need to stack your products or that your products are large or tall.

2. Floor load limitations

In case your goods are bulky, it is best to inquire about the kind of weight the floor can handle without being damaged.

3. Accessibility

It must be simple for you to access your goods once you rent a warehouse in Guangzhou.

4. Climate

Check to see if heat or cold can affect your goods.

It can be quite frustrating if you end up to lose your product due to the warehouse’s climate.

If the warehouse’s humidity will affect your product, ensure that you use a warehouse with a functioning HVAC system.

5. Size Of The Warehouse

The one element you ought not to assume is the size of the warehouse.

You need to rent out a room that fits your product.

It can be annoying if the room you rent out does not fit your product or one that fits your products but leaves out space.

It is best to rent a space that you only need.

How Warehouses In Guangzhou China Handle Goods Damaged during Storage

Suppose the goods get damaged in the warehouse.

The liability is usually dependent on the lease agreement between the Guangzhou warehouse owner and the client.

In some instances, the liability falls on the owner, whereas there are times it falls on the client or both parties.

If the evaluation suggests that the warehouse owner is liable, the owner will cover every damage as we have insurance on every warehouse product.

Limitation Of Having Warehouse In Guangzhou

The only limitation of having a warehouse in Guangzhou is that it is not at the centre of China.

Nonetheless, the good thing is that you can easily access anything from the city.

So, it’s location is not a big limitation.

How To Find Cheapest Warehouse In Guangzhou

Tj chinafreight can easily help you find an affordable warehouse.

Besides, we offer free warehousing services.

One strategy you can use to help you find a cheap warehouse in Guangzhou is by searching online on the available directories.

It is actually an easy and reliable strategy to use because you can go through the price listings.

The other method you can use to help you find cheap warehouses in Guangzhou is through referrals.

You could ask your friends or traders to refer you to a cheap warehouse in Guangzhou.

Trade partners know cheap options in the market; it will be of help asking for contacts from them.

Attending trade affairs within Guangzhou can also help you find a cheap warehouse.

During the trade affairs, the owners advertise their warehouse.

This allows you to compare the rates and pick one that seems suitable for your financial status.

The last method you could use is making use of export or import agents.

This kind of agent tends to have a good rapport with various warehouse owners in Guangzhou.

You could contact the agent and ask them to direct you to a cheap warehouse in Guangzhou.

Ways Of Tracking Goods Or Cargo In Guangzhou China

There are several methods warehouse owners tend to make use to track the cargo in Guangzhou China.

They include the following:

1. Making use of Movable and Fixed Tracking Alternatives

Using a fixed option involves making use of software that track activities going on in the warehouse.

This option allows you to manage destinations with utmost proficiency.

While using movable options makes it easy for you to see where the goods are positioned.

This option helps identify if the product is ready for shipping and how you will access it.

Furthermore, if you want more optimum results, you can mix both movable and fixed tracking methods.

2. Cloud Integration

As a warehouse owner, you have the option to integrate the cloud to your warehouse.

This option helps to tie all operational areas of Guangzhou warehouse while it progressively expands.

Cloud integration helps streamline the warehouse shipping tracking without having to come to the warehouse physically.

3. Bar Coding Scanning

This tracking option involves making use of radio frequency software.

Also, this option also helps the owner monitor the activities in the warehouse without remotely being there.

Bar code scanning will help you know the number of goods leaving and coming in the warehouse, the storage space available and the storage duration.

It also comes in handy when you need to track deliveries for clients without necessarily going to the warehouse.

Best Warehouse Management System To Use In Guangzhou China

A warehouse management system is a software that helps improve visibility of the warehouse’s entire inventory.

The software also helps manage supply chain operations.

Most warehouses in Guangzhou China tend to use warehouse management software because they help boost employee morale.

WMS helps in providing structure in the warehouse.

The best warehouse management system is Logiwa WMS which helps manage the operations.

Benefits Of E-commerce Consolidation Warehouse In Guangzhou China

The main reason why the e-commerce consolidation warehouse in Guangzhou China is used is that the e-commerce dealers use warehouses to fulfill customer’s orders.

Making use of E-commerce consolidation warehouse helps improve quality control of various products.

Also making use of E-commerce consolidation warehouse helps in cut cost.

How To Ship From Guangzhou Warehouse To Amazon FBA

It is relatively easy to ship from Guangzhou warehouse to Amazon FBA. All you have to do is follow the following steps.

1. Create an Amazon FBA Account

Create an Amazon account as it will help you have the chance to access it anytime you want.

While creating the account ensure that you provide the vital details needed to create the account.

2. Set the Quantity

During this step, you ought to specify the amount of quantity in the inventory you wish to send from your Guangzhou warehouse to Amazon FBA.

3. Prepare the Commodities

Before shipping out the products to Amazon FBA, it is best to ensure that the goods fit the set standards set by Amazon.

You could make use of Amazon to label your goods although at a fee.

4. Label The Products

Amazon requires all its FBA products to have a label on them and that their labels ought to meet the Amazon standards.

The labels ought to have bar codes in them as it will make it easy to track the products.

5. Review and Prepare the Shipment

Ensure that the shipment details are accurate.

Once this is done, prepare the shipment by scheduling the shipment, picking the right carrier, and printing the box labels.

Once you send in the shipment, you will get a notification and Amazon will cater the rest.

Extra Services Warehouse In Guangzhou China Offer

There is a few extra services warehouse in Guangzhou offer.

They include

• Labeling of the products
• Packing
• Quality inspection of the products
• Repackaging of the products
• Tracking of service
• Sorting service

Size Of Warehouses In Guangzhou China

There are a variety of warehouse sizes in Guangzhou.

The size range from two square meters to 132 meters.

While choosing the warehouse’s size, all you need to do is assess the size of the product as it will help you know the kind of space you need.

Working Hours For Warehouse In Guangzhou China

The warehouse is usually open during all business days.

However, during holidays the warehouse is often closed.

Although upon prior request, the warehouse could remain open during holidays.

Storage Options In Guangzhou Warehouse

Here are some of the storage options available in Guangzhou warehouse:

• Static shelving- this storage mechanism is designed to ensure that everything stays in place.
• Mobile shelving- this kind of storage option offers a more flexible solution.
• Pallet racking- this kind of storage option is usually used for the busiest and largest warehouses.
• Multi-tier racking- this kind of storage option is best suited for vertical space.
• Mezzanine flooring- This kind of storage option is best if you wish to save some space and that you are working on a budget.
• Wire partitions- this kind of storage is easy to tear down. It offers flexibility.

How To Consolidate Goods From Alibaba Supplier In Guangzhou Warehouse

In most cases, most consumers buy small quantities of products from Alibaba.

It is relatively easy to consolidate goods from Alibaba Supplier in Guangzhou warehouse; all you need is the consignee details.

Anytime a supplier brings in different products, it only makes sense if they are consolidated for each client.

Consolidation of goods from Alibaba is essential because it guarantees the reliability and quality of the order.

Determine In-house Loading And Off Loading Capability In Guangzhou Warehouse

It is essential to understand that the in-house loading and offloading capabilities often depend on the Guangzhou warehouse you are with.

There are a few small warehouses that tend to hire offloading and loading resources.

This is because such services are only available when a project is going on.

However, there are warehouses in Guangzhou that have an established offloading and in-house loading resources.

This kind of service includes having personnel do this kind of work and having offloading and loading machinery.

This kind of resources is often available in major warehouses in Guangzhou.

Size Of Cargo To Store In Guangzhou Warehouse

There is no specific size of cargo to store in Guangzhou warehouse.

This is because different sizes of warehouses can harbour different sizes of cargo.

The floor’s strength will also influence the kind of cargo it can hold without damaging.

Documents You Need To Rent Warehouse In Guangzhou China

You need to have a few documents when you wish to rent or own a warehouse in Guangzhou.

Here are some of them:

Packaging List

This document contains information about your cargo.

The information includes the quantity and weight of the cargo.

It is vital to have a packaging list because it proves that the Guangzhou warehouse received the cargo.

Commercial Invoice

The document outlines goods sold and the price at which you sold them.

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In this guide, I will show you how to buy from Taobao.

It covers everything, from signing up for account, choosing product, making payments, comparing Taobao with Alibaba, reviewing sellers, and many more.

So before you buy from Taobao, read this guide.

How does Taobao compare to Alibaba?

Taobao and Alibaba are both e-commerce platforms owned by the Alibaba Group that you find useful in online shopping activities.

With Taobao, you have a unilingual online store dedicated to Chinese-speaking populations.

Taobao allows inter-consumer trade enabling you to purchase from enterprises with small footprints, including individual sellers.

You can also start your store in Taobao and sell to other consumers.

While Alibaba is similar in activity to Taobao, you find the nature of the commercial activity is business to business.

As a supplier, you can establish a connection with producers of various products on Alibaba.

Is there a Difference Between Taobao and AliExpress?

AliExpress, like Taobao, is a prominent online marketplace that connects buyers and sellers alike.

However, there are many differences you observe between AliExpress and Taobao that influence their use.

Some of the main differences you find between Taobao and AliExpress are as follows:

• You have the options of many languages when using AliExpress allowing wide usage across the globe.

Consequently, you can easily access products on AliExpress from almost anywhere in the world.

On the other hand, Taobao is only available in the Chinese language restricting use to Chinese-speaking populations.

Therefore, you find this market to be limited to reach in terms of area of coverage.

• When using AliExpress, you have a comprehensive option of payment modes that are internationally accessible such as PayPal.

However, Taobao limits your payment options with PayPal not supported while having a complicated registration process for payment using Alipay.

• While both platforms boast many product offerings, you find a significant difference in their sales volume.

Despite the broader coverage of AliExpress, Taobao records higher sales than AliExpress, ranging in the millions.

• There is a significant price differential for the many products on AliExpress and Taobao. You can credit the higher sales recorded by Taobao to their lower prices for similar product offerings on AliExpress.
• When you order from Taobao and AliExpress simultaneously, you can expect your Taobao order sooner.

You find these short delivery times make Taobao a more popular platform compared to AliExpress.

• You can view pictures of the product you intend to purchase in the product details section on Taobao.

AliExpress lacks product illustrations in the form of photos, and your knowledge of the product is all you have.

• You confirm your product’s quality on Taobao by examining for a sticker that ascertains it is tested.

Consequently, you are assured of procuring quality products on Taobao.

AliExpress lacks informative quality stickers you can use to evaluate the authenticity of products.

Accordingly, the chances of you obtaining low quality and even product imitations on the platform are high.

• You can contact customer care agents at any time of day on the Taobao platform. Subsequently, you can make inquiries and obtain relevant information concerning a product you are interested in.
• While Taobao prices are relatively lower, the transactional costs charged on you as a foreigner are relatively high.

For instance, you pay for shipping separately from the product price when buying from Taobao in another country.

• You get free shipping when making select purchases from AliExpress, saving you extra shipping costs.

However, you observe the integration of Taobao shipping with products sourced from different manufacturers transported together.

Is Buying from Taobao Better than 1688.com?

1688.com is an e-commerce platform where you can purchase various products at relatively low prices than many other online retailers.

You realize that the parent company of 1688.com is Alibaba Group, which is also the owner of Taobao.

You cannot make a fair comparison between buying from Taobao and 1688.com due to their business approach difference.

You find the following points of difference between Taobao and 1688.com that distinguish their activities:

The Business Model

While both Taobao and 1688.com are online retail platforms, their business models mainly contrast.

You note that 1688.com seeks to link businesses to other businesses in a B2B model.

On the other hand, the business model you find used in Taobao is C2C, which links customers with each other.

You refer to the business as C2C due to the persons transacting on the platform, whether buying or selling, being individuals.

Method of Sales

The method of sale refers to the approach you use to disburse goods as the subject of a transaction.

You can only make bulk orders on 1688.com, making it the go-to platform for commercial buyers and wholesalers.

Alternately, you can make unit purchases on Taobao, thus giving it a retail characteristic.

Subsequently, you don’t have to make wholesale purchases on Taobao as with 1688.com.

Pricing

The prices you get charged on goods in 1688.com are much lower than those for similar products on Taobao.

Since you make purchases on 1688.com in wholesale, you find their unit prices lower than Taobao.

Furthermore, many sellers in Taobao purchase their products from 1688.com to resale them to individual customers.

Buying from 1688.com allows you to avoid paying the extra charge in profit for sellers on Taobao products.

Do you need Taobao Agent to buy from China?

When buying from Taobao, you can directly or use an agent to purchase on your behalf.

Consequently, you don’t need an agent to make purchases from Taobao if you can do it yourself.

However, using an agent can be advantageous, especially when you are new and not a resident of China.

The following are some of the reasons that will make you need an agent in Taobao:

1. Language Barrier

The Taobao e-commerce platform is provided in Chinese, restricting navigation when you do not understand the language.

Therefore, using an agent helps you avoid the difficulties in interpreting the information on the site.

Additionally, without a good command of the language, interacting with the sellers is difficult.

Many Taobao sellers have low or no knowledge of other widely spoken foreign languages such as English.

2. Payment

When buying on Taobao as a foreigner, you need to use Alipay as your mode of payment.

However, registering for Alipay when out of China is agonizing with a complicated verification process.

3. Quality Concerns

On the Taobao platform, you can find virtually any possible good you can think of.

Therefore, the chances of imitates and low-quality goods to exist within the high count product catalog is high.

When purchasing on online retail platforms, you may need to return a good for various reasons.

However, returning a good as a foreigner is bound to be problematic instead of when you use an agent.

4. Shipping Costs

When you directly purchase an item from Taobao as a foreigner, it has to be shipped to you.

Usually, you cover the cost of shipping to your location, which is ideally not cheap.

However, when you employ a Taobao agent, the cost of shipping reduces as agents typically consolidate shipping.

Consolidation saves you money as the agents will ship your item alongside those from other sellers destined for your location.

Should you Buy Directly from Taobao or use Taobao Agent?

The decision to buy directly from Taobao or employ an agent is dependent on two main factors.

Your location and understanding of Chinese have the most influence on whether you need an agent.

However, if you score unfavorably on the location and language markers, it is wise to use a Taobao agent.

You benefit from the knowledge of Taobao agents of the local sellers and consolidated shipping, which reduces your costs.

Some of the advantages you derive from employing a Taobao agent are as follows:

• A Taobao agent makes orders for you.
• Due to their command of the Chinese language, communication between the Taobao agent and the sellers is more effective.
• Your item’s quality is assured when using a Taobao agent.
• You can use a wide range of internationally accepted payment methods when you engage Taobao agents.
• Consolidated shipping employed by Taobao agents earns you savings on shipping costs you’d incur individually.
• Taobao agents offer you storage in their warehouses at no extra cost before shipping your product.
• Additionally, when you use Taobao agents, you can get your products shipped through various modes.
• The taxes you’re liable to when using a Taobao agent are lower than those you’d directly incur.
• You can quickly address any complaints, returns, exchanges, and refunds when you employ a Taobao agent.

Is there Taobao English App for Shopping?

You find the Taobao platform is only available in the Chinese language.

Consequently, you need an understanding of Chinese to navigate the Taobao online marketplace effectively.

An English version of Taobao is not provided, making it difficult for customers whose only language is English to shop.

However, employing Taobao agents to make purchases on your behalf, simplifies the process.

You can attempt to translate the information on the Taobao page into English using Google Chrome.

However, you can encounter some inaccuracies that can distort the information displayed, resulting in error-prone decisions.

How do you Buy from Taobao?

Before purchasing on Taobao, there are steps you need to follow to make your transaction successful.

These steps include:

1) Translating Taobao to English

The Taobao e-commerce platform is provided in Chinese with no options for other languages.

If you have a poor command of the language, you can translate the page to English using Google Chrome.

2) Registration and Login

You have to register an account with Taobao to shop through their vast product catalog.

Usually, you will find the login area on the page’s right, which you can fill in English.

For the username and password, you can use English characters without having to change them into Chinese.

You also input a phone number to which you’ll receive a message with a code for verification.

Upon confirmation of the code, you successfully log in, ready to browse through the many product ranges available on the platform.

3) Product Search

When you are logged in on the Taobao platform, you can access thousands of products made available by various sellers.

You can easily navigate through the several products available by browsing by category.

Categories are classifications that lump the products into distinct groupings such as electronics, clothing, and kitchenware.

The Taobao platform has many categories that will help you quickly identify the product you need.

You can also use the search bar at the top of the page to find a desired product or item.

You can search for an item in English or translate your desired item to Chinese before inputting it in the search bar.

Additionally, you can carry out an image search using the camera image to upload your item’s picture.

When searching by image, you select the image of the item you want in the dialogue box that shows up.

You can make comparisons between similar items from different sellers to identify the item with the least price.

Guiding your mouse over the image allows you to view other offers available for the product.

4) Choosing Products

When you search for products, you are provided with a list of products bearing similarities to your search.

Therefore, you have to select the particular item you desire from the list of hits you receive from your search.

5) Checking Customer Reviews and Seller Ratings

When purchasing a product, you can always establish customers’ experiences with the product from their reviews.

Customer reviews help you ascertain the product’s usefulness and quality from people who’ve already bought the product.

When buyers make purchases from a seller, they can rate the seller depending on their perceived product and service.

You find seller ratings are made from one to five, one being the lowest and five the highest.

6) Check-out

After completing your shopping, carting all the items you wanted, you have to check out to complete the transaction.

For you to complete your shopping process on Taobao, you have to cross out the following steps:

• Provide a shipping address.
• Identify the items you’d like to pay for.
• Address confirmation and shipping method selection.

7) Add Shipping

Shipping is essential for you to receive your product purchase, and Taobao requires you to select a shipping method.

You have the choice between direct or consolidated shipping, with some sellers limiting your option by offering only consolidated shipping.

With direct shipping, your package is directly sent to you from the warehouse in mainland China.

You pay for the product and shipping in a one-off payment and is preferred when buying from a single seller.

Consolidated shipping packs up your purchases in a single parcel before being delivered to you via a warehouse.

You pay an extra charge for the new package containing all your products based on the weight.

Consolidated shipping is an ideal choice when you make multiple purchases from Taobao but different sellers.

Otherwise, you will have to separately pay shipping for each package, making it a costly venture.

8) Making a Payment

Upon confirmation of the shipping details, you need to finalize your purchase by making your payment.

Alipay is used as the payment mode on Taobao, requiring you to provide a password for first-time use.

You also have the option of using bank cards, including debit and credit cards, alongside online transfer avenues.

Using transfer services attracts an additional fee of 1.5 %, which is incurred to complete the transaction.

Why should you Shop on Tmall?

Tmall is an online platform you find tailored for consumers in China to shop products from recognized and major brands.

You have a broad offering of branded goods available from both local and international companies.

You will find products on Tmall that are unavailable in the other conventional retail outlets.

Major brands also use Tmall to reach customers in areas where they have no physical presence.

Since only branded items are traded on Tmall, you find the customer base to consist of high-end clientele.

Therefore, when you get a store on Tmall, you attain a verified and enviable position in the retail market.

There are several reasons for deciding to shop on Tmall easier for you.

They include:

• When you make purchases on Tmall, it is from legitimate and verified businesses with a considerable market presence.

Therefore, you are less likely to receive low quality and undesirable products when you make a buy.

• The purchase process on Tmall is similar to Taobao, making it easier for you to make a purchase.

You use the Alipay payment system on Tmall just like on Taobao, and you don’t have to register a new account.

• The tools of analysis used in Tmall are remarkable, allowing you as a trader to make a comparative analysis with competitors.

How do you use the Taobao Keyword Product Guide?

The Taobao keyword product guide allows you to make a purchase even without knowledge of Chinese easily.

You use these keywords to filter items in various categories helping you identify your desired product.

Common keywords you can use on Taobao for products include:

1. Sports Gear and Athletic Equipment

Ankle Guard                                        运动护踝

Knee Guar                                           运动护膝

Dry Fit Long Sleeved Tops                   速干长袖衣

Dry Fit Sleeveless Tops                       速干背心

Dry Fit Socks                                        袜子

Dry Fit T-Shirt                                      速干运动T恤

Sports Bra                                           运动胸罩

Sports Shoes                                        运动鞋

Sports Jacket                                       运动外套

Sports Hooded Jacket                          运动连帽衫

Sweatpants                                          运动裤

Tights                                                  运动紧身裤

Yoga Mat                                            瑜伽垫

Yoga Pants                                          瑜伽裤

2. Men’s Clothing

Since clothing pieces can be similar for both genders, you have to add the for men character [男]for specification purposes.

Other keywords include:

Short Sleeved                                      短袖

Long Sleeved                                       长袖

T-Shirt                                                   T恤

Casual Shirt                                         休闲衣

Polo Shirt                                             POLO衫

Dress Shirt                                           衬衫

Suit                                                      西装

Suit or Formal Pants                         西裤

Suit or Formal Jacket                      西装外套

Belt                                                      腰带

Shorts                                                  短裤

Long Pants                                           长裤

Jeans                                                   牛仔裤

Leather Shoes                                    皮鞋

Sneakers                                              休闲鞋

3. Women’s Clothing

Like with menswear, you have to indicate that you are searching for women’s clothing using the search word [女装].

Other keywords are:

European/American Style                   欧美风

Korean Style                                        韩版

Japanese Style                                     式风格

High Waisted                                      高腰

V-Neck                                                 V领

Round Neck                                         圆领

Off Shoulder                                        一字领露肩

Oversized                                            大码

Vintage                                                复古

Top                                                      上衣

Dress                                                   连衣裙

Skirt                                                     半身裙

Overcoat                                             大衣外套

(Low/ Medium/ High) Heeled Shoes (低/ 中/ 高)跟鞋

White Sneakers                                   小白鞋

Flats                                                     平底鞋

4. Home Supplies and Equipment

Furniture                                             家具

Home Deco                                         家居用品

Nordic Minimalist                               北欧简约

Modern Minimalist     &nbs

Shipping container homes are special types of architecture that uses intermodal shipping containers to make homes that you can reside in.

In this guide, you will learn more about the shipping container homes and why they are more ecofriendly among other details.

Well, without further ado, let us dive right in.

Benefits of Shipping Container Homes

You will have an easy time when you consider to stay or transform a shipping container into a home.

This is because of the numerous benefits that come with the shipping container homes.

Here are the main advantages that you will enjoy with the shipping container homes.

· Eco- Friendly Option

Shipping container homes are the most environmentally friendly type of homes that you can ever have.

You will simply recycle shipping container homes and avoid manipulating the environment for the purpose of retrieving construction materials.

· High Durability Periods

As soon as you have container homes, you should rest easy as they will serve you for at least 25 years.

With proper maintenance of the shipping container homes, you can use it for more than 25 years of your life.

· Easy to Customize

You can easily modify and customize your shipping container into the type of home that you want to reside in.

It has a simple shape and easy to modify materials that you can manipulate to make your shipping container home.

· Provides Modular Elements

Shipping containers have constant width and two standard length and height measurements which you can easily combine to make large structures.

You will spend less and simplify the work of designing, planning and transporting the materials for the shipping container homes.

· Low Cost of Labor

You will spend less in hiring cutting and welding labor despite the fact that they are specialized forms of labor.

All you have to do is hire welding and cutting equipment and an expert who will proceed with fabrication process.

· Easily Available

You can easily find the shipping container homes at various points for the construction of shipping container homes.

Shipping is a wide spread business that distributes shipping containers thus making it easy to access shipping containers.

· Exhibits Great Strength

You will also enjoy a sense of security within the shipping container homes as the steel materials are very strong.

It will protect you from the adverse effects of the weather as the materials can withstand constant manipulating pressure.

Limitations of Shipping Container Homes

Despite the numerous benefits of using shipping container homes, you might experience some limitations.

Here are some of the disadvantages that you might come across while using the shipping container homes.

· Requires Excessive Insulation

You must insulate your shipping container homes well especially in areas that experience very high temperature conditions.

To avoid suffocating from excess heat conducted through the steel, you will have to spend more in the insulation process.

· Lack of Proper Flexibility

You might also experience difficulty in constricting spaces that are different from the default sizes of the shipping containers.

Implying that, you will spend quite a lot of resources such as time and money to manipulate the shipping containers.

· High Humidity Levels

You will experience high levels of humidity within the shipping container homes since it conducts a lot of heat.

Fluctuating heat levels will lead to condensation of water which will jeopardize the shipping container steel to corrode.

· Building Permits

You might go through a hard time obtaining the building permits from the municipal for construction of shipping container homes.

Despite the fact that it is a common practice in industrial settings, you might find difficulty in getting residential construction permits.

· Roof Weakness

You might need to reinforce the roof on your shipping container home because it is not as strong as other parts.

Reinforcement of the roof will cost you a lot more thus increasing the overall cost of having a shipping container home.

Safety Features of Shipping Container Homes

Just like your conventional home, you will experience great levels of safety and security within the shipping container homes.

You can maintain the original container structure and still enjoy very high levels of safety and security.

Here are some of the safety features of the shipping container home.

· Tough Materials

Shipping container homes have very tough steel materials that will protect you from destructive elements of weather.

Apart from that, the tough steel materials are not easy to penetrate thus ensuring you are safe from burglary.

· Lock Systems

You can maintain the original lock systems on the shipping containers or modify them to increase safety.

With the lock systems in place, you can install windows and doors at strategic places on the shipping container and stay safe.

· Proper Insulation Features

You should also consider having proper insulation features on the shipping container homes since they are heat magnets.

With the insulation features in place, you can spend time inside your shipping container home even under hot temperatures.

Despite the safety features of shipping container homes, you must also consider the safety hazards.

You might have used containers that may have chemical spillage all over the container thus making them health hazards.

Available Sizes of Shipping Container Homes

There are quite a number of shipping container homes that you can easily choose from.

You can modify the shipping container home sizes by joining different types of shipping containers together.

Despite that freedom, the original sizes of shipping container homes coincide with the sizes of shipping containers.

Here are the main sizes of shipping container homes that you can consider having.

· 20 ft Shipping Container Homes

You can decide to have a shipping container home out of the 20 ft. shipping containers.

Here are the sizes or dimensions that you will on the 20 ft. shipping container home.

 

· 40 ft. Shipping Containers

Apart from the 20 ft. shipping container home, you can also decide on a bigger shipping container home.

Here are the dimensions that you will have on the 40 ft. shipping container home.

 

· 40 ft. High Cube Shipping Container Homes

You can opt to have you shipping container home made from the high cube shipping containers.

Here are the main dimensions of the high cube shipping containers you should have a look at.

 

· 45 ft. High Cube Shipping Container Homes

Apart from the 40 ft. high cube shipping container, you can opt for the 45 ft. high cube shipping containers.

Here are the dimensions of the 45 ft. high cube shipping containers homes that you can opt for.

 

You should note that there are other bigger sizes of shipping container homes that you can opt for.

We have the 53 ft. and 60 ft. shipping container homes that are quite rare due to their scarcity as well as high cost.

Apart from that, you must also note that the interior dimensions of the shipping container homes might change.

You will have to install plumbing, insulation, and even wiring among other amenities which might consume a lot of space.

Parts of Shipping Container Homes

Well, just like any other home, shipping container homes also have various parts that make them a habitable home.

Here are the main parts of the shipping container homes that you should have a look at.

· Roof of Shipping Container

The roof is the upper part of the shipping container that protects you from falling objects such as rain and sun rays.

It also acts as the main part of the shipping container home that will make the foundation for the upper floor.

· Insulation Amenities

You must also have the insulation amenities on the shipping containers to help in maintaining proper heat conditions.

There are different types of insulations that you can have on the shipping container homes to increase comfort levels.

· Home Amenities

Your shipping container home must also have the home amenities such as plumbing, wiring and lighting amenities.

You can install anything that you need in a home within the shipping container homes comfortably.

· Floor

Here, you will have to remove the timber on the shipping container floor and make a modern home floor.

You can use timber or other materials to ensure that you make a floor for your shipping container home.

· Side Wall Panels

Shipping container homes also have side wall panels made of steel and will protect you from the raging weather conditions.

The main materials that you will find on side walls of the shipping container homes are Corten and corrugated steel.

· Bottom and Top Rails

Your shipping container home also has bottom and top rails that forms the main frame of the shipping container home.

These rails assume different profiles such as the box profile and must have no cracks to increase the strength.

· Doors and Window Fittings

Just like a normal home, you must also include different types and designs of doors that will fit your requirements.

Door and window fittings are also available in different sizes that can fit well on the shipping container homes.

· Front End, Corner Posts and Door Ends

You should have the front ends; door ends and corner posts that will provide enough support to the shipping container homes.

The main materials for manufacturing the door ends, front ends and corner posts is steel thus making them strong and durable.

Roofing Designs for Shipping Container Homes

You can choose from the multiple designs and structures of roofs for your shipping container homes.

Every design of the shipping container roof has a different function other than increasing the aesthetic value.

Here are the main designs of shipping container home roofs that you can opt for.

· Flat Shipping Container Home Roof

This is a flat type of roof that is very simple and fast to construct thus costing you less.

Despite the low cost of installation, you might spend a lot more in the maintenance process.

You should include a slight pitch which will enable proper drainage of rainfall.

· Living Shipping Container Home Roof

You can also refer to it as the green roof which has greenery and plants on top.

You can opt for the living-roof because of the aesthetic value and extra insulation thus making the home cool.

· Pitched Shipping Container Roof

This is a type of roof that usually slants or slopes downwards thus making it have a great drainage system.

It is the most common type of roof that you will find in regions that experience high levels of rain and snow.

· Roof Terraces for Shipping Container Homes

These are flat spaces on top of the shipping container homes that allows you to expand the usable or occupiable spaces.

You can use it for different activities such as eating, outdoor gardening, and lounging among others.

Factors Determining Shipping Container Homes Price

As soon as you settle on the idea of a shipping container home, you must also consider the cost of the home.

Considering how much you will pay for the shipping container homes will depend on a number of factors.

Here are the main factors that will affect the amount of money you will pay for shipping container homes.

· Condition of the Shipping Container

First, you must look at the condition of the shipping container that you intend to change into a shipping container home.

Here, you should consider getting a new shipping container which is the safest option for the fabrication of shipping container homes.

Depending on the size of the shipping container, you can get a new shipping container price between 3000 and 5000 US dollars.

· Size of the Shipping Container

You must also look at the size of the shipping container home that you want before you choose a shipping container.

In this case, the bigger the size of the shipping container, the higher the amount of money you will pay for it.

· Prefabricated Homes

You must also look at the type of home that you want to have before you make an investment.

You may want to have a pre-fabricated home which will cost you more than fabricating the home personally.

· Level of Modifications

These are the modifications that you will apply on the shipping container in order to turn it into a home.

The higher the levels of modification we have on the shipping container, the higher the amount of money you will spend.

· Insulation

You should also note that there are different types of insulations that you can have ion the shipping container homes.

There are three main forms of insulations that you can choose from including blanket, spray form or panel insulation.

Depending on the type of insulation, you will pay varying amounts of money depending on efficiency level.

· Foundation

You must also have a proper foundation for the shipping container homes where the container will rest upon.

There are different types of foundations that have varying costs hence affecting the overall cost of shipping container homes.

· Location of the Shipping Container Home

You will look at the location of the shipping container home in terms of the cost of transporting the containers.

The further the location of the shipping container homes, the more money you will pay for transporting the shipping containers.

Cost of Shipping Container Houses

The cost of shipping container homes will vary according to the location of the shipping container home.

In other words, you will factor in the cost of transporting it from the manufacturer or supplier to final destination.

In case you are importing it from China, there are different means of transport that you can use.

The type of transport that you will use will depend on the distance from the supplier and speed of transportation.

For instance, you might need to import shipping containers from China to a destination overseas.

In such a case, you can use a ship or a plane to transport it to the final destination.

Once at the docking port, you might need a train or a truck to move it inland.

The longer the distance you cover, the higher the amount of money you will pay.

How to Choose the Best Shipping Container Homes Plans

When choosing a shipping container for shipping container homes, you must look at a number of factors.

Here are the main factors that you need to pay very close attention before you purchase a shipping container home.

· Size or Dimensions of the Shipping Container Home

You should have a plan and include the size of the shipping container home that you would like to have.

There are different sizes and dimensions of shipping containers homes that you can choose from.

· Condition of the Shipping Container Home

You can choose a used shipping container or a brand-new shipping container for your shipping container home.

Brand new shipping containers will cost you less to modify in comparison to the used shipping containers.

· Cost of Shipping Container Homes

When looking at cost, you will look at the cost of purchasing, transporting, installing and modifying the shipping container.

These costs will depend entirely on the condition of shipping container and level of modifications you desire.

· Type of Materials on the Shipping Container Homes

Fortunately, most shipping containers have the same type of steel materials on the exterior which makes them strong.

You will look at the type of materials when looking at modifications such as type of insulation materials among others.

Benefits of Importing Shipping Container Homes for Sale in China

As a business man, you should consider making China your shipping container source.

Here are the advantages that you will enjoy when you decide to import shipping containers homes for sale from China.

· Affordable Prices

The cost of importing shipping container homes from China is quite low in comparison to other sources.

You will spend less when you import from China since the cost of manufacturing shipping container home is low.

· Wide Variety

There are quite a number of varieties of shipping containers that you can import from China.

You can choose among the different sizes as well as modification specifications that will fit your requirements.

· Ease of Conducting Business

You should also make China your shopping destination for shipping container homes because of ease of conducting business.

The people of China as well as the regulations for conducting business are very friendly thus increasing ease of conducting business.

· Great Infrastructure

You will also have an easy time transporting the shipping container homes from China through the sea and airports.

Apart from that, China also has great road network systems, and perfect communication services that enhances business transaction processes.

Quality Standards for Shipping Container Houses

You should also look at particular factors such as quality of the shipping container homes.

You will look at the quality of the shipping containers by checking the quality certification standards.

Here are some of the quality standards that you should look at when considering the shipping container homes.

• CSC International Convention for Safe Containers
• ISO International Organization for Standardization
• RINA rules for the Type Approval and Testing of Containers
• TIR Customs Convention on the International Transport of Goods Under Cover of TIR Carnets
• UIC International Union of Railroads.

Rules and Regulations for Shipping Container Homes Design and Fabrication

It is very important to consider the regulations and rules for shipping container house design and fabrications.

These rules will ensure that you have a safe living condition within the shipping container homes.

Here are some of the regulations that you must have in place before you have your shipping container home.

· Not All Shipping Containers are Equal

You should know that shipping containers are of different sizes that will fit in different places.

· Local Planning Laws and Building Regulations

You must also have knowledge about regulations on shipping containers and homes within your region.

· Do NOT Change the Design During Construction Process

You must have a final copy of the design before you begin the construction process.

Having a design at hand will reduce the chances of making changes hence elimination wastage of resources.

· Avoid Excess Cutting and Modification of Shipping Containers

You should also avoid making too many changes on the shipping containers as that might weaken the shipping container homes.

· Choose Proper Insulations

You must be wise enough and choose the insulation materials wisely by considering the environmental conditions.

Service Lifespan of Shipping Container Homes

Shipping container homes are very durable especially because of the tough nature of the materials.

You will use it for at least 25 years before considering moving away from it or modifying it.

You also have the opportunity of making it last longer through proper and regular maintenance.

Features to Consider when Choosing Shipping Container Homes

There are quite a number of features you need to look at when choosing shipping container homes.

Here are some of the features that you should look when looking for a shipping container home.

· Type of Roof

You should look at the type of roof that you would like to have on your shipping container home.

Before you choose a roof, you should look at the direction of the wind and also the rainfall patterns.

· Construction or Fabrication Materials

You should also look at the type of materials that you will use in fabrication of the shipping container homes.

In this case, the main materials are corrugated or Corten steel which will make the walls of the container.

Apart from that, you should also look at the type of materials that you will use to reinforce the roof and floor.

· Size of the Shipping Container Home

You should look at how big or how small the shipping container home is in reference to your size requirements.

There are different dimensions when it comes to the size of the shipping container that you have to look at.

How to Adapt Shipping Container Homes for Different Climatic Conditions

You can modify the shipping container according to the climate where you will install it.

Here are some of the modifications that you can apply on the shipping container according to climate.

· Hot Climate

In a hot region, you should consider having a higher roof which will help in maintaining lower heat in the containers.

Apart from that, you must also construct the home in the right angle thus taking advantage of natural cooling resources.

· Wet Climate

In the wet climate, the shipping containers are capable of surviving die to the tough stainless-steel materials.

Apart from that, it also has proper paint and inclining roofs that will drive the water away from the container.

· Cold Climate

In the cold climate, you should have perfect insulation on the shipping container homes to increase warmth.

You can have spray form insulation properties on the shipping container to make it resistant to cold weather.

Best Insulation for Shipping Container Houses

There are different types of insulations that you can use in making of the shipping container homes.

Here are the main types of insulation that will come in handy on the shipping container homes.

• Spray Foam Insulation
• Blanket or Wool Insulation
• Cotton Insulation
• Cork Insulation

Common Problems in Shipping Container Houses Insulation

You have to insulate you shipping container homes to avoid the problems that arise from mis-insulation.

Here are some of the problems that you can face during the insulation of your home wall.

· Shallow Depth of Walls

It is important to consider how you want to build or construct the shipping container insulation to avoid shallow depths.

In most cases, you will construct the walls of the shipping container out to allow proper insulation depths.

· Consumption of Space

You will also consume a considerable amount of space within the container homes thus compromising on the sizes.

· Mess Aesthetic Value

In case you insulate the shipping container wall from outside, you risk losing the aesthetic value of the shipping container home.

Apart from that, you will expose the insulation materials to the weather elements thus making them vulnerable to damages.

How Spray Form Insulation compare to Cotton Insulation in Shipping Container Homes

You can choose the spray foam insulation or cotton insulation for your shipping container home.

Spray foam insulation id the process of insulating the shipping container homes using a spray foam on the walls.

On the other hand, cotton insulation involves placing cotton materials on the shipping container walls.

Spray form insulation is a very simple insulation process that will save on time in comparison to cotton insulation.

Difference between Cork Insulation and Wool Insulation for Shipping Container Homes

You also have the freedom of choosing between wool insulation and cork insulation for shipping container homes.

Wool insulation is an environmentally friendly form of insulation that involves the use of woolen materials.

On the flip side, cork insulation involves the use of cork materials from the back of trees.

Both methods are very effective in keeping the heat within the shipping container homes.

Reasons for having Foundation for Shipping Container Homes

You must also have a very good foundation where you will place the shipping container homes.

Having a good foundation for the shipping container homes will increase the durability of the shipping container homes.

Implying that the foundation will raise the shipping container home above the ground thus keeping it safe from destructive elements.

Apart from that, it will help in maintaining the shipping container homes on

If you want to skyrocket your online business through E-commerce fulfillment, then read this guide.

It covers everything that will help you achieve all your business goals.

This guide will take you through the basic concepts – from definition, how it works, benefits and maximizing profits through E-commerce fulfillment.

Let’s dive right in.

What is eCommerce Fulfillment?

An eCommerce fulfillment involves several activities that ensure your goods reach your final customers.

Such activities include taking your products to an eCommerce fulfillment center and packaging it appropriately.

It also involves shipping products to the final consumer and have a return policy in case of any defects on your products.

How does eCommerce Fulfillment Work?

To understand the working process of an eCommerce fulfillment, you have to understand the steps involved.

These steps are:

1. Ordering from your Manufacture

This step involves placing an order from your manufacturer and agreeing on the due date.

The agreement that you set up between you and your manufacturer determines the shipment method to use.

Some situations may force your e-commerce fulfillment center to pick your goods from the manufacturer to their premises.

You, therefore, have to ensure that your commerce fulfillment center has proper logistic solutions.

2. Product Receiving and Preparing an Inventory

From your manufacturer, the products arrive at your eCommerce fulfillment center.

The staff here pick your products and conduct a proper inventory on them.

Certain issues normally arise at the point of receiving your product and inventory preparation.

For instance, the lack of proper inventory results in no sales leading to financial loss.

There is also an issue with shrinkage.

Shrinkage refers to the occurrence of theft, breakage, and loss of your products.

A reputable e-fulfillment center gives you shrinkage allowance when you are signing a contract with them to minimize shrinkage.

Such a shrinkage allowance normally ranges between 2 and 10 percent of your total warehouse inventory.

It is important to consider certain aspects of your e-fulfillment center before selecting them.

For instance, your center should have a proper inventory record within two days upon receiving your order.

You need to access your inventory record remotely.

This allows you to understand your stock level in real-time and make adjustments where necessary.

Remote access minimizes the chances of your stock running out without replenishing it or having excess inventory.

The shrinkage allowance for your center should be minimal.

This gives your center credibility and assures you that your products remain the same while in a store.

3. Order Fulfillment – Picking, Packing, and Shipping

This is where the actual process takes place.

When you receive an order, your eCommerce fulfillment center picks the products for you, package them properly, and ships them to your customer’s destination.

Accuracy and turnaround period is critical in ensuring the success of this step.

Picking the right product, packing it using the correct packaging material, and shipping it to the right customer ensures accuracy.

Minimizing the turnaround period for your customer to receive their product in time.

This affects customer satisfaction and prevents their change of mind.

Having your eCommerce fulfillment warehouse at a central point to your customer.

This reduces the turnaround period, thus satisfying the customer.

4. Processing Return and Reverse Logistics

There are cases where a customer is not satisfied with the product they order or has some issues.

This necessitates a return of the product and a replacement if possible.

It is important to have a quick turnaround for your returns, facilitating a refund or replacement of the product to your customer.

There are several ways that your eCommerce fulfillment center can facilitate your return processing.

For instance, they need to have a faster turnaround period for your returns.

You can also allow them to handle your returns.

This gives you time to increase your sales while retaining the existing customers.

Which Pick Methods can I Employ in eCommerce Fulfillment Order?

There are different pick and pack methods available for selection in the eCommerce order fulfillment process.

The choice of which method to use depends on your preference and how you want your fulfillment process to operate.

Another consideration to make when selecting the pick method to use is your warehouse’s size and the number of staff you have.

These methods include:

· Piece Picking Method

The process of piece picking involves finishing one order at a time before moving to the next one.

Here you take the order invoice and move around the warehouse searching for that order’s products.

After collecting every item on the invoice, you start packing the products.

This is the best method to use if you have a small business to operate due to the few orders you receive per day.

· Batch Picking

The key consideration for this method is the organization of all the products into batches.

You then arrange each batch in the same location for picking.

The picking process involves checking on the different orders and picking products per the available batches.

When the product in one batch is needed for several orders, you go to that batch and select the required quantity.

This facilitates easy picking and movement around your warehouse.

It is the best method to use than the piece picking method if you are operating a small business.

· Zone Picking

This is the best method to use if you have a large business for your product.

In this method, you classify your warehouse into zones consisting of different products but are likely to pick together.

When an order comes in, you send pickers into the different zones to collect particulars of that order.

Once one picker has products in their zone, they forward it to the next zone pickers until the order picking is complete.

It is a complex process that can work effectively if you have management software to help you operate your business.

· Wave Picking

This method combines both zone and batch picking.

It involves pickers in a particular zone picking products as per the batches present in their zone.

Wave picking helps handle different orders at once since the different batches consist of products that fill different orders.

What are the Benefits of Using an eCommerce Fulfillment?

The key benefits you get when using an eCommerce fulfillment are:

• Low Shipping Cost

Various eCommerce fulfillment providers have a wide pool of shipping couriers to use depending on their cost.

This has the effect of reducing your shipping cost since they select one whose price is favorable.

The fact that they are shipping products for numerous people implies that they get a discount on their shipping cost.

This also favors you when you use their services.

· Lower Operating Cost

You get to eliminate various operating costs by using an eCommerce fulfillment.

For instance, your fulfillment center charges you a flat rate for storing your goods.

This is cheaper compared to renting your warehouse.

You also get to remove picking, packaging, and shipping costs from your side.

Most eCommerce fulfillment providers usually offer a flat rate charge for these services, which is minimal compared to handling them.

· Increases your Reach

The advantage of an eCommerce fulfillment is it allows you to have a huge client base.

You can use your provider’s services from anywhere in the world, provided they are in that location.

Therefore, it is important to consider the outreach level of your eCommerce fulfillment provider before selecting their services.

· Enhances your Customer Services

You can enhance your customer services by selecting the right eCommerce fulfillment providers.

Such a provider should have a lower turnaround time, package your product properly, and ensure correct address delivery.

You are likely to increase your customer by ensuring your eCommerce service provider has excellent customer care services.

· Relieves you of Certain Duties

You don’t have to package your product and ship it by yourself. Those are duties your provider handles on your behalf.

Therefore, you are in a position to focus solely on increasing your sales, which translates to an increase in profits.

What are the Disadvantages of eCommerce Fulfillment?

You are likely to experience the following limitations when using an eCommerce fulfillment.

· Delivery Mistakes

There is a possibility of your eCommerce fulfillment delivering your products to the wrong address.

An incorrect delivery delays the product from reaching the intended customers.

Such a delay may lead your customer to change their mind in certain cases resulting in a loss on your side.

· Lack of Personalization

Remember, you are not handling the picking and packaging process directly.

Instead, your provider is the one responsible for these activities.

This is because your products lack the personalization effect that you may want on your packaging.

For example, it may not be possible to brand your package uniquely before delivering it to your final customer.

Certain providers offer contracts that bind you to the activities that they handle; hence you cannot change such policies.

· Costly

ECommerce fulfillment can be costly to you.

This is true in situations where you don’t have immediate customers for your products, resulting in overstaying in the warehouse.

This increases the warehousing charges hence becomes a liability if you fail to find customers.

You can minimize this by conducting a proper analysis of the market and understanding its dynamics.

Are there Any Risks Associated with E-commerce fulfillment?

Yes. There are risks that you are likely to get when using eCommerce fulfillment. Such risks include:

· Shrinkage

Shrinkage is a risk that results from damage, loss, or theft of your products.

The effects of shrinkage are that you end up having fewer sales, which decreases your profit margin.

Most eCommerce fulfillment centers have a shrinkage allowance for their customers to cushion them on its effect.

However, it would be best if you minimized this risk to maximize your profitability.

You can achieve this by checking with a center that has the lowest shrinkage allowance possible.

Such a center handles your products safely, and you have a guarantee of maximizing your profit.

· Poor Customer Service

How you communicate with your customers says a lot if they are going to purchase your product.

In commerce fulfillment, part of this customer care service is not within your control but your eCommerce fulfillment provider.

If your provider has poor customer care services, then it runs a risk of affecting your customers.

It is therefore critical that you check how a particular provider handles their customers before engaging their services.

· Complicated Software

An eCommerce fulfillment works through the use of the software.

This reduces the need for your physical presence within the center.

However, if you don’t understand how the E-commerce fulfilment software operates, it becomes a challenge for you to enjoy the services.

You might have to hire another party to operate the software, which reduces your know-how on your stock.

The best option is to have software to fully understand or have a trusted person to handle it on your behalf.

What are the Costs Associated with E-commerce Fulfillment?

We can breakdown the cost associated with an eCommerce fulfillment as follows:

· Initial Setup Fees

This is a one-time fee that you pay to your fulfillment.

The amount you pay depends on your business’s complexity and how you want to customize your business.

Other factors that determine the initial set up cost include your type of stock, getting it from your supplier, and delivering to your customer.

· Receiving and Intake Cost

There is a need to have a process of receiving your product and stock-taking it.

Such processes attract a fee that varies depending on your eCommerce fulfillment provider.

This fee consists of all the services that your provider takes to manage your inventory.

This is from the time your inventory arrives at their warehouse to the time it gets to your final consumer.

Factors that affect this cost include the type of stock you have and your fulfillment center.

· Storage Fees

There is a need to store your stock once it reaches your eCommerce fulfillment center.

This storage attracts a fee from your fulfillment provider.

This fee depends on your product’s space and the type of provider that you engage for your services.

· Order Fulfillment Fee

This is a fee that your provider charges in the process of picking and packing your customer’s order.

The fee covers the activity of picking and packing your client’s order and the packaging material.

The order fulfillment fee can either be a flat rate or a base rate plus an extra cost.

A flat rate fee is constant regardless of the packing product.

A base rate fee is a constant fee plus an additional cost, which is a percentage depending on your product’s packing.

· Shipping Cost

The shipping cost is the cost of transporting your client’s order from the fulfillment center to your client’s destination.

Most eCommerce fulfillment centers provide logistics support for the goods to reach the clients’ destination.

You, therefore, have to pay for this cost before or after the shipment process.

It also varies depending on the fulfillment provider handling your cargo.

· Return Fees

The return fee is the cost of returning your client’s order from their premises to the warehouse of your fulfillment provider.

This depends on the type of order fulfillment center you are using, the return policy, and the kind of defect on your product.

· Account Management Charge

This is a flat rate charge that your provider offers for handling your accounts.

This charge covers all the customer-related services that your provider handles on your behalf.

It may be a flat rate charge or have a varying percentage depending on your provider’s preference.

How Long Does it take to Receive Goods in E-commerce Fulfillment?

How long it takes to receive your goods in an eCommerce fulfillment depends on your eCommerce fulfillment provider.

However, an effective provider should ship your product as soon as possible.

To achieve this, your provider should be in a strategic location close to its customers.

In most cases, an eCommerce fulfillment should deliver your products within three days.

Which Goods can I order Under E-commerce Fulfillment?

You can order virtually any product in an eCommerce fulfillment.

However, you need to ensure the product is legal within your jurisdiction.

You can order common products from an eCommerce fulfillment include cosmetics, apparel, electronics, and supplements.

Other products are pet accessories, toys, and accessories.

What entails E-commerce Fulfillment?

Ecommerce fulfillment entails several activities.

These activities include shipping your goods from your supplier to your eCommerce fulfillment provider’s warehouse.

It also involves storing the goods and pick and pack the goods for shipment to the final consumer.

These activities end when your customer either gets satisfied or returns the goods.

How does the Shipping of Goods Take Place in E-commerce Fulfillment?

There are different means that you can use to ship your products in an eCommerce fulfillment. Such means include road transport, rail transport,air freight and ocean freight.

Ocean and air shipment are ideal shipping methods of getting your products from your manufacturer.

Road transport is the common method of shipping your product from your order fulfillment provider to your customer.

Which Equipment Facilitates eCommerce Fulfillment in a Warehouse?

We can categories the equipment that you should have in your eCommerce fulfillment warehouse into the following categories:

· Storage Equipment

Storage equipment is what holds your product while it is in your warehouse.

You can have different storage equipment depending on the type of product you are handling.

Common storage ranges from the shelves that you place your goods, sacks, and other specialized equipment.

You have to consider your warehouse space before selecting the storage equipment to use.

· Material Handling and Transportation Equipment

Material handling equipment is used to move the cargo from one point to another within the warehouse.

It also includes the transportation machines for your goods from the supplier to the warehouse and within the warehouse.

Common material handling equipment here include lift trucks, cranes, and forklifts.

You can also have conveyor belts and walkie stackers to handle your goods.

Positioning Equipment

The function of this equipment is to hold your product in position when undergoing processing or manipulation.

Examples of such include hoists and clamps, and work tables.

· Packing Equipment

You have to package your product properly before shipping it to your customer.

For you to achieve this, you need appropriate tools and equipment.

Standard packing equipment include boxes, bags, packing tables, sealers, scales, and label printers.

Barcoding Equipment

This is a piece of essential equipment that facilitates the stocktaking of your products within the warehouse.

They help in knowing the volume of stock left in your warehouse.

Standard barcoding equipment that you should have include printers, barcode readers, and the applicable software.

You have to consider several aspects of your warehouse before deciding the right equipment to use.

For instance, you have to consider the warehouse layout and size.

The equipment you select should move within your warehouse with ease without interfering with its arrangement.

The management software for your warehouse should also be secure and easy to operate.

One should not be able to interfere with the software, and it should also enhance the performance of your warehouse.

Are there Inventory Storage Plans that I Can have for My ECommerce Fulfillment Warehouse?

Yes. There are different inventory storage plans that you can employ in your eCommerce fulfillment warehouse.

Proper inventory storage helps in minimizing product theft, breakage, and ensures the quality of your product.

Common methods available for selections include:

· Like with like Inventory Storage Method

This method involves planning your products depending on the color, size, and category.

That is, you can arrange products of the same colors or size in the same place.

This is a simple yet poor way of arranging your inventory.

This is because you can have different products of the same color or sizes together even if the products are other.

For instance, you can arrange machinery and toys together since they are of the same color or size.

This method can lead to loss or damage to your products.

It also slows down the picking and packing process for your goods, leading to delays in delivery.

· Chaotic Inventory Management

This method involves storing your products without particular order.

This arrangement leads to storing different products together.

You can have cosmetic products with consumer products together.

Operating this inventory storage method works best if you include software management, which can help you find each product’s location.

However, it is a method that can lead to slowing down the delivery of your customer’s product.

This is not what you should aim to achieve.

· Volume Inventory Storage

Volume inventory storage involves arranging the products as per their volume.

As such, you can place products that have a higher turnover close to where you are packing them.

If you have slow-moving products, you can place them further from the packing location.

The essence of this method is to reduce the packing time and movement of pickers within your warehouse.

It is the best method to use if you have a large business since it reduces the picking time for your product.

· Class Inventory Storage

Using this method entails having products of a particular class together.

The same class products have a common trait, like similar products or those that sell together.

You can also have a class with the same turnover rate or items you can pack in the same procedure.

The essence of this is to facilitate the picking and packing and packing process of your product.

· Mobile Shelf-based Storage

This is an inventory storage method that involves robots’ use to collect products from different shelves.

It helps in reducing the labor force in your warehouse and also to increase efficiency.

How do I select an Ideal Fulfillment Warehouse provider for My Business?

When selecting the best fulfillment warehouse provider for your business, you have to consider the following factors

· Economic Sense

The warehouse provider for your business should make economic sense when you engage them.

This should be in terms of the total cost they charge and the services they offer.

You also have to consider the shrinkage allowance that a particular warehouse provider gives you.

This should be as minimal as possible.

· Customer Expectation

You have to consider what your customers want and if your warehouse provider can safely handle them.

Your provider should also have the capabilities of packing the products properly and ship them to your customers.

Return Policy

Your return policy should be compatible with that of your warehouse provider.

This includes them having a schedule for shipping your clients; returns and space for packing these returns

How do I Start an ECommerce Fulfillment Warehouse?

Starting a functioning eCommerce fulfillment warehouse for your eCommerce order fulfillment involves the following:

· Understand your Warehouse Space

You have to understand the space that you need to establish your warehouse effectively.

Such a space should be sufficient for storing the goods that you will be receiving.

You also have to consider the other activities that will take place within your warehouse.

Such activities include space for receiving your goods, room to accommodate dead stock and returns, and packaging space.

If you have expectations of increasing the goods you are receiving in the future, you should have a space allowance for that too.

· Understand the needed Equipment

Equipment facilitates the effective handling of goods you receive into your warehouse.

There are four key equipment types that you need to consider for your warehouse.

They include storage equipment, material handling and packing equipment, transport, and positioning equipment.

The equipment you purchase should be relevant to your warehouse and facilitate its effective working.

· Automation of Repeating Processes

Some functions within your warehouse require minimal human interaction.

It would help if you automated such activities.

Also, you can check for activities that are repetitive and either automate or eliminate one function.

For instance, you can have a barcoding system to eliminate the need to repeat the counting process.

· Pick Path Optimization

You have to consider the pick path method you are to have for your warehouse.

Common pick path methods available are wave picking, zone picking, and batch picking.

You also have to consider having a linear warehouse where your staff can pick run to the closest shipping point.

While picking your orders, it is important to fulfill one order before moving to the next.

When storing goods in your warehouse, you should consider having goods that customers purchase together in the same storage area.

This ensures there is a seamless picking of your order.

· Warehouse Rules and Regulations

Rules and regulations establish a [proper working environment for your staff and show your organization’s level of organization.

When coming up with these regulations, you have to consider your workers’ safety and the workflow procedure.

You also have to establish the quality control standards that facilitate the operation of your warehouse.

Such measures can include how to report damaged and poor-quality products and how to store them.

· Training

Training impacts useful knowledge to your staff and helps in the smooth operation of your warehouse.

There are different levels of training that you can have for your workers.

For instance, you can train machine and equipment operators on how they are going to handle them.

You can also train customer service workers on how they are to communicate and treat clients.

Effective training minimizes warehouse accidents and maximizes the functionality of your warehouse.

· Having the Right Warehouse Management Software

It is an easy way of understanding what comes in and out of your warehouse.

You can also understand the volume of stock that are on different levels of your warehousing.

When searching for an effective warehouse management software, you have to consider certain elements.

They include key alerts, scalability, ease of integration, pick and pack, and workflow management protocols.

Which Best Order Packing Practices for ECommerce Order Fulfillment?

You can employ different order packing practices on your eCommerce order fulfillment, including:

· Rescanning Different Order Products

Tre is a need to rescan the order products before packing them.

This ensures your clients receive quality products when they order from you.

It also reduces returns if the products are of poor quality or are not what the client ordered.

· Correct Packaging Material

Always ensure you have the right packaging material for packaging your products.

That is, in terms of the material and size of the packaging.

Right packaging material facilitates the packaging process, which translates into reducing the time your clients receive their orders.

When selecting the right packing material, you have to include the infill instructions and relevant material. this enhances the packing process.

Is E-commerce Fulfillment the same as E-commerce Shipping?

No. eCommerce fulfillment is not the same as eCommerce shipping.

Ecommerce fulfillment entails several activities.

They include receiving your goods from your supplier, shipping them to the warehouse, picking and packing your customer order, and shipping them to them.

Ecommerce shipping entails all the activities necessary to transport goods from the warehouse to the customer’s location.

Ecommerce shipping is part of eCommerce fulfillment.

What are the Key Activities that must be Managed to Achieve World-class E-commerce Order Fulfillment?

If you want to achieve a world-class e-commerce order fulfillment, you have to manage the following activities keenly:

· Inventory Control

There is a lot about your inventory that you need to perfect for your eCommerce fulfillment to succeed.

Among the activities you have to bote here include having the right product and the right quantity.

This is to ensure you don’t run out of stock.

You can always arrange with your supplier to replenish your inventory when it is about to finish.

Inventory control also involves ensuring your stock is in good condition, and there is minimal interference with it.

That is, there is no theft or damage to your product.

It is important to have a proper record for your inventory, including knowing what leaves and what comes.

· Logistics

Logistics forms the backbone of a successful eC