It would be best to organize the freight about two weeks before the order is sent for shipment. It’s time to understand what a forwarder does so that you can find the right one. Firstly, though, every step in the freight process is assembled on the following page.

When you’ve finished procuring your goods and have gone through the supplier process steps, this is how you can proceed on the international freight front (refer to succeeding chapters for elaboration to acronyms).

Restrictions

Assess the possible customs or carrier constraints on your product before you choose what product you are importing.

Shipping Requirements

Amazon’s packing and classifying obligations should be followed.

Incoterm

Describe your incoterm (freight term that steers responsibility throughout the shipment) while settling with your supplier. Subsequently, settle your buy price built on landed cost.

Documentation

Copies of Documents required for shipment such as the CI, packing list, and, in some cases, the COO, MSDS, and fumigation certificate should be obtained from your supplier.

RFQ Info

Review the RFQ prep record. Contemplate if you need the forwarder to include customs broking and cargo insurance.

Mode

Air is rapid, and the ocean is economical (excluding small shipments). Choose whether you want to ship by air or ocean. Ocean freight splits between full container load and below a container load.

Price vs. Time

To get your goods early, you should evaluate the price point to switch to a distinct mode. It is mainly applicable if you are not close to a major port or are East Coast importing from China.

Selection

You should decrypt the additional charges and fees (like fuel, canal surcharges, plagiarism charges) from the feedbacks. Make sure that it is all accurate, and select the correct quote.

Engagement

Complete essential forms, such as T&Cs and POA. After that, finish the Shipper’s Letter Of Instruction and supply other documents so that the forwarder can validate the plane or ship’s reservation.

Customs Bond

It will help if you choose whether you want an uninterrupted bond or a single entry bond. You will also require an ISF bond with ocean freight for single entry bonds.

Payment

It would help if you decided on the method that you will utilize in paying your order. If you are frequently importing, it’s economical to establish ACH payment with Customs.

Document Check

You should carefully examine each document that is to be registered with Customs, as even a small error might become costly for you.

Communication

Ensure that your forwarder is keeping you well informed regarding shipment tracking and advance alert of issues. Arrange drop-off, and ensure that you have amenities for unloading.

Receiving Requirements

You should ensure that your forwarder follows Amazon’s obligation for inventory coming from overseas and accepting requirements (reservation and conveyance).