Two quotes for the same shipment can differ by hundreds of dollars once you read past the headline number. A freight forwarder's quote is a bundle of separate charges, and understanding each line helps you compare fairly and avoid surprises at delivery.
Start with the shipment details
Check that the quote matches what you are actually shipping: origin and destination, weight and volume, number of cartons, goods description, incoterm and whether the service is door-to-door or port-to-port. A quote based on the wrong volume is worthless.
Typical charge lines
- Main freight: the ocean, air or rail leg. Ask whether it is priced per kilogram, per cubic metre or per container.
- Origin charges: pickup, export customs clearance, terminal handling and documentation.
- Destination charges: unloading, import customs clearance, delivery, and sometimes storage if the goods wait at the port.
- Surcharges: fuel, peak season and security fees. These can change between quote and shipment, so ask how long the quote is valid.
- Duties and taxes: usually not included unless the quote is DDP; confirm who pays.
- Insurance: optional on many quotes, but worth considering for valuable goods.
Questions to ask
- What is not included in this quote?
- What happens if the shipment is delayed or the carrier rolls the booking?
- How are storage and demurrage fees charged, and after how many free days?
- Who handles customs clearance at the destination, and what documents do you need from me?
Compare like with like
Put the quotes in a spreadsheet with the same lines in each column. Include transit time and reliability alongside price; a cheaper but slower option may cost more in tied-up stock.
Keep records
Save the confirmed quote, booking confirmation and invoices together. When a charge looks wrong, you will have evidence. For logistics providers and tools you can shortlist, browse the Facebook520 tool directory, and consult the fraud exposure section before paying a deposit to an unfamiliar forwarder.
Published by Facebook520 Cross-Border Navigation.