Question 1

Why do I need a freight forwarder?

Accepted Answer

The job of a Freight Forwarder is to simplify the shipping process.
As a Freight Forwarder, we have contracts with steamship lines, air lines, and trucking companies worldwide, which allows us to offer you competitive pricing. As a Freight Forwarder, we educate and guide our customers through the often complex and ever-changing import and export regulations and process. Most importantly, you communicate only with us as your Freight Forwarder representative rather than several parties. For many businesses, the freight forwarder acts like a shipping department caring for the company’s logistics needs.

Question 2

What is the general logistics process of ocean imports?

Accepted Answer

For ocean imports, there are many steps involved in the logistics of your import shipment. When you use a freight forwarder, you have much more control and visibility of each shipment. See our general flow chart for simplified view of what we can do for your business.

Question 3

Which countries/regions do you service?

Accepted Answer

Our main areas of service are in China, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. However, you may contact us if your area is not listed above as we are expanding into other regions.

Question 4

How long will my shipment take?

Accepted Answer

Shipping times vary from port to port by distance, routing and congestion. Transit time is calculated once the container is on board the vessel and confirmed departed.
Quoted transit times do not take into account delays that may occur due to poor weather conditions, customs processing and/or examination. Consolidated cargo will take longer considering earlier cut-off times to allow for the documentation and loading process.

Question 5

Do you offer your services to individuals/non-business party?

Accepted Answer

No, we provide service to business only.

Question 6

What is "Door to Door" service?

Accepted Answer

Door-to-Door delivery is a full service where we arrange to pick up the shipment from its location of origin to its destination, right to the specified address. This commonly refers to the freight charges. Charges on top of Door-to-Door can be exempt of offloading, customs, and port charges.

Question 7

What is "Port to Port" service?

Accepted Answer

As the name suggests, this refers to the shipping of goods from port of origin to the port of destination only. This method is best for shippers who are experienced and knowledgeable about the entire shipping process such as handling all necessary documentation, customs clearance, and capable of arranging their own inland transportation service.

Question 8

What is included in your quotation?

Accepted Answer

Your quotation will be itemized so it is easy for you to understand what is being charged. Common fees are listed below.

1. Freight: This includes the cost of moving the goods from the origin to the destination, whether it is by air, sea, road, or rail. Transportation costs may vary depending on the distance, mode of transport, and the weight and volume of the goods.
2. Carrier Fees: Freight forwarders work with carriers such as shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies to transport goods. Carrier fees can include charges for loading and unloading, fuel surcharges, and other fees associated with the transportation of the goods.
3. Customs Fees: Freight forwarders help clients navigate the complex customs clearance process, which can involve fees such as import duties, taxes, and other charges levied by the government. These fees vary depending on the country of origin and destination, as well as the type of goods being shipped.
4. Handling Fees: Freight forwarders may charge a small handling fees for their services. These fees can vary depending on the complexity of the shipment and the specific services required.
5. Insurance: Optional. Freight forwarders may offer insurance coverage for the goods being shipped to protect against loss, damage, or theft during transportation. Insurance fees will vary depending on the value of the goods and the level of coverage required.

Question 9

What happens if my container is damaged?

Accepted Answer

If the cargo is damaged when it arrives at your facility, please contact us immediately. Photos of the damaged cargo must be taken and shipping container & damaged goods must be at your facility for for full inspection.

Question 10

Will it be possible for me to track my freight on regular basis?

Accepted Answer

Yes, click My Portal (https://hil.gofreight.co/tracking/)or from the menu. Once your account is setup, we can send you your id and pw if you'd like to access the portal.

Question 11

What is a demurrage charge?

Accepted Answer

Demurrage is a charge that is levied by shipping lines, ports, or other transportation providers when a container or other form of cargo is not picked up or returned within the allotted time period. In other words, demurrage is a penalty fee that is charged for delays in the use of equipment or facilities beyond the agreed-upon time frame.

For example, if a shipping container is not picked up from the port within the agreed-upon free time period, demurrage charges may be imposed. The same applies if a container is not returned to the port within the agreed-upon time period after it has been emptied.

The purpose of demurrage charges is to encourage shippers and consignees to move their cargo as quickly as possible, and to prevent the blocking of valuable space or equipment. Demurrage fees can vary depending on the type of cargo, the location, and the length of the delay.

Question 12

What is a detention/per diem port charge?

Accepted Answer

This is a fixed rate charged by the carrier for each day past the number of "free days" that the container is not returned to the port or container yard.

Question 13

When is a container considered "overweight"?

Accepted Answer

Please refer to our weight limitation chart.

Question 14

What are materials prohibited/not eligible for shipping?

Accepted Answer

Hazardous materials include hazardous chemicals, infectious substances, radioactive materials, compressed gases, dry ice, liquid nitrogen, lithium batteries and more.  Materials prohibited are flammable items, weapons, drugs, pharmaceutical products and more.

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