Transportation

Transportation

Many companies operating in Hong Kong and mainland China are involved in trading physical goods, either by sourcing in the region and/or importing goods for their business.Shipment can be made in many ways like:

• Parcel shipments for handling of smaller size goods,
• Road transport by truck,
• Rail freight,
• Air Freight
• Ocean Freight either by full container (FCL) and/or by part container load (LCL).

In general, air freight is the fastest service while the ocean freight is the most economical mode of transportation for overseas shipping of bigger cargo. Normally consolidation solutions are available to all types of cargo and provide a cost-effective solution for cargoes not big enough to fill a whole container. This is convenient if, for example, your order is not big enough to load a full container, or you want to ship more frequently with lower inventory costs.

The easiest solution to provide for logistics service, transportation of goods, and required paperwork for shipping and customs handling is to appoint and cooperate with one of Hong Kong´s freight forwarding companies. Freight forwarding is used by most importers and exporters to arrange the handling and freight of their shipments. Most freight forwarders can offer guidance and service for various transportation modes required ensuring the best options for your needs.

Documentation

Shipping goods internationally requires correct documentation, or you run the risk of delays and extra costs or even preventing a shipment from being completed. Documentation has, whether you’re importing or exporting, an essential role and it is critical to know what paperwork is required and to ensure that the right documentation is available.

Standard shipping documents include:

• Commercial invoice (shall be provided by the shipper)
• Packing list (shall be provided by the shipper)
• Bill of Lading / Airwaybill / Railbill (will be provided by your carrier/freight forwarder)

Based on your cargo and location, further documents may be required as:

• Certificate of origin
• Letter of credit
• Export Permits / Licenses
• Phytosanitary certificate

A professional freight forwarder can respond to questions regarding documentation and guide you through needed procedures as well as draw up necessary documents.

Cargo Insurance

While all carriers handle shipment with the utmost care and attention there are, despite all precautions, inherent risks during transportation, handling, and storage. All carriers and other supply chain participants will typically have their liability limited by law, which means that any compensation you receive is likely to be considerably lower than your actual loss if any accident happens.

Always check and ensure that your goods in transit are covered to their full value. If you are not certain of your coverage, check with your insurance company or your freight forwarder for their assistance.