Shipping goods from China can be smooth and predictable—but only if buyers understand common pitfalls. Many first-time importers, and even some experienced ones, make mistakes that result in delays, extra fees, or lost shipments.
This guide highlights the most frequent freight forwarding mistakes and provides practical solutions to avoid them, helping buyers save time, reduce costs, and maintain reliable supply chains.
Mistake 1: Focusing Only on Price
Many buyers select freight forwarders based solely on the lowest quote. While cost is important, choosing a forwarder purely on price can lead to hidden fees, poor communication, or delayed shipments.
How to avoid it:
- Evaluate the total value offered, including reliability, services, and experience
- Confirm all charges upfront
- Check references and reviews from previous clients
Mistake 2: Providing Incomplete Cargo Information
Shipping delays often occur because freight forwarders receive inaccurate or incomplete cargo details. Weight, dimensions, or product descriptions that are incorrect can cause container misallocation, customs issues, or cost adjustments.
How to avoid it:
- Double-check gross and net weight
- Verify carton dimensions and quantity
- Include product descriptions and special handling instructions
Mistake 3: Misunderstanding Incoterms
Not fully understanding shipping terms like EXW, FOB, CIF, or DDP leads to confusion over responsibilities, costs, and risk. Buyers may unexpectedly pay for services they thought the supplier would handle.
How to avoid it:
- Learn the key Incoterms and what they cover
- Clarify responsibilities with both the supplier and forwarder
- Document agreements in writing
Mistake 4: Delaying Shipment Planning
Waiting until goods are ready to find a forwarder or book shipping space can lead to higher rates, limited options, and missed delivery windows.
How to avoid it:
- Plan shipments at least 1–2 weeks ahead for small shipments
- Reserve container space well in advance for large or peak-season shipments
- Align production and shipping schedules
Mistake 5: Ignoring Customs Requirements
Incorrect or incomplete export and import documentation can cause inspections, fines, or shipment delays. Many buyers underestimate the importance of compliance with Chinese export rules and destination country regulations.
How to avoid it:
- Work with forwarders who specialize in your destination country
- Provide accurate commercial invoices, packing lists, and shipping instructions
- Confirm customs requirements in advance
Mistake 6: Choosing the Wrong Shipping Method
Selecting a method without considering cargo type, urgency, and cost can be costly. For example, shipping fragile electronics by sea without proper protection may lead to damage, while choosing air freight for low-value bulk goods unnecessarily increases costs.
How to avoid it:
- Match shipping method to cargo and urgency
- Use forwarders’ expertise to evaluate alternatives
- Consider consolidation or multimodal solutions for efficiency
Mistake 7: Poor Communication with Freight Forwarders
Time zone differences, language barriers, and delayed responses can result in missed deadlines or misunderstandings.
How to avoid it:
- Confirm preferred communication channels
- Request regular shipment updates
- Respond promptly to questions or confirmations
Mistake 8: Skipping Cargo Insurance
Even if a shipment seems low-risk, accidents, port congestion, or natural events can occur. Not insuring cargo can result in significant financial loss.
How to avoid it:
- Purchase insurance for high-value or irreplaceable goods
- Understand coverage limits and exclusions
- Treat insurance as a standard cost of international shipping
Mistake 9: Not Using a Test Shipment
Many buyers commit to large shipments before evaluating a freight forwarder. Without a test shipment, they cannot assess reliability, communication, or hidden costs.
How to avoid it:
- Start with a small shipment
- Observe the entire process, from pickup to delivery
- Use lessons learned to refine future shipments
Mistake 10: Failing to Build Long-Term Relationships
Treating freight forwarders as one-time vendors rather than partners limits the benefits buyers can gain. Strong relationships often lead to better rates, priority booking, and proactive problem-solving.
How to avoid it:
- Maintain consistent communication
- Give feedback on service
- Reward reliable partners with repeat business
Conclusion: Avoiding Mistakes Saves Time, Money, and Stress
Freight forwarding mistakes are common, but most are preventable with preparation, clear communication, and the right expertise. Buyers who understand these pitfalls and work proactively with their forwarders can:
- Reduce unexpected costs
- Minimize shipment delays
- Improve supply chain reliability
- Gain confidence in importing from China
Shipping from China becomes not just a logistical necessity, but a predictable and manageable part of your global business strategy.