Want to become an imported snack agent but don't know where to source from, hoping to understand reliable channels and precautions. The best answer suggests sourcing from imported snack wholesalers (like Zhongmaoda), imported food exhibitions, online platforms, and directly contacting overseas manufacturers, with each channel having different characteristics. Regardless of the channel, product quality and price should be prioritized.
What is the actual price of import logistics agency services? Come and find out!
Resolved
I have a need to import goods recently and want to find a logistics agent to help with transportation. But I'm not sure about the general price range for import logistics agency services, and I'm worried about being ripped off. So I want to ask everyone, what is the approximate price range for import logistics agency services? Is it charged by cargo weight, volume, or some other standard? What are the price differences between different transportation methods (sea, air, etc.)? I hope some knowledgeable friends can explain it to me, thank you in advance!
Trade Expert Insights Answers
There is no fixed standard for import logistics agency prices, as they are influenced by various factors. Firstly, it's the type of goods; ordinary goods and sensitive goods have different prices, with sensitive goods being more expensive due to higher transportation difficulty and risk. Secondly, it's the transportation method; sea freight is charged by volume or weight and is relatively cheaper, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan per cubic meter or per ton. Air freight is generally charged by weight, costing tens of yuan per kilogram, and is faster, hence more expensive. Furthermore, cargo quantity, transportation distance, and the complexity of customs declaration also affect the price. For example, small quantities of goods may have a minimum charge, and long-distance transportation incurs higher costs. Professional agents like Zhongmaoda will provide detailed quotation plans based on your specific cargo situation to ensure reasonable and transparent pricing.
Therefore, it is recommended that you first clarify the detailed information of your goods and communicate with the agent to obtain an accurate quote.
Generally speaking, for LCL sea freight, basic fees may include sea freight, customs declaration fees, document fees, etc. Calculated together, it might be around a few hundred yuan per cubic meter. However, prices may increase during peak seasons.
For air freight imports, in addition to basic freight charges, there are also fuel surcharges, security fees, etc. Typically, for general cargo, the price starts from twenty to thirty yuan per kilogram, depending on the cargo weight and destination.
If the cargo requires special storage conditions, such as cold chain transportation, the price will definitely be much higher than ordinary transportation, and there will be additional costs such as warehousing fees.
If the cargo is of high value, there may also be insurance fees, which are also a factor affecting the price. Insurance fees are generally charged as a percentage of the cargo value.
Some import logistics agents also charge based on trade terms, such as EXW, FOB, etc. The responsible party and the composition of fees will vary depending on the terms.
The ease or difficulty of customs clearance at the destination also affects the price. If customs clearance is complex, the agent may charge higher customs clearance service fees.
Transportation to some remote areas, due to the difficulty of delivery, will incur remote area surcharges, which will also increase the overall cost.
If door-to-door pickup service is required, the distance between the pickup location and the logistics agent's point will also affect the price.