Q: What are incoterms and how do they affect freight prices from China to Canada?
A: When you’re comparing freight quotes, note the level of service the freight forwarder is offering.
For example, if you’re shipping from Shanghai, China to Vancouver, Canada, you’re going to want to ask your supplier about the cost difference between shipping from the supplier’s warehouse in Shanghai– which means using the EXW incoterm– and shipping from the port of Shanghai(CNSHA) – which means using the FOB incoterm.
Prices for FOB are typically lower, but shipping FOB doesn’t mean your total costs will necessarily be lower. You might make up the cost by paying your supplier to bring your goods to the port. When comparing prices, take all your costs into account.
Note that some incoterms, including FOB, are used for sea shipping only.
Q: What customs duties and taxes will I owe when shipping from China to Canada?
A: When importing from China to Canada, you will need to pay Customs Duty and GST before your goods are released into the country.
These costs can be significant. Researching your costs early can keep you from getting caught by surprise.
Q: How does the customs process work?
A: When goods arrive at port, customs officials will first check to make sure all your paperwork is in order, and then calculate the amount of duties owed and collect payment. After payment, goods will be released.
To handle customs clearance, you can hire your own broker in Canada, or use the brokerage provided by us.
Q: Do I need insurance to ship from China to Canada?
A: When calculating your shipping costs, don’t forget to protect yourself in case your goods are damaged or lost. You can do this through your freight forwarder or a third-party insurance agent. Insurance costs are typically around 0.3% – 0.5% of your Commercial Invoice Value, which is the amount you paid for the goods.
The bottom line is: to make sure that you get comprehensive cargo insurance – basic carrier coverage is minimal.
At Kisun Shipping, you can add insurance to your booking so you can ship knowing that your goods are safe and you are protected from damage, loss, and other potential issues.
Q: What paperwork do I need to ship from China to Canada?
A: When shipping freight from China to Canada, make sure to get all your paperwork, such as the Commercial Invoice and Bill of Lading, in order.
Q: How do I ship from China to an Amazon FBA Warehouse in Canada?
A: As an Amazon shipper from China to Canada, you’ll need to consider issues of timing and storage, as well as choosing the right forwarder
Q: How long does it take to ship a container from China to Canada?
A: It depends on which shipping mode you use. Shipping Express can take as few as 1-4 days – but Express is the most expensive mode, and is not suitable for large shipments. Air freight shipping will take about 6-13 days. Sea freight from China to Canada takes 29-33 days but is the most affordable if you can wait.
Want to know more about shipping from China? Contact us now!
