For international new wooden wholesaler, they are searching wooden toy supplier on internet or go to toy fairs.After confirming the toy supplier, then they will consider the shipping probem. Here we write a guide for you.
How to choose ways to ship wooden toy from China?
Before any Official Order, usually customer will buy samples firstly.
How to ship toy sample?
Courier Services: When buying samples, especially in smaller quantities, courier services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS are often preferred. They offer door-to-door delivery with relatively fast transit times and convenient tracking options.
Air Freight: Another option for shipping samples is air freight. While it’s more expensive than courier services, air freight can be faster and suitable for larger sample quantities or larger items that may not fit standard courier shipments.
How to ship Small Quantities of Wooden Toys
Shipping a trial order typically involves smaller quantities of goods compared to regular wholesale orders.
Usually LCL Shipping by sea or by air.
Ensure that the wooden toys are properly packaged to withstand the shipping process. Use sturdy packaging materials and adequate cushioning to protect the toys from damage during transit.
Label each package clearly with essential information such as product details, quantity, and destination address.
By sea is cheaper way and could make your unit price competitive. If your order of wooden toy exceeds 2 CBM then we suggest to ship by sea. By air will cost much. By sea will be longer.
How long to ship wooden toy from China to Europe And USA?
The transit time for sea freight LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments from China to Europe and the USA can vary depending on several factors, including the specific ports of departure and arrival, the shipping route, weather conditions, and any potential delays in customs clearance or port congestion. However, here are some general estimations for transit times:
Europe:
Transit time from China to major ports in Europe typically ranges from around 20 to 35 days for LCL shipments.
For example, shipments to ports in Northern Europe, such as Rotterdam (Netherlands) or Hamburg (Germany), may take around 25 to 35 days, while shipments to ports in Southern Europe, such as Barcelona (Spain) or Genoa (Italy), may take slightly less time, around 20 to 30 days.
USA:
Transit time from China to major ports on the East Coast of the USA typically ranges from around 25 to 40 days for LCL shipments.
Shipments to ports on the West Coast of the USA may take slightly longer, ranging from around 30 to 45 days.
Factors such as congestion at ports, routing options, and weather conditions in the Pacific Ocean can affect transit times.
It’s essential to note that these are general estimates, and actual transit times may vary based on specific circumstances and shipping conditions. Additionally, factors such as the choice of shipping carrier, shipping schedule, and any additional services (e.g., transshipment, inland transportation) can also impact transit times.
For accurate and up-to-date information on transit times for sea freight LCL shipments to Europe and the USA, it’s recommended to consult with your chosen freight forwarder or shipping provider. They can provide you with detailed information based on your specific shipment requirements and help you plan your logistics accordingly.
How to Calculate CMB?
To calculate CBM for sea freight, measure the length, width, and height of each package in meters. Then, multiply these dimensions together to get the volume of each package in cubic meters. Finally, add up the volumes of all packages to get the total CBM for the shipment.
How to ship a full container of wooden toy from China?
When shipping a full container load (FCL) of wooden toys, you’ll have the entire container dedicated to your shipment, providing more control over the shipping process and potentially faster transit times. Here’s how to proceed with full container shipping for your wooden toys:
Container Size Selection: Decide on the appropriate container size based on the volume of wooden toys you’re shipping. Common container sizes include 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft High Cube (HQ). Choose a container size that accommodates your shipment volume efficiently while minimizing wasted space.
Packaging and Loading: Ensure that the wooden toys are properly packaged and loaded into the container to maximize space utilization and protect the goods during transit. Use sturdy packaging materials and secure the cargo to prevent shifting or damage during transportation.
Booking and Documentation: Work with your freight forwarder or shipping provider to book a full container for your shipment. Provide all necessary documentation, including a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and any required export/import permits or certificates.
Customs Clearance: Prepare all required customs documentation and ensure compliance with customs regulations at both the origin and destination ports. Your freight forwarder can assist with customs clearance procedures to expedite the process and avoid delays.
Container Loading and Seal: Supervise the loading of the wooden toys into the container and ensure that the container is properly sealed and secured before departure. Your freight forwarder or shipping provider can arrange for container delivery to your facility for loading, or you can use a third-party warehouse or loading facility.
Transit and Tracking: Monitor the transit of the container using tracking tools provided by the shipping line or freight forwarder. Stay informed about the container’s progress and estimated arrival time at the destination port.
Destination Services: Arrange for customs clearance and delivery services at the destination port. Your freight forwarder can handle customs clearance procedures and coordinate the onward transportation of the container to the final destination, whether it’s your warehouse or distribution center.
Unloading and Distribution: Upon arrival at the destination, supervise the unloading of the container and inspect the wooden toys for any damage or discrepancies. Coordinate with local transportation providers or logistics partners to ensure timely delivery of the goods to your desired location.
Evaluation and Feedback: Evaluate the full container shipping process and performance of your freight forwarder or shipping provider. Provide feedback to identify areas for improvement and ensure smooth logistics for future shipments.
By following these steps, you can effectively ship a full container load of wooden toys and ensure their timely and secure delivery to the destination.
How To Find A freight Forwarder?
Finding a freight forwarder involves conducting research, evaluating options, and ultimately selecting a company that meets your shipping needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find a freight forwarder:
Define Your Needs: Determine your specific shipping requirements, including the type of goods you’re shipping, the volume of shipments, the shipping routes, any special handling requirements, and your budget constraints.
Research Online: Use search engines to find freight forwarders that specialize in the type of cargo you’re shipping and the regions you’re shipping to/from. Look for companies with positive reviews, relevant experience, and a strong track record in international shipping.
Check Directories and Listings: Explore online directories and listings dedicated to freight forwarding and logistics services. Websites like Freightos, Flexport, and Freightnet provide directories of freight forwarders, allowing you to search by location, services offered, and customer reviews.
Industry Associations: Check with industry associations related to shipping and logistics, such as the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) or the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). These associations often have directories of member companies that you can contact.
Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to business associates, suppliers, or other companies in your industry who have experience with international shipping. Ask for recommendations and referrals to reliable freight forwarders they’ve worked with in the past.
Attend Trade Shows and Conferences: Attend trade shows, conferences, and networking events related to shipping and logistics. These events provide opportunities to meet and connect with freight forwarders and other industry professionals face-to-face.
Request Quotes and Proposals: Contact multiple freight forwarders to request quotes and proposals for your specific shipping needs. Provide them with details such as the type of cargo, shipping volume, origin and destination locations, and any special requirements.
Evaluate Services and Expertise: Evaluate the services offered by each freight forwarder, including transportation options (air freight, sea freight, road freight, rail freight), customs clearance services, warehousing and distribution capabilities, and tracking and monitoring systems. Consider the freight forwarder’s expertise in handling your type of cargo and their knowledge of the specific regions you’re shipping to/from.
Check Credentials and References: Verify the credentials and licenses of freight forwarders to ensure they comply with relevant regulations and industry standards. Ask for references from previous clients and contact them to inquire about their experiences working with the freight forwarder.
Negotiate Terms and Contracts: Once you’ve selected a freight forwarder, negotiate terms and finalize the contract. Make sure to clarify responsibilities, terms of service, pricing, insurance coverage, and any other relevant details before proceeding with the shipment.
By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can find a reliable freight forwarder that meets your shipping needs and ensures the efficient and timely transportation of your goods.
Can we use our toy supplier forwarder?
Yes, you can use your toy supplier’s freight forwarder for shipping your goods. Many suppliers offer shipping services as part of their overall logistics package, especially if they are experienced in exporting goods internationally. Here are some considerations when deciding whether to use your toy supplier’s freight forwarder:
Convenience: Using your supplier’s freight forwarder can be convenient, as it streamlines the shipping process and allows for seamless coordination between production and transportation.
Cost: In some cases, using your supplier’s freight forwarder may result in lower shipping costs, as they may have established relationships with shipping carriers and can negotiate better rates.
Expertise: Your supplier’s freight forwarder likely has experience shipping similar goods and may have specific knowledge of the transportation requirements for your product type.
Communication: Using the same freight forwarder as your supplier can facilitate communication and coordination, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or delays in the shipping process.
Consistency: By using your supplier’s freight forwarder, you can maintain consistency in the shipping process and ensure that your goods are handled according to your supplier’s standards.
How does a freight forwarder handling your order when finished by toy factory?
When your toy order is finished by the factory, the freight forwarder plays a critical role in handling the logistics of getting the goods from the factory to their final destination.
Factory sales will inform forwarder to pick goods up in exact date. And after goods will ship to port,we as toy supplier required to prepare packing list,commercial invoice, contract to handle to process custom clerance in China. And when goods will be arriving to customer port, we will send bill of lading week ago to proceed custom clerance in customer’ side.
