Question 1

How is sea freight priced?

Accepted Answer

By volume, in cubic metres (CBM). One CBM is a box one metre on each side. There is a minimum charge, because a small shipment still occupies a slot on the vessel and still needs a permit lodged. Weight only matters for sea freight if your cargo is unusually dense.

Question 2

What is chargeable weight for air freight?

Accepted Answer

Air freight is charged on the greater of two numbers: the actual gross weight in kilograms, and the volumetric weight, which is length × width × height in centimetres divided by 6000. Light, bulky cargo is charged on volume; dense cargo is charged on actual weight. Our calculator on the Pricing page works both out for you.

Question 3

Do I have to pay GST on what I import?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Singapore charges GST on the CIF value of imported goods — the cost of the goods plus freight and insurance — at the prevailing rate. It applies regardless of shipment size and regardless of whether you are GST-registered. If you are GST-registered, you can generally claim it back as input tax on your GST return.

Question 4

Can you collect from my supplier on 1688 or Taobao?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Give us the supplier's contact details and we arrange collection anywhere in China, or your supplier can deliver to our Foshan consolidation hub. Many suppliers already know how to send goods to a forwarder's warehouse — pass them our address and they will handle it.

Question 5

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Cash on delivery, or PayNow. Payment is due only after you have accepted a written quote — nothing is payable when you send a request. We do not take card payments online.

Question 6

What if my goods are damaged or lost?

Accepted Answer

Tell us immediately and photograph everything before unpacking further. Our liability as a forwarder is governed by our Standard Trading Conditions, which limit it — this is standard across the industry and is why marine cargo insurance exists. If your goods are valuable, ask us about insurance before the shipment departs, not after.

Frequently asked questions

General

Pricing and payment

Customs and documents

Shipping and transit