Do you import from China? Please read here!

**Will** · 12-18-2010 09:37 AM

Hi guys,

Just doing a quick bit of market research on people who regularly import goods from mainland China or Hong Kong. Looking for people who import small bulk (not using shipping containers), so those that get their goods via DHL, FedEx, UPS, EMS couriers etc.

I am wondering how you go about getting shipping (courier) prices. Do you have your supplier sort it out, or do you get a freight forwarder in China to sort a good price for you? Would you like it to be easier? How happy are you with the prices, and the service you get?

Any thoughts will be much appreciated, I am looking into catering to this market to make things easier, more efficient and cheaper for regular small wholesale importers.

Thanks!
Will

**Will** · 01-03-2011 04:40 AM

no one actively importing?

**AndyMc** · 01-03-2011 04:21 PM

Hi Will,

We have used Freight forwarders to figure out the prices for us. These forwarders usually have offices in Asia as well as locally to where I am (USA). I can just call them tell them which products are coming out, when, and which city. They will usually give me a quoted price within 30 minutes.

The above was for our Crystal awards we sell, which are heavy and ship via Sea. For our lighter products we sometimes used Fed-ex. From experience they are the best to deal with. Utilizing large carriers can be a pain at times unless you get an assigned agent who works on your account. Otherwise your just a # to them.