Importing From Shekou to The UK

The Bill of Lading is an important document used throughout the import process. The first role the BOL plays is a receipt, handed to the seller(by your freight forwarder) as proof that the seller handed over the goods in good condition. The second role the BOL plays is a shipment contract indicating (on the reverse side) the terms and conditions of the forwarder.

The master BOL number is also useful in shipment tracking, and the BOL usually includes other tracking identifiers like container numbers. If you pay your seller via Letter of Credit, you will need to include the bill of lading. The same case applies when filing claims for lost or damaged cargo.

Usually, suppliers will ask you if you prefer the original bill of lading or the telex option. Asking for the telex bills of lading is the best option because it reduces the risk of losing the original BOL as it travels via post. However, if you pay via a letter of credit, the supplier might insist on sending the original bill of lading. If you have the original document, you will need to present it to customs upon the arrival of your goods to have them cleared.

When shopping on Alibaba or buying from Chinese suppliers, you have probably come across the two most common freight terms; FoB and EXW. These three letters on the commercial invoice define who will handle which step of the shipping process, along with the associated risks and costs. Even though you will mostly encounter FoB, EXW and CIF, the terms range from EXW, where you as the buyer handle everything and DDT, where the seller handles everything. Understanding the three most common terms will help you negotiate the import process.

Many importers bringing goods from China prefer to use sea freight due to its affordability. If your cargo falls on the heavier side, importing your cargo as a full container load is the most convenient option. For smaller items that don’t fill a container, go for less than container load shipment. The traditional maritime route between China and Europe runs through the South China Sea, the Malacca Strait, the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal. This route takes 30-48 days.

FCL shipments take a shorter period (30 days) than LCL (at least 35 days) since LCL shipments must be consolidated before leaving Shekou port. For LCL shipments, your cargo is packed into a container at the supplier’s warehouse. Once the doors close, they don’t open, except for port inspections, until the container arrives at your destination. The minimal handling involved with FCL shipments guarantees more security.