At ABL, we place your satisfaction as our top priority and strive for greater innovation in freight services and logistics solutions. You can always be assured that you are enjoying our best shipping services.
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers for you to get a grasp of what services ABL Logistics provides, how we provide them, at what prices, and how you can benefit from us, what shipping with us looks like.
- General Questions
- Cargo Insurance
- Invoicing, Payment, Claims
- Pick-Up & Warehousing
- Sourcing & Fulfillment
- Customs Brokerage
- Booking Shipment
- Shipment Management
Is ABL Logistics A Broker or Carrier?
ABL Logistics is one of the best freight service providers in China and a licensed Freight Broker. We work with a network of carriers to negotiate Best Shipping Rates for shippers and provide freight shipping services such as air, sea, and rail transportation.
What Shipping Methods Do You Offer?
ABL Logistics offers air, ocean, rail transportation, and express shipping services. Call us at +86-13318755892 or Email us at Sales@abl-logistics.com to get a FREE quote today!
Can You Deliver From China To All Over The World?
Yes, sure we can. We can ship your goods from China to the US, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Do You Offer Door-To-Door Delivery Services?
Yes, we offer door-to-door shipping services from China to worldwide.
What does 3rd Party Billing mean?
If you are sending a commercial shipment with a commercial value but the cost of sending the shipment is being paid by someone else other than the shipper or receiver, this is called 3rd party billing.
Do You Have Special Services for Corporate Logistics?
Yes. We provide corporations with quality logistics services including Freight Forwarding, 3PL Logistics, Customs Brokerage, Project Logistics, and other value-added services.
Depending on the volume, we offer special prices to corporate customers, such as high discount rates. Email us for business inquiries: Sales@abl-logistics.com
Do You Provide Complete Freight Service including Customs Clearance?
Yes. ABL Logistics will arrange and monitor all transportation, door to door. Where required, we will also provide timely cross-border customs clearance to expedite the door-to-door process throughout North America, Europe, Australia, Japan, and South Asia, among others.
Types of Goods that Cannot Be Shipped by Air Freight?
Alcohol, cigarettes, securities, cash, liquids, flammable and explosive materials, weapons, gunpowder, high-pressure gas, flammable (flammable liquid), radioactive substances, and others are considered to be harmful to aircraft. Affected items are all prohibited items. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to get in touch with our Freight Expert for more information.
Do You Transport Dangerous Goods?
ABL Logistics transports dangerous goods in accordance with national and international ADR regulations. Please note that transport schedules for hazardous goods need to be arranged separately so you can contact us and we can quickly set up a suitable shipping solution for your needs.
How Much Does Freight Transportation Cost?
It depends on your shipping requirements, distance, size, the weight of goods, cargo insurance, and the current market rate. Follow the link to get a quote.
What Is The Maximum Size & Weight That Can Be Shipped?
ABL Logistics offers you the flexibility to ship most goods from a single pallet to a full charter load. If you have any questions, please get in touch with our freight expert team.
Why Do I Need Cargo Insurance?
Freight forwarders and carriers have limited liability under international conventions for loss or damage of customer goods. In the case of an incident, your compensation is normally calculated against a "standard" negligent liability clause. China Freight Insurance covers the 'gap' between our "standard" liability and the full value of your cargo. ABL Logistics recommends always getting cargo insurance for your shipments when shipping with us.
Is Freight Insurance Worth It?
We handle every shipment with great care, but accidents outside our control can happen. Cargo insurance is money worth spending because it is rare for a shipment to have a value lower than the amount the freight forwarder or carrier is liable for.
If the value of your shipment exceeds the amount that the freight forwarder or carrier is liable for, or if you are shipping to destinations lacking a well-organized infrastructure, you should consider taking on the relatively low extra cost of transport insurance.
When Something Goes Wrong, Isn't ABL Responsible Anyway?
ABL Logistics is a limited liability company; our liability is dictated by International Transport conventions such as' CMR' or local law, which usually equates to only a fraction of the value of your goods because it is assessed on weight. We must also have been found to be negligent in our handling of your shipment. ABL Logistics recommends always getting transport insurance for your shipments so that your cargo is fully insured when shipping with us.
I Ship High-risk Commodities – Can ABL Cover These?
Our scale means bundling thousands of insurance demands together to cover higher-risk businesses. We work with the best insurance company in China; our Cargo Insurance is suitable for All Shipping Types.
If My Goods Get Lost or Damaged, What Do I Need To Do?
If your cargo is lost or damaged, simply contact your ABL Logistics freight expert, who will guide you through the claims process and help you gather all the necessary information. We help facilitate claim handling for timely processing.
How Do I Prepare A Claim?
If your cargo got lost or damaged during transport & damage is externally visible, clearly note the waybill or transfer document with details of loss or damage when you received the shipment.
If the loss or damage is not visible until you open the packages, please make a written complaint to the carrier within 7 days of receipt of the goods.
What Information Will I Need To Submit A Claim?
Your claim should include the following information:
- If you've purchased China Freight Cargo Insurance from ABL Logistics, please provide an invoice copy & proof of payment
- Transport event & Transport reference
- Shipping route (from where to where)
- Air or Sea Waybill copy
- When the shipment was collected for transport
- When the consignment was delivered
- Description of the damaged or lost goods
- Actual weight of damaged or lost part of goods
- How and by whom the damage was discovered & Your contact details
- Photographs of the packaging & the damage to the goods, if possible before unloading when the shipment is still in transport unit
- Substantiated value, including purchase costs, estimates for repair, etc.
What Types Of Cargo Insurance Can I Choose From?
When shipping with ABL Logistics, you can get cargo insurance for land, air, and sea shipments.
Single Coverage is perfect for that shipping on a per-shipment, irregular basis, and is a cost-effective way to ensure your cargo anytime it gets shipped.
Open Coverage offers shipping insurance coverage for any shipment on an annual basis, ideal for customers shipping consistently.
All-risk Coverage will protect your cargo from all potential threats, covering loss arising from any fortuitous cause except those specifically excluded.
Named Perlis Coverage can protect freight from non-delivery, collisions, bad weather, theft, and acts of God for insuring against notable risks.
General Average Coverage states that all sea cargo stakeholders (owner, shipper, etc.) evenly share any damage or losses that may occur as a result of voluntary sacrifice of part of the vessel or cargo to save the whole in an emergency.
How Do I Pay My Invoices?
You can pay us through bank transfer (T/T), Western Union, Paypal, etc.
Why Not Accept Credit Cards?
ABL Logistics keeps evolving to serve our customers better. Now we are developing the credit card payment option through a service provider.
Hopefully that will come soon.
When Should I Pay?
When shipping with ABL Logistics, you don’t need to pay us any deposit.
Generally, you pay only after you get the Proof of Delivery (P.O.D.).
When Can I Get My Bill of Lading (B/L)?
For Sea Shipments: against the copy of B/L in 7 days
The B/L can be issued the same day the vessel departs from the loading port. We’ll send you a copy of B/L as proof of delivery.
After your payment, we can telex release the B/L or send the originals out.
For Air Shipments: before the airplane depart
When the freight is delivered to our airport warehouse, we’ll verify the dimension and calculate the chargeable weight. Then the total amount can be determined. A rough AWB can be provided as proof of delivery.
After your payment, we’ll arrange the earliest available plane to load and depart (usually the same day or the next day). And the final AWB will be sent to you immediately.
For Courier Shipments: before the airplane depart
We’ll verify the dimension and calculate the chargeable weight when the freight is delivered to our warehouse. Then the total amount can be determined. A package photo can be provided as proof of delivery.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
You are paying for our freight forwarding services to forward your goods overseas. Please ensure you are completely satisfied with the price and services offered, as once the goods have been despatched from China, no refunds will be allowed.
To cancel your shipment without forfeiting your fee, you must do so at least 72 hours in advance. You will not be able to cancel after this time. If you cancel, you will still be liable for any charges incurred, such as (but not limited to) collection charges, storage charges, handling, or packing costs.
Please note that factors such as arrival/loading late, dimension changes, and changes to the original booking details are allowed in the freight & logistics industry. All of these can not be reasons for canceling the order.
Benefits of Having One 3PL Manage All Warehousing &Transportation?
When 1 third-party logistics (3PL) company manages all your warehousing and shipping, this "integrated" logistics solution allows for a single resource (or team) to manage your supply chain. This team approach can bring more open and clear communication and better visibility to your inventory & transportation. As a 3PL in China, ABL Logistics can deliver free warehousing and freight transport services at a competitive rate.
Can You Pick Up Anywhere In China?
Yes, we can pick up from anywhere in China; we leverage our established relationships with our local network partners to pick up and deliver your shipment at a cost-effective shipping rate.
Can I Pick Up My Shipment From Your Warehouse?
Yes, you are welcome to our depot to pick up your shipment. Please contact us upfront, and we will prepare the shipment for pick-up.
Where Are Your Warehouses Located in China?
The warehouse location can mean the difference between a satisfied customer and an unhappy one. ABL Logistics' warehouses are strategically located throughout China in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Dalian.
Speed-to-market, fast shipping to your customer, and reduced transportation and handling costs are all cost-saving measures from the right location.
What Happens If My Cargo Is Damaged In Your Warehouse?
If your cargo is damaged in one of our China warehouses, it is our responsibility, not yours.
ABL Logistics always recommend our customers insure all their shipments as an added layer of protection. Follow the link to get a clear understanding of our cargo insurance.
Does ABL do Specialist Storage? eg: Temperature Controlled Goods
Yes, we can store a diverse range of products. Daily, your ABL fulfillment experts deal with big and small brands from various industries, such as food, health and beauty items, home appliances, automotive supplies, pet care – and just about everything!
Please note, we can't store flammable items or fresh food that requires refrigeration.
Will You Relabel Product Comes Without a Barcode or With Fault Code?
ABL Logistics requires our clients to maintain a high level of compliance from their suppliers, including product barcoding & labeling. However, should a product arrive that is not correctly labeled on the agreement, we will perform the necessary work to have it fit to be receipted into stock.
How Partnering With a 3PL Deliver Cost Savings to My Business?
There are various ways a 3PL in China can improve your supply chain, which vary based on your needs. In most cases, your 3PL in China's core competencies are storage, fulfillment, inventory management, and other value-added services. A few to note here: Cost savings through free warehousing and storage, QC inspection, packing and label management, reduced space charges, improved speed-to-market or customer, improved shipping costs, reduced damages and accuracy issues, etc.
Where Are You Located?
ABL Logistics has a network of warehouses strategically located throughout China to provide our clients nationwide coverage, ensuring that products will be shipped fastest, and most cost-effective.
Do You Do Amazon FBA Prep? Where Do You Ship To?
Yes. We can provide Amazon FBA prep services from China. We currently ship to the following countries: United Kingdom, USA, Mexico, Canada, France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Latvia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Slovenia, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
How Do I Ship My Goods To Your Warehouses?
You can send it straight in from the wholesaler or supplier. We need to identify your goods when they arrive. Please write your reference number (unique ID number) for identification on the address line.
Does ABL Logistics Require A Long-Term Contract?
We do NOT require a long-term, complicated contract, but we welcome this opportunity to work with a client in the long term. For annual shipping, we offer ABL Freight Discount Program. So, the more you ship, the better your earned discounts.
Do You Offer Product Sourcing Service?
Yes. ABL Logistics offers Sourcing from China and Shipping To Worldwide services. As a sourcing agent in China with worldwide logistics capabilities, we offer all-in-one service packages that include product sourcing, fulfillment, warehousing, and transportation that will save you time and money.
We'll help you determine your sourcing and fulfillment needs, then assist with finding quality products at prices that generate meaningful profit margins, choosing & coordinating suppliers to quickly bring your product to market. Follow the link to get a quote.
What Are The Processes Of Order Fulfillment?
Your order fulfillment process is as follows:
Receiving: Merchants or fulfillment centers receive inventory.
Warehousing: After the inventory is received, it's indexed and strategically placed in our warehouses throughout China.
Pick and Pack: The product desired to fulfill the order is picked, assembled if needed, and securely packed.
Shipping: Your parcel is dispatched to your customer via our reliable shipping carrier partners at a moment's notice.
Which Couriers Do You Work With?
We want to send out every cargo knowing it will reach your customer in pristine condition. That's why ABL Logistics only works with a trusted network of reliable couriers in China, including FedEx, DHL, UPS, and China Post.
How Can I Track My Shipment?
As soon as your order has left the warehouse, our fulfillment partner will send you a dispatch notification with tracking information from the designated courier (FedEx/UPS/DHL) with a link to their website.
If you haven’t received any shipment notification, please contact your ABL freight expert (Sales@abl-logistics.com).
Why Should I Use ABL Logistics As A Customs Brokerage Agent?
As a Customs broker in China, ABL Logistics is here to facilitate a professional service between China Customs and importers/exporters. Our customs brokers have a significant understanding of the Customs rules and regulations applicable and are therefore best suited to assist when shipping from China to the globe.
What Documents Do I Need For Customs Clearance?
A commercial invoice is the most important document and the only one that is essential for the export and import clearance process. Ask your ABL expert for an example.
How Much Will It Cost For My Shipment To Be Cleared At Customs?
Fees will vary based on what you are importing and how much you have paid for the goods.
Take the U.S., for example; the standard rate for Customs Clearance is roughly around $50 for clearance with China's Customs and an additional $100-$120 for clearance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
If I am Shipping via UPS, DHL, or FedEx, Do I Need to Clear Customs?
No, you don't. When shipping via UPS, DHL, or FedEx air express, the courier offers its own customs brokerage services. The benefit of their services is it remains seamless.
My Cargo Is Being Held In Customs - What Do I Do?
Tracking provides visibility of your cargo in the delivery process, including notifications on customs clearance. You may get messages such as "Customs Clearance" or "Held by Customs." If you see your cargo is being held in customs, you should contact the recipient to ensure customs or the carrier has been in touch. If they have not, please get in touch with your representative at ABL Logistics, and we will contact the freight carrier on your behalf.
Remember that sometimes backlogs in customs could mean your package is delayed. This delay is out of the control of ABL Logistics and the freight carrier. Also, ABL Logistics has no direct contact with customs; we liaise with the freight carrier, who then contacts customs to resolve any issues.
How Do I Get A Price For My Shipment?
If your company does not have a shipping quote from ABL Logistics, please contact us to get a quote.
When Does a Bill of Lading Become a Contract of Carriage?
Bill of Lading: a transport document issued by a carrier to convey information about the cargo and the condition in which it has been received and transported.
The bill of lading has three primary purposes or roles:
- Evidence of Contract of Carriage
- Receipt of Goods
- Document of Title to the goods
What To Do When the Original Bill of Lading is Lost?
Without the Original Bill of Lading, the release of your cargo will be put on hold until a new Bill of Lading is presented, or we get confirmation from the shipper to release the shipment without a Bill of Lading.
In these cases, you need to notify our Freight Expert Team immediately, so we know the situation and can support you.
How Does My Transportation Benefit From Freight Consolidation?
Freight consolidation is cost-saving, efficient, productive, and offers quicker delivery. The more freight that can be loaded into a container, the more cost-effective your shipment. Consolidated shipping is also the "green and sustainable option."
Which Should I Choose: LCL Shipment or FCL Shipment?
Generally, FCL shipping is faster than LCL because of the less general handling and unforeseen delays. It is also great for cargo that requires high security and fewer risks of damage.
On the other hand, LCL shipping is a more cost-effective shipping solution for small volume shipments, which makes it the best option for businesses with smaller orders as it reduces inventory investment while providing more flexibility.
How to Determine Sea Freight Rates?
Ocean freight is known to be a cheaper option compared to air freight. Here're some of the factors that determine or influence the ocean freight rates:
The ability of the shipper to negotiate rates with the freight forwarder/carrier
Seasons (peak or off-peak season)
Bunker fluctuations
Fluctuations in currency
Service charges levied by the stakeholders involved
Costs involved in handling & clearing goods at the loading and destination port.
Whether a shipment requires a Full Container Loading (FCL) or it's small enough to be consolidated with other cargo that is Less than Container Load (LCL)
As a freight forwarder in China, ABL Logistics works with reputable carriers and works to negotiate the best freight rates with them to help our customers receive the best carrier rates. Follow the link to Get A Quote.
Taxes That Are Applicable On Ocean Freight?
Here is a list of some of the taxes levied on goods:
Import Duty
VAT - Value Added Tax
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Other common taxes that are charged by customs include:
Clearance/entry fees
Excise duty (usually levied on fuel, alcohol, and tobacco)
Environmental tax
Consumption tax on luxury goods
Can I Change the Size or Type of Container?
Yes, you can.
Can I Change the Destination of My Cargo?
Yes. You can easily change the destination by submitting an amendment request with the new destination details to our freight expert team. However, your request will only be granted if it's done within the acceptable time limit.
Can I Change the Destination after I've Received Bill of Lading?
In some cases, the Change of Destination is not possible; however, if it is, then we will confirm all costs associated with the Change of Destination. Once we've received payment of these charges and confirmation that the original B/L has been canceled, destroyed, or made void, change your delivery place can be processed.
Why is there Transit Time Difference between FCL and LCL Cargo to the Same Destination?
Compared to FCL containers, wherein the whole container is being transported & unloaded to the final destination, LCL containers are being unloaded from the containers in Container Freight Station warehouses. Because of this deconsolidation process, LCL shipments also take more time in transit than FCL shipments.