Attractive prices, flexible manufacturing, and an incredible range — these are the key reasons businesses partner with China. However, the cost of transport services often becomes a burden. In many cases, transport costs even exceed the value of the goods themselves. Therefore, the question of how to bring goods from China cheaply is very common among those who want to do business with China. Here, we share expert insights from DiFFreight.
A key disclaimer — you can save a lot, but within certain limits. Savings should be strategic to avoid unpleasant delivery situations. The saying "A penny saved is a penny earned" applies here — especially in logistics. We will share real ways to save.
Sea container shipping leads in price. It's suitable for both bulky and small shipments, has fewer restrictions on product categories, and is quite safe. Its significant downside — delivery times.
What options are most promising:
So, if you're considering procurement of Goods from China for resale from the warehouse (not dropshipping), sea transport will suit you.
Both factors matter in transportation. For instance, if you order a batch of plush toys, they are lightweight but bulky. Or tools — they aren't bulky but are heavy. When calculating shipping costs, dimensional weight is taken into account. Here’s how you can save:
For example, you order shower caps from China. The carrier offers a rate of $6/kg due to low density. If you add dense items like self-adhesive film, baking paper, or foil, the overall density increases, and the shipping rate drops to about $3.5/kg.
Of course, these tips may not apply to every business, but you can consult with DiFFreight: our experts will advise you on how to reduce the cost of international logistics services.
It adds weight and volume. So, it's important to form shipments in a way that everything arrives intact and you don't overpay for materials and transport. This depends a lot on the product's specifics. Glass cannot be shipped with minimal packaging, but durable goods can be wrapped in bubble wrap without excess.
This is a great way to save on the shipping of test samples. Consolidation involves not just shipping with other goods. DiFFreight's Logistics from China include warehouse storage services. You can receive samples from different manufacturers, accumulate them in the warehouse, and ship them together in a consolidated container. This is much more cost-effective than shipping each one separately.
A pallet reduces the cost of the order by up to 17%. A pallet is essentially a large box without walls but with a bottom, lid, and supports. It is lighter than crate packaging for each box, has standard sizes, and holds more. At the same time, it provides sufficient durability and protection for the cargo.
To avoid overpaying due to demand, analyze the market and stay ahead of trends. For instance, New Year’s products are ordered as early as September to have them ready for the season. The higher the demand, the higher the prices from both manufacturers and carriers. Shipping rates, in particular, spike before the Chinese New Year, right before the national holidays in China.
To maximize profits, entrepreneurs often cut costs wherever possible. However, there are some areas where saving is not recommended:
After researching, you find multiple logistics companies — one offers cheap sea freight, another has better rates for road transportation, and a third provides affordable customs brokerage services. If you entrust the delivery to different providers, you face countless risks at every stage — loading, unloading, transit, document handling, customs clearance. When different companies manage the delivery, cargoes get lost, stuck in ports, or face fines at customs. It's better to choose one company that provides end-to-end service.
Imagine your disappointment if you successfully transport a batch of 10,000 t-shirts, only to receive defective or incorrect items. It’s much more cost-effective to arrange a quality inspection at the warehouse in China than to pay for transporting faulty goods.
These professionals prepare all the necessary documents to ensure smooth customs clearance — from accurate weight, quantity, and volume to tariff codes and duties. Trust DiFFreight experts: you don’t want to face fines, confiscation of goods, or criminal liability for incorrect documentation.
Smart savings mean choosing a reliable logistics partner. It’s better to ensure the safety of your cargo, logistics, and customs clearance, rather than deal with potential losses and challenges. DiFFreight experts can advise you on the most cost-effective way to deliver goods from China, taking into account your cargo type, batch size, and transportation methods.
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