F.A.Q.

Frequently asked questions

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What are the primary benefits of choosing Rail Freight?

Rail freight is ideal for long-distance, high-volume shipments. Its main benefits include high cost-efficiency compared to road transport over long distances, superior environmental performance (lower CO2 emissions), and enhanced reliability for scheduled transit times.

Is Rail Freight suitable for time-sensitive cargo?

While generally slower than air freight, modern rail networks (especially intermodal and block trains) offer fast, reliable schedules, making them a predictable alternative to road transport, especially for long-haul routes like transcontinental shipping.

What types of equipment are used for Railway Freight?

We utilize various equipment types: standard containers (for intermodal transport), specialized flatcars for heavy or oversized goods, temperature-controlled railcars, and dedicated bulk hoppers for commodities like grain or coal.

What does 'Intermodal Rail Freight' mean?

Intermodal rail refers to using the same container (FCL or LCL) across multiple transport modes—road, rail, and/or sea—without the cargo being handled. The container itself is moved, offering seamless door-to-door delivery with maximum security.

How is the cost of Rail Freight calculated?

Pricing is generally based on the distance (mileage), the weight or volume of the cargo, the type of railcar required, and applicable fuel surcharges. It is often structured with fixed costs per train slot or container move.

Do you provide services for the New Silk Road (China-Europe Rail)?

Yes. We offer specialized services along the New Silk Road corridor, providing a reliable and time-efficient mid-ground alternative between slow ocean freight and expensive air freight for Eurasian trade routes.

How do you handle the 'first and last mile' for rail shipments?

We manage the entire supply chain. The rail segment is seamlessly connected via trucking services for the 'first mile' (from your warehouse to the rail terminal) and the 'last mile' (from the destination rail terminal to the consignee's final address).

What is the primary advantage of choosing Sea Freight?

Sea Freight is the most cost-effective method for moving large volumes of goods internationally. It offers the highest capacity, making it ideal for non-perishable, heavy, and bulky cargo that does not require immediate delivery.

What is the difference between FCL and LCL in ocean shipping?

FCL (Full Container Load) means a single shipper uses the entire container. LCL (Less-than-Container Load) means the shipment shares space in the container with other shippers’ cargo. FCL is generally faster, while LCL is more economical for smaller volumes.

What are the common container sizes used in sea freight?

The industry standards are the 20-foot (TEU) and 40-foot (FEU) containers. We also utilize specialized containers like 40-foot High Cubes (HC), Open Tops, Flat Racks, and refrigerated units (Reefers).

How is sea freight pricing determined?

FCL pricing is based on a flat rate per container type. LCL pricing is based on volume (CBM) or weight. Both are subject to fluctuating surcharges like BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor), Port Fees, and seasonal peaks.

What is the typical transit time for international ocean shipping?

Transit times vary significantly by route. Regional shipping can take 5 to 10 days, while trans-Pacific or trans-Atlantic routes typically take between **3 to 6 weeks** (21 to 45 days), not including customs and inland transport.

What documentation is required for ocean cargo clearance?

The crucial documents are the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and the **Bill of Lading (B/L)**. The B/L is particularly important as it serves as the contract of carriage and the document of title, required to claim the goods.

Do you offer Door-to-Door service for Sea Freight?

Yes. While the main segment is port-to-port, we provide integrated Door-to-Door services, coordinating all road transport, customs clearance, and inland delivery from the shipper's warehouse to the final consignee's location.

When is Air Freight the optimal transport solution?

Air Freight is the optimal choice for time-critical, high-value, or perishable shipments where speed and reliability are paramount. It is best suited for goods that have short shelf lives or strict delivery deadlines.

How is the cost of Air Freight calculated?

Air freight costs are calculated based on the **chargeable weight**, which is the greater of the shipment’s actual gross weight or its volumetric (dimensional) weight. Rates are significantly higher than ocean or road freight.

What is volumetric weight, and why is it important in air freight?

Volumetric weight measures the space a package occupies. Since space on an aircraft is limited and valuable, carriers charge based on density. If a lightweight box takes up a lot of space, the volumetric weight (not the actual weight) is used for billing.

What is an Air Waybill (AWB)?

The Air Waybill (AWB) is the critical non-negotiable document serving as a contract between the shipper and the carrier. It contains shipment details, routing information, and tracking number. Unlike a Bill of Lading, it is not a document of title.

Can I ship hazardous materials (Hazmat) via air freight?

Yes, but under strict regulation. Hazardous materials must be classified, packaged, marked, and documented according to the specific rules set by IATA (International Air Transport Association) and relevant aviation authorities. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties.

Do you offer charter services, or only commercial flights?

We offer both. For standard shipments, we utilize cargo space on scheduled commercial and freighter flights. For very large, urgent, or high-value project cargo, we can arrange dedicated **Air Charter** services tailored to your specific schedule and capacity needs.

What is the typical transit time for Air Freight?

Standard airport-to-airport transit time usually ranges from **1 to 5 days**, depending on the distance, the number of transfers, and destination customs processing speed. Door-to-door services include additional time for local pickup and delivery.

What is LCL (Less-than-Container Load) shipping?

LCL is an ocean freight solution where multiple shippers' goods are consolidated into a single shipping container. This allows small-to-midsize shipments that don't require a full container to share space and costs.

When is LCL the ideal choice for my cargo?

LCL is the best option when your cargo volume is too large for air freight but too small to justify the cost of an entire FCL container. It is highly cost-effective for smaller, regular international shipments.

How is LCL shipping pricing calculated?

LCL costs are based on the shipment's volume (measured in cubic meters or CBM) and/or its weight, whichever yields the higher rate (known as the chargeable weight). You only pay for the specific space your cargo occupies.

Why are LCL transit times typically longer than FCL?

LCL requires extra time at both ends. It needs to be consolidated (stuffed) with other cargo at the origin CFS (Container Freight Station) and deconsolidated (stripped) at the destination CFS before final release. These steps add time to the overall transit.

What is a CFS (Container Freight Station)?

The CFS is the designated facility where LCL cargo from various shippers is received, checked, consolidated, and professionally loaded into the container (at origin), and where the cargo is unloaded and prepared for customs clearance (at destination).

Is my cargo handled more frequently with LCL?

Yes. Because LCL freight is handled during the stuffing and stripping processes at the CFS facilities, robust packaging (such as crating or palletizing) is essential to protect your goods from potential damage while sharing space with others.

Can LCL be used for specialized cargo (e.g., refrigerated goods)?

While most LCL is used for standard dry cargo, specialized consolidation services exist for certain temperature-controlled, hazardous, or high-value LCL shipments. We can advise on the feasibility and necessary compliance procedures for such specialized cargo.

What is FCL (Full Container Load) freight shipping?

FCL refers to a shipment where a single shipper utilizes the entire capacity of a container (typically 20-foot or 40-foot), regardless of whether the container is fully packed or not. This method is the backbone of modern global ocean freight.

When should I choose FCL over LCL (Less-than-Container Load)?

FCL is the ideal choice when you have enough cargo to efficiently fill at least half a container, or when shipping high-volume, time-sensitive, or sensitive/high-value cargo that requires minimal handling during transit.

What are the standard container sizes available for FCL?

The two most common standard sizes are the 20-foot container (TEU) and the 40-foot container (FEU). We also offer access to specialized equipment like High Cube (HC) containers, Open Tops, and Refrigerated (Reefer) units.

What are the key benefits of using FCL shipping?

The main benefits include faster transit times (as the container travels directly), minimized risk of damage or contamination (since the cargo is sealed and not handled), and usually a lower cost per cubic meter compared to LCL.

How is FCL pricing determined?

FCL pricing is based on a flat rate per container type (e.g., 40' HC) for the specific shipping lane (port-to-port). Rates are volatile and influenced by carrier capacity, global demand, seasonality, and fuel surcharges (BAF).

Who is responsible for loading (stuffing) and unloading (stripping) the FCL container?

Typically, the shipper (seller/exporter) is responsible for loading and securing the cargo inside the container at the origin. The consignee (buyer/importer) is responsible for unloading the container at the final destination.

How is visibility and tracking handled for FCL shipments?

We provide comprehensive tracking using the container number, allowing you to monitor key milestones, including departure, trans-shipment points, and Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) at the destination port.

What is FTL (Full Truckload) freight shipping?

FTL is a dedicated transport method where a single shipment occupies the entire space of a truck trailer (typically 48 or 53 feet). The truck travels directly from the origin pickup location to the destination delivery location without intermediate stops or cross-docking.

When is FTL the best shipping option?

FTL is the ideal choice for large volume shipments (over 10,000 lbs or 10+ pallets), high-risk or high-value cargo requiring minimal handling, and shipments with strict time-sensitive deadlines.

How does FTL pricing work?

FTL pricing is based on a flat rate for the full movement. It is determined by the specific lane (origin/destination), current market demand, fuel costs, and the required equipment type, rather than by freight class or density.

What are the main advantages of choosing FTL over LTL?

FTL offers significantly faster transit times due to direct routes, reduced risk of damage since the cargo is not handled at terminals, and guaranteed capacity for large shipments.

What types of equipment are available for FTL shipments?

We offer various trailer types, including standard Dry Vans (53ft), Refrigerated (Reefer) trailers for temperature-sensitive goods, Flatbeds for oversized cargo, and Specialized Equipment based on commodity needs.

Is my FTL shipment handled multiple times during transit?

No. FTL shipments are loaded once at the origin and unloaded once at the destination. The cargo remains undisturbed in the sealed trailer, drastically minimizing the chance of damage or misplacement.

Can I request a dedicated or expedited FTL service?

Yes. We offer specialized expedited FTL services, including team drivers or dedicated scheduling, for shipments that must adhere to extremely tight delivery deadlines and time-critical supply chains.

What is LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight shipping?

LTL shipping is the transport of freight that does not require the use of an entire 48-foot or 53-foot trailer. Your shipment shares space on the truck with cargo from other shippers, making it a cost-effective solution for shipments typically weighing between 150 lbs and 15,000 lbs.

When should I choose LTL over FTL (Full Truckload)?

You should choose LTL when your cargo size is too large for parcel carriers (like FedEx or UPS) but too small to justify the cost of an entire dedicated truck. LTL allows you to only pay for the portion of trailer space you actually use.

How is LTL freight pricing determined?

LTL pricing is complex, determined by several factors: the shipment’s dimensions and weight, the distance of the haul, and critically, the **Freight Class** (a standard classification based on the cargo’s density, handling requirements, and liability).

Why is accurate freight classification important?

Accurate classification ensures you are charged the correct rate. Misclassifying freight (undervaluing its class) can lead to unexpected surcharges, delivery delays, and costly re-weighs/re-classes by the carrier.

Does LTL require special packaging?

Yes. All LTL freight must be properly packaged and secured, typically on pallets, crated, or skidded. This protects your cargo from potential damage during handling at terminals and while sharing space with other shipments.

Why are LTL transit times generally longer than FTL?

LTL involves multiple stops and transfers at various consolidation terminals (hubs) along the route to load and unload other shippers’ cargo. This necessary process adds time compared to a dedicated FTL shipment traveling directly from origin to destination.

What is a "re-weigh" or "re-class" and how does it affect the cost?

A re-weigh occurs when the carrier determines the actual weight differs from the quoted weight. A re-class occurs when the carrier determines the actual dimensions or nature of the cargo differs from the declared Freight Class. Both result in an adjusted invoice reflecting the correct, usually higher, cost.

What distinguishes Project Cargo from general freight?

Project Cargo refers to the transport of **heavy-lift** or **out-of-gauge (OOG)** items that cannot fit into standard containers, such as massive machinery, industrial modules, or wind turbine components. It requires specialized engineering, permits, and handling equipment.

What industries typically require Project Cargo services?

This service is critical for industries involved in major capital investments, including Energy (Oil & Gas, Renewables), Mining, Infrastructure (Bridges, Tunnels), and large-scale Construction.

What is a Route Survey, and why is it essential?

A Route Survey is a detailed physical inspection of the proposed transport corridor (roads, bridges, ports). It is essential to confirm load-bearing capacities, vertical clearances, and turning radii to ensure the safe passage of oversized cargo and to secure necessary permits.

Do you handle the entire logistics chain, or just the transport phase?

We provide a complete, **turn-key Project Logistics** solution. This includes everything from feasibility studies, specialized chartering, cargo lashing and securing, customs clearance, permit acquisition, and final delivery to the remote job site.

What specialized equipment is utilized for heavy-lift movements?

We utilize a range of highly specialized equipment, including Modular Hydraulic Trailers (MHTs/SPMTs), heavy-lift cranes, jacking and skidding systems, and purpose-built breakbulk or semi-submersible vessels.

How do you manage the risk associated with high-value, critical shipments?

Risk management is central to our process. We implement multi-layered contingency plans, utilize professional rigging supervision, and provide comprehensive cargo insurance options covering the entire chain of custody.

What type of documentation and regulatory compliance is involved?

Project Cargo involves complex regulatory compliance, often requiring permits for exceeding highway limits and specific customs declarations due to high value or sensitive nature. We manage all regulatory filings, ensuring full compliance.

What is the minimum lead time required for booking a Project Cargo move?

Due to the extensive planning required (route surveys, permit acquisition, and specialized vessel/equipment chartering), Project Cargo typically requires a minimum lead time of **4 to 12 weeks**, depending on the complexity and scale of the move.

What types of shipping services does your company specialize in?

We offer a comprehensive range of services, including Air Freight, Ocean Freight (FCL/LCL), Road Transport, Rail Cargo, and specialized solutions such as Project Cargo and temperature-controlled logistics.

Do you handle both domestic and international shipments?

Yes. We manage logistics operations across all scales, providing full services for domestic transport within United States and extensive international shipping to major global markets.

What is the difference between FCL and LCL ocean freight?

FCL (Full Container Load) means your shipment occupies the entire container, offering dedicated space and often faster transit. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your goods share space with other shippers' cargo, providing a more cost-effective option for smaller shipments.

How can I get a quote for my shipment

You can request a quote directly through our website via the 'Get a Quote' form, or by contacting our sales team via email or phone. Please be prepared to provide cargo dimensions, weight, origin, and destination.

What is Customs Clearance, and do you handle it?

Customs Clearance is the mandatory process of obtaining official permission for goods to enter or exit a country. Yes, we provide full Customs Brokerage services, ensuring compliance and the timely payment of duties and taxes for your shipments.

Which essential documents are required for international shipping?

Key documents typically include the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (or Air Waybill), and often a Certificate of Origin. Our team will guide you on any additional country-specific regulatory documents required.

What is a Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)?

These documents serve three primary functions: as a contract of carriage, a receipt for the goods, and (in the case of the B/L) a document of title, essential for claiming the cargo at the destination.

Do you offer cargo insurance?

Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive cargo insurance to protect against unforeseen loss or damage during transit. We can arrange policies tailored to your specific cargo value and route risks.

How can I track the status of my shipment?

We offer real-time tracking through our dedicated online portal. Once your shipment is booked, you will receive a unique tracking number that provides current updates on its location and estimated time of arrival (ETA).

What is your policy regarding claims for damaged or lost goods?

Claims must be submitted in writing within the specific time frames stipulated in our terms and conditions (typically detailed in the Bill of Lading). We will work diligently to process and resolve legitimate claims in accordance with international conventions and applicable liability limits.

Do you offer warehousing and distribution services?

Absolutely. Our services include integrated Warehouse, Storage & Distribution (3PL) solutions, covering inventory management, pick-and-pack fulfillment, cross-docking, and final-mile delivery coordination.

I have a very large, non-standard shipment. Can you handle Project Cargo?

Yes. We specialize in Project Cargo (heavy-lift, out-of-gauge). Our dedicated engineering teams handle everything from route surveys and feasibility studies to securing specialized equipment and permits for safe, complex deliveries.

How do I get an accurate quote for shipping my vehicle?

Quotes are primarily based on the distance between the pickup and delivery zip codes, the vehicle's size (make and model), and the chosen transport method (Open or Enclosed). Current fuel prices and route demand also influence the final cost.

What payment methods do you accept, and when is the payment due?

We typically require a partial initial deposit to secure the booking, with the remaining balance due upon delivery of the vehicle. We accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and sometimes cash upon delivery.

Is the quote I receive guaranteed?

Yes, our quotes are generally guaranteed once the order is placed, provided the details (vehicle condition, size, specific locations) remain accurate. Changes to the information or extreme fluctuations in market demand may require recalculation.

What is the difference between Open and Enclosed Carrier transport?

Open Carrier transport is the most common and cost-effective method, using an uncovered trailer. Enclosed Carrier transport offers maximum protection from weather and road debris and is highly recommended for classic, luxury, or high-value vehicles.

How long does state-to-state transport typically take?

Transit times vary significantly based on distance and route. Generally, cross-country transport (e.g., coast-to-coast) takes between 7 to 14 days, while shorter regional moves may take 2 to 5 days. We provide an estimated delivery window upon booking.

Can I ship personal items inside my vehicle?

While we primarily transport vehicles, most carriers allow a limited amount of personal items (usually under 100 lbs) secured in the trunk. However, these items are typically not covered by carrier insurance, and restrictions vary by state regulation.

Is the pickup and delivery service door-to-door?

Yes, we offer door-to-door service. However, if the carrier cannot safely access a specific residential street (due to narrowness, low-hanging trees, or restrictions), a mutually agreed-upon, nearby convenient location (e.g., a large parking lot) will be used.

What preparation steps should I take before the carrier arrives?

Please ensure the vehicle is clean, the fuel tank is no more than ¼ full, remove all non-permanent exterior accessories (like spoilers), and perform a final check to secure all personal belongings.

What if I cannot be present at the time of pickup or delivery?

You may designate a representative (friend, family member, or colleague) to release or receive the vehicle on your behalf. They must be over 18 years old and possess the signed Bill of Lading (BOL) and inspection documents.

Is my vehicle insured during transit?

Yes. Every licensed carrier is required to carry liability insurance, which covers damage directly caused by the carrier's negligence during transit. The full details and limits of coverage are provided in the contract.

What should I do if my vehicle sustains damage during transport?

Any new damage must be clearly noted on the final Bill of Lading (BOL) before the driver departs, and photos should be taken immediately. You must then file a claim directly with our company or the carrier's insurance provider promptly.

What is a Holding in Trust service?

It is a secure financial arrangement where our company acts as a neutral third party, holding transaction funds on behalf of the Buyer and Seller until all contractual conditions of the agreement are fully met.

How does Holding in Trust increase security for both parties?

It eliminates transactional risk. The Seller is guaranteed that the funds are secured and verified before they deliver the goods/service, and the Buyer is guaranteed that their payment will not be released until they confirm satisfactory receipt.

How is this service different from a traditional bank escrow?

Our service provides a streamlined, affordable, and digitally-enabled process, often integrating faster with logistics and trade fulfillment than traditional, legally complex bank-managed escrow accounts.

How does the process begin?

The process starts when both the Buyer and Seller agree on the terms of the transaction. The Buyer then deposits the full payment into our secure Holding in Trust account.

When are the Buyer's funds released to the Seller?

The funds are released only after the Buyer officially verifies and confirms to our company that they have received the goods or services, and that all conditions specified in the original agreement have been completely satisfied.

What happens if the Buyer is not satisfied with the delivery?

If the Seller fails to meet the agreed-upon terms, the Buyer notifies us. We hold the funds while the dispute is mediated. If the issue remains unresolved, funds may be returned to the Buyer, depending on the contract terms and outcome of the dispute resolution.

How do I know my funds are safe while they are 'Held in Trust'?

The funds are held in secure, segregated accounts. Our operations are fully compliant with relevant financial regulations, ensuring that client funds are protected and separate from our company's operating capital.

Who pays the service fee for the Holding in Trust service?

The service fee can be paid entirely by the Buyer, entirely by the Seller, or, most commonly, split between the two parties, as determined in the initial agreement.

What documentation is required to initiate a Holding in Trust transaction?

We require a clear, signed agreement between the Buyer and Seller detailing the transaction terms, price, delivery method, and the specific conditions for fund release.

How does this service protect me from fraud?

For the Buyer, it prevents money loss by guaranteeing the Seller delivers before payment is received. For the Seller, it guarantees that the Buyer’s funds are verified and secured before shipment is initiated.

What if a dispute arises after the funds have been released?

Our responsibility and role as the neutral third party ends upon the successful disbursement of funds (i.e., after the Buyer has formally confirmed satisfaction). Post-release issues become a matter between the Buyer and Seller, as per their original contract.

What is the core function of Customs Clearance?

Customs Clearance is the mandatory process of obtaining official government permission to move goods into or out of a country. Its core function is to ensure compliance with all national trade laws, security regulations, and health standards.

What is a Customs Broker, and why do I need one?

A Customs Broker (or agent) is a licensed professional who acts on your behalf to prepare and submit all required documentation to the customs authority. You need one because customs laws are complex, highly regulated, and vary significantly by country, minimizing the risk of delays and fines.

Which essential documents are required for Customs Clearance?

The most crucial documents include the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and the Bill of Lading (or Air Waybill). Depending on the cargo and destination, a Certificate of Origin, import/export licenses, or specific permits may also be required.

What is a Customs Duty, and how is it calculated?

A Customs Duty is a tax levied by the government on imported goods. It is typically calculated based on the Classification of the cargo (using the international Harmonized System or HS Code), the cargo's value, and the country of origin.

What happens if there is an issue with the documentation?

Inaccurate or incomplete documentation is the primary cause of clearance delays. Issues can lead to customs holds, mandatory physical inspections, penalties, fines, and increased warehousing fees until compliance is achieved.

How long does the Customs Clearance process take?

If all documentation is accurate and submitted correctly, clearance can often be completed within hours of arrival. However, if inspection or reassessment is required, the process can extend by several days or even weeks.

Do you handle Customs Clearance for all major international ports?

Yes. Through our network and internal expertise, we provide comprehensive Customs Brokerage services at all major seaports, airports, and border gateways, ensuring efficient handling across international jurisdictions.