For first-time China importers, understanding the full freight process — from inquiry to customs clearance and delivery — is as important as getting a competitive rate. This guide walks through every step and cost item, so you can plan accurately and avoid surprises.

If you are importing from China for the first time, the freight process can feel overwhelming. But it follows a clear sequence that becomes straightforward once you understand each step. This guide covers everything from your first inquiry to final delivery — including what information to prepare, what costs to expect, and how to choose the right China freight forwarder.

What Information to Prepare Before Your First Inquiry

Before contacting a China freight forwarder, gather the following details. Even partial information allows a forwarder to provide a directional quote — share what you have.

Information Item	Details Needed
Product name and description	Cargo type, HS code if known, any special handling requirements
Quantity and packaging	Number of cartons/pallets, carton dimensions (cm), total weight (kg)
Supplier location in China	Factory city/province; nearest port (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Tianjin, etc.)
Korea delivery address	Port (Busan, Incheon) or door-to-door destination
Trade terms (Incoterms)	EXW (factory), FOB (Chinese port), CIF (Korea port), DAP/DDP
Target shipment date	Expected cargo ready date or required delivery date in Korea

China Import Freight: Full Step-by-Step Process

Step	Action	Notes
1. Inquiry and quote	Submit cargo details; receive itemised quote	Request full cost breakdown
2. Booking	Confirm vessel schedule and cargo cut-off date	CGO CLS and DOC CLS are critical deadlines
3. Cargo pickup (EXW only)	Inland trucking from Chinese factory to port	Not required under FOB terms
4. China export customs	Chinese supplier or agent files export declaration	Export license may be required for some goods
5. Loading and sailing	Cargo loaded at Chinese port; vessel departs	LCL: CFS consolidation before loading
6. Korea customs clearance	Import declaration, duty/VAT payment, FTA application if applicable	Korea–China FTA can reduce duties significantly
7. Delivery	Port pickup or door-to-door delivery in Korea	LCL: CFS deconsolidation at Korea port

China Import Cost Breakdown

A China import freight quote should cover all of the following. Always request an itemised breakdown rather than a single all-in number, as hidden charges at destination are the most common source of budget surprises.

China inland trucking (EXW only): factory to Chinese port
China THC / origin handling: terminal charges at Chinese port
Ocean freight: port-to-port rate (LCL priced per CBM/ton; FCL per container)
B/L fee: bill of lading issuance
Korea THC / destination handling: terminal charges at Korean port
CFS charges (LCL only): deconsolidation at Korea CFS
Customs brokerage and import duties: Korea customs clearance fees and applicable tariffs
Korea inland delivery: port to your warehouse

How to Choose a Reliable China Freight Forwarder

A reliable China freight forwarder will provide a full itemised quote with no hidden charges, clearly explain documentation requirements (including China export license requirements for your product), have established China-side agent relationships for smooth origin handling, and demonstrate current, regular operations on China–Korea routes. Ask about their experience with your specific product type, and check how they handle delays or cargo issues at the Chinese port end.

Q. What is the transit time from China to Korea by sea?

A. China to Busan or Incheon typically takes 2–5 days by sea freight, depending on the Chinese port of origin (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Tianjin, etc.) and vessel schedule. LCL adds CFS handling time at both ends.

Q. Can I use the Korea–China FTA to reduce import duties?

A. Yes. The Korea–China FTA reduces tariffs on many product categories to 0–5%. You need a valid Certificate of Origin (C/O) issued by the Chinese supplier. Confirm eligibility and arrange the C/O before shipment.

Q. What happens if my Chinese supplier says they cannot get an export license?

A. Some products require a Chinese export license that the supplier may not hold. KWL works with China-based partner agents who can navigate export licensing requirements — contact us to discuss your specific product situation.

China import freight is straightforward once you understand the sequence: inquiry → booking → China export → ocean transit → Korea customs → delivery. The key is choosing a forwarder who gives you full cost transparency from the start, has current operational experience on China–Korea routes, and can handle both origin and destination requirements without gaps.

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