When you start to consider importing from China, one of the first things you should research is the various shipping methods available. There are many when dealing with imports from China.

A few of the most common types are discussed below:

First–Courier--This is the method where the goods are actually delivered to your door. It is usually used when the product size or amount is smaller.

Second–Air Freight–with this type of shipping, you must clear & collect goods at the airport. If you need your shipment quickly, air freight can usually get it under a week. This is usually not feasible for large shipments.

Third–Sea Freight--With sea freight, you have to clear & collect goods at the port. This is generally used for large shipments.

Advantages and disadvantages exist for all three methods. There are three factors, in general, on which your decision should be based.

1. The size and weight of your shipment
2. The amount of time you can wait for your shipment to arrive
3. The value of goods your shipment contains

In general, your best shipping method will always depend on the order itself. For example: Maybe your first order will be small toys worth about $500 that need to be imported. In that case, courier is probably the best way to go. If the weight is below 30kg and the packages are reasonably small, then it is the kind of shipment you would want to use courier for. Ask your supplier for best quotes. Suppliers in China usually get better rates than those in UK, US or Canada. The shipping company will probably be either DHL, TNT or UPS serving this shipment.

Your next order may be much bigger, close to $10,000. Courier is very expensive and not feasible for orders this size. With orders like these, you’ll want to use Air Freight or Sea Freight. Air freight may be more expensive than sea freight, but you’ll have the goods in a much shorter time period, and clearance fees will be lower. Sea freight will offer you the best value for your money. The problem with sea freight is you have to wait for up to 45 or even 60 days before your shipment will arrive.

The difference between shipping companies lies mainly in the time period of delivery. Sea freight is good for more bulky items, and a good value in cases when time is not important. If time is an issue, you’ll want to go with a freight that will allow your product to arrive in a more timely fashion. Depending on the size of the shipment, and/or your ability to be patient and wait, you should choose either courier or air freight.