Shipping furniture from China.

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Compare full and shared container quotations

FCL means a full-container shipment; LCL means cargo sharing a container with other consignments. Compare actual quotations using packed volume, weight, dimensions, stackability and destination. The cheapest ocean line item may not be the cheapest complete delivery once origin and destination handling are included.

There is no universal volume at which FCL becomes cheaper. Large non-stackable furniture, fragile tops and delivery phasing can change the calculation. Air freight can be reviewed for urgent samples or parts, but is not automatically economical for bulky furniture.

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Know what your quote covers

This is a planning comparison, not a substitute for the full ICC rules or your contract. Risk transfer and payment are separate questions.

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Build a document plan before dispatch

• Commercial invoice: seller and buyer details, accurate product descriptions, values and agreed terms.
• Packing list: carton references, contents, quantities, packed dimensions and weights.
• Transport document: the bill of lading or other appropriate document, with release arrangements confirmed.
• Additional evidence: origin, material, testing, timber or other documents where the specific product and destination require them.

The supplier, forwarder and destination broker should agree the checklist. General document definitions from trade agencies are useful, but a US export checklist is not automatically the full checklist for an export from China to another country.

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Pack for handling, not just the showroom

Review edge protection, glass separation, moisture precautions, hardware bags, assembly instructions and identification labels. Ask whether fragile items need crates and whether wood packaging falls under applicable ISPM 15 requirements. Do not assume the presence of a mark removes other import obligations for timber goods.

Use item and room references that match the packing list. Record container and seal details where applicable. Review cargo insurance coverage and claims procedures; a carrier’s liability is not the same as a policy covering your full exposure.

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Allow time after the vessel arrives

A sailing estimate is not a guaranteed installation date. Customs clearance, inspections, deconsolidation, terminal collection, local transport, storage and site access can add time and charges. Ask about free-time limits and potential storage, demurrage or detention costs before booking.

Work backwards from when the furniture must be usable. Add production, sample decisions and receiving arrangements to the logistics schedule, and maintain a realistic buffer based on the current route and provider advice.