FAQ

1. What is a consolidated shipping (forwarding) service?

   Consolidated shipping service refers to using a third-party company to gather packages from different sellers, combine them at a warehouse, and then ship them together to your final destination. This method is especially useful for cross-border shopping, helping reduce international shipping fees and streamline the logistics process.

2. How to use a forwarding service?

   The steps to use a forwarding service are as follows:

   1. Register and create a forwarding account.
   2. Get your assigned warehouse address (provided by the forwarding company).
   3. Use the warehouse address as the delivery address when shopping online.
   4. Purchase items and have them shipped to the warehouse.
   5. Once all packages arrive, the forwarding company consolidates them and arranges international shipping.
   6. Choose your preferred shipping method and pay the fees.
   7. Wait for the packages to be delivered to your final address.

3. How are the forwarding service fees calculated?

   The cost of using a forwarding service generally includes:

   • Domestic shipping fee: Cost from the seller to the warehouse.
   • Storage fee: Charges for storing your packages at the warehouse.
   • International shipping fee: Cost from the warehouse to your final address, usually based on weight or volume.
   • Duties and VAT: Some countries may charge taxes based on item value and type.

4. How to choose the right shipping method?

   Forwarding companies usually offer different shipping methods:

   • Sea freight: More affordable but slower—ideal for non-urgent goods.
   • Air freight: Balanced in speed and cost—suitable for most goods.
   • Express: Fastest but more expensive—best for urgent deliveries.

5. Will my package be taxed or held by customs?

   Whether your package is taxed or held depends on:

   • Declared value: Most countries won’t charge tax for packages below the duty-free threshold. If above, taxes may apply.
   • Type of goods: Items like electronics or luxury goods may incur higher taxes.
   • Customs policies of destination country: Policies vary; some countries enforce stricter regulations.

6. What if my package is lost or damaged? Can I claim compensation?

   If your package gets lost or damaged, follow these steps to file a claim:

   1. Provide evidence such as photos of the outer packaging, items, and proof of receipt.
   2. Submit screenshots of your purchase order.
   3. Contact the forwarding company’s customer service to file a claim.
   4. The company will usually process your claim within 3–5 business days and confirm the compensation amount.

7. Can I consolidate multiple packages into one shipment?

   Yes, most forwarding companies offer package consolidation. Multiple packages sent to the warehouse can be repacked into a single shipment, reducing international shipping costs—especially for smaller items.

8. What value-added services do forwarding companies offer?

   Additional services may include:

   • Package consolidation: Combine several packages to save on shipping.
   • Repacking: Provide safer packaging to minimize damage during transit.
   • Purchasing service: Help buy items that cannot be shipped directly to the warehouse.
   • Duties prepaid service: Pay customs taxes in advance to avoid delays upon arrival.

9. Can I change my warehouse address at any time?

   Most forwarding companies assign a fixed warehouse address when you create an account, and it usually doesn’t change. If you need to change it due to special circumstances, contact customer service to confirm whether it’s possible and if it will affect your shipments.

10. How does the forwarding company ensure the safety of my packages?

    To ensure security, forwarding companies usually offer:

    • Secure storage: Packages are stored in a safe warehouse with anti-theft measures.
    • Tracking services: Real-time tracking is available for your shipments.
    • Insurance options: Some companies offer optional insurance for loss or damage.

11. Can I ship prohibited items using a forwarding service?

    Prohibited items include goods banned by the destination country, such as certain food, medicine, cosmetics, weapons, and flammable items. Forwarding companies typically do not allow these and may inspect packages. Sending prohibited items risks confiscation or return—check your destination’s import restrictions beforehand.

12. How long does international shipping take?

    Delivery time depends on several factors:

    • Shipping method: Express and air freight take about 3–7 days; sea freight may take 10 days or more.
    • Destination country: More distant locations take longer.
    • Customs processing: Some countries may take longer to clear packages through customs.

Shipping Snacks

1. Can I ship Luosifen (river snail rice noodles)?

   Yes, Luosifen can be shipped via forwarding, but due to its strong smell, make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent odors during transit.

2. Can I ship Orleans chicken wing-flavored chips?

   These chips are popular and generally well-packaged, so they’re suitable for forwarding. However, choose an experienced forwarding company to prevent damage from compression or poor storage.

3. Can I ship Three Squirrels brand nuts?

   Yes, Three Squirrels nuts have good packaging and long shelf life—ideal for forwarding.

4. Can preserved fruits and dried snacks be shipped abroad?

   Yes, thanks to their dryness and durability. Use moisture-proof packaging to prevent damage or spoilage.

5. Can I ship mixed snack gift boxes?

   Snack boxes often contain various snacks and are great for forwarding. Since they may include fragile or perishable items, choose a reliable forwarding service to ensure proper handling and packaging.

Shipping Liquids

1. Can I ship fish maw (huajiao)?

   Fish maw is a semi-liquid or gelatinous product. While it’s relatively stable during shipping, ensure proper packaging and consult a professional forwarding company to prevent leaks and meet import requirements of the destination country.

2. Can I ship floral water (like cologne or mosquito repellent)?

   Yes, but many floral waters contain alcohol, which may be restricted, especially for air transport. Check shipping policies and pack securely to comply with regulations.

3. Can I ship tea-based liquid products?

   If it’s tea leaves, it’s a solid and generally allowed. If it’s tea extract or a ready-to-drink tea beverage, it counts as a liquid. These can be forwarded internationally—use leak-proof packaging and confirm with your shipping provider.

4. Can I ship soy sauce?

   Yes, soy sauce is a common Chinese condiment that many people want to ship. Be sure to:

   • Use sealed, reinforced packaging to prevent leakage.
   • Avoid high temperatures during transport to maintain quality.