Freight Forwarding FAQ

A freight forwarder organises international shipments on behalf of importers and exporters. They don't physically carry cargo — they coordinate the logistics chain: booking carrier space, preparing documents, arranging customs clearance, and coordinating pickup and delivery. Think of a freight forwarder as a travel agent for cargo.

LCL shares container space with other shipments; FCL reserves a container for your cargo. Compare total charges, cargo compatibility, handling and the available schedule. There is no fixed volume threshold that guarantees FCL is cheaper or faster.

CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) per piece × number of pieces. Example: 10 cartons of 60×50×40cm = 0.6×0.5×0.4 = 0.12 CBM each × 10 = 1.2 CBM total. Include the dimensions and quantity in your quote request and our team will verify the chargeable volume.

Not legally required, but strongly recommended. Standard carrier liability under Hague-Visby (sea) and Montreal Convention (air) covers far less than most goods are worth. Cargo insurance covers the full commercial value against loss, damage, theft, or general average. AGLog Cargo arranges cargo insurance — ask when requesting a freight quote.

Incoterms define where seller responsibility ends and buyer responsibility begins. EXW: buyer responsible from factory gate. FOB: seller responsible until goods loaded on vessel. CIF: seller covers cost, insurance, and freight to destination port. DDP: seller handles everything including destination customs and delivery. AGLog Cargo handles shipments under any Incoterm.

Transit depends on the selected carrier, routing, cargo-ready date and handling arrangements. Ask for a current estimate for your shipment, with vessel or flight transit distinguished from pickup, customs processing and final delivery. Estimates are subject to schedule changes and authority review.

A Bill of Lading (BL) is the key sea freight document serving three functions: (1) receipt confirming the carrier received the cargo; (2) contract of carriage; (3) document of title — whoever holds the original can claim cargo at destination. For air freight the equivalent is an Air Waybill (AWB), which is non-negotiable and not a document of title.

Standard options: 20' (~25–28 CBM, 28T max), 40' (~55–58 CBM, 26T max), 40' HC (~60–68 CBM, 26T max, extra height). Specialised: flat rack (OOG), open top (tall cargo), reefer (temperature-controlled), ISO tank (liquid bulk). AGLog Cargo can quote any equipment type.

Transit depends on the selected carrier, routing, cargo-ready date and handling arrangements. Ask for a current estimate for your shipment, with vessel or flight transit distinguished from pickup, customs processing and final delivery. Estimates are subject to schedule changes and authority review.

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight — the higher of actual gross weight (kg) and volumetric weight. Volumetric weight = (L × W × H in cm) ÷ 6000. Example: a box 60×50×40cm = 20kg volumetric. Include the dimensions in your quote request and our team will confirm the chargeable weight.

Standard export documents from HK: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air), HK Export Declaration, Certificate of Origin (if needed). Additional for controlled/regulated cargo: DG Declaration, Phytosanitary Certificate, Export Licence. AGLog Cargo guides you through every document requirement for your specific route.

HS code is the international product classification system used by all customs authorities worldwide. It determines the duty rate, import restrictions, and required permits at destination. Describe your product to AGLog Cargo's team and we'll advise on the correct classification. Incorrect HS classification is a customs offence — always verify before shipping.

A Certificate of Origin (CO) certifies which country a product was manufactured in. Required when: the destination uses origin to determine duty rates (FTA preferential duty), anti-dumping or quota restrictions apply, or a letter of credit requires it. For HK exports, COs are issued by the HK Trade and Industry Department or approved chambers. For other origins, the relevant customs authority or an approved chamber issues the document.

AGLog Cargo provides tracking updates throughout the journey. For sea freight: vessel name, voyage number, ETA. For air freight: AWB number for real-time airline tracking. Updates sent by email at key milestones. For urgent tracking queries, contact us directly by phone or WhatsApp: +852 9046 5038.

Submit complete cargo details—including origin, destination, weight, dimensions and commodity—through the commercial logistics enquiry form. The quote page explains the current review process and response expectation.