Importing products directly offers great value, but hidden costs can surprise you at checkout. With the OrientDig Cost Estimation Spreadsheet, you can forecast your final expenses accurately, turning guesswork into confident purchasing decisions.
Deconstructing the Total Cost: Three Key Components
The OrientDig method breaks down your total landed cost into three manageable parts. Your final price is the sum of all three.
1. Product Cost
This is the base price from your supplier. In your spreadsheet, always:
- Input the FOB (Free On Board)
- Specify your order quantity
- Factor in any bulk discounts
- Specify your order quantity
Formula: (Unit Price × Quantity) - Discounts = Total Product Cost
2. Domestic Freight (China)
Often overlooked, this covers moving goods from the factory to the Chinese export port.
- Estimate based on cargo volume (CBM)
- Include any local handling fees
- Your freight forwarder or OrientDig can provide standard rates for this leg.
- Include any local handling fees
3. International Shipping
The major variable cost. Your spreadsheet should let you compare:
- Sea Freight: Air Freight: Courier (DHL/UPS/FedEx):
Remember to include insurance, customs duties, and your destination country's taxes (e.g., GST, VAT)
Your Step-by-Step Workflow with the Spreadsheet
- Gather Quotes:
- Input Logistics Data:
- Set Your Parameters:
- Auto-Calculate:
- Compare & Decide:
- Input Logistics Data:
Pro Tips for Accurate Estimation
- Always Add a Contingency:
- Update Rates Regularly:
- Volume is King:
- Document Everything:
- Update Rates Regularly:
Check Out with Confidence
The OrientDig spreadsheet transforms a complex international supply chain into clear, actionable numbers. By calculating your product price, domestic freight, and international shipping