Experienced buyers share their best strategies for saving time and money with CNFANS.
Mastering international shipping can dramatically improve your sourcing experience. We've gathered proven strategies from seasoned CNFANS users to help you optimize packaging, pick the best shipping routes, and navigate customs smoothly.
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Consolidate Your Purchases
Group multiple orders from different suppliers into one shipment. CNFANS' warehouse consolidation service can combine packages, reducing the total volumetric weight and qualifying you for better freight rates.
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Choose the Right Shipping Route Strategically
Don't just pick the cheapest option. For non-urgent goods, economy sea freight offers massive savings. For time-sensitive items, compare express (DHL/UPS) vs. CNFANS' priority air lines—often a perfect balance of speed and cost.
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Optimize Packaging Proactively
Request suppliers to use minimal, right-sized packaging. Before shipping, you can instruct CNFANS to remove unnecessary retail boxes and excess padding to reduce dimensional weight, a key cost factor.
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Be Precise with Customs Declarations
Work with your agent to ensure accurate HS codes and transparent declaration of value & contents. Complete and consistent paperwork is the #1 way to prevent costly customs delays and inspections.
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Leverage Real-Time Tracking and Alerts
Use CNFANS' tracking dashboard diligently. Set up notifications for every stage—from warehouse receipt to customs clearance—so you can address any issues immediately.
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Understand and Use Tax Thresholds
Research the de minimis value of your destination country. Sometimes splitting a large shipment into multiple parcels valued below this threshold can avoid significant import duties and taxes.
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Build a Relationship with Your Agent
Communicate regularly with your CNFANS point of contact. A good agent who understands your business can proactively suggest savings, flag potential issues, and streamline the process.
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Pre-Pay Duties and Taxes (DDP)
Opt for Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping when available. This means CNFANS handles all taxes upfront, preventing unexpected carrier collection fees and ensuring a smoother, faster final delivery.
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Schedule Shipments Off-Peak
Avoid major holidays like Chinese New Year, Singles' Day, or Christmas rush periods. Shipping volume surges cause delays and higher rates. Plan your purchases and dispatches accordingly.
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Audit Invoices and Fees Regularly
Review your shipping invoices in detail. Check for any unexpected charges and verify weight/measurement data. Ask your agent for clarification on any fee—this oversight encourages accuracy and can reveal recurring savings.