LCL quote comparison checklist for small importers

Questions for each seller

Same start and finish

Ask: Does the quote include supplier pickup and delivery to my address, or only movement between freight stations?

CFS means container freight station. A destination CFS release is not delivery to your warehouse. Compare the same endpoints before comparing totals.

Packed size and chargeable quantity

Ask: Which packed dimensions, gross weight, chargeable quantity and W/M basis did you use?

W/M means weight or measurement. DHL describes LCL pricing using the greater of volume in CBM or weight in metric tons. Ask the seller to show the calculation. Include pallet or crate dimensions, not just the goods inside.

Minimums for every line

Ask: What minimum charge, minimum quantity and rounding rule applies to each charge?

A small shipment can attract minimums that make multiplication by its measured volume misleading. Do not assume the ocean freight minimum also governs handling or documentation. Get each basis in writing.

Origin and destination handling

Ask: Which pickup, CFS receiving, loading, destination devanning, release and documentation charges are included?

DHL separates local origin and destination charges from main freight. SHIPIT separates destination CFS fees from onward trucking. Ask who invoices excluded items, in which currency, and when they become payable.

Customs is not the same as duty

Ask: Does customs clearance mean brokerage only? What duties, taxes, bonds or examination costs remain separate?

Do not treat a clearance line as proof that duties or taxes are covered. Ask your customs broker to confirm the shipment-specific treatment. Any unknown charge should remain marked unknown, not entered as zero.

Delivery conditions and free time

Ask: Does delivery cover our unloading setup, appointment and access requirements? When does CFS storage begin?

Tell the seller whether you have a loading dock and whether a liftgate is needed. Ask about waiting, redelivery and storage. SHIPIT warns that destination CFS free time is limited. Confirm its start event and deadline.

Validity and transit endpoints

Ask: When does this quote expire? Do the transit days run port-to-port, CFS-to-CFS or door-to-door?

Ask which sailing and cargo-ready conditions the quote assumes. Port-to-port time leaves out other stages. Consolidation, destination handling, customs release and final delivery affect when the goods reach you.