FOB shipping from China to Canada

Are you looking to simplify your FOB shipping from China to Canada and wondering how to avoid costly mistakes or delays? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about FOB (Free On Board), from understanding crucial Incoterms to choosing the best shipping methods and managing customs compliance. Whether you’re new to importing or want to optimize your current logistics, read on for essential tips and expert insights!

What Is FOB Shipping? Understanding Incoterms for China to Canada Freight

FOB (Free On Board) is one of the most commonly used Incoterms in international trade, especially for shipments from China to Canada. Under FOB, the seller (supplier in China) is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto the designated vessel at the departure port. Once the cargo passes the ship’s rail at the port of shipment, the responsibility and risk transfer to the buyer (importer in Canada).

Key responsibilities breakdown:

Party	Seller (China)	Buyer (Canada)
Export Packaging	✔ Provides export-standard packaging
Inland Transport	✔ Delivers goods to port of departure
Export Customs Clearance	✔ Handles export customs, documentation
Loading onto Vessel	✔ Loads goods onto vessel at origin port
Ocean Freight		✔ Books and pays freight from China to Canada
Insurance		✔ Arranges insurance (optional, but recommended)
Unloading at Destination		✔ Responsible for unloading at Canadian port
Import Customs Clearance		✔ Handles import customs and duties in Canada
Inland Delivery in Canada		✔ Organizes final delivery to destination

FOB is particularly suitable for buyers who want real control. By appointing a forwarder with deep roots in Chinese ports—like Dantful.US, which specializes in the China-to-Americas trade lane—you gain an ally on the ground to audit supplier compliance and secure tailored shipping schedules that generalist agents might miss.

Differences Between FOB, CIF, and Other Incoterms

Understanding the differences between FOB and other Incoterms—such as CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight), EXW (Ex Works), and DAP (Delivered at Place)—is crucial for cost control and risk management.

Term	Seller’s Responsibility Ends At	Who Pays Freight?	Who Arranges Insurance?	Customs Duties & Clearance (Canada)
FOB	When goods loaded onto vessel at origin port	Buyer	Buyer (optional)	Buyer
CIF	Destination port in Canada	Seller	Seller	Buyer
EXW	Seller’s warehouse in China	Buyer	Buyer	Buyer
DAP	Named place in Canada	Seller	Seller	Seller (except import customs)

FOB gives buyers the flexibility to negotiate better rates with their own forwarder, manage schedules, and control cargo insurance. In contrast, CIF is more hands-off for buyers but may come with higher costs and less transparency.

Why Choose FOB When Shipping from China to Canada?

Choosing FOB shipping from China to Canada offers several advantages:

• Cost Transparency and Control: You, as the importer, can compare quotes from multiple freight forwarders and choose the most competitive rate.
• Flexibility: Allows selection of preferred shipping schedule, carrier, and transit route.
• Supply Chain Visibility: Direct control over shipment tracking and transport arrangements.
• Reduced Hidden Fees: Less risk of hidden markups by the supplier on international freight and insurance.
• Suitable for Experienced Importers: If you are familiar with international logistics, FOB gives you the power to manage your supply chain efficiently.

Partnering with a forwarder that breathes China-Americas logistics, such as Dantful.US, transforms FOB from a shipping term into a strategic advantage. We don’t just book containers; we align Sea Freight options with your specific inventory deadlines, ensuring your supply chain remains agile across the Pacific.

Step-by-Step Process of FOB Shipping from China to Canada

How to Arrange FOB Shipments with Chinese Suppliers

1. Negotiate FOB Terms: Ensure your purchase contract clearly states FOB [Port of Loading, China] (e.g., FOB Shanghai).
2. Select a Freight Forwarder: Choose a reliable provider like Dantful.US International Logistics. We coordinate vessel booking, scheduling, and documentation.
3. Supplier Prepares Goods: The supplier completes production, arranges internal transport to the origin port, and handles export packing.
4. Origin Handling: Supplier manages export customs clearance and delivers cargo to the carrier.
5. Communication: Maintain regular contact with both supplier and forwarder to confirm timelines, cargo readiness, and documentation flow.

Related Reading: If you’re also exploring logistics to North America, you may want to learn about Shipping from China to USA.

Export Procedures and Documentation Required

To ensure a smooth FOB shipment from China, the following steps and documents are essential:

• Export Customs Declaration: Supplier files paperwork with Chinese customs, including export license.
• Commercial Invoice: Shows the transaction value and details of the goods.
• Packing List: Itemizes cargo details—weight, dimensions, packaging type.
• Bill of Lading (B/L): Issued by the carrier after goods are loaded. It serves as the shipment’s title document and is crucial for customs clearance in Canada.
• Certificate of Origin: Sometimes required for preferential tariff treatment.
• Other Certificates: Depending on cargo type—such as phytosanitary, fumigation, or inspection certificates.

Navigating Chinese export bureaucracy can be tricky. A dedicated partner like Dantful.US acts as your compliance firewall, meticulously reviewing your supplier’s documents before cargo leaves the factory floor to prevent costly blocks at customs later.

Import Customs Clearance in Canada under FOB Terms

Under FOB, the importer in Canada is responsible for all import procedures and charges once the goods arrive at the Canadian port (e.g., Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal).

Key steps and considerations:

• Arrival Notice: Your forwarder will notify you of your cargo’s arrival and provide necessary documents, including the original Bill of Lading.
• Submit Entry Declaration: File a customs entry with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), using the invoice, packing list, and B/L.
• Pay Duties and Taxes: Duties are calculated based on the HS code and cargo value (refer to the CBSA’s Customs Tariff).
• Release and Delivery: After clearance, arrange for pick-up or inland delivery to your final destination.

Pro Tip: Working with a licensed customs broker or an experienced logistics provider like Dantful.US International Logistics can streamline compliance and minimize clearance delays.

Mastering FOB is about connecting the dots between a factory in China and a warehouse in Canada. Dantful.US bridges this gap by combining local operational strength in China with expert Canadian customs clearance capabilities, ensuring your cargo doesn’t just arrive, but arrives without surprise costs or delays.

Ocean Freight: The Standard for FOB Shipping from China to Canada

Choosing the right shipping method is essential to optimize your supply chain, control costs, and ensure smooth delivery of your cargo from China to Canada under FOB (Free on Board) terms. Below, I’ll guide you through the main transportation modes, their pros and cons, and how to make the best choice for your business needs.

Ocean Freight: FCL vs. LCL Options

Ocean freight remains the most popular and economical solution for international cargo shipping, especially for large and heavy goods. When booking under FOB shipping from China to Canada, you typically choose between two primary modes: FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load).

FCL (Full Container Load)

• Definition: You book the exclusive use of an entire container (20FT, 40FT, 40HQ, or 45HQ) for your shipment.

• Best for: Shipments large enough to fill a container or sensitive goods needing segregation.

• Advantages:

  • Lower cost per unit for bulk shipments.
  • Reduced risk of damage and contamination.
  • Faster transit at origin/destination due to simplified handling.

• Typical container capacities:

  Container Type	Volume (CBM)	Typical Max Payload (kg)
  20FT	28	22,000
  40FT	56	22,000
  40HQ	68	22,000
  45HQ	78	27,000

LCL (Less than Container Load)

• Definition: Your cargo shares container space with other shippers’ goods.

• Best for: Smaller shipments (typically < 15 CBM), or when you do not require a full container.

• Advantages:

  • Cost-effective for low-volume cargo.
  • Flexible shipping schedules.

• Considerations:

  • More handling—slightly higher risk of damage.
  • Longer processing time at port (consolidation/deconsolidation).

Major Canadian Ports:

• Vancouver (Port of Vancouver)
• Toronto (via rail from Vancouver or Montreal)
• Montreal (Port of Montreal)

Further Reading: For detailed pricing on sea freight, see Sea freight from China to Canada price.

Sample transit times (Port-to-Port):

Route	FCL Transit Time (days)	LCL Transit Time (days)
Shanghai – Vancouver	15–20	20–27
Ningbo – Toronto	25–32	30–38
Shenzhen – Montreal	26–33	32–40

Actual times vary based on carrier, season, and customs clearance.

Comparing FCL and LCL: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between FCL and LCL depends on your cargo volume and budget. Here’s a simplified comparison:

Shipping Mode	Typical Transit Time (China to Canada)	Cost (USD/CBM)*	Best For
Ocean FCL	15–33 days	$28–$70/CBM	>15 CBM, bulky/heavy goods
Ocean LCL	20–40 days	$63–$126/CBM	1–15 CBM, moderate cargo

Prices fluctuate due to fuel, seasonality, and market conditions. Request a personalized quote from Dantful.US International Logistics for the most accurate rates.

Tip: FCL is generally faster and safer for larger volumes, while LCL allows smaller businesses to ship without waiting to fill a container.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Freight Forwarder for FOB Shipments

Selecting a trustworthy freight forwarder is a critical factor for successful FOB shipping from China to Canada. The forwarder acts as your logistics partner, ensuring cargo is transported safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulations.

How to Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder in China and Canada

When evaluating potential partners, consider these criteria:

• Industry Expertise & Track Record: Look for established forwarders with proven experience in China-Canada trade.
• Comprehensive Service Portfolio: The best forwarders, like Dantful.US International Logistics, offer a one-stop solution: sea freight, air freight, rail, road, Amazon FBA, warehousing, customs clearance, insurance, door-to-door, OOG, consolidated, and breakbulk services.
• Strong Local Networks: They should have robust networks and teams in both China and Canada.
• Transparent Pricing: Request detailed quotes and compare what’s included/excluded.
• Customer Support & Communication: Evaluate responsiveness, English/Chinese capabilities, and shipment tracking systems.
• Certifications & Compliance: Ensure they are licensed (e.g., NVOCC, FIATA, CIFA), insured, and comply with international standards.

Why trust Dantful.US with your shipment? Because we don’t try to be everything to everyone. We focus strictly on the China-to-Americas route. This specialization means we have direct contracts with key transpacific carriers, in-depth knowledge of CBSA requirements, and a dedicated team that treats your cargo’s urgency as our own—whether it’s a single pallet or a high-volume FBA rollout.

Freight Forwarder Services—What’s Included Under FOB?

Under FOB terms, the supplier delivers goods to the port of departure in China, handling export clearance. From that point, the buyer (importer) is responsible for:

• Main international freight (sea or air)
• Cargo insurance (optional, but highly recommended)
• Destination port charges and import customs clearance
• Inland transportation to final address

A professional forwarder like Dantful.US provides:

• International transport booking
• Cargo collection and consolidation
• Customs documentation and clearance (in Canada)
• Warehousing and distribution solutions
• Real-time tracking and proactive support
• Value-added services: cargo insurance, Amazon FBA handling, door-to-door delivery, etc.

Table: Typical Service Scope Under FOB Terms

Task	Handled By Supplier	Handled By Freight Forwarder (Dantful.US)
Inland transport to Chinese port	Yes	Optional
Export clearance in China	Yes	Optional
Main carriage (sea/air)	No	Yes
Cargo insurance	No	Yes
Destination port handling	No	Yes
Customs clearance in Canada	No	Yes
Inland delivery in Canada	No	Yes

Common Mistakes to Avoid with FOB Freight Forwarding

• Assuming all costs are covered: Under FOB, the buyer bears all costs and risks from the loading at the port onward. Clarify all charges with your forwarder.
• Not verifying documentation: Incorrect or missing documents can cause delays or penalties at Canadian customs.
• Choosing unqualified forwarders: Low-cost agents may lack experience, risking cargo safety and compliance.
• Ignoring cargo insurance: It’s optional under FOB, but highly advisable to protect against loss or damage.
• Poor communication: Delays often result from information gaps between shippers, forwarders, and consignees.
• Not consolidating shipments: For small lots, failing to consolidate (LCL) increases costs.

Pro tip: Work closely with a reliable partner like Dantful.US International Logistics for transparent advice and professional execution at every stage.

By understanding your shipping options and choosing a qualified freight forwarder, you can ensure smooth, cost-effective, and reliable FOB shipping from China to Canada. Reach out to our team at Dantful.US International Logistics for a tailored logistics solution matched to your specific needs.

Calculating Costs: What’s Included in FOB Shipping from China to Canada?

When I arrange FOB shipping from China to Canada, understanding the full spectrum of costs is essential for accurate budgeting and successful import operations. Below, I’ll break down the typical charges, alert you to possible hidden fees, and provide actionable tips for reducing your overall freight costs.

Breakdown of Typical FOB Shipping Charges

FOB (Free on Board) terms mean the seller in China is responsible for delivering goods to the port of shipment and loading them onto the vessel. From that point, the buyer takes over, incurring costs for ocean transport, unloading, customs clearance, and local delivery in Canada.

Here’s a typical cost breakdown for an FOB shipment from China to Canada:

Charge Type	Paid By	Description	Applies To
Product Cost	Buyer	The cost of the goods themselves	All shipments
Inland Transportation (China)	Seller	Trucking from factory to port, terminal handling	All shipments
Export Customs Clearance (China)	Seller	Export documentation and customs declaration	All shipments
Origin Port Charges	Seller	Terminal handling in China, loading costs	All shipments
Ocean Freight	Buyer	Main carriage from China port to Canada port	FCL/LCL
Destination Port Charges (Canada)	Buyer	Unloading, terminal handling, security fees	All shipments
Canada Customs Clearance	Buyer	Import declaration, taxes, and brokerage	All shipments
Duties & Taxes	Buyer	Import duties, GST/HST	All shipments
Inland Delivery (Canada)	Buyer	Trucking from port/airport to final destination	As required
Insurance (Optional)	Buyer	To protect against loss or damage in transit	Recommended
Additional Services (Warehouse, OOG, etc.)	Buyer	As needed (see below)	As needed

Example: Estimated Ocean Freight Costs from China to Key Canadian Ports (FCL, February 2026)

Route (40HQ Container, 68CBM)	Ocean Freight	Destination Charges	Approx. Transit Time
Shanghai → Vancouver	$1,540–$1,820	$420–$665	15–20 days
Shenzhen → Toronto	$2,310–$2,660	$595–$875	25–30 days
Qingdao → Montreal	$2,170–$2,520	$630–$840	25–30 days

Note: Rates are indicative as of February 2026 and may vary based on season, fuel surcharges, and market trends. For a precise quote, contact Dantful.US International Logistics.

Hidden Fees and Extra Costs to Watch Out For

Even with FOB terms, you may be confronted with additional expenses. Here are typical hidden costs importers often encounter:

• Destination Terminal Handling Charges (DTHC): Sometimes not included in the initial quote.
• ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Fees: Security-related charges at the destination port.
• Demurrage & Detention: Fees for containers staying too long at the port or with the consignee.
• Customs Inspection Fees: Random or risk-based customs inspections can result in extra charges.
• Documentation Fees: Such as Bill of Lading amendment, manifest correction, or courier fees.
• Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF) & Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF): Surcharges related to currency and fuel fluctuations.
• Peak Season Surcharges: Applied during busy shipping periods.
• Inland Haulage Surcharges: Especially for final delivery to remote areas.
• Insurance (if not arranged separately): Not included unless requested.

Hidden Fees Checklist

Fee Type	Typical Cost (USD)	How to Avoid/Reduce
Demurrage/Detention	$70–$140/day	Arrange timely pickup/return
Customs Inspection	$105–$245	Proper documentation, compliance
Documentation Fees	$35–$105	Double-check documents

Tip: Always request a detailed quote from your freight forwarder and clarify what is and isn’t included.

Tips to Reduce Your Freight Costs

As a global trader, every dollar saved on logistics increases your profit margin. Here are proven strategies to optimize your FOB shipping from China to Canada:

1. Consolidate Shipments: If you have multiple suppliers, consider LCL (Less than Container Load) consolidation to fill a container and save on per-unit costs.
2. Book in Advance: Early bookings often secure better rates and avoid peak season surcharges.
3. Choose the Right Container Size: Match your cargo volume to the appropriate container (20FT, 40FT, 40HQ, 45HQ) to prevent paying for unused space.
4. Work with a Reliable Freight Forwarder: A professional provider like Dantful.US International Logistics ensures transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and tailored solutions for FCL, LCL, air, rail, and more.
5. Optimize Packaging: Efficient packaging reduces volumetric weight and saves on freight charges.
6. Monitor Market Trends: Shipping rates fluctuate; stay informed about market changes.
7. Negotiate with Suppliers: Sometimes, suppliers can offer better local transport rates or share export costs.
8. Bundle Services: Using one provider for freight, customs, warehousing, and delivery (like the one-stop services from Dantful.US Logistics) can result in package discounts.

Explore More: For those looking at different container size costs, see 20 ft Container Shipping Cost from China to Canada.

Customs, Duties, and Compliance for FOB Imports to Canada

Navigating Canadian customs requirements is critical for smooth importation. As the consignee under FOB terms, I must ensure full compliance to avoid costly delays and penalties.

Canadian Customs Requirements and Duty Calculation

To clear customs in Canada, importers must provide the following:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
• Canada Customs Invoice (CCI) (required for shipments valued over CAD 2,500)
• Certificates of Origin (for preferential tariff agreements, e.g., CPTPP)
• Import Permit or License (if goods are regulated)

Duty and Tax Calculation

• Duties: Based on HS (Harmonized System) code and value for duty (transaction value, including cost, insurance, and freight).
• GST/HST: Federal Goods and Services Tax (5%) or Harmonized Sales Tax (up to 15%, depending on province).
• Additional Provincial Taxes: Where applicable.

Example Calculation for a $10,000 shipment (excluding freight):

Item	Percentage/Fixed	Amount (USD)
Customs Duty	6% (example)	$420
GST (Federal)	5%	$350
Total Payable		$770

Actual duty rates differ by product. Check the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) tariff tool or consult your freight forwarder.

Necessary Import Licenses and Compliance Tips

Some products require special permits or are subject to regulatory compliance, such as:

• Food and Agricultural Products: Regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
• Textiles, Apparel, Steel, Chemical Goods: May need import permits
• Consumer Goods: Must meet Health Canada and CSA standards

Compliance Tips:

• Always verify your product’s HS code and regulatory status before shipment.
• Obtain all required licenses or authorizations in advance.
• Ensure the supplier provides accurate and complete export documents.
• Use a qualified customs broker or a full-service forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics to manage compliance.

Related Resource: Learn more about Shipping from China to Canada for route details and compliance trends.

Avoiding Delays and Penalties in Canada

Common pitfalls that can delay or penalize your shipment include:

• Incomplete/Inaccurate Documentation: Errors in invoice, packing list, or Bill of Lading.
• Misclassification of Goods: Incorrect HS codes can attract higher duties or trigger inspections.
• Missing Import Permits: For regulated items, this will halt customs clearance.
• Failure to Pay Duties/Taxes Promptly: Can result in storage charges and demurrage.

Best Practices:

1. Double-check all documents before shipping.
2. Stay updated on Canadian import regulations.
3. Communicate regularly with your freight forwarder and customs broker.
4. Track your shipment and prepare for customs release in advance.

Dantful.US International Logistics specializes in seamless customs clearance, offering expert support to ensure your goods move quickly and compliantly into Canada.

For personalized consultation or a detailed quote for your next FOB shipping from China to Canada, reach out to Dantful.US International Logistics—your trusted, one-stop China to Americas freight forwarding partner.

Tips for Smooth and Efficient FOB Shipping from China to Canada

Packaging and Labeling Recommendations

Proper packaging and labeling are essential for successful FOB shipping from China to Canada. They help protect your goods during transit and ensure compliance with both Chinese export standards and Canadian import regulations.

Packaging Best Practices:

• Select Robust Materials: Use sturdy, export-grade cartons or crates. For container shipments, ensure packaging can withstand long-haul sea or air transport, stacking, and handling.
• Optimize Space: Maximize usage of each container, considering standard capacities (e.g., 20FT: 28CBM, 40FT: 56CBM, 40HQ: 68CBM, 45HQ: 78CBM).
• Protect Against Moisture: For sea freight, use moisture-absorbing materials and plastic wraps to prevent water damage, especially when passing through humid regions or during ocean transit.
• Reinforce Fragile Items: Clearly mark and cushion fragile goods. Use “FRAGILE” and “HANDLE WITH CARE” labels.
• Palletization: When possible, palletize cargo for easier loading/unloading and to minimize risks during handling.

Labeling Requirements:

• Clear Identification: Label each package with the destination address, consignee details, gross and net weight, and carton numbers.
• HS Codes & Country of Origin: Canadian customs require accurate Harmonized System (HS) codes and “Made in China” markings.
• Compliance Labels: For certain goods (e.g., electronics, food), additional labels such as safety certifications may be necessary.
• Barcode Integration: For supply chain efficiency, integrate barcodes or QR codes that align with your inventory or warehouse management system.

Table: Packaging and Labeling Checklist

Requirement	Sea Freight	Air Freight	Notes
Export-grade Cartons	Essential	Essential	Double-walled for extra durability
Palletization	Recommended	Often required	Use ISPM 15 certified wooden pallets for international shipments
Moisture Protection	Highly recommended	Optional	Use desiccants and shrink wrap
Compliance Labeling	Mandatory	Mandatory	Include HS code, country of origin, special handling instructions
Weight/Size Marking	Mandatory	Mandatory	Especially for LCL or oversized shipments
Product Barcoding	Optional	Optional	Enhances inventory tracking

Paying attention to these details ensures your cargo moves smoothly through each stage of the FOB shipping process.

Effective Communication with Suppliers and Freight Forwarders

Clear and continuous communication between you, your Chinese supplier, and your freight forwarder (such as Dantful.US International Logistics) is crucial for seamless FOB shipments.

Communication Best Practices:

• Define Responsibilities Early: Clarify Incoterms (FOB) with the supplier. Ensure all parties understand the handover point and responsibilities regarding costs, risk, and documentation.
• Share Schedules: Exchange production and shipping timelines. Provide your forwarder with the supplier’s contact details for smooth pickup and documentation.
• Document Exchange: Request and verify all shipping documents (e.g., Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List) before cargo departure from China.
• Language Considerations: Use clear, simple English or engage a bilingual freight forwarder to bridge any potential language gaps.
• Regular Updates: Agree on communication channels (email, phone, WeChat, etc.) and request milestone updates—cargo ready, loaded, departed, arrived, and cleared.

Why Work with Dantful.US International Logistics?

As a highly professional and cost-effective freight forwarder, Dantful.US International Logistics streamlines communication across the supply chain. Our multilingual teams, operational transparency, and one-stop solutions (including sea freight, air freight, warehouse, customs clearance, insurance, and more) ensure your shipments are managed efficiently from China to Canada.

Tracking and Managing Your Shipment

Real-time shipment tracking and proactive management are key for successful FOB shipping from China to Canada, enabling you to anticipate issues, inform your customers, and plan your downstream logistics.

Modern Tracking Solutions:

• Online Shipment Tracking: Most leading freight forwarders, including Dantful.US, provide online tracking portals, where you can enter your Bill of Lading or tracking number to view real-time status updates.
• Milestone Notifications: Receive automated alerts at key shipment stages: cargo pickup, loading, sailing, arrival at Canadian port, customs clearance, and final delivery.
• Exception Handling: Get notified of potential delays (e.g., customs holds, weather disruptions) and receive advice on resolution steps.

Table: Typical Milestones and Tracking Actions

Milestone	Tracked By	Recommended Action
Cargo Ready at Supplier	Supplier/Forwarder	Confirm documents and pickup schedule
Loaded at Origin Port	Forwarder	Monitor loading and cut-off times
Departure from China Port	Forwarder/Carrier	Track ETD (Estimated Time of Departure)
Arrival at Canada Port	Forwarder/Carrier	Prepare for import customs clearance
Cleared Canadian Customs	Customs Broker/Forwarder	Arrange for local delivery or pickup
Final Delivery	Forwarder/Consignee	Confirm receipt, inspect goods

Proactive Management Tips:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check tracking portals and communicate with your forwarder.
• Document Archive: Keep digital copies of all key documents for each shipment.
• Post-shipment Review: After delivery, review the shipping process and address any issues for continuous improvement.

Visibility is power. With Dantful.US, you aren’t left guessing. We provide proactive updates—not just automated tracking numbers—keeping you informed from the moment your supplier releases the goods in China to the final mile delivery in Canada. This level of transparency allows you to plan your inventory with confidence.

FAQs

Q1: What does FOB mean when shipping from China to Canada? A: FOB (Free on Board) is an Incoterm that indicates the seller is responsible for delivering goods to a designated port in China and loading them onto the shipping vessel. After loading, the risk and costs transfer to the buyer, who arranges and pays for freight, insurance, destination charges, and import customs in Canada.

Q2: Who arranges shipping under FOB terms? A: The buyer arranges the main transportation from the Chinese port to Canada. This includes selecting a freight forwarder, booking space, and handling import procedures.

Q3: What documents do I need for customs clearance in Canada? A: You typically need a Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and any required import licenses. Your freight forwarder can advise on specific documentation per cargo type.

Q4: What are the most common issues with FOB shipping? A: Common problems include unclear division of responsibilities, incomplete documentation, delays in customs clearance, and inadequate packaging. Working with an experienced forwarder like Dantful.US minimizes these risks.

Q6: How can I reduce my shipping costs from China to Canada under FOB terms? A: Consolidate shipments, optimize container usage, negotiate with carriers, and choose the best mode (sea or air) for your timeline and budget. Dantful.US International Logistics offers expert consultation to help save costs.

If you have more questions about FOB shipping from China to Canada, contact our team at Dantful.US International Logistics for professional, tailored advice.