When requesting a shipping quote, many customers often ask:
“Why do I need to provide so much detail just to get a price?”
It’s a fair question—and the answer is simple: because no two shipments are the same. To give you an accurate and efficient logistics solution, freight forwarders must fully understand the type of goods you’re shipping.
In this blog, we’ll explain why sharing complete cargo details is essential for quoting and how it helps you save time, money, and trouble.
- Cargo Type Affects Transport Methods and Pricing
Not all cargo can be handled the same way. For example:
- Dangerous goods (e.g. batteries, chemicals) require special documentation, handling procedures, and higher insurance and freight charges.
- General cargo (like clothing or furniture) follows standard shipping procedures and is typically less expensive to move.
- Some items may even be restricted or prohibited in certain countries, depending on local regulations.
Knowing the exact cargo type helps us plan the right mode of transport (sea, air, road) and ensure legal compliance.
- Packaging and Dimensions Matter
How your goods are packaged directly affects how they’re handled and loaded:
- Is it palletized or loose cartons?
- What are the exact measurements and weight?
- Can it be stacked or does it require special loading?
These factors influence whether the shipment goes LCL (Less than Container Load), FCL (Full Container Load), or needs special handling, which all carry different pricing models.
- Origin and Destination Determine Routing & Cost
Transporting a container from Guangzhou to Los Angeles is very different from Yiwu to a small town in the UK.
Freight forwarders need:
- Exact pickup and delivery locations
- Port of loading (POL) and port of discharge (POD)
- Any last-mile requirements (e.g., inside delivery, residential drop-off)
This ensures we choose the fastest, most cost-effective route and avoid unnecessary delays or charges.
- Proper Documentation and Customs Clearance
Incomplete or inaccurate cargo info can lead to:
- Delayed customs clearance
- Fines or seizures
- Increased costs due to re-routing or re-packaging
Providing details like the cargo value, HS code, and product description helps us prepare your documents properly and ensure smooth clearance at destination.
What to Share for a Smooth Quote
To help us serve you better, please prepare:
- Product name & description
- Is it hazardous?
- Unit count, gross/net weight, and volume (CBM)
- Packaging type (e.g. pallets, cartons, drums)
- Pickup & delivery address
- Special instructions, if any (e.g. time-sensitive, temperature control)
Final Thoughts
Accurate cargo information = accurate pricing and hassle-free shipping.
At Zcyt Logistics, we’re committed to helping you ship smarter. The more we know about your cargo, the better we can serve you—efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.
Need a quote? Let us know your cargo details and we’ll handle the rest!