Shipping & Logistics
Shenzhen · Guangzhou · FOB · CIF · DDP · LCL consolidation
Auto parts ship from Shenzhen (Yantian, Shekou) and Guangzhou (Nansha). We quote EXW, FOB, CIF and DDP, consolidate mixed categories into one container, and supply a loading plan showing how many units fit before the order is confirmed. Sea freight takes 18–25 days to Europe, 25–35 to the US east coast, 12–20 to the Gulf and 18–28 to West Africa depending on routing.
Incoterms, and which one to ask for
The Incoterm decides who owns the goods at which point, and for a first order it decides how much of the risk sits with the buyer before anything has been seen.
| Term | Seller handles | Buyer handles | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| EXW | Packing only | Everything from our door | Buyers with their own forwarder in China |
| FOB | Export clearance and loading at the port | Ocean freight and import | The default for a first order |
| CIF | Freight and insurance to the destination port | Import clearance and inland delivery | Buyers without a freight contract |
| DDP | Everything to your door, duty paid | Nothing until delivery | Small orders and market testing |
Container loading for parts
Parts are dense and awkward. A container of brake discs weighs more than the payload allows long before it is full; a container of bumpers is full long before it reaches the weight limit. The loading plan balances the two.
| Item | 20GP (approx.) | 40HQ (approx.) | Constraint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake discs | 450–550 pcs | 1,000–1,200 pcs | Weight limit reached first |
| Brake pads | 1,200–1,500 sets | 3,000–3,500 sets | Volume |
| Shock absorbers | 500–700 pcs | 1,200–1,500 pcs | Volume after pair packing |
| Radiators | 180–220 pcs | 300–450 pcs | Volume |
| Bumpers | 150–200 pcs | 300–500 pcs | Volume, nesting ratio |
| CV axles | 400–500 pcs | 900–1,100 pcs | Length and bending risk |
Mixed containers
Most of our shipments are mixed, because a distributor does not want a container of one part. The loading plan puts heavy castings on the floor, cartons of seals and sensors above them, body panels strapped upright against the walls, and light bulky interior goods in whatever void is left.
Mixed loading needs a pick-and-pack list that matches the container. Every carton is labelled with the SKU and a sequence number, and the packing list follows the same sequence so an unloading warehouse can check the container without opening every box.
Documents
A standard shipment carries a commercial invoice, a packing list, a bill of lading and a certificate of origin where the destination requires one. Wooden packing needs ISPM 15 treatment and a fumigation mark; we use plywood cases or heat-treated pallets to avoid the delay.
For the EU, the importer needs the EORI number and, for vehicles parts in some categories, a REACH or ELV declaration. For markets with pre-shipment inspection — Nigeria, Kenya, Algeria and others — tell us before the order, because the inspection has to be booked against the consignment.
Frequently asked questions
Which port do you ship from? +
Shenzhen (Yantian and Shekou) and Guangzhou (Nansha), depending on the sailing and the carrier. For buyers in the Gulf and Southeast Asia we sometimes use a different load port if the schedule saves a week.
How long does sea freight take? +
About 18–25 days to Northern Europe, 25–35 to the US east coast, 12–20 to the Gulf, 18–28 to West Africa and 7–12 to Southeast Asia, plus port handling. Air freight is 3–6 days and is only economic for urgent, high-value, light parts.
Can you ship LCL? +
Yes, for orders under about eight cubic metres. LCL is priced per cubic metre and the handling charges at destination can be significant, so we compare LCL against a full container before recommending.
Do you offer DDP? +
For some destinations, yes — mainly the EU, UK and US, using a forwarder who handles duty and import clearance. DDP suits a first order or a market test; at volume, FOB with your own forwarder is usually cheaper.
What if the container is damaged in transit? +
Photograph the container and the damaged cartons before unloading, and note the damage on the delivery receipt. With CIF, the insurance claim runs through us; with FOB, it runs through your freight insurance. Photographs taken on arrival decide the claim.
Send a part number, get a price
VIN, OEM number or a photo of the old part. Quotation within 24 hours, including MOQ and lead time.