Shipping goods internationally might seem complicated at first, but once you get the basics down, it becomes much more manageable. Whether you’re running an online store or importing bulk products for resale, there are several practical steps you can take to make the process easier, faster, and more predictable.
Start by Choosing the Right Shipping Method
The first decision you’ll make is how your goods are going to travel. Air freight is ideal if you’re working with tight deadlines or high-value items in small volumes. It’s quicker but significantly more expensive. On the other hand, sea freight is far more cost-effective for large or heavy shipments, though it comes with longer transit times.
You might also come across LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) options. If your shipment doesn’t fill an entire container, LCL allows you to share space with other importers. It’s a great way to save money if you’re not moving huge volumes yet.
Know What Paperwork You Need and Double-Check It
Freight delays are often caused by incorrect or incomplete documents. At the very least, you’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, and either a bill of lading (for sea freight) or an airway bill (for air freight). Depending on your product type, you may also need compliance certificates or special permits.
Australian customs take documentation seriously. Even small errors in a product description or declared value can slow things down. Taking the time to prepare these correctly will save you a lot of hassle down the line.
Understand Your Import Duties and Taxes
It’s easy to underestimate the extra charges that come with importing goods. Aside from shipping costs, you’ll need to pay customs duties, GST, and possibly other fees depending on your cargo type. Check the tariff codes (HS codes) that apply to your items, and look them up in Australia’s customs database.
Getting clear on these costs upfront helps with pricing your products and avoiding any nasty surprises once your goods arrive. If you’re unsure how to calculate them, a customs broker can walk you through it or handle it for you entirely.
Check Packaging and Labelling—Twice
Packaging isn’t just about keeping your items safe. It also affects how they’re handled during transport and inspected by customs. Make sure everything is clearly labelled and that the labels match the details in your documents.
Damaged packaging or unclear labels can cause unnecessary delays, especially during inspections. If you’re shipping delicate items or electronics, consider using extra padding and moisture-resistant materials.
Watch Out for Peak Season Delays
If your shipment lines up with Chinese New Year, Christmas, or back-to-school seasons, prepare for delays. Factories shut down, ports get backlogged, and carriers are stretched thin. Plan your shipments well in advance during these times, and allow extra days in your delivery schedule—even if things usually run smoothly.
Even during regular months, unforeseen issues like port congestion or bad weather can push back delivery dates. Tracking your freight and staying in contact with your forwarder helps you respond quickly if something goes off course.
Choose a Freight Forwarder Who Knows the Route
Shipping internationally isn’t something you want to gamble with. A good freight partner should be transparent, communicative, and experienced in handling the China–Australia trade lane. This includes not just the physical transport, but also supporting you with customs, clearance, and even local delivery.
That’s why many businesses choose Beyond Borders Express for freight from China to Australia, benefiting from their local expertise and clear, consistent communication throughout the entire process.
Confirm the Incoterms Before Your Order Ships
Incoterms determine who’s responsible for each part of the shipping process. For example, FOB (Free on Board) means your supplier handles delivery to the port, while EXW (Ex Works) puts that responsibility on you from the factory door.
Not knowing which terms apply can lead to confusion and unexpected fees. Always confirm this before making payment or finalising any shipment plans with your supplier.
Keep Your Supplier in the Loop
Your supplier isn’t just making the product—they play a key role in how it gets packed, labelled, and handed off to your freight partner. Check that they’ve provided the right documents and ask them to send you packing photos before the shipment leaves. This gives you peace of mind and can help spot issues before they become serious.
Track Everything—and Don’t Assume It’s Fine
Once your freight is on its way, tracking is your best friend. Things can go wrong at any point, from delayed port entry to missed connections. Keeping a close eye on updates allows you to act fast and notify customers or warehouse staff if anything changes.
When you know what to expect and plan around the common pitfalls, international shipping becomes much less stressful. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up your imports, smart planning and clear communication go a long way—especially with a reliable partner by your side.
Even if you’ve been shipping for a while, resources like common mistakes importers make when shipping can help you stay sharp and avoid unnecessary delays.