Knowledge Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to common questions about international freight and shipment handling.

Questions & Answers

Getting Started

What information is needed for a freight quote?+

For an initial review, origin, destination, commodity, number of packages, gross weight, dimensions or volume, cargo ready date and Incoterm are usually sufficient. Dangerous, temperature-controlled, oversized or otherwise restricted cargo should be declared from the start.

How do I choose the right mode of transport?+

The choice between ocean, air, road, rail or multimodal transport depends on required transit time, budget, origin and destination, weight and volume, cargo characteristics and route restrictions.

How early should I book a shipment?+

Earlier planning generally improves access to capacity and schedules. Peak seasons, dangerous goods, project cargo and shipments requiring special equipment typically benefit from earlier booking.

Are transit times guaranteed?+

Transit times are generally estimates and may be affected by carrier schedules, weather, port or border congestion, customs inspections and other operational changes.

Questions & Answers

Rates & Booking

How are freight rates calculated?+

Rates depend on route, mode, weight and volume, commodity, equipment, timing, market conditions and origin/destination local charges. For this reason, current rates are normally confirmed after reviewing shipment details.

Why can a freight quote change?+

Freight rates can change with carrier pricing, exchange rates, fuel, capacity, seasonality, terminal charges and route conditions. The validity of each quote should be checked at the time of booking.

What extra charges can occur besides the main freight?+

Depending on the shipment, additional charges can include storage, demurrage or detention, customs inspection, weighing, truck waiting time, documentation, terminal or special handling fees.

What is the difference between FCL and LCL?+

FCL reserves a full container for one shipment. LCL consolidates cargo from multiple shippers in one container. The better option depends on volume, time, cargo characteristics and total landed cost.

Questions & Answers

Customs & Documents

What documents are commonly required for international freight?+

Commercial Invoice and Packing List are commonly required. Depending on commodity and origin/destination regulations, certificates of origin, permits, MSDS, technical certificates or other documents may also be required.

What is customs clearance?+

Customs clearance is the process of declaring goods to customs authorities and meeting requirements related to classification, value, permits, compliance and, where applicable, duties and taxes.

What commonly causes customs delays?+

Incomplete or inconsistent documents, incorrect HS classification, valuation issues, missing permits, physical inspections, unpaid duties/taxes or requests for additional information are common causes of customs delays.

What do Incoterms define?+

Incoterms define responsibilities, costs and the point of risk transfer between seller and buyer for the transport transaction. The selected term should align with the sales contract and shipping arrangement.

Questions & Answers

Tracking & Cargo Safety

How can I track my shipment?+

Use Farvahar Track & Trace with a bill of lading, container number, booking or reference where that shipment supports public tracking.

Is cargo insurance necessary?+

Carrier and freight-forwarder liability is typically limited and may not equal the full cargo value. Cargo insurance should be considered based on the value, sensitivity and risk profile of the shipment.

Who is responsible for suitable cargo packaging?+

Cargo should be packed for the selected mode, weight, handling, stacking, moisture and shock exposure. Inadequate packaging can increase the risk of damage or rejection.

Can dangerous goods be shipped?+

This depends on the hazard class, route and transport mode. Correct declaration, UN Number, MSDS, compliant packaging and labels, and prior carrier approval are commonly required.

Need a specific answer?

Talk to our logistics team.

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