Transform your logistics game with expert insights on choosing the best freight forwarders for Amazon sellers.
Shipping your Amazon products internationally can be a daunting task, often fraught with challenges. While freight forwarders are meant to simplify this process, finding a reliable one can feel like an overwhelming search for a needle in a haystack.
You’ve got a fantastic product and big ambitions, but the complexities of shipping can turn your plans into a headache, especially if you’ve faced unreliable forwarders, lost containers, or exorbitant costs.
This guide will help you navigate these challenges by highlighting top freight forwarders, ensuring your shipping experience is smooth and cost-effective. For more expert guidance and reliable support, our Amazon agency is here to offer invaluable insights and solutions to streamline your entire Amazon business.
Do You Need a Freight Forwarder? Take Our Quick Quiz
Are you an Amazon seller struggling with shipping logistics?
Our quick quiz will help you determine if a freight forwarder can streamline your operations and save you time and money.
Answer a few simple questions to get personalized recommendations.
What Freight Forwarders For Amazon Sellers Do
What do Amazon Freight Forwarders do? Amazon FBA freight forwarders play a crucial, yet often overlooked, role in the e-commerce industry by ensuring that your products reach Amazon’s warehouses smoothly and efficiently.
Here’s a brief overview of their key responsibilities:
Inventory Pickup: Collecting goods from the manufacturer or supplier.
Shipment Consolidation: Combining multiple shipments into one to save on costs.
Customs Clearance: Managing all necessary documentation and compliance requirements for seamless customs processing.
Packaging/Labeling: Making sure products meet Amazon’s specific packaging and labeling requirements.
Goods Transportation: Coordinating and overseeing the transport of goods by sea, air, rail, or truck.
Stock Warehousing: Providing storage solutions for inventory before it is shipped to Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
Shipment Tracking: Offering real-time tracking and updates throughout the shipping process.
Cargo Insurance: Providing cargo insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit.
Last-Mile Delivery: Occasionally handling the final delivery from Amazon’s fulfillment center to the end customer.
Various Freight Types and When Sellers Should Use Them
As an Amazon seller, understanding when to use each type of freight ensures efficient and cost-effective deliveries:
| Freight Type | Use For | Examples |
|---|---|---|
|
Courier (Express Freight) |
Small, urgent shipments requiring quick delivery, direct door-to-door service, or e-commerce orders needing fast last-mile delivery. |
DHL, FedEx, UPS |
|
Road Freight |
Domestic or cross-border shipments, medium-sized loads, or transfers between warehouses or fulfillment centers. |
Trucking companies, vans, semi-trailers |
|
Ocean Shipping |
Large, bulk shipments over long distances where cost is more important than speed, especially for international trade. |
Container ships, bulk carriers |
|
Air Freight |
Time-sensitive shipments, high-value lightweight goods, or urgent restocks that need fast delivery despite higher costs. |
Cargo planes, express air services |
Hire A Freight Forwarder Yourself or Let Your Supplier Contact One?
As an Amazon seller, deciding between hiring a freight forwarder yourself or relying on your supplier depends on factors like control, expertise, and cost:
When to Hire a Freight Forwarder Yourself:
Full Control: Allows you to oversee shipping routes, carriers, and services.
Large Volumes: Optimizes costs through consolidation for bigger shipments.
Complex Shipments: Manages multiple transport modes and customs regulations.
Customs and Compliance: Ensures compliance in countries with strict regulations.
Risk Management: Offers better protection for valuable shipments with cargo insurance.
When to Ask Your Supplier to Handle Freight Forwarding:
New to International Shipping: Simplifies logistics if you’re just starting out.
Small or Low-Value Shipments: More cost-effective for smaller, infrequent shipments.
Supplier Expertise: Leverages the supplier’s relationships and competitive rates.
Focus on Core Business: Saves time by allowing you to focus on business growth.
Simplified Invoicing: Combines product and shipping costs into a single invoice.
What Influences Amazon Freight Forwarding Costs
As an Amazon seller, you’re usually responsible for paying the freight forwarder. This means you cover the cost of shipping your products from the manufacturer to Amazon.
This includes fees for transportation, customs, and any extra services the forwarder provides. Make sure to include these costs in your pricing to make a profit.
The costs associated with freight forwarding to Amazon fulfillment centers are influenced by several key factors:
Shipment size and weight: Larger and heavier shipments generally incur higher costs.
Product dimensions: Oversized or oddly shaped items may require special handling and increase expenses.
Product value: High-value items often require additional insurance, impacting costs.
Product category: Certain product categories (e.g., hazardous materials, perishable goods) have specific handling requirements and associated fees.
Ocean freight: Typically more cost-effective for large volumes but has longer transit times.
Air freight: Faster but more expensive option for urgent shipments.
Land transportation: Used for domestic or regional movements, costs vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Ocean freight: Typically more cost-effective for large volumes but has longer transit times.
Air freight: Faster but more expensive option for urgent shipments.
Land transportation: Used for domestic or regional movements, costs vary based on distance and fuel prices.
Fuel prices: Fluctuations in fuel prices directly affect transportation costs.
Currency exchange rates: Exchange rate variations impact costs for international shipments.
Peak seasons: Increased demand during peak seasons can lead to higher freight rates and surcharges.
Value-added services: Additional services like warehousing, labeling, and customs clearance incur extra charges.
Freight forwarder fees: The chosen freight forwarder’s service fees and markup can vary.
Insurance coverage: The level of insurance coverage selected affects costs.
Customs duties and taxes: Import duties and taxes are based on product classification and value.
Documentation fees: Costs for preparing necessary shipping documents.
Surcharges: Additional fees for peak season, fuel, security, and other factors.
To find the best shipping rate, it’s recommended to compare quotes from different freight forwarding companies. Most companies offer online quote requests or contact forms.
Freight Forwarders for Amazon Sellers: What To Expect
When working with Amazon freight forwarders, sellers must align their expectations to accommodate a detailed and structured process that ensures their products are smoothly imported to Amazon FBA centers.
Here’s a general outline of how the process typically unfolds:
1. Negotiating Incoterms & Supplier Requirements
You’ll need to negotiate Incoterms with your supplier that suit your business needs, especially concerning shipping responsibilities.
Ensure your supplier is clear on Amazon’s packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements.
2. Coordinating with Amazon FBA
You’ll inform Amazon about your incoming inventory through Seller Central, setting up the product listing, shipment details, and ensuring that your products are barcoded correctly.
Amazon needs this information to allocate space for your goods at the fulfillment center.
3. Booking Shipments with a Digital Freight Forwarder
After finalizing terms with your supplier, you’ll book your shipment through a digital freight forwarder platform.
This includes requesting quotes, uploading documents, and opting for services like cargo insurance or pre-shipment inspection.
4. Cargo Pick-up and International Transport
The freight forwarder will handle logistics, picking up your cargo from the supplier, and transporting it via your chosen method (air, FCL, LCL) to the port or airport for international shipping.
They’ll ensure your goods are safely managed during transit.
5. Customs Clearance
The freight forwarder will handle customs clearance, ensuring all documents are compliant with regulations.
They’ll also manage the payment of any duties or taxes, helping to avoid delays or fines.
6. Delivery to Amazon FBA
After clearing customs, the forwarder will transport your goods to the designated Amazon FBA center.
They’ll manage the final delivery to ensure your products meet Amazon’s requirements for storage and fulfillment.
7. Receiving & Inventory Management
Upon delivery to the FBA center, Amazon will receive your goods, add them to your inventory, and you’ll be able to track this process through your Seller Central account.
Choosing The Best Amazon Freight Forwarder
Choosing the “best” freight forwarder depends on your unique needs. However, considering these factors can help you make a smart choice:
Key Considerations When Choosing a Freight Forwarder
Expertise in Amazon FBA
Look for a forwarder with a proven track record in handling Amazon shipments, as they understand Amazon’s specific requirements.
Service Range
Ensure the forwarder offers services that align with your needs, such as pick-up, warehousing, labeling, and delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers.
Tracking Capabilities
A reliable tracking system is essential for monitoring your shipments.
Customer Support
Assess the quality of customer support and responsiveness.
Cost
Compare quotes from multiple forwarders to find the best value for your money.
Reviews and Reputation
Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the forwarder’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
Additional Tips
Request Quotes: Get quotes from several freight forwarders to compare prices and services.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions about their services, fees, and processes.
Visit Facilities: If possible, visit the forwarder’s facilities to assess their operations.
Build a Relationship: A strong relationship with your freight forwarder can be beneficial for long-term success.
Documents To Require From Amazon FBA Freight Forwarders
Below are the essential documents to request from a potential service provider before signing a contract. These documents can help you assess their reliability and capabilities.
| Shipping Document | Description/Purpose |
|---|---|
|
Shipper’s Bill of Lading |
This document is a proof of ownership and receipt of goods, signed by both the shipping company and the customer. |
|
Commercial Invoice |
Includes transaction details such as price, quantity, and description of the goods. |
|
Export License |
A government-issued document that authorizes the export of goods. |
|
Certificate of Inspection |
Confirms the condition of goods, often required for insurance purposes. |
|
Packing List |
A detailed list of shipment contents, including weights and dimensions. |
|
Export Declaration |
Contains information about the goods being exported, submitted at the port. |
|
Customs Documentation |
Includes required documents for customs clearance, such as import/export permits and certificates of origin. |
List of Freight Forwarders for Amazon Sellers
Explore these freight forwarder options tailored for Amazon sellers.
Flexport simplifies shipping with ocean, air, and trucking options, offering real-time tracking and fulfillment services tailored for Amazon FBA sellers.
Freightos is a digital marketplace that connects shippers with carriers and freight forwarders, offering real-time rate comparison and booking for efficient global supply chain management, with resources tailored for Amazon FBA sellers.
Shapiro, a century-old freight forwarder, combines traditional expertise with modern technology to offer reliable, comprehensive supply chain solutions and customs compliance, catering to Amazon FBA sellers.
Goodhope Freight specializes in international shipping from China, offering sea, air, and train freight, along with customs expertise tailored for Amazon FBA sellers.
FBA Freight Forwarder is a Chinese company specializing in shipping from China to Amazon. They offer door-to-door delivery for various shipment sizes and claim competitive rates.
AMZ Transit/AMZ Worldwide offers logistics services for Amazon sellers, including warehousing, trucking, and factory inspections. They focus on complete supply chain solutions.
Myhome Express-Courier offers express, sea, and air freight services, plus warehousing, with a focus on shipping from China. They provide specialized solutions for Amazon FBA sellers.
CN Pack & Send, based in China, specializes in e-commerce shipping for Amazon FBA sellers. They offer cost-effective services and fulfillment tools to streamline online sales.
WorldCraft Logistics provides transportation, warehousing, and distribution services, with a focus on Amazon FBA preparation.
DB Schenker is a global logistics provider specializing in land transportation and supply chain optimization. They offer air, sea, and land freight options, with a focus on efficiency and reliability, potentially serving Amazon FBA sellers, though specific services should be confirmed.
LX Pantos Logistics, a South Korean provider, specializes in e-commerce fulfillment with a global reach. They offer freight, warehousing, and customs clearance services, making them a strong partner for expanding Amazon businesses.
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics offers global e-commerce solutions with services in transportation, warehousing, and fulfillment.
DSV provides global logistics with a wide range of supply chain solutions.
Kerry Logistics specializes in e-commerce fulfillment, offering services like order fulfillment, warehousing, transportation, and last-mile delivery.
Sino Shipping, based in China, specializes in shipping to Amazon FBA warehouses. They provide sea and air freight, FBA prep, and product sourcing, focusing on reliable and cost-effective solutions for e-commerce businesses.
Unicargo specializes in Amazon FBA shipping, offering expertise in international forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and FBA compliance.
ForwarderOne offers logistics solutions specifically for Amazon FBA sellers, including expedited air transport, competitive pricing, and advanced technology.
FBABee supports private-label Amazon FBA sellers with services like inventory pickup, consolidation, warehousing, kitting, and delivery to fulfillment centers, streamlining operations for business growth.
Freight Right, an Amazon SPN member, specializes in FBA shipments with services including warehousing, order prep, FCL/LCL deliveries, and consolidation, for both domestic and international clients.
Packair specializes in e-commerce fulfillment, focusing on Amazon FBA sellers with services like warehousing, order fulfillment, and preparation. They also cater to B2B and B2C clients, offering reliable cross-border e-commerce solutions.
Coshipper, a China-based freight forwarder and Amazon Global Solution Provider, offers ocean freight solutions for FBA sellers.
American New Logistics offers extensive supply chain solutions, including product sourcing, warehousing, order fulfillment, and transportation.
Forest Shipping is a global freight forwarder offering sea, air, rail, and express shipping. With coverage across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Australia, and a network of 18 domestic branches and 19 warehouses, we ensure efficient and cost-effective transportation.
Baum Shipping specializes in logistics for Amazon sellers, offering international shipping, warehousing, inventory management, and Amazon prep. We provide tailored solutions to optimize efficiency and compliance.
Ship4wd is a digital freight forwarding platform specializing in Amazon FBA logistics. It offers booking, customs clearance, and delivery services, supported by a global network and 24/7 customer support to streamline eCommerce supply chains.
Cooperate Logistics, established in 2007, specializes in international shipping for eCommerce.
Avoid Pitfalls When Working with Freight Forwarders for Amazon Sellers
Prepare Your Seller Account. Set up correctly and ensure compliance with Amazon’s policies.
Follow Product Preparation Rules. Adhere to Amazon’s guidelines to avoid fees or rejected shipments.
Use Proper Packaging. Choose box sizes and materials that protect products and meet Amazon’s requirements.
Label Products Correctly. Ensure accurate FNSKU labels or use manufacturer barcodes (UPC/EAN).
Understand Incoterms. Clearly define responsibilities and risks with your supplier.
Diversify Suppliers. Work with multiple suppliers to reduce supply chain risks.
Conduct Pre-Shipment Inspections. Validate that shipments meet Amazon FBA standards before shipping.
Account for All Costs. Include shipping, duties, and taxes in product pricing.
Keep Detailed Records. Maintain documentation for compliance and troubleshooting.
Stay Informed on Import Regulations. Know your target market’s rules to avoid delays and fines.
Use Cargo Insurance. Protect shipments against loss or damage during transit.
Estimate Lead Times. Plan accurately, especially during peak seasons.
Partner with Experienced Freight Forwarders. Choose forwarders familiar with Amazon FBA for smooth logistics.
Secure Success with the Right Freight Forwarders for Amazon Sellers
Choosing the right freight forwarder is key to ensuring your products reach Amazon’s fulfillment centers efficiently and cost-effectively. By understanding their role and the crucial documents they handle, you can navigate shipping challenges with confidence.
But shipping is just one piece of the puzzle. Our full service Amazon agency can help you optimize your entire business strategy—from logistics to boosting sales.
Ready to take your Amazon business to the next level? Contact us today to start building a winning strategy.
