You have received a large order enquiry from a new overseas client. You ring round for shipping prices so you can quote everything accordingly. Your new client asks you if that is ALL the charges included. You reply with a yes and your buyer returns back to you with an emphatic YES!

Order placed. Deal done.

Congratulations, you have just fulfilled your first export order! Give yourself a big pat on the back. But oh…wait… what about all the shipping charges payable in the port of arrival in the country of destination? What? You did not know about that? This spells trouble – there can be a lot of potential charges to take into consideration. Make sure to factor in all your destination and shipping charges.

It is possible now that your new client could now become a very unhappy client. The first order placed by them could now well be the last order that they place with you – their profit has just been blown and they are now blaming you.
Working with a Freight forwarder could be an excellent way to develop a cost saving shipping plan and to understand all of the expenses involved. One of the added costs to shipping to India involves the Destination Delivery Charge. In the shipping industry, there is no set universal charge for every carrier’s Destination Delivery Charge. Typically, the Destination Delivery Charge varies on the carrier, the cargo and sometimes the specific port or terminal. When you receive an ocean freight shipping quote online, the Destination Delivery Charge is considered to be accessorial and will later be added onto the rate.

It is very important to make an Importer aware about destination charges in the country of arrival so the relevant costs are factored in to their budget. They are looking to make a profit just as much as you are, so every charge needs to discussed and accounted for.

If the local shipping charges are proving a problem for any reason – i.e. the port costs are too high – then you can look to try and resolve any issues before a consignment is exported from port of origin. You should look at helping your new buyer any way you can to conclude the deal – for example you might be able to lower your price a little to keep the order fulfilled.

A happy client is much more likely to become a repeat client, that way everyone benefits and you can continue to grow your business.