Most importers lose margin on freight rather than on unit price. Consolidation is the single change that fixes it, and it is mostly a scheduling problem.
Start from the container, not the orders
Decide the container size first, then allocate cubic metres per supplier. When you place orders without a volume target, you end up paying LCL rates on cargo that almost filled a 40HQ.
Sequence the deliveries
Ask every factory for a warehouse delivery date rather than an ex-works date, and stagger them within a one-week window.
- One delivery window per supplier, confirmed in writing
- Carton marks and PO numbers agreed before production ends
- Inspection done before goods reach the warehouse, not after loading
- Photo record of every inbound pallet against the packing list
Load plan and documents
We re-palletise where it saves volume, produce a single consolidated packing list and commercial invoice set, and send a loading photo report before the doors close. Your customs broker gets one clean document set instead of five.
Want this sourced for you?
Our Guangzhou team shortlists verified factories, inspects production and consolidates your cargo — door to door if you need it.
Talk to Jay