Frequently Asked Questions

Several factors influence air freight rates, including:

• Weight and dimensions of the cargo (volumetric or actual weight, whichever is greater)
• Distance between origin and destination
• Type of goods being shipped
• Urgency of delivery (express vs. standard service)
• Seasonal demand and capacity constraints
• Fuel surcharges
• Security surcharges
• Special handling requirements

Our team can provide detailed quotes based on your specific shipment needs.

Air freight is the fastest shipping method available for international cargo. Transit times typically range from 1-6 days depending on:

• Distance between origin and destination
• Availability of direct flights vs. connections
• Customs clearance processes at origin and destination
• Type of service selected (express, standard, deferred)

For precise transit time estimates for your specific route, please contact our customer service team.

The maximum weight for air freight varies depending on:

• Aircraft type being used
• Cargo door dimensions
• Weight restrictions at origin and destination airports

Most commercial aircraft can accommodate items up to 10,000 kg (22,046 lbs) per piece, but specialized cargo aircraft can handle much larger shipments. For oversized or extremely heavy cargo, we can arrange specialized solutions including charter flights if necessary.

A freight carrier is a company that transports cargo from one location to another. In ocean shipping, freight carriers typically operate vessels that carry containerized cargo, bulk cargo, or other types of goods across international waters.

These carriers may be:

• Ocean carriers/shipping lines: Companies that own or charter vessels that transport cargo via sea routes
• NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier): Companies that don't own vessels but purchase space from shipping lines to resell to shippers

SM Distribution & Shipping Lines works with reliable carrier partners to ensure your ocean freight is handled efficiently and arrives safely at its destination.

The notify party on a bill of lading is the person or company that should be notified when the shipment arrives at its destination. This party is typically responsible for:

• Receiving notification that the cargo has arrived at the destination port
• Arranging for customs clearance (in some cases)
• Coordinating final delivery of the goods

The notify party may be the same as the consignee (the receiver of the goods) or could be a separate entity such as a customs broker, freight forwarder, or agent acting on behalf of the consignee. Including accurate notify party information on the bill of lading is important to ensure smooth delivery of your shipment.

A terminal in ocean shipping refers to a designated area within a port where cargo is loaded onto and discharged from vessels. These facilities are critical nodes in the global supply chain and typically include:

• Container terminals: Specialized facilities for handling standardized shipping containers
• Bulk terminals: Designed for handling loose cargo like grain, coal, or minerals
• Break-bulk terminals: For cargo that is too large or irregularly shaped for containers
• Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) terminals: For vehicles and rolling cargo

Terminals are equipped with cranes, handling equipment, storage areas, and systems for processing cargo efficiently. They also serve as temporary storage locations while shipments await customs clearance or onward transportation.

FTL (Full Truckload): This refers to shipments that require an entire truck's cargo space. The truck carries cargo for only one shipper and goes directly from origin to destination without additional stops for loading or unloading.

LTL (Less Than Truckload): This refers to shipments that don't require an entire truck's capacity. Multiple shipments from different shippers share space on the same truck. The carrier consolidates various shipments going in the same direction to optimize space and costs.

Key differences:

• Cost: FTL typically costs more but is charged per mile, while LTL is usually charged by weight and freight class
• Transit time: FTL is faster with direct delivery, while LTL involves multiple stops and handling
• Handling: FTL cargo is touched less, reducing the risk of damage
• Ideal shipment size: FTL is best for large shipments (over 10,000 lbs or 10+ pallets), while LTL is economical for smaller shipments

Trucking rates are calculated based on several factors:

• Distance: The mileage between pickup and delivery locations
• Weight/volume: The size and weight of your shipment
• Freight class: For LTL shipments, based on density, value, and handling requirements
• Accessorial charges: Additional services like liftgate delivery, inside delivery, limited access locations, etc.
• Fuel surcharges: Adjustments based on current fuel prices
• Market conditions: Supply and demand for trucking capacity in specific lanes
• Service speed: Expedited vs. standard service

For FTL shipments, rates are typically quoted per mile or as a flat rate for the entire load. For LTL shipments, rates consider freight class, weight, and distance with various discounts applied based on volume and carrier agreements.

At SM Distribution & Shipping Lines, we offer several methods for tracking your land freight shipments:

• Online tracking portal: Access our client portal with your shipment reference number or booking ID to view real-time status updates
• Email notifications: Set up automated alerts for key milestones in your shipment's journey
• Customer service contact: Reach out to your designated account manager or our customer service team for updates
• Mobile app: Download our mobile application for on-the-go tracking access

Our advanced tracking systems provide information on pickup confirmation, estimated transit times, current location, and delivery status. For high-value or time-sensitive shipments, we can arrange enhanced tracking with more frequent status updates.

Express shipping is a premium, time-definite shipping service designed for urgent or time-sensitive cargo. It offers:

• Fastest possible transit times
• Guaranteed delivery dates and times
• Priority handling at all points of the supply chain
• Enhanced tracking and visibility
• Dedicated customer service

Our express shipping services utilize the fastest transportation modes and routes, often combining air freight with expedited ground transportation to ensure your shipment arrives as quickly as possible. This service is ideal for critical parts, perishable goods, high-value items, or any situation where time is of the essence.

For our express shipping services:

• Individual package weight typically ranges up to 150 lbs (68 kg)
• Total shipment weight can be up to 2,200 lbs (1,000 kg)
• For heavier express needs, we offer specialized solutions

For express shipments exceeding these standard limits, we provide custom express freight solutions including dedicated vehicles, air charter services, or specialized handling options. Weight restrictions may vary based on origin, destination, and service level selected.

Our team can help determine the most appropriate express solution for your specific requirements, regardless of weight or dimensions.

Express shipping generally costs more than standard shipping options due to the premium nature of the service. The price difference varies depending on several factors:

• Express services typically cost 30-100% more than standard services
• The price difference increases with distance and weight
• Guaranteed delivery times add to the premium
• International express shipping may be 2-3 times the cost of standard international shipping

While express shipping commands a higher price, the value it provides through faster transit times, guaranteed delivery windows, and priority handling can be essential for time-critical shipments where the cost of delays would exceed the premium paid for express service.

We recommend conducting a cost-benefit analysis for your specific situation to determine if express shipping is the right choice. Our team can provide detailed quotes for both express and standard options to help you make an informed decision.

The essential documents required for international shipping typically include:

• Commercial Invoice: Details of the goods being shipped, including description, value, quantity, and parties involved
• Packing List: Itemized list of package contents with weights and dimensions
• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB): Transport document serving as receipt of goods, evidence of contract of carriage, and document of title
• Certificate of Origin: Document certifying the country where goods were manufactured or produced
• Customs Declaration Forms: Varies by country but typically includes information on goods for customs clearance

Depending on the nature of goods and country requirements, additional documents may include:

• Import/Export Licenses
• Dangerous Goods Declaration
• Phytosanitary or Health Certificates
• Inspection Certificates
• Insurance Certificate

Our team can provide guidance on the specific documentation required for your shipment to ensure smooth customs clearance.

Customs duties and taxes are charges imposed by governments on imported goods. Here's how they typically work:

Customs Duties:

• Calculated based on the classification of goods under the Harmonized System (HS code)
• Rates vary by product type and country of origin
• May be assessed as a percentage of the goods' value (ad valorem) or as a specific amount per unit
• Preferential rates may apply under free trade agreements

Import Taxes:

• Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST) is applied to the value of goods plus duties
• Rates vary by country (typically 5-25%)
• May be recoverable for business importers in some jurisdictions

Other Fees:

• Merchandise Processing Fees
• Harbor Maintenance Fees
• Excise Taxes for specific goods
• Agricultural inspection fees

Payment responsibility is typically determined by the incoterms used in the transaction (e.g., DDP means the seller pays duties, while DAP means the buyer pays). Our customs brokerage services can help you navigate these complexities and manage the duty/tax payment process efficiently.

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are standardized trade terms published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) that define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international transactions. They specify:

• Who arranges and pays for transportation
• Where risk transfers from seller to buyer
• Who is responsible for insurance
• Who handles customs clearance and pays duties/taxes
• Who bears the cost of loading/unloading

Common Incoterms:

• EXW (Ex Works): Buyer assumes all costs and risks from the seller's premises
• FOB (Free on Board): Seller delivers goods on board the vessel, risk transfers when goods cross the ship's rail
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Seller pays for shipping and insurance to the destination port, but risk transfers when goods are loaded
• DAP (Delivered at Place): Seller delivers to the buyer's specified location, buyer handles import clearance
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Maximum obligation for seller, who pays all costs including duties to deliver to the buyer's premises

The choice of incoterm significantly impacts shipping arrangements, costs, and responsibilities. It's important to clearly specify which incoterm applies to your transaction to avoid misunderstandings and disputes.

Getting a shipping quote from SM Distribution & Shipping Lines is simple and can be done through several methods:

• Online Quote Form: Visit our Get a Quote page and fill out our simple online form with your shipment details
• Contact Customer Service: Call our customer service team at +1 (555) 123-4567 for immediate assistance
• Email Request: Send your quote request to quotes@smdslines.com with your shipment details
• Account Manager: Existing customers can contact their dedicated account manager directly

To ensure an accurate quote, please have the following information ready:

• Origin and destination addresses
• Shipment dimensions and weight
• Cargo type and description
• Preferred shipping timeline
• Any special handling requirements

We aim to provide quotes within 2 hours during business hours for standard requests.

Tracking your shipment with SM Distribution & Shipping Lines is convenient through multiple channels:

• Online Tracking Tool: Enter your tracking number on our website's tracking page
• Customer Portal: Log in to your account on our customer portal for detailed tracking information and shipment history
• Email Updates: Opt-in for automated email notifications at key milestones
• Customer Service: Contact our team at +1 (555) 123-4567 or support@smdslines.com

Our tracking system provides real-time updates on your shipment's status, location, estimated delivery time, and any potential delays. For high-value or time-critical shipments, we offer enhanced tracking options with more detailed information and increased frequency of updates.

We offer comprehensive insurance options to protect your cargo during transit:

• All-Risk Coverage: Protects against physical loss or damage from external causes
• Named Perils Insurance: Covers specific risks listed in the policy
• Total Loss Only: A more economical option covering only complete loss of shipment
• Custom Insurance Solutions: Tailored coverage for specialized cargo or high-value goods

Insurance premiums typically range from 0.3% to 1% of the cargo value, depending on the nature of goods, shipping route, and coverage level. We recommend insuring your shipment for its full commercial invoice value plus 10% to cover additional costs.

While carrier liability does exist, it's often limited and may not fully cover the value of your goods. Our insurance options provide peace of mind and financial protection throughout the shipping process.

Contact our team for a detailed insurance quote and to discuss the best options for your specific shipment.