Most first-time importers lose money before their cargo even leaves the port. Here's what I see every week running a freight forwarding operation:

Mistake #1: Only comparing freight rates

The freight charge is maybe 40% of your total cost. Port fees, customs duties, VAT, last-mile delivery, documentation — these add up fast. Always ask for the full landed cost.

Mistake #2: Choosing the wrong shipping method

Sea freight (25-40 days) is cheapest for bulk. Air (3-7 days) makes sense for high-margin or urgent goods. Rail (15-25 days) is the sweet spot most people don't know about — faster than sea, half the price of air.

Mistake #3: Incorrect HS codes

One wrong digit on your customs declaration can mean seized cargo, fines, or weeks of delay. Get this right before anything ships.

Mistake #4: No supplier consolidation

If you're buying from 3-4 different Chinese suppliers, shipping each one separately is burning money. Consolidate to one warehouse, load one container, ship once.

We handle all of this at Cargza — sea, air, rail, road, consolidation, customs. If you're importing and want a quote, reach out.