Import/Export FAQ: DDP, Incoterms, QC (AQL), Documents & Shipping

DDP is an Incoterm where delivery is arranged up to the agreed address, including the required handling and documentation as agreed. It’s useful when you want a simpler “end-to-end” management and clearer landed costs.

It depends on how the transaction is structured and the commercial agreement. In your RFQ we clearly define what is included in the “all-in” price and what is excluded.

Choose DDP when you want to reduce complexity (logistics/customs) and get a clear final cost. If you prefer to manage shipping or customs directly, FOB/CIF/DAP may be a better fit.

Product category, quantity, packaging, CBM/weight, origin, destination (ZIP/city), Incoterms and timeline. If you have a datasheet or photos, attach them in the RFQ.

It can be, but it must be evaluated. For small volumes, LCL (consolidation) and alternative Incoterms may be more efficient. We recommend the best option based on value and urgency.

FOB: the seller delivers on board at the port of departure. CIF: ocean freight and insurance up to the port of arrival. DAP: delivery up to your address, with variable charges depending on the agreement. DDP is typically the most “all-in” option (as agreed).

FOB is often a solid balance: clearer costs and more control. If you want less complexity at the beginning, DAP/DDP can be evaluated. It depends on risk, shipment value, and the supplier’s capabilities.

Yes, as long as it’s done before final order confirmation, because responsibilities, costs and documents change. We realign pricing and documentation to avoid mistakes.

EXW: goods are made available at the supplier’s premises (more handling on your side). FOB: the supplier delivers up to the port and loads on board (more standard and simpler for importing).

We start from your technical specs and goals (price/quality/lead time), build a shortlist and verify consistency and documentation based on the product category.

It depends on the product and how clear the specs are. With a complete RFQ, we can start research, outreach and comparisons quickly.

Samples confirm real quality, finishes, packaging and tolerances before you invest in a large order. It’s the most cost-effective step to reduce risk.

Yes. Often the best route is a small trial order plus pre-shipment QC, so you validate both supplier and product before scaling up.

Materials, dimensions, quantity, target price, packaging, required certificates and Incoterms. If you have a reference model, attach photos or a technical drawing.

AQL is a sampling method to assess a production lot using defect levels (critical/major/minor). It supports objective decisions before shipment.

Almost always: especially with new suppliers, complex products, or high-value orders. It’s one of the best safeguards to avoid problems after arrival.

Photo/video evidence, checklists, measurements where relevant, packaging/label checks, and a defect summary. If non-conformities appear, we define corrective actions before loading.

QC provides evidence before departure. If a lot fails, you can request rework, replacement, or re-inspection before shipping.

Yes. Beyond pre-shipment, “during production” checks can catch issues earlier—especially helpful for large volumes.

Lead times vary by route, season and port. In your quote we provide a realistic range including transit time and document processing.

Air = speed (samples/urgent). Sea = best cost per volume (pallets and containers). The right choice depends on value/volume and timeline.

LCL is consolidated shipping (not a full container). It’s great for small volumes or early tests, but should be evaluated for costs and timing.

Efficient packaging, correct palletization, optimized CBM, and the right Incoterm. We ask for the correct data in your RFQ to calculate real landed costs.

Usually: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and transport document (BL/AWB/CMR). Depending on the product, additional certificates or declarations may be required.

It lists cartons, weights and dimensions—critical for logistics and controls. Errors often cause delays and extra costs.

It proves the origin of goods and may be required for customs procedures or trade agreements. We confirm if and when it’s needed for your shipment.

Consistent documents (descriptions, quantities, values), correct labeling, and QC before departure. Document consistency is the first line of defense.

It depends on risk and order value. Typically: samples + a small test order + pre-shipment QC. The goal is to reduce exposure and increase control.

It’s common, but not universal. It’s negotiated based on product, volume and supplier history. We work to achieve sustainable, verifiable terms.

Yes. You can link the balance to passing the pre-shipment inspection (or to agreed corrective actions). This is a practical protection tool.

If detected before shipping (QC), you can request rework/replacement/re-inspection. If detected after arrival, we collect evidence and manage the claim with the supplier.

You need clear evidence (photos, lot references, quantities), consistent documents, and a formal request with a proposed solution. Prevention through QC reduces cases dramatically.

Often yes, especially for higher-value goods or riskier routes. We assess the best setup based on Incoterms, mode of transport and insured value.