13/07/2026
Are You Importing from China? Avoid These 10 Costly Mistakes Before Your Next Shipment
Importing from China offers tremendous business opportunities, but many importers—especially those new to international trade—face unexpected costs and shipment delays due to avoidable mistakes.
Based on our years of experience handling shipments between China and Thailand, we've compiled the 10 most common mistakes we encounter and how you can avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Incoterm
Understanding who is responsible for freight, insurance, customs clearance, duties, and inland transportation is essential. Misunderstanding your Incoterm can result in unexpected costs.
2. Selecting a Supplier Based Solely on Price
The cheapest quotation isn't always the best value. Consider the supplier's reliability, export experience, and ability to provide accurate documentation.
3. Failing to Verify Import Requirements
Certain products require permits or approvals before they can be imported into Thailand. Always confirm these requirements before placing your order.
4. Using the Wrong HS Code
Incorrect tariff classification can lead to customs delays, additional duties, penalties, and unnecessary complications.
5. Incomplete Shipping Documents
Errors in invoices, packing lists, or Bills of Lading are among the most common causes of customs delays.
6. Ignoring Total Landed Cost
Don't focus only on the purchase price. Consider freight, duties, VAT, customs clearance, destination charges, and inland transportation to understand your true import cost.
7. Booking Freight Too Late
Planning ahead helps secure vessel space, better freight rates, and on-time delivery.
8. Choosing the Wrong Shipping Method
Depending on your cargo volume, either LCL or FCL may provide greater cost efficiency.
9. Poor Communication Between All Parties
Clear communication between the supplier, freight forwarder, customs broker, and consignee helps prevent unnecessary delays and additional costs.
10. Treating Your Freight Forwarder as Only a Transport Provider
A knowledgeable freight forwarder should be your logistics partner—helping with planning, documentation, customs coordination, and finding the most efficient shipping solution.
Final Thoughts
Successful importing isn't about finding the lowest freight rate—it's about avoiding costly mistakes before they happen.
At AGN International, we believe our role is more than simply moving cargo. We work closely with our customers to help them plan shipments efficiently, minimise logistics costs, and avoid unnecessary customs and documentation issues.
📞 Need advice before your next shipment?
Our team is happy to provide a free, no-obligation consultation on importing from China to Thailand.
Call us today: 02-399-1300
Because the right advice before shipment can save you far more than solving problems after the cargo arrives.
