Contents and processes that logistics providers who provide first-leg warehousing services need to pay attention to

For logistics providers that provide first-leg warehousing services, integrating local customs clearance agencies, tow trucks, express delivery companies and other channels is an indispensable capability. In order to ensure that goods can be seamlessly connected to subsequent links after they are successfully shipped from the country, logistics companies should set up convenient transfer warehouses or warehouses near airports in the country to provide necessary support for small and medium-sized e-commerce companies.

The importance of cargo pre-review

Because small and medium-sized e-commerce companies often have weak control over the quality of goods, even if the pre-order review, inspection and packaging processes are not necessary, if the e-commerce companies check the quality and standards of the goods before they leave the country, Lack of understanding will increase the difficulty of subsequent customs clearance, warehouse receipt, billing and other tasks. For example, problems such as incorrect bar codes or box labels may lead to incorrect entry of goods into the warehouse, increase the workload of receiving goods and inventory, and may lead to confusion in warehouse management and delivery errors. Therefore, logistics companies should work closely with overseas agents to focus on checking product safety, packaging standards, ticket weight, etc., and collect photos, confirm inner box products, brand authorization and related certifications, reinforce packaging, pre-examine and forecast data, and provide timely Communicate feedback with sellers to prevent substandard products from being mistakenly shipped overseas.

Packaging and transportation specifications

Good packaging can not only protect goods from damage and reduce receipt disputes caused by packaging quality issues, but is also an important part of value-added services. Different types of packaging, such as inner packaging, single pieces, boxes, pallets and outermost shipping packaging, all require the use of appropriate packaging materials and techniques to ensure that the goods are properly protected during transportation. Especially when transporting across countries, avoid using boxes that are too large, easily deformed or unstable, or have printed materials on the surface. In addition, during the peak season, packaging specifications should be strictly followed to comply with platform standards, improve the efficiency of overseas warehouse receipt, and reduce cargo damage and the need for secondary packaging and labeling.

Create ASN arrival notification

Before shipping the goods, the seller should create an ASN (Advanced Shipping Notice) arrival notice in the overseas warehouse system, which supports multiple types of goods warehousing including replenishment orders, transfer orders, return orders, etc. This helps the warehouse prepare for receiving goods in advance, avoid delays in putting on shelves, and ensure that system data is consistent with the physical goods.

Customs clearance process and precautions

The first leg of overseas warehouses falls within the scope of heavy goods. Cross-border sellers can choose from a variety of transportation options such as direct express delivery, air freight, sea freight FCL, and LCL. During import customs clearance in the destination country, you need to ensure that the importer or fixed tax number information is correctly displayed on the packing list/invoice/bill of lading. For small and medium-sized sellers who do not have their own trading company or importer’s tax number, they can obtain a foreign importer’s EIN (tax number) by applying for IOR (Import of Record) from the customs, thereby achieving single-invoice customs clearance, issuing tax bills, and ensuring tax bills. Displays the customer’s tax ID number.

First leg transportation options

Head-haul transportation refers to the process of shipping goods from the supplier to the overseas warehouse. It is crucial to choose the appropriate first-leg shipping method based on the nature, quantity, value of the goods and the seller’s budget. Common first-leg transportation methods include sea transportation, air transportation and express delivery. Sea transportation is suitable for the transportation of large quantities of goods, with low cost but long time consumption; air transportation is fast but costly; express delivery is flexible and convenient, and is suitable for the transportation of small quantities of goods. Choosing reliable freight forwarding and logistics service providers, and doing a good job in insurance and risk control are also keys to ensuring transportation safety.

By rationally choosing the first-leg transportation method, cross-border e-commerce sellers can not only ensure the rapid arrival and smooth delivery of goods, but also improve operational efficiency and customer experience, ultimately improving their competitiveness and profitability.