Choosing Freight for Auto Parts Export: Sea, Air and Express Cost Comparison
Cargo First
- Weight/volume: metal parts favor sea
- Value: high-value small parts can justify air
- Urgency: samples and rush orders by express or air
- Compliance: oil- or battery-containing goods have limits
Four Modes
- Sea: Cheapest, slowest (FCL/LCL) - bulk
- Air: Fast, costly, charged by volumetric weight - urgent
- Express: Door-to-door fastest - samples and small lots
- Rail: Between sea and air - Europe lanes
Cost Elements
- Sea: freight + port + customs + trucking + destination + duty
- Air/express: greater of actual or volumetric weight
- Watch destination clearance and delivery fees
Recommendations
- Samples or rush - express or air
- Bulk restock - sea FCL
- Medium lots - LCL or rail
- Decide on value, time and cash flow
Huami Support
Huami has stable export logistics channels and can advise on shipping methods.