Freight is where most sourcing projects get their first real surprise. The FOB quote looks great — until you add ocean, insurance, customs, and inland delivery. Here's how to model the real landed cost.
FCL vs LCL — the volume math
Full Container Load makes sense above ~12 cubic meters. Below that, Less-than-Container-Load usually wins on cost — but adds 3–7 days at the deconsolidation port. Model both before committing.
- Shenzhen → Mumbai (Nhava Sheva): 14–18 days FCL
- Guangzhou → Chennai: 16–20 days FCL
- Shanghai → Kolkata: 12–15 days FCL
The three hidden costs
Buyers routinely underestimate: (1) origin THC and documentation fees at Chinese ports, (2) destination delivery order and container detention at Indian ports, and (3) inland trucking from port to warehouse. Together these add 15–25% to the base ocean rate.
Air freight — when it's worth it
For high-value, low-volume electronics, air freight often wins on total landed cost when you factor in inventory holding, cash cycle, and stockout risk. Don't dismiss it just because the per-kg rate looks scary.
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