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Most Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often from our clients.
What is the difference between FCL and LCL?
FCL (Full Container Load) means you rent the entire container exclusively for your cargo — ideal for shipments over 15 CBM or when you need direct routing and faster transit. LCL (Less Than Container Load) means your cargo shares container space with other shippers, and you pay only for the volume you use — perfect for smaller shipments under 15 CBM. FCL typically offers lower per-unit costs and less handling risk, while LCL provides flexibility for smaller or irregular volumes.
View all questions →What documents are required for US customs clearance?
For US import clearance, the standard required documents are: Commercial Invoice (with shipper, consignee, description, value, country of origin), Packing List, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, and ISF (Importer Security Filing) for ocean shipments, which must be filed 24 hours before vessel departure. Additional documents may be required depending on the commodity: FDA Prior Notice for food/devices, USDA/APHIS permits for agricultural products, ACE Manifest for trucks entering the US, or specific import licenses.
View all questions →How do you calculate freight rates?
Ocean freight rates are calculated based on: container type and size (20ft, 40ft, 40ft HC), trade lane (origin port to destination port), current market conditions and carrier rates, and service type (port-to-port or door-to-door). Air freight rates use the higher of actual weight (kg) or volumetric weight (L×W×H÷6000), multiplied by the rate per kg for that lane. Ground freight uses weight, freight class, and lane distance for LTL, or a flat rate per mile/load for FTL. All quotes include itemized breakdowns.
View all questions →How can I track my shipment?
Every shipment gets a dedicated account manager who provides proactive updates at each milestone. For ocean freight, we use AIS vessel tracking to monitor your container in real time. For air freight, AWB tracking is updated at every scan point. For ground transport, GPS tracking is available on FTL moves. You can request tracking updates directly from your account manager via email or WhatsApp at any time. We are working on a self-service tracking portal for direct client access.
View all questions →What is Suaid Global's partnership model?
Our partnership model is designed for freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics companies that need a reliable US operations partner. We act as your US back office — handling ground transport, port drayage, warehouse operations, customs clearance, and cargo insurance — while you maintain full client ownership. Your clients never interact with Suaid Global directly. We operate completely under your brand, with zero conflict of interest. It is a white-label B2B arrangement.
View all questions →Find Answers by Category
Choose a topic below to browse frequently asked questions, step-by-step guides, and expert resources.
Shipping & Transport
- FCL vs LCL — which is right for you?
- Transit times for major trade lanes
- Documents required for international shipping
Customs & Compliance
- Documents required for US customs clearance
- How is import duty calculated?
- What is an HTS code?
Pricing & Quotes
- How are freight rates calculated?
- What is included in a quote?
- Are there hidden fees?
Tracking & Visibility
- How can I track my shipment?
- What milestones get updates?
- What happens if my shipment is delayed?
Partnership & Agents
- What is the white-label model?
- Who is the ideal partner?
- How does billing work?
Documents & Guides
- Bill of Lading Guide
- Commercial Invoice Template
- Incoterms 2020 Reference
Key Logistics Terms Explained
Learn the terminology used in international freight forwarding. From Bill of Lading to Incoterms — we explain it all in plain language.
Bill of Lading (B/L)
Legal document issued by a carrier: receipt of goods, contract of carriage, and document of title.
FCL (Full Container Load)
Shipping arrangement where one shipper uses an entire container exclusively.
Incoterms 2020
International Commercial Terms — 11 globally recognized rules defining buyer/seller responsibilities.
HTS Code
10-digit US classification code determining import duties and regulatory requirements.
ISF (Importer Security Filing)
Mandatory CBP filing for ocean imports, due 24 hours before vessel departure.
TEU
Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit — the standard measure for container capacity.
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