5 Essential Tips for First-Time Importers Shipping from China

If you’re an Indian business planning your first import from China, you’re not alone. Thousands of SMEs make this leap every year—excited, a bit nervous, and unsure where to begin. Importing can seem complicated, but once you understand the basics, it’s surprisingly manageable. Let’s break it down together with five essential tips that’ll help you move from confusion to confidence.

1. Start with the Right Product and Supplier
Not all products (or suppliers) are equal when it comes to importing. Before you commit, research demand, profit margins, and regulations for your chosen product. Electronics, machinery, and textiles are popular imports—but they often have special compliance requirements like BIS or FSSAI certifications.

When finding a supplier, go beyond the first search result on Alibaba. Look for long-established exporters, request samples, and verify business licenses. If possible, start small: a trial shipment teaches you much more than endless emails. A reliable supplier is half your logistics journey solved.

2. Understand Incoterms and Hidden Costs
Incoterms decide who pays for what—and misunderstanding them can turn a good deal into a costly headache. For most first-timers, FOB (Free on Board) is the safest choice. The supplier handles origin charges and export clearance, while you control shipping and customs in India.

Avoid getting locked into CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) without clarity. Suppliers often bundle in higher freight charges, and you might face surprise local fees at the destination. Always ask for an all-inclusive quote and understand what’s covered: ocean freight, terminal handling, customs clearance, or delivery.

3. Plan Documentation and Customs Early
The biggest delays happen not on the sea—but in paperwork. Missing one document can hold your container for days (or weeks). Before shipping, make sure your supplier shares drafts of the Commercial Invoice and Packing List. Double-check details: your company name, HS code, and description must match exactly.

If this is your first import, hire a licensed customs broker (CHA). They’ll help you file your Bill of Entry, calculate duties, and deal with customs officers on your behalf. Think of them as your local guide in the maze of Indian customs. And yes—file your paperwork before the vessel arrives to avoid demurrage.

4. Insure, Track, and Communicate Proactively
Even the best logistics plan can hit surprises—a delayed vessel, a rough monsoon, or an inspection. Always insure your shipment. Marine insurance usually costs less than 1% of cargo value, but it saves you from massive losses if something goes wrong.

Once your goods are on the move, track them. Real-time updates keep you informed and give your customers confidence. Platforms like Cogoport let you track containers, get notifications, and chat with support directly. Communication is key—between you, your supplier, and your logistics partner.

5. Use a Digital Platform Like Cogoport
Traditional freight forwarding can be slow and opaque. With Cogoport’s Global Trade Platform™, you get instant freight quotes, compare carriers, and book space in minutes. You can even arrange customs clearance and trucking under one login—no more chasing five vendors for one shipment.

Plus, Cogoport’s Cogo Assured service guarantees space during peak seasons and locks your exchange rate upfront. For small businesses, that means no more sleepless nights over sudden price hikes or currency swings. And with loyalty rewards like Cogo Points, you literally earn as you ship.

Quick Checklist for First-Time Importers

• Get your IEC (Importer-Exporter Code) and GST registration.
• Research your product’s compliance needs (BIS, FSSAI, etc.).
• Choose FOB terms and verify your supplier’s credentials.
• Purchase marine insurance and arrange customs clearance early.
• Track your shipment and stay in touch with your logistics partner.
• Plan for at least 4–6 weeks door-to-door (China → India).
• Return empty containers promptly to avoid detention fees.

How Cogoport Simplifies the Journey

Cogoport brings everything importers need—freight quotes, schedules, customs, trucking, and payments—onto one platform. For new importers, that means fewer emails, fewer surprises, and complete transparency from booking to delivery.

If this is your first shipment from China, think of Cogoport as your co-pilot. We handle the logistics so you can focus on growing your business. From guaranteed FCL space to customs assistance and flexible payment options, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Visit https://www.cogoport.com to get your first instant quote and see how easy global trade can be.

References:

1. Cogoport – Global Trade Platform & Services: https://www.cogoport.com
2. DGFT – Importer-Exporter Code Registration: https://www.dgft.gov.in
3. ICEGATE – Indian Customs EDI Gateway: https://www.icegate.gov.in
4. BIS – Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS): https://www.bis.gov.in
5. FSSAI – Food Import Guidelines: https://www.fssai.gov.in
   
   Prepared for Indian SMEs & Enterprises • Updated: November 06, 2025