Shipping is a critical part of the international purchasing process with LoongBuy. While the platform streamlines buying from Chinese markets, final-mile shipping choices directly impact your cost, delivery speed, and overall satisfaction. Two of the most frequent and costly errors are selecting the wrong courier serviceunderestimating actual parcel weight and dimensions. This guide outlines these common mistakes and provides actionable advice to avoid unnecessary expenses and frustrating delays.
Top Shipping Mistakes on LoongBuy
Mistake 1: Choosing the Wrong Courier or Shipping Line
Not all shipping methods are created equal. A choice based solely on the lowest upfront price often leads to problems.
- The Problem:
- Or,
- The Consequence:
- Or,
Mistake 2: Underestimating Parcel Weight & Volumetric Weight
This is the #1 cause of unexpected "shpping fee top-up" requests.
- The Problem:volumetric weight (Dimensional Weight).
- Volumetric Weight:
- The Consequence:
Mistake 3: Incomplete or Incorrect Address Details
- The Problem:
- The Consequence:
Mistake 4: Neglecting Prohibited & Restricted Items
- The Problem:
- The Consequence:
Expert Advice: How to Prevent Costly Shipping Errors
Solution 1: Match the Courier to Your Needs
- For High-Value & Urgent Items:
- For Balance of Cost & Speed:
- For Low-Cost, Non-Urgent Items:
- Always read the service descriptions
- For Balance of Cost & Speed:
Solution 2: Understand and Control Weight & Dimensions
- Use Warehouse Services:Parcel Measurement
- Consider Parcel Consolidation:Parcel Re-packaging
- Be Realistic:
- Consider Parcel Consolidation:Parcel Re-packaging
Solution 3: Double-Check Documentation
- Ensure your shipping address is complete and formatted
- Use the English/Roman alphabet
- Include a valid phone number as couriers often require it for delivery.
- Use the English/Roman alphabet
Solution 4: Declare Items Accurately & Know Restrictions
- Familiarize yourself with the prohibited items listbefore
- When declaring items for customs, provide accurate descriptions and reasonable values. Misdeclaration can lead to fines or seizure.
- For complex shipments, consider splitting your parcel
Pre-Shipment Checklist
- Have I requested Parcel Measurement
- Have I compared courier options based on speed, tracking, and total cost
- Is my shipping address 100% correct and complete?
- Have I checked for any restricted items
- Have I considered consolidation/re-packaging
- Have I compared courier options based on speed, tracking, and total cost