Import Logistics Made Simple
Importivity handles every detail of your import logistics, from overseas factory floors to your final destination, ensuring your goods arrive safely, on time, and at the best possible price.
Why Import Logistics Matters More Than Ever
Import logistics is more than just moving goods; it’s the backbone of your global supply chain. Mistakes here cost businesses millions every year in delays, tariffs, and damaged products. Importivity acts as your end-to-end partner, navigating shipping regulations, coordinating freight, and ensuring you avoid costly surprises.
Common Shipping Terms Explained
No more confusion; know what your contracts really mean.
FOB - Free on Board You book freight Supplier clears export
Supplier delivers goods to the named port and loads them on the vessel. You take it from there.
|
Risk transfers |
When goods are on board at origin port |
|
You handle |
Ocean or air freight, insurance, import customs, duties, final delivery |
Use when
- You want carrier choice and rate control
- Your broker and forwarder are in place
CIF - Cost, Insurance, Freight Supplier books freight Insurance included
Supplier pays freight and insurance to the destination port. You handle import clearance and delivery from there.
|
Risk transfers |
When goods cross the ship’s rail at origin (not at arrival) |
|
You handle |
Import customs, duties, port fees after arrival, domestic delivery |
Use when
- You want a single ocean rate from the supplier
- Watch for hidden destination fees
DDP - Delivered Duty Paid All-in price Supplier handles duties
Supplier is responsible for transport, import clearance, duties, taxes, and delivery to your door.
|
Risk transfers |
At your named place of delivery |
|
You handle |
Receiving only |
Use when
- You want simplicity and predictable landed cost
- Confirm the supplier is legally able to act as importer of record
EXW - Ex Works You collect at factory Supplier minimal role
You pick up goods at the supplier’s premises. You bear all costs and risks from that point onward.
|
Risk transfers |
At the supplier’s dock |
|
You handle |
Export, freight, insurance, import, delivery |
Use when
- You have strong on-the-ground logistics. Otherwise, EXW is often too risky.
HS Code - Harmonized System Duty rates Compliance
The global classification system that determines duty rates, taxes, and eligibility for exclusions or trade deals.
|
Why it matters |
Wrong codes trigger delays, fines, or higher duties. Correct codes enable exclusions or lower rates. |
Incoterms - Roles & Responsibilities Standard rules Buyer vs seller
International rules that define who pays for what and where risk transfers. Specify the term plus the named place, for example “FOB Shanghai” or “DDP Austin.”
|
Tip |
Always include the named place and verify importer-of-record responsibilities in writing. |
*Informational only. Confirm specifics with your forwarder, broker, and legal counsel for your shipment.
- Need help choosing terms? A quick matrix: EXW gives maximum control with maximum risk, FOB balances control and clarity, CIF simplifies ocean booking but watch destination fees, DDP is simplest but requires a capable supplier.
Global Import Export Logistics Expertise
Import logistics is more than just moving goods; it’s the backbone of your global supply chain. Mistakes here cost businesses millions every year in delays, tariffs, and damaged products. Importivity acts as your end-to-end partner, navigating shipping regulations, coordinating freight, and ensuring you avoid costly surprises.
How Importivity Handles Import Logistics
A-Z solutions… we don’t just move boxes, we move businesses forward.
Freight Coordination
Sea, air, rail, or truck, matched to your deadlines and budget.
Customs Clearance
HS classification, duty management, and tariff mitigation strategies.
Bonded Warehousing
Safe storage and deferred duty payments to protect cash flow.
Last-Mile Delivery
From ports to warehouses to retail shelves, handled without gaps.
Risk Management
Insurance, compliance checks, and proactive tariff monitoring.
Talk to a Sourcing Expert
Have a product in mind? Let our team connect you with trusted manufacturers and provide a transparent, tariff-aware cost estimate fast.
Sourcing company Case Studies
Real examples of how our sourcing company delivers results across industries and markets.
Global Import Export Logistics Expertise
Shipping from China Advanced plastics Electronics Scale manufacturing
What this means
China remains the hub for high complexity builds and large volumes. Section 301 tariffs and accurate HS classification are critical to landed cost.
Why it matters
Duty exposure and paperwork errors can erase margins. Correct origin, HS codes, and broker instructions keep cargo moving.
How we help
We model Section 301 impact, optimize HS codes where compliant, prepare broker ready entries, and coordinate clearance for fast release.
Shipping from Mexico USMCA Fast lead times
Lower freight
Lower freight
What this means
Nearshore lanes deliver days not weeks to U.S. DCs. U.S. travelers face no visa requirement for most business trips.
Why it matters
Shorter transits cut inventory risk and cash tied up in transit. Many products can qualify for tariff free treatment under USMCA.
How we help
We streamline cross border trucking, verify USMCA origin, assemble certificates, and manage customs so qualifying goods enter duty free.
Shipping from Vietnam Textiles & footwear Cost competitive Diversification
What this means
Vietnam is a strong option for apparel, footwear, and consumer goods with attractive labor economics and expanding port capacity.
Why it matters
Diversifying origin can reduce tariff exposure and stabilize supply. Correct origin rules prevent transshipment issues.
How we help
We qualify factories, confirm substantial transformation, prepare HS and origin documentation, and coordinate ocean or air to meet launch dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our team!
What is import logistics?
Import logistics is the process of moving goods from a foreign supplier to your final destination, covering freight, customs clearance, tariffs, warehousing, and last-mile delivery. At Importivity, we manage the entire process end-to-end to reduce risk, save costs, and keep your supply chain running smoothly.
How is import logistics different from export logistics?
Import logistics focuses on bringing goods into a country, while export logistics handles shipments going out. Importivity specializes in import export logistics — meaning we help businesses manage both sides of global trade when necessary.
Do you handle shipping from China to the USA?
Yes. We manage all aspects of shipping from China, including DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), Section 301 tariff strategy, and customs clearance. Whether you’re importing electronics, plastics, or consumer goods, we ensure your shipments arrive on time and fully compliant.
What are the benefits of shipping from Mexico instead of China?
Shipping from Mexico offers faster lead times, lower freight costs, and tariff-free advantages under USMCA. This makes nearshoring to Mexico ideal for industries like automotive, metals, and textiles. China, however, still dominates in scale and advanced production — and we help you decide which is best for your products.
Can you also manage shipping from Vietnam?
Absolutely. Vietnam is an increasingly popular sourcing destination for textiles, footwear, and cost-sensitive consumer goods. Importivity provides full-service logistics for Vietnam shipments, including freight coordination, tariff avoidance, and compliance with U.S./EU standards.
How do Incoterms like FOB, CIF, and DDP affect my import logistics?
Incoterms define who is responsible for costs and risks in international shipping. For example, FOB puts more responsibility on the buyer, while DDP gives you one all-inclusive price. Importivity helps you choose the right Incoterm to protect your margins and simplify contracts.
Can Importivity help me lower my import costs?
Yes. We use tariff engineering, bonded warehouses, consolidation strategies, and negotiated freight rates to cut costs. Our proactive monitoring of tariff news also ensures your supply chain is always prepared for changes.
Do you provide compliance testing for imported products?
Yes. Compliance is critical in import logistics. We coordinate testing and certification for FDA, CE, CPSIA, and other regulatory standards to ensure your products pass inspections and avoid costly customs delays.
How do I know whether to ship by air, sea, or land?
It depends on your budget, timeline, and product type. Sea freight is most cost-effective for bulk shipments, air freight offers speed for high-value goods, and cross-border trucking (especially from Mexico) is ideal for rapid replenishment. We build custom logistics plans tailored to your business goals.
How do I get started with Importivity’s import logistics services?
Getting started is simple. Schedule a consultation with our team, and we’ll evaluate your supply chain, identify opportunities to cut costs, and create a logistics plan covering shipping from China, Mexico, or Vietnam.
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to help! Visit our Help Center or contact us directly.