Shipping Robots from China: Documentation Checklist
Shipping cost, timing, customs treatment and carrier acceptance depend on the exact cargo and route. Earlier generic rates, duty tables and delivery-time claims were removed because they were not tied to dated shipment quotes or current destination rules.
Shipment file
Product identity
Exact model, serial-number plan, controller, batteries, accessories and software media
Cargo description
Quantity, dimensions, gross and net mass, centre of gravity, lifting points and handling limits
Packing
Crate specification, blocking and bracing, moisture protection, shock indicators and packing photographs
Battery and hazardous goods
Battery chemistry, ratings, test summary and carrier-required declarations for the actual cargo
Trade documents
Commercial invoice, packing list, contract party, origin information and agreed delivery term
Classification and destination rules
Written classification advice and current import, conformity, labelling and tax requirements
Insurance
Insured value, route, coverage wording, exclusions, deductible, survey evidence and claims contact
Delivery and installation
Port or airport handoff, customs responsibility, last-mile access, unloading equipment and site readiness
Compare logistics quotations on the same basis
Send each provider the same cargo description, collection point, destination, deadline and handling constraints. Record whether the quotation covers collection, export clearance, origin charges, main carriage, destination charges, import clearance, duties and taxes, delivery, unloading and waiting time.
Ask for the planned route and transshipment points, the transit-time basis, quote validity, free-time assumptions and charges triggered by delay or document corrections. A low headline freight figure may omit material origin or destination fees.
Before pickup, reconcile the commercial invoice, packing list, product description and labels. Photograph the product, serial identifiers, internal protection, closed crate and loaded cargo. Agree who can release the shipment after document and packing review.
Receipt and claims record
Plan the receiving inspection before dispatch. Record seal or package condition, shock indicators, crate damage, product serials and shortages before unpacking proceeds. Follow the carrier and insurer notice requirements and preserve packaging and photographs if damage is suspected.
Frequently asked questions
Which shipping method should I use?
Ask freight forwarders to quote the actual dimensions, mass, route, delivery deadline and handling constraints. Compare scope, route, transit assumptions, exclusions and liability rather than relying on a generic rate.
Which customs classification applies?
Classification depends on the exact product and jurisdiction. Give a licensed customs professional the technical description, function, components and destination, and keep the written classification basis in the shipment file.
Which Incoterm should I choose?
Choose a named Incoterm and named place that matches the parties’ real responsibilities. Confirm who contracts carriage, clears export and import, pays charges, carries risk and supplies documents.
Is cargo insurance required?
Review the actual route, cargo value, packing and contract with an insurance professional. Ask for written coverage, exclusions, deductible, evidence requirements and claims procedure.
Continue with the quality and acceptance checklist before approving shipment.