A Day in the Life of a QC Inspector

International courier tiers dramatically affect pricing. Top-tier agents get rates that are half of what you'd pay at the DHL counter. Find two or three major agents, compare rates, and consolidate shipments to maximize discounts.

FOB and CIF are the most commonly confused Incoterms. Under FOB, risk transfers to the buyer once goods pass the ship's rail. Under CIF, you handle freight and insurance to destination. CIF seems better but you also bear freight fluctuation risk.

Lithium batteries require UN38.3 certification — no shipping line accepts them without it. Packaging is strictly regulated: UN-spec boxes, clear labels, and a 24-hour emergency contact number. Get these wrong and your shipment is rejected.

When freight spikes, communication needs tact. Saying 'pay more' won't work. Share a detailed cost breakdown. Offer options: the client uses their own forwarder or you arrange with express vs standard choices at different price points.