Best China Shipping Agents: Optimize Wholesale Business

Your search for the PERFECT China shipping agent ends today.

No more reading hundreds of sales content. I’ll be 100% honest so you make the best decision for your business. 

Hey, my name is Sharline…

I’m an eCommerce geek and entrepreneur. I’ve worked with hundreds of shipping agents for the past decade. I’ve ONLY listed the ones I can trust. No cap, no tricks!

I’ll help you find the RIGHT shipping agent. So, enjoy a flawless shipping experience from China. MAXIMIZE your profit margins.

Leeline Sourcing is one of the leading shipping agents in China today. They have a DEDICATED team of experts that make shipping from China a breeze. I’ll tell you all about this shipping giant and others, too, in a bit.

You also learn about some common scams from malicious shipping agents. Plus, how to avoid them.

Let’s not waste any second…

What Are The Types Of China Shipping Agents?

Well, let’s start with a quick recap of who a shipping agent is…

The shipping agent is a legal representative of a shipping company/charter. In ANY foreign port.

They handle payments to the local authorities and other local parties.

Stick around. Find out why having a shipping agent is EXTREMELY BENEFICIAL to your business.

But first…

Types of China shipping agents:

1. Port Agents

A port agent is like a ship owner’s ‘wingman’ when the vessel is in their native port. They facilitate EVERYTHING from when the ship arrives in the port to when it departs from the port.

Responsibilities of a port agent include:

• Working hand-in-hand with local authorities to ensure the ship complies with local regulations.
• Preparing and submitting legal paperwork – port clearance documents, bills of lading, etc.
• Organizing ship services such as berth allocation, pilotage, and tugboats.
• Facilitating loading and unloading of the cargo on the ship.

…and that’s not even an exhaustive list. 

2. Cargo Agents

Just as the name suggests. A cargo agent handles the transportation of cargo to the destination country.

Oh, don’t get me wrong, they are still representatives of ship owners, charters, or operators.

Their main work is to:

• Advise their clients on the best international shipping routes.
• Facilitate on-time delivery of shipments.
• Guide clients on cargo shipping costs, cargo insurance, and booking inquiries. They also negotiate favorable shipping costs on behalf of their clients.
• Prepare necessary bills of lading and other documents. Plus, ensure their clients operate in accordance with Chinese shipping regulations.

3. Carrier Agents

Also known as freight carriers.

Carrier agents organize the transportation of cargo from the point of origin (China). To the destination country.

What they do:

• Safe cargo loading and unloading from the vessel.
• Handle cargo logistics such as cargo bookings, customs clearance process, etc.
• Update their clients on shipping status. PROMPTLY address shipping issues if they occur.

4. The Owners/Charterers Agents

Get this – a ship owner might want to protect his best interests during a port call. You know, just to be safe!

So, they decide to bring their own agent into the foreign port. 

Their roles vary from case to case basis. Here are some of the most common duties of these agents:

• Oversee the ship services such as mooring, pilotage, and towerage.
• Supervise cargo loading and unloading. And ensure safe handling by the loaders during the entire process.
• Draft and prepare official documentation required by maritime authorities.

5. Liner Agents

Liner agents have similar operations to cargo agents. They both organize cargo spaces and prepare shipping documentation.

Don’t let this confuse you…

Liner agents work hand-in-hand with the shipping line. While cargo agents offer their services to the shipper or consignee.

Other responsibilities of liner agents include:

• Ensuring shipping containers are available.
• Marketing the liner services to bring more clients.

Next up…

The Top 20 Legal China Shipping Agents Are Listed Below

Company	Year Founded	Dropshipping Fulfillment	Location	Rating
Leeline Sourcing	2008	YES	Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China	★★★★★
Supplyia	2013	YES	Yiwu, China	★★★★★
JustChinaIt	2017	YES	Shenzhen, China	★★★★★
Sino Shipping	2018	NO	Shanghai & Shenzhen, China | Hong Kong	★★★★
Bansar China	2008	NO	Shanghai, China	★★★★
DFH	2009	NO	Shenzhen, China	★★★★
Hipofly Shipping Company	2009	YES	Shenzhen, China	★★★★
DDPCH Company	2015	NO	Shenzhen, China	★★★★
YCL Logistics	2009	NO	Shenzhen, China	★★★★
Forest Leopard Logistics	2010	NO	Shenzhen, China	★★★★★
Cosco Shipping Lines	2016	YES	Shanghai, China	★★★★
ZGG Ship	2010	YES	Shenzhen, China	★★★★
SF Express	1993	NO	Shenzhen, China	★★★★★
Kingstar Shipping	2004	YES	Shenzhen, China	★★★★
CNXtrans	2011	YES	Shanghai, China	★★★★
STO Express	1993	NO	Shanghai, China	★★★★
Seabay	2004	YES	Shenzhen, China	★★★★★
Shengyu Logistics	1990s	YES	Guangdong, China	★★★
Yunda Express	1999	NO	Shanghai, China	★★★★
BlueBull	2004	NO	Shenzhen, China	★★★★★

8 Best China Shipping Agents

1. Leeline Sourcing — the Best Shipping Agent In China So Far

Leeline Sourcing is one of the best Chinese shipping agents out there. Scratch that, Leeline Sourcing is the BEST Chinese shipping agent in the market today.

They have been in the game for the last 10 years. Working with over 6,000 happy customers. PLUS, 150+ dollar millionaire sellers.

Leeline Sourcing has EVERYTHING to back up its solid track record. 

From being featured on some of the world’s largest eCommerce platforms. Such as AliExpress and Alibaba. Thousands of positive reviews from previous customers. Of course, 24/7 customer support.

Enough with the praises; what can Leeline Sourcing do for YOU?

• Safe Alibaba Fulfillment Provider

Leeline Sourcing is your TRUSTED Alibaba shipping agent.

Here’s what you get:

1. SUPER-FAST shipping services. Expert advice on the shortest routes for your products. Also, they have supervised loading and unloading services. To shorten the shipping process. You’ll never miss a delivery again because of late shipments. EVER.
2. Freight consolidation. No need to work with multiple freight forwarders in China. Leeline Sourcing’s teams collect and merge your products in one shipping container. This TREMENDOUSLY reduces your shipping fees by 50%.

• The best quality control services

Think of it this way – you get a supplier from China. They ship the products 11,000 km away to the USA. Open your shipment? Wrong delivery, low-quality products, damaged goods, name it. 

Remember, you still have to send them back again for the supplier to make corrections. By now, you’ve missed customer deliveries and gotten tons of hate reviews.

Leeline Sourcing saves you from all that BS. They have rigorous quality inspection services. These include a pre-production inspection to ensure the supplier meets ISO standards.

During production inspection, ensure QUALITY is adhered to. Final inspection to ensure the RIGHT quantity is shipped to you.

You get HIGH-QUALITY products on time. Build a TRUSTED brand. grow your profit margins 10X.

• Product Sourcing

Don’t have a product in mind? Leeline Sourcing got you covered!

They help you find the BEST-SELLING products in the market. So, you destroy even the most ferocious competition in ANY niche. Enjoy financial freedom.

Leeline Sourcing offers way more than I could possibly cover here. If you want the MOST reliable shipping agent in China, definitely check them out.

Leeline Sourcing review:

“I worked with Leeline for 2-3 years to build my brand. They check each item and do my customs clearance to get into the Amazon warehouse. I love their service; it saves me a lot of time. If you are also developing your business in China, they will help you do it smoothly.” – Belinda.

Source: YouTube.

2. Supplyia — Best Shipping Agent For Small & Medium-Sized Businesses

Supplyia is yet another good shipping agent in China.

They have been around for quite a while. Serving over 2,000 importers to ship PRISTINE products.

Whether you are an Amazon seller, eCommerce brand, import trader, or offline supermarket. Supplyia has something for you.

Here are some of Supplyia’s services:

• Free Product Sourcing

Supplyia helps you find high-ticket products for your store completely for FREE. This saves you tens of hours doing painstaking research. Pretty sweet, right?

There’s more…

• Fast Shipment Processes

Supplyia partners with TOP logistics providers in the region. To ensure you enjoy a FAST shipping process.

They also negotiate affordable rates. So, whether you choose air freight, sea freight, or railway freight, you won’t spend a fortune.

• Customized-pricing

This is what sets Supplyia apart from MOST of China’s freight forwarders.

This shows you what you get even before you contact a Supplyia agent.

Supplyia walks with you from the sourcing to final delivery. That way, you avoid China shipping agent scams from malicious suppliers.

Supplyia Review:

“I have cooperated with many sourcing agents. Supplyia helps me a lot. My order’s small but complicated with custom packaging, insert card, etc. My customer representative is very nice and patient. It makes my business easy with a reliable agent in China.” – Ray.

Source: Trustpilot.

3. JustChinaIt — Perfect Shipping Agent For Dropshippers

JustChinaIt is also among the top shipping and sourcing agents in China.

This China freight forwarding company walks you through everything. From producing sourcing – from their rich supplier database. They store your products in their warehouses. Consolidate packages. Handle customs documentation. Final delivery.

…or so JustChinaIt claims.

You also get:

• Seamless dropshipping fulfillment

JustChina it will:

• Purchase inventory from Chinese suppliers
• Store you inventory
• Inspect quality and repack into quality packaging materials
• Ship to your customer’s doorstep

You just get a payment alert. It can’t get any better than that.

• Efficient shipment process

JustChinaIt experts guide you through the BEST shipping options. Based on your budget. No unnecessary overspending.

They also prepare your shipping documents and supervise cargo loading. So, get your products in one piece. This saves you from the stress of returning packages I talked about earlier.

JustChinaIt review:

“I love JustChinait; it’s the best discovery in 2022. We don’t believe we can buy from China so far. They help get the source suppliers; it’s fantastic. Middleman ate too much of my profit, and sadly, I didn’t realize this before.” – Iansha.

Source: Trustpilot.

4. SINO Shipping — The Best International Freight Forwarder In China

SINO Shipping is a veteran of the Chinese shipping industry. Boasting over 35 years of EXCELLENT service delivery and a 4.8/5 satisfaction rate.

It is also one of the most AFFORDABLE logistics service providers on this list. (Head over to their website and request a quote to see for yourself!)

Sino Shipping offers:

• Express Shipping

Apart from the normal air, sea, and rail freight options. You can opt for SINO’s express shipping. Perfect for small packages – preferably less than 150 kg.

NOTE: It’s not cheap, but a very fast shipping option, IMO.

• Cargo Insurance

SINO Care Program covers your international shipments during damages or breakage. Your goods are SAFELY. So, your business keeps running with ZERO hiccups.

• Customs Clearance

SINO Shipping understands the China shipping industry in and out. So, handling customs clearance is a breeze for them.

They also guide you on import and export licenses. Plus, a whole lot of China shipping rates you’ve NEVER heard of.

If you want PROFESSIONAL guidance on the China shipping market. You need an agent who’s seen it all. There’s no better option than SINO Shipping.

SINO Shipping review:

“I have had the pleasure of working with SINO Shipping for several years now, they have consistently exceeded my expectations. They are my go-to choice for transportation from China, offering the best rates and a seamless shipping process. The team at SINO Shipping is professional, efficient, always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that all of my shipments are delivered on time. I highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for a reliable and trustworthy transportation partner.” – Diana Larkin.

Source: Trustpilot.

5. Bansar China — Most Affordable China Shipping Agent

Who is Bansar for:

• Importers and exporters. You get FREE 20-30 days of warehousing services.
• Global freight forwarders – Let’s not get into that in this guide.

Well, Bansar also made it to this list because of their competitive prices. I won’t spill the beans here. But they are CHEAPER than most shipping agents on this list. Head over to Bansar’s website and get your free quote today.

Bansar has ALL the services you need from a shipping agent in China. Lemme gist you:

• Tons of shipping options

From Air Freight to Sea Freight to Railway Freight. They organize global transportation of your products in the SHORTEST time possible. 

That way, you meet all delivery deadlines. Hit your revenue goals. Enjoy long-term business sustainability.

• FAST Shipping to FBA

Bansar ships your products DIRECTLY to Amazon FBA warehouses. They have 2 boats/week for LCL shipments. 5 boats/week for FCL shipments. DAILY FLIGHTS for air shipments.

Check out my Amazon FBA shipping guide to understand how the entire process works. So, you know what to expect from Bansar.

6. Hipofly Shipping Company — Best Alternative China Shipping Agent

Hipofly is yet another RELIABLE shipping agent that ships anywhere around the world. Whether you are in the UK, Russia, Qatar, or in some god-forsaken corner of the earth. Hipofly will get your products ON TIME.

They are EXCLUSIVELY a shipping company. So, they might not really help much with sourcing suppliers or high-ticket processes.

That said, here are some of Hipofly’s shipping options:

• Ocean Freight. This takes 15-25 days for FCL (Full Container Load) shipments. 25-35 days for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments.
• Air Freight
• Express service
• Rail Freight
• Door to Door Freight
• Amazon FBA

WARNING: Shipping prices vary for different shipping options. So, be sure to ask Hipofly to guide you on the BEST method for your budget.

Oh, and Hipofly also handles custom clearance. Offer warehousing as part of their logistics solutions.

7. DDPCH — A Perfect Door-to-Door Freight Provider

DDPCH is also a bigwig in the Chinese shipping space. They are barely a decade old, already rubbing shoulders with top freight forwarders.

But why DDPCH?

• Solid air network

DDPCH knows their stuff! No exaggeration! The team over there has connections with China’s main airline. With that, they guarantee DAILY flights to all major cities worldwide. Get your goods FAST and build a massive eCommerce empire.

• Complete Door-to-Door (DDP) Service

DDPCH offers DDP Air or DDP Sea services to all their customers. 

Woah! Almost got tongue-tied reading that aloud. But you get the point…

DDPCH picks items from your Chinese suppliers. Transport them to the port for delivery. Sort out all customs regulations required. VIOLA- you get your parcel straight to your/customer’s doorstep.

• Assisted Purchase

This is for all the novice buyers out there.

DDPCH guides you on how to purchase from REPUTABLE sellers. So you don’t have to worry about scams or counterfeit products.

8. DFH Global Logistics — Trusted Shipping Agent In China

DFL Global Logistics is the ULTIMATE shipping agent for your products.

Here’s what you are going to like about DFH…

They are EXPERTS in sourcing toys, pet supplies, medical masks, and face masks. So, if you are in (or want to jump into) that kind of business, this is your partner.

What about the rest?

Just like other shipping agents. DFH Global Logistics has a wide range of shipping options.

They offer:

• Sea Freight
• Air Freight
• Rail Freight
• Amazon FBA

…and so much more.

DFH is also the BEST freight forwarder if you deal in any kind of dangerous/sensitive goods. I’m talking about batteries, powder, magnets, and liquid, just to mention a few. Can you imagine they have a special line for transporting such goods?

Plus, you get FREE REPACKAGING.

If your supplier used low-quality materials. Like this:

DFH agents will repack them in better packages. To ensure product SAFETY during delivery. Awesome, isn’t it?

DFH will give you that PREMIUM shipping experience you’ve been looking for. I promise!

What Services Do China Shipping Agents Offer?

10…maybe 15 years ago, shipping from China was BLISSFUL. Today, there’s just a lot to worry about – complex custom procedures, delays at the port, etc.

Still, you have to look over your shoulders for scammers.

See, IT’S A FULL-TIME JOB.

Here’s how shipping agents make your shipping experience EASIER:

• Handle the necessary paperwork. If you’ve tried shipping from China, you know they are A LOT! (much more on that later).
• Ensure smooth passage of your goods through the custom processes. 

Expert Tip: China’s shipping agents offer custom clearance to their clients. This ensures their client’s goods arrive on time. No potential delays afterwards.

Kiki Zhou, China Shipping Agent

• Pick up products from your Chinese supplier or manufacturer.
• Book cargo space in advance. So you don’t end up stranded with $10,000 worth of goods at the port.
• SAFE warehousing service. Others (e.g., Leeline Sourcing) offer up to 1-month FREE warehouse service.
• Consolidate packages to LOWER shipping costs.

Expert Tip: Freight consolidation saves loads of money by combining smaller parcels.

Brian Foresmart Forwarding, Founder and Shipping Agent at Foresmart

• Loading and unloading cargo. They ensure your goods are not mishandled. Hence preventing damages and theft.
• Guide you on cargo insurance. This is very, very crucial when shipping from China. Prevents damages that might occur during shipping.
• Quality inspection. China shipping agents ensure the supplier delivers HIGH-QUALITY products.

Now, the big question…

Why Hire A China Shipping Agent?

Here are four CRUCIAL reasons why you desperately need a China shipping agent:

1. Understand China’s Market and Regulations Much Better

Think of it this way…

You want to trek to Mt. Everest’s highest summit. Despite all you’ve been hearing about the deadly trek.

Of course, you can’t go alone. You’ll need a Sherpa or porter to guide you through the wilderness. Find base camps and keep you from walking to the point of no return(IFYKYK).

The same applies to Chinese shipping agents. They are locals and know the market more than you do. Plus, they’ve got their ears open for new shipping changes or rules.

Oh, they have STRONG relationships with the suppliers. So, they might just get you a deal for 50% CHEAP!!

2. TOP-NOTCH Quality Inspection

A shipping agent will conduct a quality assessment of your products before shipment. You know, to ensure the RIGHT quantity and quality.

Here at Leeline Sourcing, we offer on-site factory audit services for your manufacturer. That involves an initial factory evaluation to inspect manufacturing systems.

A quality system audit to ensure your goods meet required ISO standards. A law compliance audit. To ascertain your manufacturer complies with China production rules.

3. Trouble-Free Shipping Process

Like I said, there is a lot of documentation required before shipping goods from China. Here’s a full list:

Download The Checklist

Quite overwhelming, right? 

A Chinese shipping agent prepares all this paperwork. You don’t have to worry about anything.

Again, they advise you on the best shipping routes to avoid delivery delays. Save more money on shipping costs.

4. Better Communication With Suppliers

Get this — most Chinese suppliers don’t speak English. It’s either Mandarin or Cantonese.

So, understanding each other can be hectic at times. Either they might misunderstand your requirements. Or you risk getting poor-quality goods.

That’s where China shipping agents come to your rescue.

Our agents here at Leeline Sourcing are multi-lingual. Bridge the communication gap between you and the supplier. That way, you get the RIGHT products as per your requirements. Negotiate better deals. 

How Do You Find A Reliable China Shipping Agent?

I’ve been in the shipping business for more than 10 years. I’ve worked with lots of other shipping agents in and out of China. I know how to find the MOST RELIABLE ones.

So, here’s what you should look out for before partnering with a shipping agent in China:

1. Analyze Their Shipping Experience

DISCLAIMER: I’m NOT in any way discrediting new China shipping agents. They are probably very legit.

But nothing beats a shipping agent with years of experience in the industry. They understand the customs regulations better. Built the RIGHT connections with customs officials. Have thousands of customers to back up their expertise.

That way, you have little to no trouble with the authorities when shipping from China.

Expert Tip: It’s important to work with agents with a proven track record. Positive customer reviews from previous clients. Save you from the hassle of late deliveries or delays at the port.

Orange OU, Shenzhen Vanwell International Logistics Co.,Ltd – Freight Forwarder

2. Understand Prices

This is a bit tricky…

Some daring agents might have hidden fees that only arise during shipping. OR discount the first shipment and add it in small bits on subsequent shipments.

Hence, you need to be EXTREMELY careful before choosing an agent. Ask for a quote. Read and understand their terms. Also, don’t forget to compare prices with other shipping agents.

3. Evaluate Response Times and Service Level

There are many shipping agents in China (some I didn’t mention). Each has its unique offerings.

Picking the right one comes down to what you really want. Maybe you want a supplier that can have flexible shipping options. Say, Air Freight or Ocean Freight.

Or…

You want a supplier that can offer eCommerce shipping solutions.

Or…

A shipping agent that doubles as a product sourcing agent. Offers dropshipping fulfillment.

Whatever it is. A good agent should have EXACTLY what you are looking for!

Also, check your potential agent’s response times. The last thing you want is an agent whose phone suddenly isn’t ringing. Once they pick up the goods from the supplier.

Expert Tip: Evaluate customer service and overall response to inquiries or issues. It saves you from delivery challenges and gives you peace of mind.

Amber Guo, Shipping Agent

Frequent Scams To Watch Out For With China Shipping Agents

Like I mentioned, I’m not new to the Chinese shipping industry. I’ve had to deal with lots of scammers along the way.

Here are some of the most common scams I’ve encountered from years in the trenches:

1. Putting too much pressure. Scammers use this tactic a lot. They create a sense of urgency. For instance, they might say that they have a 50% discount valid for the next 6 hours. RUN MY FRIEND! 

Expert Tip: Avoid agents who pressure you into making rush decisions. Without properly verifying their credibility. 

Shirleen W., Global Shipping Agent

2. Fishy payment methods. This scam is gaining popularity in the ‘scammer world’. You get an agent wanting payment through cryptocurrency or private bank accounts.

Expert Tip: Use escrow payment methods to hold payments until shipment is made. Or contract terms are met.

Derek Yang, Freight Forwarder/Shipping Agent

3. Ambiguous promises. “When the deal is too good, think twice!” Don’t fall for tricks such as: “We’ll get your goods by tomorrow morning.”

4. Difficulties in communication. This is usually a BIG red flag for me. If you notice any inconsistencies in communication, I’m out. Conny answers? BYE!

5. Vague company description on their website. Misspelt words. Long website load times. No contact information. These are MAJOR red flags that should be ignored.

What should you do to avoid Scammers?

Simple!

1. Do a thorough background check. Turn the internet upside down to find more information about the shipping agent. You can ask other buyers on Reddit or Quora about the said agent. Go all in and protect yourself from fraudsters.

2. Verify the agent’s license and certifications. How? Just ask! Some agents openly show their certifications on their website. Verify that they are NOT downloaded and are indeed legit.

3. Check for spelling and grammatical errors. Very often, scammers’ websites are filled with typos and spelling errors. Avoid such shipping companies. Also, don’t click the links they send you!

4. Have clear communication channels. A friend got scammed by an agent using disappearing messages on WhatsApp. What are you even going to tell the authorities? Ensure all communications are traceable and documented. 

Comprehensive Importer’s Checklist For Selecting A China Shipping Company

Company licensing and reputation	Some of the licenses to look out for are business licenses, export licenses, and customs broker licenses.
Service Offerings	Ensure the agent offers the services you need. These include air freight, sea freight, FCL, LCL, door-to-door service, etc.
Experience and reputation	Go for well-reputed shipping agents. Saves you time and money. Be sure to read reviews about them from previous clients.
Pricing and payment terms	Understand their rates and other payment terms they offer. Also, watch out for hidden fees that might arise during delivery.
Compliance with trade regulations	Do they understand Chinese shipping regulations? Again, do their standards meet international trade regulations like ISO?
Tracking options	A good shipping agent must provide real-time monitoring services from when your cargo leaves the supplier’s warehouse.
Cargo Insurance	Let them guide you on getting comprehensive cargo insurance. Save you from huge financial losses.

How Can A Best China Shipping Agent Reduce Importation Costs?

Importation can seem like a very expensive process. But, hiring the right shipping agent may help you save some money. The packaging is one of how China shipping agents lower importation costs. It is possible that your packaging style leaves some space after you’ve packed your goods. It is cheaper to repackage space rather than pay for unused space.

Additionally, this reduces warehouse costs as well as packaging costs and import costs. It is also possible to merge the goods to reduce shipping costs. Moreover, this method leads to improved control of quality and reduced risk of damage. For Chinese shipping agents, selecting the route is another way to lower import costs. The shortest route will save time and money. I consult with my shipping agent deeply. In the end, they always have something that could save my overall costs. 

People Also Ask About China Shipping Agents

What’s Next

Phew! I know that was a lot to take in. Pat yourself on the back bigboy for reaching this far.

That’s it for the BEST China shipping agents in 2024. You’ve now got the most comprehensive guide on the web to make a well-informed decision.

As I wrap up…

Remember, every shipping agent has their unique product offerings. So, understand what each agent has to offer. Instead of blindly picking an agent because they are the ‘CHEAPEST’.

Still can’t make a decision? 

Reach out to us, our representatives will be in touch SHORTLY. We’ll guide you through navigating the Chinese shipping marketplace like a pro. Finding the BEST SELLING products for your store. How to scale your business to six figures and beyond! Let’s go!

Source:

1. cargofromchina.com – what shipping documents are required at the destination?

2. fonasba.com – The role, responsibilities, and obligations of the ship agent.

3. trade.gov – Export shipping basics.