Preparing cargo for shipping from China to Australia

Measure the shipment as it will travel

Freight planning starts with the packed shipment. Product dimensions alone leave out cartons, protective material, pallets and crates. Ask your supplier for the final package count, outside dimensions and gross weight, including packaging.

• Record length, width and height for each different package size, and state the units.
• Include the pallet base and any overhang in the measurements.
• Separate net product weight from gross packed weight.
• Identify packages that cannot be stacked or need special handling.
• Send photos of the packed cargo and labels when available.

If packing is unfinished, label the measurements as estimates. Confirm the final figures before booking so the service and quotation can be checked against the actual cargo.

How to calculate cubic metres (CBM)

For a rectangular package, multiply length × width × height in metres. Calculate each package type separately, multiply by its quantity, then add the results.

CBM describes volume; it is not a freight price. Ask which weight or volume basis, minimum charge and handling conditions apply to your chosen service. For air freight, confirm the carrier’s volumetric-weight calculation rather than assuming one formula applies to every quote.

Use our freight tools to help prepare your enquiry, then confirm the charging basis with the team.

Check packing and biosecurity before dispatch

Ask the supplier how the packaging protects the goods during handling and transport. Flag fragile items, exposed surfaces or unusual lifting requirements before pickup is arranged.

For Australia, check the import conditions for both the goods and their packaging in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s importing goods guidance and BICON system. Product materials and intended use can affect the applicable conditions.

Solid timber pallets, crates and dunnage require particular attention. Australia accepts ISPM 15-compliant solid timber packaging and certain alternative treatments under BICON. Confirm the applicable documentation with your clearance provider before shipping. See DAFF’s timber packaging guidance.

Give your forwarder a clear supplier handover

• Supplier contact, pickup address and cargo-ready date.
• Accurate goods description, materials and intended use.
• Package count, measurements, weight and packing photos.
• Agreed supplier shipping terms and the named handover location.
• Any batteries, liquids or other cargo needing an acceptance check.
• Destination postcode, site access and unloading arrangements.

For multiple suppliers, list each pickup and ready date separately. This makes it easier to discuss consolidation without assuming every order will be ready together.

Continue with our quote checklist or guide to supplier shipping terms. Confirm shipment-specific import conditions before dispatch; this preparation checklist does not determine whether goods are permitted.