Legal Navigation for Cross-Border Logistics

Assist clients in selecting appropriate transportation methods (sea/air/land transport), control transportation contract terms, handle logistics disputes such as cargo damage/defects and delayed delivery, and ensure the safe arrival of goods. Key Content:

Selection of Transportation Method and Terms: Based on the characteristics of the goods (e.g., fragile goods, cold chain products), time requirements, and costs, we recommend that clients choose international trade terms such as FOB (Free On Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), clearly defining the sharing of freight, insurance, loading and unloading responsibilities, and risk transfer points between the buyer and seller.

Contract Review: If the client signs the transportation contract directly with the freight forwarder/shipping company, review the terms regarding liability for cargo damage (e.g., unit compensation limits), exemptions (e.g., natural disasters), and the statute of limitations for claims (usually within one year) to avoid standard clauses that infringe upon the client’s rights.

Handling of Damage/Missing Goods: If damage/missing goods are discovered upon arrival, guide the client to promptly issue a written claim notice to the carrier (shipping company/airline) (usually within 15-30 days after unloading). Assist in collecting evidence such as container manifests, bills of lading, cargo photos, and third-party inspection reports (e.g., SGS) to claim compensation through negotiation or litigation. Special Goods Compliance: For controlled goods such as dangerous goods and biological products, we remind clients to comply with Chinese regulations such as the “Regulations on the Safety Management of Road Transport of Dangerous Goods” and the “Biosafety Law,” ensuring that transport qualifications and declaration materials are complete.

Applicable Scenarios: Transportation of high-value goods, cross-border transportation of fragile goods, and first-time use of specific modes of transport (such as the China-Europe Railway Express).