Seamless Freight Forwarding
We partner with top freight forwarding agencies to bridge the gap between your factory and our warehouse. End-to-end visibility for your inventory from the moment it leaves the production line.
Sea Freight (Ocean)
Cost-effective solutions for large bulk orders. Choose Full Container Load (FCL) for volume or Less than Container Load (LCL) for smaller shipments.
Air Freight
Rapid transit for urgent restocks and product launches. The fastest way to get inventory back in stock when demand spikes.
Road Haulage
Efficient domestic and European distribution networks for final mile delivery from port to our fulfillment center.
Navigating Incoterms: A Guide for Brands
One of the most confusing aspects of forwarding of freight for new brands is "Incoterms"—the international terms that define who pays for what. Choosing the wrong term can lead to surprise bills and customs seizures.
At 3PLEX, we simplify this process. We primarily advise on two main structures:
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)
The "Hassle-Free" option. The supplier or forwarder handles everything—shipping, customs, and duties—until it reaches our door. Best for beginners.
EXW (Ex Works)
The "Maximum Control" option. You are responsible for the goods as soon as they leave the factory floor. We pick them up, we ship them, we clear them. Best for established brands wanting cost transparency.
The Compliance Checklist
Before your goods move, we ensure these documents are perfect to avoid port delays:
- Commercial Invoice (Must match goods exactly)
- Packing List (Detailed counts per carton)
- Bill of Lading (The 'ticket' for your cargo)
- Certificate of Origin (For duty reduction)
- MSDS (If shipping liquids or batteries)
The Journey: Factory to Warehouse
Understanding the timeline is crucial for inventory planning. Here is a realistic look at a typical sea freight shipment from China to the UK.
Week 1: Booking & Pickup
Goods are finished. We arrange pickup from the factory (EXW) or receive at port (FOB).
Week 2-5: Ocean Transit
The long haul. Ships traverse the globe. We track the vessel and update you on ETA changes.
Week 6: Arrival & Clearance
Vessel docks. Goods are offloaded. Customs inspects paperwork and releases cargo upon duty payment.
Week 6.5: Delivery to 3PLEX
Road haulage to our warehouse. Goods are received, counted, and live on your store.
The Danger of "Disconnected" Logistics
Using a separate freight forwarder and 3PL can create a "black hole" of information. If your forwarder drops goods off without a booking slot, your 3PL might reject the delivery. If paperwork is missing, your goods sit at the port incurring demurrage charges (hundreds of pounds per day).
The 3PLEX Integrated Advantage
We control both ends of the chain. We know exactly when the ship docks, so we pre-allocate warehouse space and staff. Your goods drift seamlessly from the ocean container to the pick-face without you lifting a finger.
Choosing Your Mode: Sea vs. Air
Sea Freight
- CostLow ($)
- SpeedSlow (30-45 Days)
- Best ForPlanned Stock, Bulk
- Carbon FootprintLower
Air Freight
- CostHigh ($$$$)
- SpeedFast (3-7 Days)
- Best ForUrgent, High Value
- Carbon FootprintHigher
Freight FAQ
What is a HS Code?
The Harmonized System (HS) code is a standard number that classifies your product. It determines the duty percentage you pay. We help you find the correct code to avoid overpaying or compliance penalties.
Do you handle customs clearance?
Yes. We work with licensed customs brokers to clear your goods through UK borders, handling VAT and Duty payments on your behalf (which are then invoiced to you).
Can I use my own forwarder?
Yes, you can. If you have an existing relationship, we can simply act as the receiving warehouse. However, you must ensure they book a delivery slot with our goods-in team.
Inventory Arrived?
See how we prepare your stock for Amazon and other channels.
Check FBA Prep Services