Synergy Freight FAQs

Freight forwarding is a crucial service that facilitates the movement of goods from one location to another, efficiently and seamlessly across international borders. It involves managing various aspects of the shipping process, including booking cargo space, arranging transportation, handling documentation, customs clearance, and more. For businesses engaged in international trade, freight forwarding streamlines operations ensures compliance with regulations, and enables timely delivery of goods.

A freight forwarder is a logistics expert who serves as an intermediary between businesses and the complex world of shipping. At Synergy Freight Management, we coordinate the various stages of the shipping process, including booking cargo space, arranging transportation, handling documentation, and managing customs clearance. Essentially, we ensure that your goods reach their destination seamlessly and efficiently.

The different modes or types of freight forwarding are by Air, Ocean / Sea, Land, and Multimodal.

• Air Freight Forwarding: Swift and efficient transportation via air carriers for time-sensitive shipments.
• Ocean Freight Forwarding: Reliable ocean/sea transport solutions for bulk shipments and cost-effective delivery.
• Land Freight Forwarding: Seamless overland transport options for regional and domestic and land locked country cargo movement.
• Multimodal Freight Forwarding: Integration of multiple transport modes of Air, Ocean, or land to optimise cost and delivery time.

Synergy Freight Management provides end-to-end freight forwarding, customs clearance and logistics services for Australian importers and exporters. We coordinate air, sea and land transport, manage documentation, handle Customs and quarantine requirements, while organising door-to-door delivery. Our goal is to simplify international shipping and provide cost-effective, reliable freight solutions.

We offer a full range of import export freight and logistics services, including air freight, sea freight (FCL & LCL), customs brokerage, quarantine services, Australia Post clearances, logistics coordination and inland transport. Whether you’re shipping a small consignment or a full container, we tailor solutions to your unique needs.

We are a young, innovative and technology-driven freight forwarder that prioritises communication, customer experience and operational efficiency. Our global network, fast response times and transparent processes make the logistics journey smoother for both first-time and experienced importers. Many clients choose us for our expertise, reliability and personalised service.

Our clients include small to medium businesses, wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers, online sellers, established importers, exporters and first-time shippers. We also assist individuals shipping personal items. Whether you trade occasionally or frequently, we provide tailored support.

Yes — first-time importers are a major part of our client base. We guide you through every step, including documentation, customs requirements, freight options, timelines and costs. Our team ensures you understand the process clearly and avoid costly delays or compliance issues.

You can request a quote via our website or by contacting us directly. Provide details such as cargo description, dimensions, weight, supplier information, origin / destination details, mode of transport e.g Air or Ocean. We then will provide an itemised quotation with no hidden fees.

Yes. We service all major ports and airports including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Fremantle and regional locations. Regardless of where your goods arrive or depart, we coordinate transport nationwide.

Freight forwarding is the coordination and management of international cargo movement. It involves booking transport with airlines or shipping lines, preparing documentation, handling customs and delivering the goods to your final destination. Synergy Freight Management acts as your logistics partner, ensuring the shipment is handled smoothly from start to finish.

Air freight is ideal for urgent, high-value or time-sensitive shipments. Sea freight is more cost-efficient for bulk cargo, pallets, large goods or full container loads. We assess your delivery timeline, cargo size, and budget to recommend the most suitable option.

FCL (Full Container Load) allows you to use an entire container for your cargo, offering faster transit, reduced handling and better security.

LCL (Less than Container Load) means your cargo shares container space with others, making it more economical for smaller shipments.

We help determine the best option based on your volume, urgency and budget.

Consolidated freight combines smaller shipments from multiple customers into one container. This reduces cost for small cargo volumes while maintaining reliable transit. Consolidation is popular among first-time importers and businesses shipping partial loads.

Air freight usually takes 2–7 days, depending on locations, flight schedules, loading, and customs processing. It is significantly faster than sea freight and is ideal for urgent shipments or products with strict deadlines.

You will typically need a minimum of commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill and packing declaration for ocean freight. Additional documents can be supplier declaration, import permits (if applicable) health or treatment certificates for more complex imports. Our team verifies and advises on all document requirements before shipment to avoid delays.

Yes — we provide door-to-door, port-to-door, door-to-port and port-to-port solutions. We handle pickup from suppliers, international transport, customs clearance and final delivery to your location.

We provide regular updates at key milestones such as departure, arrival, customs clearance, quarantine inspection and delivery scheduling. Our team proactively monitors your cargo and communicates promptly.

Customs clearance is the process of declaring your goods to the Australian Border Force and ensuring compliance with import regulations for the movement of cargo across the Australian border. It includes document verification, tariff classification, duty/GST calculations and inspection management. Synergy Freight handles all aspects to ensure smooth and timely clearance.

By law an owner of the goods is permitted to lodge their own customs entry to Australian Border Force although this is not an easy process unless you really understand the legal requirements. Instead by using the services of a licensed customs broker ensures your goods comply with Australian import regulations and prevents costly delays or penalties. We manage tariff classification, duty calculations, import permits and communication with the Australian Border Force on your behalf.

Common causes include incomplete documentation, incorrect tariff codes, missing import permits, quarantine risk items, underdeclared values, fumigation issues, no documentation and random inspections. We minimise delays by reviewing all documents before shiping and ensuring compliance.

You can avoid delays by ensuring accurate paperwork, checking import requirements, declaring correct values, and verifying supplier documents before shipping. Synergy Freight assists with document checks and regulatory compliance to reduce the risk of customs or quarantine issues.

These are the requirements imposed by the government body in charge of quarantine known as The Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries. Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect against pests and diseases. The requirements cover any biosecurity risk that can harm Australia flora and fauna by concentrating on goods such as timber, food products, plant material, animal products, soil-contaminated items and packaging that may require inspection, treatment or certification. We guide you on what is allowed and help manage any required quarantine processes.

Yes — we assist with clearing international shipments coming through Australia Post when customs clearance is required. We handle duty/GST processing, import declarations and compliance checks.

If goods are held, they may require document submission, inspection, treatment (e.g., fumigation), or destruction if they do not meet import rules. We liaise with the Department of Agriculture on your behalf and coordinate any actions needed to clear your goods as quickly as possible

This depends on the type of goods, their value, origin country and the tariff classification. Many products attract duty plus 10% GST on the landed cost. We calculate duties/taxes accurately and advise on any applicable concessions or exemptions.

Yes — we organise local transport for both air and sea shipments. Whether you need delivery to a warehouse, business address or residential location, we coordinate reliable transport and provide scheduling updates.

Yes. We combine sea, air and road transport to create efficient end-to-end logistics solutions. Multi-modal options are ideal for complex routes, regional deliveries or shipments that require fast movement at one stage and cost savings at another.

Yes — we manage unpacking, palletisation, inspections and distribution. For LCL shipments, we coordinate deconsolidation at approved depots and arrange onward delivery.

Absolutely. We work with trusted carriers to service regional and rural areas across Australia. Delivery times may vary, but we always provide accurate ETAs.

Yes, we provide continuous updates throughout each stage of the logistics journey. This includes overseas departure, arrival in Australia, customs clearance, quarantine release and final transport schedules.

We guide first-time importers through every step: understanding regulations, verifying supplier documents, selecting freight options, calculating total landed cost, and navigating customs and quarantine. Our team ensures you begin with confidence and clarity.

Common issues include incomplete paperwork, unclear agreements with suppliers, underestimating shipping costs, not checking import restrictions, incorrect tariff classification and failing to budget for customs or quarantine charges. We help you avoid these pitfalls.

Certain goods require permits (e.g., food, chemicals, wood products, plants, seeds). We check the HS code and advise if any permits or certifications are required before shipping.

Yes, we can liaise with your overseas supplier to ensure the shipping documents are correct and the cargo is booked properly, reducing the risk of errors or delays.

Freight costs are based on the cargo’s size, weight, commodity type, mode of transport (air/sea), origin country, route and seasonality. We compare multiple carrier options to secure the best available rate.

Payment terms depend on the service type. Typically, charges are payable before cargo release or delivery. We provide all invoices and documentation promptly to ensure a smooth process.

Payment terms depend on the service type. Typically, charges are payable before cargo release or delivery. We provide all invoices and documentation promptly to ensure a smooth process.

We offer both. Fixed pricing is available for certain lanes and container types, while variable pricing may apply to air freight and fluctuating sea freight markets. We always explain pricing options clearly.

Yes — we can arrange cargo insurance to protect your goods during transit. This covers loss, theft or damage depending on the policy selected. We always recommend insuring your shipment for peace of mind.

If damage or loss occurs, we assist you with the insurance claim process, documentation and carrier communication. Timely reporting and proper packaging are essential for successful claims.

Yes. We work with trusted airlines, shipping lines, transport operators and storage facilities that maintain strict security standards. We also ensure your cargo is handled professionally at each stage of the journey.

Hazardous or dangerous goods may require special documentation, packaging and declarations. Provide details of the product, and we will confirm whether it can be shipped and what compliance steps are required.

Yes — certain goods are prohibited or restricted, including weapons, certain chemicals, plant and animal products, seeds, food items and goods posing biosecurity risks. We check regulations before your shipment leaves the origin country.

Yes. We arrange specialised transport, equipment and handling procedures for oversized, overweight or irregular-shaped cargo. Provide specifications and we’ll recommend the best solution.

Yes — temperature-controlled shipping is available depending on the cargo type and route. Contact us with your product requirements for a customised solution.

Short-term storage at depots may be available depending on location and carrier. We can arrange longer-term warehousing through our logistics partners if required.

Yes — we assist Australian businesses with exporting goods internationally. This includes documentation, freight booking, customs export declarations and transit coordination.

Most clients ship from China, but we handle regular freight from Southeast Asia, the USA, Europe, India and the Middle East. Our strong network ensures smooth handling across all major trade lanes.

Yes. If you ship regularly, we can set up a customised service plan, preferred rates and direct account management to support your long-term logistics needs.

Simply contact us for a quote or consultation. Provide basic shipment details and we’ll guide you through everything—from planning and documentation to customs clearance and final delivery.

Anyone importing or exporting their goods through Australia, whether for personal or commercial use, they must still go through customs clearance.

The standards required documents include a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, import permit (if applicable), and a packing declaration.

You can submit customs clearance documents electronically through the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) or use the services of a licensed customs broker such as Synergy Freight Management

A customs broker is a professional that is licensed to act as a broker between Customs authorities and the owner of the goods to help facilitate their cargo customs clearance through the Australian border.

It is not mandatory to use the services of a customs broker, as every owner of their goods is permitted to arrange their own customs clearance. 

Note: Using a customs broker will simplify the process dramatically, protect you from non-compliance with customs, help you avoid delays and additional charges.

The duration varies depending on factors such as the type of goods, completeness of documentation, and any inspections required. Typically, it can take a few hours to several days.

There are several types of Duties that apply depending on the type of goods being imported.

The general type of duty is customs duty and is usually calculated at 5% of the (FOB) Free On Board or (CVAL) Customs value of the goods. 

Some items are duty-free and pay zero duty on import and with the the help of a Customs broker like Synergy Freight Management, we can identify ways to help you avoid paying duty by applying Free Trade and other tariff concession methods.

The role of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is to protect the biosecurity of Australian flora and fauna.

Always check with a customs broker such as Synergy Freight Management about the nature of your goods prior to beginning the import process. 

Each item may have a different set of import requirements and your goods may require to be inspected upon arrival, fumigated or an import permit must be applicable otherwise your goods would be considered a prohibited import.

Download Incoterms 2020

Simply put Incoterms® International Commercial terms are the agreed-upon rules for buying and selling goods internationally included in the sales contract. 

Governments and legal authorities worldwide accept these rules. 

Knowing Incoterms® is crucial in global trade because they clearly explain who is responsible for what, including tasks, costs, and risks for both the buyer and seller.

Incoterms work by clearly defining the responsibilities of sellers and buyers in an international contract of sale under each term per mode of transport used.

Examples of Incoterms are EXW, FOB and FCA to name a few.

To better understand IncoTerms, speak to a Synergy Freight Management specialist to guide you through the details of your responsibilities and obligations under IncoTerms.

Sea freight forwarding involves the transportation of goods via sea vessel carriers. It’s a popular choice for shipments that are not time-sensitive and can accommodate longer transit times. At Synergy Freight Management, we ensure that your ocean cargo reaches its destination securely and efficiently, offering cost-effective solutions for bulk shipments.

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing list
• Packing declaration
• Treatment certificate ( If applicable )
• Manufacturers declaration ( If applicable )

FCL stands for “Full Container Load” in sea freight. It refers to a type of shipment where an entire shipping container is exclusively used to transport the cargo of a single shipper. In other words, the shipper has enough goods to fill an entire container, whether it’s a 20-foot container (referred to as a TEU or Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) or a 40-foot container (referred to as an FEU or Forty-foot Equivalent Unit).

• Exclusivity: The entire container is reserved for a single shipper’s cargo. This means that the shipper has full control over the contents of the container.
• No Mixing of Cargo: Since the container is not shared with other shippers, there is no mixing of different types of cargo. This can be particularly beneficial for sensitive or specialised goods.
• Less Handling: FCL shipments usually require less handling than less-than-container-load (LCL) shipments, as the container is loaded at the shipper’s location and unloaded at the consignee’s location, minimising the chances of damage or loss.
• Predictable Transit Times: FCL shipments often have more predictable transit times compared to LCL shipments because they are not subject to consolidation and deconsolidation processes at various points along the route.
• Cost Efficiency: Depending on the volume of goods, FCL shipments can be cost-effective. It’s important to note that the cost is associated with booking and using the entire container, regardless of whether the container is fully loaded.

LCL stands for “Less than Container Load” in sea freight. It refers to a type of shipment where cargo from multiple shippers is consolidated into a single container. In an LCL shipment, each shipper doesn’t have enough goods to fill an entire container, so they share the container space with cargo from other shippers.

• Shared Container: Multiple shippers’ goods are packed into the same container. This allows for efficient use of container space and cost-sharing among shippers.
• Consolidation and Deconsolidation: LCL shipments involve cargo consolidation at the origin and deconsolidation at the destination. This adds more handling steps than full container load (FCL) shipments.
• Suitable for Smaller Shipments: LCL shipments are ideal for shippers with smaller quantities of goods that don’t warrant booking an entire container.
• Cost Efficiency for Small Shipments: Shippers only pay for the space their goods occupy within the container. This can be cost-effective for smaller shipments that wouldn’t fill an entire container.
• Potentially Longer Transit Times: Due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes, LCL shipments might have slightly longer transit times compared to FCL shipments.

Less Control over Handling: Because the container holds cargo from multiple shippers, there is less direct control over how the goods are loaded and unloaded. Proper packaging is crucial to prevent damage.

• Cost-Effectiveness for Large Shipments: Sea freight is generally more cost-effective than air freight, especially for larger shipments or bulk goods. It offers a competitive option for businesses looking to manage shipping costs.
• Versatility for Various Cargo Types: Sea freight can accommodate various cargo types, from consumer goods to raw materials and heavy equipment. This versatility makes it suitable for different industries and products.
• Environmentally Friendly Option: Sea freight has a lower carbon footprint than air freight, making it a more sustainable choice for businesses concerned about environmental impact.
• Suitable for Non-Urgent Shipments: Sea freight is an ideal choice for cargo that isn’t time-sensitive. While transit times may be longer than air freight, the cost savings can outweigh the longer delivery times for certain shipments.
• Global Coverage: Sea freight offers global coverage, reaching ports worldwide. This extensive network provides access to various markets and regions.

• Longer Transit Times: One of the main drawbacks of sea freight is longer transit times compared to air freight. Businesses need to plan for extended lead times when choosing sea freight.|
• Less Suitable for Time-Sensitive Shipments: Sea freight is not the best option for time-sensitive goods or urgent deliveries. The longer transit times may not meet the requirements of certain industries.
• Potential for Delays: Weather conditions, port congestion, and other unforeseen events can delay sea freight shipments. Businesses should build in buffer time to account for potential setbacks.
• Limited Accessibility: Some destinations may have limited port infrastructure or challenging accessibility. This can impact the final delivery leg of the journey and add complexity to the shipping process.
• Additional Handling: Consolidation and deconsolidation of cargo in LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments can introduce additional handling steps. This increases the risk of damage and requires careful packaging.

The majority of imported goods will pay 10% GST, although there are some items such as Medical and foodstuffs which are exempt from GST on import.

GST is calculated at 10% of the (VOTI) method below.

Value of Taxable Importation (VOTI) is defined by the GST Legislation as the sum of:

Customs Value + Duty + Transport and Insurance + Wine Equalisation Tax (if applicable) x GST 10%.

Speak to the Synergy Freight Management team for help with your import clearance and tax minimisation strategies on your next import.

Freight forwarding is the transactional service of arranging transport for goods from one point to another. Freight management is a comprehensive service that oversees the entire supply chain strategy, including cost optimisation, route planning, in-house customs clearance, and mitigating risks like container detention fees.