Everything you need to know about freight forwarding, customs clearance, and logistics in Australia.
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.
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.
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 — we assist Australian businesses with exporting goods internationally. This includes documentation, freight booking, customs export declarations and transit coordination.
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.
Air freight forwarding involves the transportation of goods via air carriers, offering rapid transit times compared to other modes of transport. This makes it ideal for time-sensitive shipments where speed is crucial. At Synergy Freight Management, we ensure that your air cargo reaches its destination efficiently, allowing your business to meet tight deadlines.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The role of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is to protect the biosecurity of Australian flora and fauna.
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 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.
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.
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
The standards required documents include a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, import permit (if applicable), and a packing declaration.
Anyone importing or exporting their goods through Australia, whether for personal or commercial use, they must still go through customs clearance.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The role of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is to protect the biosecurity of Australian flora and fauna.
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 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.
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.
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.
The role of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is to protect the biosecurity of Australian flora and fauna.
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 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.
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.
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
The standards required documents include a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, import permit (if applicable), and a packing declaration.
Anyone importing or exporting their goods through Australia, whether for personal or commercial use, they must still go through customs clearance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Onboarding typically starts with a freight audit of your current suppliers, lanes, and shipment history, followed by agreeing service levels and documentation templates. Most programs are ready to take over live shipments within one to two weeks of the initial consultation, though this can move faster if you have upcoming shipments that need immediate coordination.
Yes — this is one of the main reasons businesses move from ad hoc forwarding to a managed program. Your account manager coordinates bookings, documentation, and customs clearance across every supplier and origin country under one point of contact, so you’re not separately managing relationships with multiple forwarders, brokers, and transport providers.
Pricing depends on shipment volume, modes used (air, sea, road), and the number of suppliers or lanes being coordinated. Because the service is ongoing rather than a one-off booking, we agree pricing and reporting cadence upfront during onboarding rather than quoting shipment-by-shipment. Request a free consultation and we’ll scope a program based on your actual freight profile.
A dedicated account manager as your single point of contact, coordination across air, sea, and road freight and multiple suppliers, licensed customs and quarantine clearance handled in-house, consolidated invoicing and cost reporting, proactive exception management when delays or holds occur, and scheduled performance reviews with optimisation recommendations as your shipping patterns evolve.
There’s no fixed minimum, but freight management delivers the most value once you’re running recurring shipments — typically businesses importing or exporting at least monthly, or coordinating more than one overseas supplier. If you’re shipping once or twice a year, standard freight forwarding on a per-shipment basis is usually more cost-effective; we’ll tell you honestly which model suits your volume during the initial freight audit.
Freight forwarding covers the execution of an individual shipment — booking a carrier, preparing documentation, and getting one consignment from A to B. Freight management is a broader, ongoing service: a dedicated account manager oversees every shipment across all your suppliers and lanes against agreed service levels, consolidates reporting, and looks for cost and process improvements over time. Most businesses start with forwarding on a shipment-by-shipment basis and move to a managed program once volume or supplier complexity grows.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Anyone importing or exporting their goods through Australia, whether for personal or commercial use, they must still go through customs clearance.
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.
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 — 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.
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.
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.
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.
The different modes or types of freight forwarding are by Air, Ocean / Sea, Land, and Multimodal.
Share the parcel’s tracking number, the expected contents, country of origin, purchase value, and the notice Australia Post has sent about the hold. Synergy Freight Management uses these details to access the Australian Border Force system, confirm exactly why the goods are held, and advise on the fastest resolution.
Food products, plant material, animal products, and timber items are the goods most commonly subject to biosecurity assessment by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) when they arrive by post. If DAFF places a biosecurity hold on a parcel, a customs broker can manage the required treatment or re-export process.
Yes. Goods valued at AUD $1,000 or more require a full import declaration, which must be lodged by a licensed customs broker — Australia Post cannot lodge formal entries on behalf of importers. Goods under this threshold are usually cleared automatically, unless they are flagged for biosecurity or compliance reasons regardless of value.
Australia Post cannot provide customs or biosecurity advice, so a held parcel will sit in an Australia Post facility until a licensed customs broker corresponds with the Australian Border Force (and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for biosecurity holds) to resolve the issue. Synergy Freight Management has direct ABF system access and can identify the reason for the hold and the fastest path to release.
Not always. Most parcels valued under AUD $1,000 clear automatically using a simplified import declaration. A broker is needed when a parcel is held for examination, when the value is AUD $1,000 or more (which requires a formal import declaration that Australia Post cannot lodge on your behalf), when a duty assessment looks incorrect, or when the goods are subject to biosecurity checks or import permit requirements.
An Australia Post clearance is the customs and biosecurity process required to release a parcel that has arrived in Australia through the international mail network, rather than through a commercial sea or air freight consignment. Most low-value parcels clear automatically, but a parcel flagged for duty, GST, or biosecurity assessment can be held until the required declarations are resolved.
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.
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 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.
Getting a quote is straightforward. To provide an accurate LCL rate, Synergy Freight will need:
You can request a quote online via our Get a Free Quote form, or call us directly on +61 410 355 355. We aim to respond with a full landed-cost breakdown within one business day.
To clear LCL shipments through Australian Border Force, you will typically need:
Synergy Freight handles the full customs entry on your behalf and will advise you on exactly which documents are required for your specific goods before the shipment arrives.
Because LCL cargo is consolidated with other importers’ goods in a shared container, strong, export-standard packaging is essential to prevent damage in transit:
Poor packaging is one of the most common causes of LCL cargo damage claims. Synergy Freight can advise on packaging requirements specific to your product type.
Cargo insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for LCL shipments. Because your goods share a container with other importers’ cargo, they pass through multiple handling points — origin CFS stuffing, ocean transit, and destination CFS unpacking — each introducing risk of damage or loss.
Standard carrier liability (governed by the Hague-Visby Rules) is limited to approximately SDR 2 per kilogram or SDR 667 per package — far below the commercial value of most shipments. This limit applies per claim and will not cover full replacement cost for most goods.
Synergy Freight can arrange all-risk marine cargo insurance that covers the full commercial invoice value of your goods from warehouse to warehouse. We recommend declaring accurate cargo values and insuring every shipment regardless of size.
Most commercial goods are eligible for LCL, but the following are generally excluded or require special handling:
If you are unsure whether your goods qualify, contact Synergy Freight before booking.
Transit times vary by origin port, but as a general guide:
These are estimates and exclude customs clearance time at destination. Australian Border Force (ABF) clearance typically adds 1–3 business days for compliant shipments; however, inspections or document issues can extend this. Synergy Freight tracks your cargo from origin to final delivery and keeps you informed at every milestone.
LCL freight is priced by cubic metre (CBM) or weight tonne (W/T), whichever is greater. Carriers apply a 1:1 ratio — 1 CBM = 1 revenue tonne. To calculate your CBM: multiply Length × Width × Height (in metres) for each carton, then sum all cartons.
On top of the base ocean freight rate, LCL shipments typically include: origin handling (CFS stuffing), ocean freight, destination CFS unpacking, and customs clearance fees. Because you only pay for the space your cargo occupies, LCL is cost-effective for shipments under approximately 15 CBM — beyond that, a full container (FCL) often becomes cheaper per unit.
Contact Synergy Freight for a full landed-cost breakdown before committing to a shipment.
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.
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.
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.
Yes — temperature-controlled shipping is available depending on the cargo type and route. Contact us with your product requirements for a customised solution.
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 — 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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
A Certificate of Origin isn’t mandatory for every export, but it’s required when your buyer wants to claim preferential tariff rates under a Free Trade Agreement — such as ChAFTA, AUSFTA, or CPTPP. Without it, your buyer may pay full duty at destination instead of a reduced FTA rate, which can affect the commercial terms of the sale. Your freight forwarder can confirm whether your destination market and product qualify.
Errors in export documentation — wrong HS codes, missing certificates, or undervalued goods — can trigger delays, penalties, or rejected shipments at the destination port. Misclassification is particularly costly because it can cause inspections and damage your relationship with your overseas buyer. A licensed customs broker checks your commercial invoice, packing list, and certificates before your cargo ships to catch these issues early.
Once your export declaration is lodged and any required permits are in hand, sea freight transit times range from around 2 weeks (New Zealand, Pacific Islands) to 5-6 weeks (Europe, North America), depending on the destination and whether transhipment is required. Air freight typically takes 2-7 days transit. Add time upfront for pre-shipment planning, documentation, and any permit or certificate approvals before your cargo can be booked.
FOB (Free on Board) is the most common choice for Australian exporters selling by sea freight — you control export clearance and hand over risk once goods are loaded, while your buyer arranges the main freight leg. EXW gives your buyer full control but leaves you exposed if they mishandle export formalities. For air freight, FCA is the closer equivalent to FOB. Whichever term you use, name the exact place (e.g. FOB Sydney) in your sales contract and commercial invoice.
Most goods can be exported from Australia without a licence. However, certain categories require a permit before shipping, including controlled or dual-use items, some agricultural commodities, wildlife and heritage items, and goods subject to trade sanctions. Your customs broker can confirm whether your product needs a permit before you book freight.
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.
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.
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 manage unpacking, palletisation, inspections and distribution. For LCL shipments, we coordinate deconsolidation at approved depots and arrange onward delivery.
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 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.
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.
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.
Get a free, no-obligation quote today and discover how Synergy Freight can streamline your supply chain.