Frequently asked questions
Straight answers on quotes, transit times, customs, Incoterms and tracking. Don’t see yours? Email info@shypwell.com and a real person will reply.
How do I get a freight quote, and how fast?
Tell us your origin, destination, and what you’re shipping. We reply with an estimate and transit time — usually within one business hour, with no obligation.
What’s the difference between FCL and LCL?
FCL (Full Container Load) means you book an entire container — best for larger volumes. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your cargo shares a container with other shipments, so you only pay for the space you use — ideal for smaller loads.
Should I ship by ocean or air?
Ocean is far cheaper and best for large, non-urgent shipments; air is faster and better for time-sensitive or high-value cargo. As a rule of thumb, air suits lighter, urgent goods and ocean suits heavier, cost-sensitive freight. We’ll advise the best fit for your shipment.
How long does international shipping take?
It depends on the lane and mode. Ocean typically runs about 20–40 days port-to-port depending on origin; air is usually about 3–8 days. You get an estimated transit time with every quote.
What are Incoterms, and which should I use?
Incoterms define who is responsible for cost and risk at each stage of a shipment (for example EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP). The right one depends on how much of the journey you want to control. We help you pick the Incoterm that protects you and keeps costs clear.
Do you handle US customs clearance?
Yes. We arrange licensed customs brokerage — including ISF and AMS filings, duty management, and continuous bonds — so your cargo clears smoothly and never sits at the border.
Are you licensed? What is C-TPAT?
We operate as a federally licensed NVOCC / freight forwarder and are a C-TPAT partner — a US Customs supply-chain security program. Your freight moves through vetted, compliant channels.
Can I track my shipment?
Yes — you get real-time visibility and proactive updates from pickup to delivery, so you always know where your freight is without chasing for updates.
What’s included in a quote — are there hidden fees?
Quotes are itemized and transparent: freight, surcharges, customs, and last-mile are laid out up front. No surprise fees buried in the invoice.
Which countries do you ship to and from?
We move freight between the USA and virtually anywhere, both import and export. High-volume lanes include China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Germany and Mexico, with ocean and air options on each — see our shipping lanes.
