Question 1

How do I get a freight quote from Quality Express Freight?

Accepted Answer

Send us your origin and destination, the Incoterm (EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.), a packing list with dimensions and gross weight, the commodity/HS code and your target ready date. Email info@qualityexpressfreight.com or WhatsApp +971 56 776 4796. We reply within one business day with a rated option by mode — air, sea (FCL or LCL) or road — so you can compare landed cost, not just freight.

Question 2

What information affects my shipping rate the most?

Accepted Answer

Four things move the number: mode, chargeable weight, lane and Incoterm. Air is priced on chargeable weight (the greater of actual or volumetric). Sea LCL is priced per cubic metre or tonne, whichever is higher; FCL is a flat box rate. Fuel, peak-season surcharges, port/airport handling and customs all layer on top. Share accurate dimensions — guessed measurements are the single biggest cause of a revised quote.

Question 3

How is chargeable weight calculated?

Accepted Answer

Carriers charge on whichever is greater: actual gross weight or volumetric (dimensional) weight. For air freight, volumetric weight is length × width × height in cm ÷ 6000, giving kilograms. For road, the same divisor applies. Sea LCL uses a revenue-tonne basis — 1 cubic metre versus 1,000 kg, whichever is higher. Light, bulky cargo almost always rates on volume, so measure the outer carton dimensions precisely.

Question 4

Is my quote all-inclusive or are there extra charges?

Accepted Answer

We itemise so there are no surprises. A quote states exactly what's covered — freight, named surcharges, origin/destination handling and, where you've asked for it, customs clearance and delivery. Duties and 5% UAE VAT are pass-through government charges shown separately, since they depend on your HS code and customs value. If a quote is freight-only, we label it clearly so you can add clearance and last-mile.

Question 5

Do you handle small shipments or only full containers?

Accepted Answer

Both. For part loads we consolidate as sea LCL or move it as air freight or express courier, depending on urgency and cost per kilo. As volume grows, a full container (FCL) or a dedicated road trailer usually wins on cost per unit. Tell us the weight, dimensions and deadline and we'll advise which mode gives the best landed cost for that specific consignment.

Question 6

How long does air freight take from Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Transit itself is short — most long-haul lanes fly in 1–3 days once cargo is on board. Plan for the full door-to-door cycle: export booking and screening, uplift from DXB or DWC, the flight, then import clearance and delivery at destination. Realistic end-to-end is typically 3–7 days depending on lane, connections and clearance. Express courier is faster for documents and small parcels.

Question 7

Which airports do you use for air freight in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Dubai International (DXB) carries the largest passenger-belly and freighter network, giving the widest choice of destinations and frequencies. Al Maktoum / Dubai World Central (DWC) is the dedicated freighter hub, strong for outsized, project and charter cargo. We book whichever fits your lane, timing and equipment — sometimes DWC for a freighter, DXB for frequency and reach on the same week.

Question 8

Can you ship dangerous goods or temperature-sensitive cargo by air?

Accepted Answer

Yes, subject to correct classification and documentation. Dangerous goods must be declared under IATA DGR with the right UN number, packing group, approved packaging and a shipper's declaration — undeclared DG is the fastest way to get a shipment offloaded. Temperature-controlled pharma and perishables move under cool-chain handling. Send the material safety data sheet and required temperature range with your booking so we build the shipment compliantly.

Question 9

When should I choose air freight over sea freight?

Accepted Answer

Choose air when time, inventory cost or product value outweighs freight cost: launch stock, spares, samples, perishables, high-value electronics or anything holding up a production line. Sea wins on heavy, bulky, low-urgency volume where cost per kilo matters most. A useful test — if the value of days saved, or the cash tied up in slower stock, exceeds the air premium, fly it. We'll model both so the choice is evidenced.

Question 10

Do you ship through Jebel Ali Port?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jebel Ali (operated by DP World) is the region's flagship deep-water port and our primary sea gateway, alongside the adjacent JAFZA free zone. It handles our FCL and LCL ocean traffic in and out of the UAE with dense mainline connectivity to Asia, Europe, the Americas and Africa. Its scale and sailing frequency usually mean more routing choices and better transit options for your cargo.

Question 11

What's the difference between FCL and LCL, and which should I use?

Accepted Answer

FCL (Full Container Load) is an exclusive container — you pay a flat box rate whether it's full or not, and it moves faster with less handling. LCL (Less than Container Load) shares a container with other shippers, priced per revenue tonne, ideal for smaller volumes. As a rule of thumb, once you're filling roughly 13–15 cubic metres, FCL often beats LCL on total cost and reduces damage risk.

Question 12

How long does sea freight take from Jebel Ali?

Accepted Answer

It depends entirely on the trade lane. Short GCC and Indian-subcontinent hops can be under a week; Asia and Europe commonly run a few weeks; the Americas longer. Port-to-port transit is only part of it — add booking cut-offs, sailing schedules, transhipment and destination clearance for a true door-to-door estimate. We quote the specific service and its transit time for your lane rather than a generic figure.

Question 13

What documents do I need for a sea shipment?

Accepted Answer

The core set is a commercial invoice, packing list and the Bill of Lading (BL). Add a certificate of origin where the destination or a trade agreement requires it, plus any product-specific permits, and the correct HS codes on the invoice. For UAE export, details are lodged in Dubai Customs' Mirsal 2 system. Getting the invoice value, HS code and consignee exactly right prevents the most common clearance holds.

Question 14

What is demurrage and how do I avoid it?

Accepted Answer

Demurrage is a charge the shipping line levies when a container stays inside the port/terminal beyond its free days; detention applies once you've taken the box out but return it late. Both add up fast. Avoid them by having clearance documents and duties ready before arrival, nominating clearance early and booking delivery promptly. We track your free-time window and prompt you before it expires so the container keeps moving.

Question 15

Do you handle customs clearance in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We arrange import and export clearance through Dubai Customs' Mirsal 2 system, lodging the declaration against your commercial invoice, packing list, BL or AWB and HS codes. We calculate the customs value, applicable duty and 5% VAT, and coordinate any inspections. To clear commercial cargo you'll generally need a valid importer/exporter code linked to a UAE trade licence — tell us if you need guidance arranging one.

Question 16

What import duty and VAT will I pay in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

The GCC common external tariff is 5% on the customs value (CIF) of most goods, though many categories are duty-exempt and some — such as tobacco and alcohol — carry much higher rates. On top of duty, 5% UAE VAT generally applies at import. Your exact liability follows the HS code, so an accurate classification matters. We'll estimate duty and VAT at quote stage once we have the commodity and value.

Question 17

How do UAE free zones like JAFZA and DMCC affect my shipment?

Accepted Answer

Goods held inside a free zone (JAFZA, DMCC, DAFZA, Dubai South) sit outside the customs territory, so duty and import VAT are typically suspended while they remain there — useful for re-export and regional distribution. Duty crystallises only when goods enter the UAE mainland. Moving cargo between a free zone and the mainland is a customs event needing its own declaration. We structure the clearance to match how and where you'll actually sell.

Question 18

Why do I need the correct HS code?

Accepted Answer

The HS code drives everything downstream: the duty rate, VAT treatment, whether a permit or inspection applies, and eligibility under trade agreements. A wrong code means either overpaying duty or an undervaluation/misdeclaration risk with penalties and delays at Dubai Customs. It should match the commercial invoice description exactly. If you're unsure, share a clear product description and we'll help identify the appropriate classification before filing.

Question 19

What happens if my goods are held for customs inspection?

Accepted Answer

Customs may select a consignment for documentary or physical inspection. The shipment moves to an examination area, is checked against the declaration, and released once cleared — the main cost is time, plus any port storage or demurrage accruing meanwhile. The best defence is a clean, consistent file: accurate value, correct HS code, matching invoice and packing list, and any required permits attached upfront. We manage the process and keep you posted.

Question 20

What does door-to-door shipping actually include?

Accepted Answer

Everything from your supplier's door to your consignee's door: collection at origin, export clearance, the main-leg freight by air, sea or road, import clearance and duties handling, and final delivery. You hand us the cargo and receive it at the other end without juggling separate carriers, brokers and truckers. We offer door-to-door worldwide, and the quote states clearly which legs and charges are included so nothing falls between parties.

Question 21

Which countries and regions do you ship to?

Accepted Answer

We move cargo door-to-door worldwide, with established lanes to the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, the wider GCC and the broader Middle East. Whether it's a full container to a European distribution centre, air freight to North America or road freight across the GCC, we route it end-to-end. Tell us the destination and we'll confirm the best mode and service for that specific lane.

Question 22

Can you arrange collection from a supplier in another country?

Accepted Answer

Yes. On import moves we handle origin collection, export formalities and the main freight leg, then clear and deliver into the UAE or onward. This suits EXW and FOB purchases where you control the freight. Send us the supplier's address, contact, the ready date and the goods' dimensions and weight, and we'll book pickup and manage the shipment from their door to yours.

Question 23

How do Incoterms 2020 affect who arranges what?

Accepted Answer

Incoterms fix where the seller's responsibility ends and yours begins. Under EXW you take over at the supplier's door; FOB, the seller loads at origin port and you carry from there; CIF, the seller covers freight and insurance to destination port but you clear and deliver inland; DDP, the seller delivers cleared to your door. Naming the right term on your order prevents double-paid or unpaid legs — we'll advise which fits.

Question 24

Do you handle household relocations and personal effects?

Accepted Answer

Yes — relocation of household goods and personal effects is one of our five core services, moving in and out of the UAE door-to-door. We handle export wrapping and packing, the freight leg by sea or air, customs formalities and delivery at destination. Personal-effects clearance has its own rules and documentation versus commercial cargo, so tell us your destination country and timeline and we'll set out exactly what's required.

Question 25

Should I move my household goods by air or sea?

Accepted Answer

Sea freight in a container is the standard choice for a full home — most cost-effective for volume, with FCL for a whole household or LCL/shared for smaller loads. Air suits a small, urgent selection you need within days. Many clients split it: essentials by air, the bulk by sea. We'll estimate the volume, recommend the mode and give a door-to-door plan around your move date.

Question 26

What can't I ship in a household relocation?

Accepted Answer

Every destination restricts or prohibits certain items — commonly alcohol, weapons, medicines, and often used goods can attract duty or inspection depending on residency status. Some countries require a detailed valued inventory, and new items may be dutiable even within personal effects. Rules vary by country, so we brief you on the specific destination's requirements before packing, and flag anything that needs a permit or should travel separately.

Question 27

How quickly will you respond to my enquiry?

Accepted Answer

We reply to quote requests and enquiries within one business day. To turn that reply into a firm, accurate rate fastest, include the essentials upfront: origin and destination, Incoterm, commodity/HS code, and a packing list with dimensions, weights and piece count. The more complete the brief, the fewer clarifying rounds — and the sooner your cargo is booked and moving.

Question 28

Can I track my shipment in transit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide the tracking references for your shipment — the Air Waybill (AWB) number for air freight or the Bill of Lading (BL) for sea — and keep you updated at the key milestones: booking confirmed, departure, arrival, customs clearance and delivery. If you have a shipment already in progress, message us the reference on WhatsApp +971 56 776 4796 and we'll give you the current status.

Question 29

Why is my quoted transit time different from the actual door-to-door time?

Accepted Answer

Carrier transit times measure only the main leg — airport-to-airport or port-to-port. Real door-to-door adds collection, export booking cut-offs, screening or sailing schedules, transhipment, import clearance and final delivery. A "2-day" flight can be a 5–7-day door-to-door cycle once those steps are counted. Our quotes state the realistic end-to-end timeline for your lane, not just the flight or sailing time, so you can plan properly.

Question 30

Is my cargo automatically insured when I ship with you?

Accepted Answer

No — and this is important. Carrier liability under the standard air and sea conventions is strictly limited by weight and rarely reflects your goods' real value, so a loss could leave you badly under-covered. We strongly recommend arranging all-risk marine cargo insurance covering the full commercial value plus freight. Ask us to include cover in your quote; it's a small percentage of cargo value for protection across the whole journey.

Question 31

How much does cargo insurance cost and what does it cover?

Accepted Answer

All-risk marine cargo cover is typically priced as a small percentage of the insured value (commonly cargo value plus freight, often plus a 10% margin). It protects against loss or physical damage in transit — handling, accident, and the usual perils by sea, air or road — subject to the policy's terms and exclusions. We can arrange it with your booking; tell us the commodity and value and we'll confirm the premium and scope.

Question 32

What should I do if my shipment arrives damaged or short?

Accepted Answer

Act immediately — claims are time-sensitive. Note any visible damage or shortage on the delivery receipt before signing, keep all packaging, and photograph everything on arrival. Don't discard damaged goods. Then contact us straight away with the shipment reference, photos and a description so we can lodge the claim with the carrier or insurer within their deadlines. Prompt, documented notification is what makes the difference between a paid and a rejected claim.

Question 33

Does insurance cover customs duties and delays?

Accepted Answer

Standard cargo insurance covers physical loss or damage to the goods in transit — it does not reimburse import duty, VAT, storage, demurrage or losses from delay, which are excluded under normal all-risk terms. Those are commercial costs you manage through good planning and prompt clearance. If delay or consequential exposure is a real concern for your trade, tell us and we'll discuss what specialist cover, if any, is available for your situation.

Six ways to get moving

How It Works

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Explore Services

Schedule a Pickup

Global Coverage

Talk to an Expert

Services

Air Freight

Ocean Freight

Land Freight

Express Freight

Relocation Service

Process

Request a quote

We plan the lane

Pickup & handling

In transit

Delivered door-to-door

Request a quote

We plan the lane

Pickup & handling

In transit

Delivered door-to-door

Seven regions,one hub.

About

Why Us

40 Years of Expertise

Global Reach

Comprehensive Services

Competitive Pricing

Door-to-door, worldwide

Every mode, one desk

Competitive, transparent pricing

Answered by people

FAQ

Ship smarter,deliver faster.

Get a Quote

The world,door to door.

Six ways to get moving

How It Works

Request a Quote

Explore Services

Schedule a Pickup

Global Coverage

Talk to an Expert

Air Freight

Ocean Freight

Land Freight

Express Freight

Relocation Service

Request a quote

We plan the lane

Pickup & handling

In transit

Delivered door-to-door

Request a quote

We plan the lane

Pickup & handling

In transit

Delivered door-to-door

Seven regions,one hub.

40 Years of Expertise

Global Reach

Comprehensive Services

Competitive Pricing

Door-to-door, worldwide

Every mode, one desk

Competitive, transparent pricing

Answered by people

How do I get a freight quote from Quality Express Freight?

What information affects my shipping rate the most?

How is chargeable weight calculated?

Is my quote all-inclusive or are there extra charges?

Do you handle small shipments or only full containers?

How long does air freight take from Dubai?

Which airports do you use for air freight in Dubai?

Can you ship dangerous goods or temperature-sensitive cargo by air?

When should I choose air freight over sea freight?

Do you ship through Jebel Ali Port?

What's the difference between FCL and LCL, and which should I use?

How long does sea freight take from Jebel Ali?

What documents do I need for a sea shipment?

What is demurrage and how do I avoid it?

Do you handle customs clearance in Dubai?

What import duty and VAT will I pay in the UAE?

How do UAE free zones like JAFZA and DMCC affect my shipment?

Why do I need the correct HS code?

What happens if my goods are held for customs inspection?

What does door-to-door shipping actually include?

Which countries and regions do you ship to?

Can you arrange collection from a supplier in another country?

How do Incoterms 2020 affect who arranges what?

Do you handle household relocations and personal effects?

Should I move my household goods by air or sea?

What can't I ship in a household relocation?

How quickly will you respond to my enquiry?

Can I track my shipment in transit?

Why is my quoted transit time different from the actual door-to-door time?

Is my cargo automatically insured when I ship with you?

How much does cargo insurance cost and what does it cover?

What should I do if my shipment arrives damaged or short?

Does insurance cover customs duties and delays?

Ship smarter,deliver faster.