Shipping & Logistics Terms

Introduction & Scope

These Shipping & Logistics Terms ("Shipping Terms") govern the transportation, delivery, and logistics of all products ordered through the FactoryFollow platform. These terms apply to both sample shipments and bulk production orders.

By placing an order through FactoryFollow, you agree to these Shipping Terms in addition to our Terms of Service. Please read these terms carefully before placing an order.

Last Updated

These Shipping Terms were last updated on January 15, 2025. We may update these terms periodically. The current version will always be available on this page.

Incoterms & Responsibility Division

FactoryFollow uses standard International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) to define the responsibilities and costs between buyers and factories for international shipments.

Incoterm	Responsibility	Shipping Cost	Insurance
EXW (Ex Works)	Buyer	Buyer	Buyer
FOB (Free On Board)	Shared	Shared	Buyer
CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)	Factory	Factory	Factory
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)	Factory	Factory	Factory

Important Note

The default Incoterm for sample shipments is DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) unless otherwise specified. For bulk orders, Incoterms are negotiated between buyer and factory during the order confirmation process.

Delivery Timelines & Estimates

Delivery timelines vary based on shipping method, destination, and customs clearance. Below are estimated delivery times for common shipping methods:

Express Courier

3-7 Days

DHL, FedEx, UPS

Air Freight

5-10 Days

Door-to-door

Sea Freight

30-45 Days

FCL/LCL shipments

Rail Freight

18-25 Days

China-Europe routes

Delivery Time Disclaimer

All delivery times are estimates only. Actual delivery times may vary due to customs clearance, weather conditions, carrier delays, or other factors beyond our control. FactoryFollow is not liable for delays caused by third-party logistics providers.

Shipping Costs & Duties

Shipping costs and import duties vary based on multiple factors including shipment size, weight, destination, and selected Incoterms.

Sample Shipments

Sample shipping costs are typically included in the sample price for DDP shipments
For non-DDP shipments, shipping costs are calculated and displayed during checkout
All customs duties and taxes are included for DDP shipments

Bulk Orders

Shipping costs for bulk orders are negotiated between buyer and factory
FactoryFollow provides estimated shipping costs during order quotation
Final shipping costs are confirmed before order production begins

Cost Transparency

FactoryFollow provides transparent shipping cost breakdowns for all shipments. All additional charges (fuel surcharges, customs fees, etc.) are clearly communicated before order confirmation.

Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance protects against loss or damage during transit. Insurance requirements vary based on shipment value and Incoterms.

Insurance Coverage

Sample shipments: Included in DDP shipments up to $500 value
Bulk orders: Required for shipments over $1,000 value
Insurance provider: FactoryFollow works with reputable international cargo insurers
Coverage: Standard All Risk coverage (excluding war, strike, riot)

Insurance Responsibility

The party responsible for arranging cargo insurance is determined by the selected Incoterm. For CIF and DDP shipments, the factory arranges insurance. For FOB and EXW shipments, the buyer is responsible for insurance.

Loss, Damage & Claims

In the event of loss or damage during transit, the following claims process applies:

1. Immediate Notification

Buyers must notify FactoryFollow within 24 hours of receiving damaged goods. Include photos of the damaged items, packaging, and shipping labels.

2. Carrier Notification

FactoryFollow will notify the carrier within 48 hours of receiving the buyer's notification. Carriers typically require notification within 7 days of delivery.

3. Insurance Claim

For insured shipments, FactoryFollow will file an insurance claim on behalf of the buyer. The claims process typically takes 30-60 days for resolution.

4. Replacement or Refund

Once the claim is approved, FactoryFollow will arrange for replacement production or provide a refund based on the insurance settlement.

Inspection Requirement

Buyers must inspect all shipments immediately upon receipt. Failure to notify FactoryFollow of damage within 24 hours may void insurance coverage.

Force Majeure

FactoryFollow is not liable for delays or failures in performance resulting from force majeure events beyond our reasonable control.

Force Majeure Events Include:

Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes)
War, terrorism, or civil unrest
Government actions (embargoes, sanctions, port closures)
Pandemics or epidemics affecting international trade
Labor strikes affecting shipping or manufacturing
Major transportation disruptions

In the event of force majeure, delivery timelines will be extended accordingly. FactoryFollow will make reasonable efforts to notify buyers of force majeure events affecting their shipments.