The questions shippers actually ask
How is a sea freight rate built?
Freight is priced on the weight or the volume, whichever costs more to carry, and on what the commodity takes to handle. On top of that sit port and wharfage charges, documentation, and clearance if you want us to do it. Duties are separate again: they are levied by the relevant customs authority and payable by the consignee at applicable rates. We quote the parts we control and name the parts we do not.
How long does the crossing take?
Typically 1–3 days port to port, subject to sailing schedule, weather and customs clearance. We do not guarantee transit times, and you should not accept one from anyone on this lane. What we do is give you the sailing window before you commit the cargo, and tell you as soon as it moves.
Who pays the customs duty?
The consignee. Duties and taxes are levied by the relevant customs authority and payable by the consignee at applicable rates, against the declared value and classification of the goods. We are a licensed customs broker, so we can prepare and file the declaration. We do not set the rate, and we do not advise on reducing it.
What documents do you need from me?
For most consignments: commercial invoice, packing list, an accurate goods description with the HS code where you have one, gross and net weights, package count, and the consignee's full details. Certificate of origin where the destination requires it. Any permit or end-user document for a controlled item, before the cargo moves rather than after it is on the wharf.
Is there cargo you will not carry?
Yes. We do not handle prohibited or restricted goods, and we do not handle dual-use goods without the required licences and end-user documentation. We do not carry undeclared cargo, cargo whose description does not match its documents, or cargo for a party that fails sanctions screening. Turning cargo away is part of holding the licence.
How do I verify that OFOQ is licensed?
Our Dubai trade licence number and Dubai Chamber membership number are on this site. Take them to the Department of Economy and Tourism and to the chamber, and confirm the company, the legal form and the five licensed activities. We publish them for exactly that reason.
Send us the details and we will price it
Commodity, weight, volume, loading point, destination port. That is enough for a first number. The rest we work out together.
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