Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to your questions about international logistics, customs, transit times and our services

Can't find the answer to your question? Our team will get back to you within 24 business hours via our contact form.

What are the average transit times for international transport?

Transit times depend on the mode of transport and the destination. As a guide: 25 to 45 days by sea between Asia and Europe, 3 to 7 days by air, 2 to 10 days by road within Europe. Customs clearance and final delivery times must be added.

These times vary with the season (peaks before Chinese New Year, for example), port congestion and the geopolitical context. We provide a realistic, up-to-date transit time with every quotation.

How do I get a quote and how quickly?

Simply fill in our online quote request form ("Request a Quote" button), specifying the nature of the goods, their dimensions and weight, and the places of departure and arrival. The quotation is free and without obligation.

We get back to you within 24 to 48 business hours with a detailed, transparent proposal: every cost item is explained.

Which geographical areas do you cover?

Thanks to our international network of trusted freight forwarders and partners, we cover every continent, with particular expertise on Asia–Europe, Europe–Africa and intra-European flows. We have reliable relays at every stage: ports, airports, customs clearance platforms and final distribution.

Do you handle customs formalities?

Yes. We manage the entire customs process: tariff classification of your goods, preparation of declarations, coordination with customs brokers, calculation and anticipation of duties and taxes, and follow-up until release.

We alert you upstream to the specific regulations applicable to your products (standards, licences, restrictions) in order to avoid any blockage.

Which documents are required to import or export?

The basic documents are: the commercial invoice, the packing list, the transport document (ocean bill of lading B/L, air waybill AWB or CMR consignment note) and, depending on the case, the certificate of origin, health or conformity certificates and import licences.

Our document management service prepares, checks and tracks all these documents for you, to guarantee the compliance and smooth flow of your shipments.

What happens in the event of delay, loss or damage?

Our team acts quickly on your behalf: formulating reservations within the legal deadlines, preparing the claim file and providing dedicated follow-up with carriers and insurers until the dispute is resolved.

Essential reflex: upon delivery, check the condition of the packages and write precise, reasoned reservations on the delivery note in the event of any anomaly. See our Insurance and security page.

Are my goods insured during transport?

Carrier liability is capped by international conventions (CMR, Hague-Visby, Montreal), often well below the actual value of the goods. That is why we recommend "ad valorem" insurance covering the declared value of your goods.

Upon request at the quotation stage, we can arrange this insurance on your behalf. Details on our Insurance and security page.

What is an incoterm and which one should I choose?

Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.) define the distribution of costs, risks and obligations between the seller and the buyer in an international transaction. The right incoterm depends on your level of logistics expertise, your cash flow and your relationship with the supplier.

Our experts advise you on the most suitable incoterm for each flow, and our training courses teach you how to master them for the long term.

Do you work with small businesses and first-time importers?

That is precisely our core business! NOPA was created to support small and medium-sized enterprises, which are often neglected by the major logistics players. Whether it is your first import or you are looking to structure existing flows, we adapt our support to your level and your budget — discover our support packs.

Do you offer training in international logistics?

Yes. We offer practical training sessions on the fundamentals of international logistics: incoterms, customs procedures, reading a transport quotation, import/export documents. The goal: to make you autonomous in managing your operations.

We also host regular webinars, free or on specific topics.

How are transport costs calculated?

The price depends mainly on the mode of transport, the chargeable weight and volume (weight/volume rule), the nature of the goods, the distance and ancillary services (customs clearance, insurance, final delivery). Possible surcharges (fuel, security, peak season) may be added.

At NOPA, transparency is a founding value: every line of your quotation is explained, with no hidden fees.

Can you handle specific goods (fragile, dangerous, temperature-controlled)?

Yes, on a case-by-case basis. Dangerous goods (classified IMDG/IATA/ADR), fragile goods or temperature-controlled goods require specialized packaging, documents and carriers. Please state the exact nature of your products when requesting a quote: we will confirm feasibility and conditions with our specialized partners.

Another question?

Our team is here to answer any question specific to your import or export project.

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