FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. If I use several different Philippine furniture suppliers can I ship them all together in one container?

Yes, this is commonly referred to as a "consolidation". Typically the Philippine supplier with the largest volume order will act as the "mother loader". This means that the empty container will be dropped off at the "mother loaders" facility (if we feel it is safe and secure), and supplier loading will commence. We handle the details!

Q. What is a Bill of Lading(BL) or Air Waybill(AWB)?

Upon the loading of your order the above mentioned documents are processed. Your Philippine supplier secures the BL from the shipping company (for sea freight), or the AWB from the airlines (for air freight).

Q. What are the most common modes of payment?

The most common modes of payment are:

• Letter of Credit (LC), With the LC you are assured the Philippine shipment has been made. However, there is no guaranty that the order was manufactured to your specifications.

• Telegraphic Transfer (TT), Typically TT transactions are two-stage, first the transfer of the deposit with the balance due on the loading of your shipment. This too is often risky with out local representation. You are required to TT the balance due on "sight" of shipping documents. With this method you face similar risk as with the LC.

Q. What proof do I have that my order has been shipped?

Upon loading, your exporter will provide you with a copy of the Bill of Lading (BL) or Air Waybill (AWB). In both cases you must rely on your Philippine supplier to honor their commitments (while the BL or AWB serves as proof that a shipment was made it does not guaranty the quality of your order).

To eliminate doubt and worry it is best to enlist the services of your own full-time professional Buying Agency - Buying Agent Philippines!