---
title: "Enquiry"
description: "Document issued by a party interested in the purchase of goods specified therein and indicating particular  desirable conditions regarding delivery terms  etc."
url: "https://oceancargo.co.uk/shipping-terms/enquiry"
date: "2026-05-30T13:58:21+00:00"
language: "en-GB"
---

![Ocean Cargo](https://oceancargo.co.uk/images/GenPics/OCs-Customs-Brokerage.webp)

 # Understanding the Freight Enquiry: Your First Step to Global Shipping

## What is a Freight Enquiry?

In the intricate world of global logistics, every successful shipment begins with a clear understanding of needs. At its core, a **freight enquiry** is a formal request for information and a quotation from a prospective shipper (you, the client) to a freight forwarder (like Ocean Cargo). It's the initial, crucial document that outlines your specific requirements for transporting goods, signalling your interest in obtaining an offer for their services.

Think of it as your blueprint for a successful shipment. It details what you need to move, where it's going, when it needs to arrive, and any special conditions that apply. A well-crafted freight enquiry empowers your chosen freight forwarder to provide an accurate, competitive, and tailored solution, ensuring your cargo moves efficiently and cost-effectively.

Ocean Cargo understands that clarity at this stage is paramount. Our team is adept at guiding clients through the enquiry process, ensuring all vital information is captured to provide you with the most precise and beneficial [freight quote](https://oceancargo.co.uk/contact-us).

## Why is a Detailed Freight Enquiry So Important?

The quality of your freight enquiry directly impacts the quality and accuracy of the quotes you receive. A vague enquiry can lead to:

- **Inaccurate Quotes:** Missing details can result in estimates that don't reflect the true cost, leading to unexpected charges later.
- **Delays:** Back-and-forth communication to clarify information can slow down the quoting process and, subsequently, your shipment.
- **Suboptimal Solutions:** Without a full picture, a freight forwarder might not propose the most efficient or cost-effective shipping method for your specific needs.
- **Misunderstandings:** Ambiguity can lead to errors in service provision, impacting delivery times or cargo safety.

By providing comprehensive information upfront, you enable Ocean Cargo to:

- **Provide Precise Pricing:** Account for all variables, from cargo dimensions to customs duties.
- **Recommend Optimal Routes & Modes:** Suggest the best combination of [sea freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/sea-freight/), [air freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/air-freight/), or [road freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/road-freight/).
- **Anticipate & Mitigate Risks:** Identify potential challenges like customs requirements or special handling needs.
- **Ensure Compliance:** Verify all necessary documentation and regulations are met, especially for complex routes like [customs brokerage for the USA](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/usa/customs-brokerage-usa).

## Key Information to Include in Your Freight Enquiry

To ensure Ocean Cargo can provide you with the most accurate and competitive offer, your freight enquiry should ideally include the following details:

### 1. Cargo Details

- **Commodity Description:** What exactly are you shipping? Be specific (e.g., "200 cartons of ceramic tiles," "one used excavator").
- **Dimensions:** Length, width, height of each package/pallet/unit (in centimetres or metres).
- **Weight:** Gross weight of each package/pallet/unit (in kilograms).
- **Total Volume & Weight:** The overall cubic metres (CBM) and total gross weight of the entire consignment.
- **Packaging Type:** Are the goods in cartons, crates, pallets, rolls, or loose?
- **Hazardous Goods:** Is the cargo dangerous or hazardous? If so, provide the UN number, class, and any special handling instructions.
- **Temperature Control:** Does the cargo require refrigeration or specific temperature conditions?

### 2. Origin & Destination

- **Loading Address:** Full address, including postcode, where the goods will be collected.
- **Delivery Address:** Full address, including postcode, where the goods need to be delivered.
- **Port of Loading (POL) / Airport of Loading (AOL):** If you have a preference or specific requirement.
- **Port of Discharge (POD) / Airport of Discharge (AOD):** If you have a preference or specific requirement.
- **Customs Clearance Location:** Where will [customs clearance](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/customs-compliance "customs clearance") take place (e.g., port, airport, inland depot)?

### 3. Service Requirements

- **Mode of Transport:** [Sea freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/sea-freight/) ([FCL](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/sea-freight "FCL")/[LCL](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/sea-freight "LCL")), [air freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/air-freight/), [road freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/road-freight/), or a combination?
- **Incoterms:** Which Incoterm applies to your shipment (e.g., EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP)? This defines responsibilities and costs between buyer and seller.
- **Required Delivery Date:** When do the goods absolutely need to arrive at their final destination?
- **Ready Date:** When will the goods be available for collection at the origin?
- **Special Handling:** Does the cargo require special equipment for loading/unloading (e.g., crane, forklift)?
- **Insurance:** Do you require cargo insurance?
- **Customs Compliance:** Do you need assistance with [customs compliance](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/customs-compliance/) and documentation?

### 4. Additional Information

- **Commercial Invoice Value:** The declared value of the goods for customs purposes.
- **Purchase Order (PO) Number:** If applicable, for your reference.
- **Any Specific Instructions:** Any other details relevant to your shipment, such as specific delivery windows or contact persons.

## The Ocean Cargo Advantage: Simplifying Your Enquiry Process

At Ocean Cargo, we understand that compiling all this information can seem daunting, especially for businesses new to international shipping or those dealing with complex cargo like [excavators and diggers to the UAE](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/uae/excavators-diggers-uae). That's why our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.

When you submit an enquiry to Ocean Cargo, you're not just getting a quote; you're gaining a strategic partner. We will:

1. **Review Your Details:** Thoroughly examine your provided information.
2. **Ask Clarifying Questions:** If any details are unclear or missing, we'll promptly reach out to ensure accuracy.
3. **Propose Optimal Solutions:** Based on your requirements, we'll recommend the most efficient and cost-effective shipping methods and routes.
4. **Provide a Transparent Quote:** Our offers are clear, comprehensive, and free from hidden charges.
5. **Guide You Through Incoterms:** Help you understand the implications of different Incoterms on your responsibilities and costs.
6. **Assist with Documentation:** Ensure all necessary paperwork for customs and transport is in order.

Whether you're shipping a single pallet or managing a complex project like [wind turbine components to Australia](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/australia/wind-turbine-components-blades-nacelles-tower-sections-australia), a detailed freight enquiry is the foundation of a successful partnership. Trust Ocean Cargo to transform your enquiry into a seamless shipping experience.

#### What is the difference between a freight enquiry and a freight quote?

A freight enquiry is your request for information and pricing, outlining your shipping needs. A freight quote is the freight forwarder's response to your enquiry, providing the proposed cost and terms for their services based on the details you provided.

#### Do I need to know the Incoterms for my enquiry?

While not strictly mandatory for the initial enquiry, knowing your Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) is highly beneficial. It clarifies who is responsible for costs and risks at various stages of the shipment. If you're unsure, Ocean Cargo can help you understand and choose the most appropriate Incoterm for your specific trade agreement.

#### What if I don't have all the exact dimensions and weights?

Provide your best estimates. While precise figures are ideal for an accurate quote, we understand that sometimes exact measurements aren't available at the enquiry stage. Clearly state that the figures are estimates, and we can work with you to refine them as the shipment progresses. However, significant discrepancies can lead to revised quotes or additional charges.

#### How quickly can I expect a response to my freight enquiry?

Ocean Cargo prides itself on prompt and efficient service. The speed of response can depend on the complexity of your shipment and the completeness of your enquiry. For standard requests, you can expect a timely quote. For more complex or bespoke projects, we'll keep you informed of the expected timeframe.

### Ready to simplify your global logistics?

Get advice and a quote for your next shipment. Contact the Ocean Cargo team to start shipping.

[Freight Quote](https://oceancargo.co.uk/contact-us)

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