China: Navigating complexities with efficiency and innovation

Logistics Trends in China

China's logistics industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, driven by the country's expanding economy and increasing domestic consumption. Some key trends in the industry include:

  • E-commerce: The growth of e-commerce in China has led to an increase in demand for logistics services, as more and more goods are being sold and delivered online.

  • Automation and technology: Logistics companies in China are increasingly investing in automation and technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This includes the use of drones and robots for delivery, as well as the use of big data and artificial intelligence for supply chain management.

  • International expansion: As China's economy continues to globalize, Chinese logistics companies are expanding their operations overseas to better serve customers in other countries.

  • Green logistics: With the increasing awareness of environmental issues, logistics companies in China are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and make their operations more sustainable.

  • Belt and Road Initiative: China's Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to build infrastructure and promote trade and investment along the ancient Silk Road trade routes, is expected to have a significant impact on the country's logistics industry.

What makes China an attractive market for international companies

There are several factors that make China an attractive market for international companies looking to do business:

  • Large and growing consumer market: China has a population of over 1.4 billion people and a rapidly growing middle class, which presents a significant opportunity for companies to sell their products and services.

  • Strong economy: China has the world's second-largest economy and is projected to continue growing at a steady rate, which makes it an attractive destination for foreign investment.

  • Manufacturing hub: China is one of the world's largest manufacturers, with a well-developed supply chain and infrastructure. This makes it an attractive location for companies looking to produce their products or outsource manufacturing.

  • Government support: The Chinese government has made significant efforts to attract foreign investment, such as through the Belt and Road Initiative and the creation of special economic zones.
     
  • Technological advancements: Chinese companies are advancing rapidly in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, 5G, and the Internet of Things. This makes it an ideal place for companies in those fields to invest and develop new technologies.

  • Increasingly open market: China has been gradually opening up its economy to foreign companies, with efforts to level the playing field for foreign firms and relax foreign ownership restrictions in certain sectors.

  • Cultural and business ties: As the world's most populous country and second-biggest economy, China has strong cultural and business ties with many other countries, which can make it easier for foreign companies to navigate the market and establish relationships with local partners

It is important to note that there are regulations and laws that should be followed when importing and exporting goods to and from China.  When selecting a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) partner in China, there are several important factors to consider:

  • Experience and reputation: Look for a company that has experience operating in China and a good reputation for providing reliable and efficient services. It's also important to check if the company is compliant with the regulations and laws of the country.

  • Services offered: Make sure the company offers the services you need, such as transportation, warehousing, customs clearance, and supply chain management.

  • Network and infrastructure: Consider a company that has a strong network and infrastructure in the country, as well as in the regions where you plan to import or export goods. This will ensure the efficient and timely delivery of your products.

  • Communication and customer intimacy: Choose a company that has good communication and customer service, so you can easily get in touch with them and have your concerns addressed in a timely manner.

  • Flexibility and scalability: Choose a company that is flexible and can adapt to your changing logistics needs, and can also scale its services as your business grows.

  • Sustainability: As the industry is shifting towards sustainability, it may be important for you to consider a 3PL provider that has a good track record of implementing sustainable practices and reducing its environmental impact.

Overall, selecting the right 3PL partner in China is essential to ensure that your logistics operations run smoothly and efficiently. By carefully considering the above factors, you can choose a partner that can help you achieve your logistics goals and support the growth of your business.

Ahlers China Projects

Rail Transport

When the port of Shanghai was barely operational due to pandemic restrictions, rail freight transportation remains a sustainable alternative. Having years of expertise in railway transportation between China and Eurasia we offer optimal solutions to our clients, who value reliable partnerships, reasonable pricing, and meticulous fulfillment of obligations

Air Cargo

Urgent cargo transportation in the amount of 175 pallets with a total weight of 100 tons from China was done by Ahlers Team this June. The delivery of cargo to Tianjin Airport and coordination both with agents at the departure airport and the airline was organized by colleagues from Ahlers China. Three 18-meter trailers were used for the delivery to the airport. 

Multi-Modal

With railway deliveries to CIS countries under pressure due to limited capacity, uncertain schedules, and some very heavy lifts and oversized cargo simply can not be moved by rail, we use our vast expertise and strong suppliers network we are offering exclusive solutions to our customers, helping them get their machines to the destination site on time!

RORO vessel

There are various options for the delivery of heavy machines. One of them is the RORO vessel. RORO stands for roll-on/roll-off and it means a vessel can carry wheeled cargo that is either driven on/off the ship independently or on a platform. This batch of machines is ready to get on board and travel to the port of destination. At Ahlers, we always strive to find an optimal solution for our clients. 

Why Ahlers China

Ahlers China was founded in 1993 and has offices in Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Our services include:

International and Domestic Forwarding Services:  Multi-modal International transportation. Local Distribution. Road, Rail, Sea, Air & Inland waterways.

Complex Export–Import Procedures: Navigate complex global import procedures into China. Temporary import/export for overhauls etc. Import, export, and transit of goods.

Importer/Exporter of Record services: Local legal entity requirements for cross-border returns from/to China.

Projects and Machinery Logistics: Linking Asian countries with door-to-door project cargo.

Trade Facilitation: Ahlers takes care of the whole logistics process from import until delivery to your customer and manages the entire chain.