Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about shipping, freight modes, customs and how Ostina Freight works.
General
About Ostina Freight
What services does Ostina Freight offer?
Ostina Freight is an international freight forwarder providing ocean freight (FCL & LCL), air freight (express & standard), land transport (FTL & LTL) and licensed customs brokerage. We deliver end-to-end, door-to-door logistics with instant quotes and real-time shipment tracking.
How do I get a freight quote from Ostina Freight?
You can get an instant quote directly on our website by entering your origin, destination and cargo details, or by contacting our team through the contact page. Each quote includes estimated transit times and a transparent breakdown of charges.
Does Ostina Freight provide real-time shipment tracking?
Yes. Every shipment can be tracked in real time across ocean, air and land, with milestone updates and notifications from pickup through to final delivery so you always know where your cargo is.
Which countries and ports does Ostina Freight serve?
We operate worldwide, with access to 500+ ocean ports and 300+ airports through an extensive network of carrier, airline and trucking partners — enabling reliable global coverage for both import and export shipments.
Is Ostina Freight a registered company?
Yes. Ostina Freight Pvt. Ltd. is a registered logistics company (CIN U52290BR2025PTC080039, GSTIN 10AAEC09346E1Z0), operating as a compliant freight forwarding and customs brokerage provider.
Service
Ocean Freight FAQs
What is the difference between FCL and LCL ocean freight?
FCL (Full Container Load) gives you an entire container dedicated to your cargo, which is ideal for large or high-volume shipments and offers faster handling. LCL (Less than Container Load) consolidates your goods with other shippers in a shared container, so you only pay for the space you use — a cost-effective option for smaller shipments.
How long does ocean freight shipping take?
Ocean freight transit times depend on the trade lane. Regional routes can take 7–15 days, while long-haul intercontinental routes typically take 20–40 days port-to-port. Door-to-door delivery adds time for inland transport and customs clearance. Ostina Freight provides estimated transit times with every quote.
How are ocean freight rates calculated?
FCL rates are charged per container (20ft or 40ft), while LCL rates are based on whichever is greater between the cargo weight (per tonne) and volume (per cubic metre). Final pricing also factors in origin/destination charges, fuel surcharges, customs and any value-added services such as insurance or door delivery.
Does Ostina Freight offer door-to-door ocean shipping?
Yes. We arrange complete door-to-door ocean freight — pickup from your warehouse, export handling, ocean transit, import customs clearance and final-mile delivery — as well as port-to-port options if you prefer to manage either end yourself.
Can I insure my ocean freight shipment?
Yes. We offer comprehensive marine cargo insurance that protects the full value of your goods against loss or damage in transit. Coverage can be added at the time of booking for both FCL and LCL shipments.
Service
Air Freight FAQs
How much faster is air freight than ocean freight?
Air freight is dramatically faster — most international shipments arrive in 1–5 days versus 20–40 days by sea. This makes air freight the preferred choice for time-sensitive, perishable or high-value cargo where speed outweighs cost.
How is air freight chargeable weight calculated?
Airlines charge based on whichever is higher: the actual gross weight or the volumetric (dimensional) weight. Volumetric weight is calculated as length × width × height (cm) ÷ 6000. Bulky but light shipments are therefore priced on volume, so optimizing packaging can reduce cost.
What is the difference between express and standard air freight?
Express air freight uses priority space on the next available flights with guaranteed, time-definite delivery windows. Standard (and deferred/consolidated) air freight balances speed with lower cost by using scheduled consolidations. We help you choose the right service level for your deadline and budget.
Can you ship dangerous goods and temperature-sensitive cargo by air?
Yes. We provide IATA-compliant dangerous goods handling with certified documentation, as well as temperature-controlled and pharma-grade solutions for perishables, life sciences and other sensitive cargo.
Service
Land Transport FAQs
What is the difference between FTL and LTL road freight?
FTL (Full Truckload) dedicates an entire truck to your shipment, offering direct routing and faster transit for larger loads. LTL (Less than Truckload) shares trailer space across multiple shippers, so you pay only for the portion you use — a cost-effective choice for smaller consignments.
Can land transport be combined with ocean or air freight?
Yes. Our land transport integrates seamlessly into multimodal shipments — handling first-mile pickup to the port or airport and last-mile delivery from the destination terminal — so your cargo moves door-to-door under a single coordinated booking.
How do you track road shipments?
All road movements are monitored with GPS tracking and milestone updates, giving you real-time vehicle location, accurate ETAs and proof of delivery (POD) on completion.
Do you offer refrigerated or specialized vehicle transport?
Yes. Beyond standard trucking we provide refrigerated and climate-controlled transport, flatbeds and specialized equipment for oversized or project cargo, matched to your specific commodity requirements.
Service
Customs Brokerage FAQs
What does a customs broker do?
A licensed customs broker manages the clearance of your goods through customs on import and export. This includes classifying products under the correct HS code, calculating and paying duties and taxes, preparing and filing declarations electronically, and ensuring full regulatory compliance to avoid delays or penalties.
What documents are required for customs clearance?
Typical clearance requires a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and any product-specific licenses or certificates of origin. For Indian shipments, importer/exporter details such as IEC, GSTIN and applicable permits are also needed. Our team reviews your paperwork upfront to prevent hold-ups.
How long does customs clearance take?
When documentation is complete and accurate, clearance is often completed within 1–3 business days. Timelines can extend if physical examination, additional permits or duty assessments are required. Electronic filing and proactive document checks help us keep clearances fast.
What is an HS code and why does it matter?
An HS (Harmonized System) code is an internationally standardized number that classifies a product for customs. The correct HS code determines the duty rate, taxes and any restrictions that apply, so accurate classification is essential to avoid overpaying duties or facing compliance issues.
Can you help reduce import duties?
Yes. We optimize duties through correct tariff classification and valuation, and by leveraging free trade agreements, duty drawback programs and bonded warehousing where applicable — all within full legal compliance.