Romanian Client Success Story : Consolidating 20 Suppliers into One Shipment with MBM-2024
In September 2024, N, a business owner from Romania, approached us with a significant logistical problem. N had sourced various products from 20 Chinese suppliers on Alibaba, hoping to expand his product range and cater to his growing customer base. The products included:
- Baby care items like baby bottles, pacifiers, and feeding sets.
- Electronic watches for adults and children.
- Personal care devices such as hair trimmers and electric toothbrushes.
- Small home appliances, including blenders and portable vacuum cleaners.
In total, the products amounted to around 10 cubic meters of goods. N was excited to receive his inventory but quickly discovered the logistical challenges involved in consolidating such a diverse shipment from multiple suppliers.
| SHIPPER | PRODUCT NAME | GW | Volume | package dims | |||
| Shipper1 | bottle warmer+multifunctional kettle | No CE, No made in china | 8 | ctn | 90.9 | 1.04 | 45*44*60cm*5 56*49*53.5cm*3 |
| Shipper2 | bottle warmer | Both have | 2 | ctn | 30.4 | 0.22 | 53*43*49cm |
| Shipper3 | Food processor | With CE，No made in china | 7 | ctn | 63 | 0.37 | 64.5*25*33cm |
| Shipper4 | neck massager+neck and shoulder massager | Both have | 4 | ctn | 53.3 | 0.48 | 83*36*40cm |
| Shipper5 | Facial Steamer | Both have | 3 | ctn | 34.8 | 0.18 | 28.7*61.6*34.6cm |
| Shipper6 | facial mask maker | Both have | 3 | ctn | 48 | 0.24 | 54*51*32cm*2 54*19*62cm*1 |
| Shipper7 | Egg beater | Both have | 3 | ctn | 34.5 | 0.15 | 49*28*51CM*2 |
| Shipper9 | facial cleansing +hair removal device | Both have | 3 | ctn | 39 | 0.19 | 44*33*20 7kg- 0.03 43*32*34 13.5kg-0.04 61*45*43 18.5kg-0.12 |
| Shipper10 | Water Flosser | Both have | 2 | ctn | 25.1 | 0.14 | 56*48*30cm 47*46*28cm |
| Shipper11 | Juicer | Both have | 2 | ctn | 35 | 0.14 | 53*53*24.5cm |
| Shipper12 | Juicer | With CE，No made in china | 4 | ctn | 62.4 | 0.341 | 51×39×51cm*2 45×35×47cm*2 |
The Customs Warning
Before finalizing the shipment, N consulted with his customs agent in Romania, who pointed out a critical issue:
- All goods must be consolidated under one shipper’s name.
Having multiple senders on the shipment would complicate customs clearance. - A single bill of lading (B/L) was required. Without this, customs documentation would become a nightmare.
- Payments needed to be made in one transaction. Romanian customs regulations discouraged fragmented payments for consolidated goods, as they could raise red flags.
Without meeting these requirements, the customs clearance process would:
- Become time-consuming.
- Lead to higher storage fees at the port.
- Possibly delay delivery to his customers.
Faced with this information, N realized the complexity of his task. He needed a reliable partner to help him:
- Pay all 20 suppliers on his behalf.
- Consolidate the shipments into one container.
- Ensure all documentation and labeling were accurate for smooth customs clearance.
The Challenges of Managing 20 Suppliers
For any business owner, coordinating with 20 different suppliers in another country would be daunting. Each supplier operates on their own schedule and has their own expectations for payment, packaging, and shipping. The risks include:
Payment Delays:
Ensuring each supplier receives the correct payment on time is tricky. A single error could delay the entire process, leaving goods undelivered.Mismatched Shipments:
With 20 suppliers delivering goods to one warehouse, mix-ups are almost inevitable. For example:- A supplier might send the wrong item.
- Items could arrive late or damaged.
Customs Complications:
Incomplete or incorrect documentation could lead to customs rejecting the shipment or charging hefty penalties.High Stress and Uncertainty:
For N, managing suppliers, monitoring shipments, and worrying about customs clearance was exhausting. He had limited experience with international logistics and needed a partner who could handle every detail.
This situation could have caused long delays, financial losses, and frustration for N. He knew he needed a solution—and fast.
Solution: MBM Logistics Steps In
At MBM Logistics, we specialize in solving complex international shipping challenges. When N approached us, we assured him that we could handle the entire process, from start to finish. Here’s how we turned a complicated situation into a seamless experience.
Step 1: Managing Supplier Payments
The first challenge was managing payments to all 20 suppliers. N didn’t have the means to pay them individually, so we stepped in to act as his payment intermediary.
- Within 48 hours, we processed payments for all 20 suppliers.
- Each supplier received the correct amount, ensuring there were no delays in their shipping schedules.
N was relieved by how quickly and accurately we handled this step. What seemed like an impossible task to him was routine for us.
Step 2: Coordinating Deliveries to Our Shenzhen Warehouse
Once the payments were made, we moved to the next phase: getting all 20 shipments to our Shenzhen warehouse for consolidation.
Supplier Communication:
We contacted each supplier individually, providing them with clear instructions on delivery deadlines, labeling requirements, and packaging standards.Real-Time Tracking:
Using our advanced tracking systems, we monitored each delivery to ensure they arrived on time and in good condition.On-Time Delivery:
Within seven days, all 20 shipments—totaling 9.51 cubic meters—arrived at our warehouse. We received the products in excellent condition, without any major delays.
Step 3: Inspection and Quality Control
With all goods in one place, our next step was to ensure that everything was correct before shipment. Here’s what we did:
Thorough Inspection:
We opened each package and verified its contents against the supplier invoices. Every product was checked for:- Quantity accuracy.
- Physical condition (no damage).
- Compatibility with N’s order specifications.
Labeling:
To avoid mix-ups, we labeled each supplier’s products with unique identifiers. This step ensured that even during customs inspection or unloading, no items would be misplaced.Photographic Evidence:
For N’s peace of mind, we provided photographs of all goods after inspection. He could see that everything was accounted for and in perfect condition.
N appreciated this attention to detail. He felt reassured that his goods were safe and ready for the next stage.
Step 4: Consolidating and Shipping the Goods
With inspections complete, we began the consolidation process. Here’s how we streamlined the shipment:
Container Packing:
All goods were packed carefully into a single container to optimize space and prevent damage.Shipping Arrangements:
We booked the shipment via LCL (Less-than-Container Load) sea freight, ensuring cost efficiency for N.Documentation:
We prepared all necessary customs paperwork, including:- A single bill of lading (B/L).
- Packing lists.
- Commercial invoices.
Departure:
The goods left Shenzhen on schedule and embarked on a 43-day sea journey to Constanța, Romania.
Step 5: Customs Clearance and Final Delivery
When the shipment arrived at Constanța on October 25, 2024, our local team took over. Here’s what happened next:
Customs Clearance:
We worked closely with N’s customs agent to ensure all documentation was accurate. The process went smoothly, with no delays or additional fees.Warehouse Transfer:
After clearance, we arranged for the goods to be transported to a warehouse in Bucharest, closer to N’s location.Final Delivery:
By November 1, 2024, the goods were at the Bucharest warehouse. On November 3, 2024, N completed customs formalities and picked up his shipment.
Why MBM Logistics Was the Right Partner
Our approach made all the difference. Here’s why N’s shipment was a success:
End-to-End Service:
From payments to delivery, we handled everything, so N didn’t have to worry about a single detail.Expert Coordination:
Managing 20 suppliers is no small task, but our experienced team made it look easy.Meticulous Attention to Detail:
Our inspections, labeling, and documentation ensured there were no errors or delays.Clear Communication:
We kept N informed at every step, so he always knew the status of his shipment.Professional Execution:
Our systems and processes are designed to handle complex shipments efficiently, saving our clients time and stress.
N’S Feedbacks
When the shipment was delivered, N shared his thoughts:
“MBM Logistics turned what I thought was an impossible task into a smooth, stress-free experience. They handled everything with professionalism and precision. My goods arrived exactly as promised, and I couldn’t be happier with their service.”
Why Businesses Trust MBM Logistics
This case demonstrates why MBM Logistics is the preferred partner for businesses with complex international shipping needs:
- Comprehensive Solutions: We handle everything from payments to final delivery.
- Global Expertise: With years of experience, we know how to navigate international logistics challenges.
- Customer Focus: We tailor our services to meet your specific needs, ensuring complete satisfaction.
- Reliable Performance: Our systems and processes are built to deliver results, no matter how complex the shipment.
Conclusion
At MBM Logistics, we don’t just move goods—we move them with care, precision, and efficiency. Our mission is to simplify logistics for our clients, making even the most challenging shipments stress-free.
If you’re struggling with international shipping or multi-supplier coordination, let us handle it for you.
Contact MBM Logistics today and experience the difference that professional, customer-focused logistics can make for your business