SFC tracking

What is SFC?

SFC, an acronym for Send From China, is an international logistics company specializing in fulfillment solutions for cross-border e-commerce. Founded in 2007 in Shenzhen, in the Guangdong province of China, this company has established itself as a major player in parcel shipping from China to the rest of the world. Its unique positioning addresses the growing needs of e-commerce merchants wishing to ship their products directly from Chinese factories to their international customers.

SFC's history is closely linked to the rapid growth of cross-border e-commerce. In its early days, the company operated as a simple shipping agent, helping local businesses transport their products outside of China at a lower cost. Faced with increasing demand and recurring issues of high costs, poor efficiency and lengthy delays linked to traditional international express carriers, SFC developed a comprehensive offer of integrated logistics services. This strategic evolution allowed the company to transform into a true fulfillment center capable of managing the entire logistics chain.

SFC is owned by SFC Holdings Co., Ltd., a company listed on the ChiNext market of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange under code 301558. This stock market listing testifies to the financial solidity and market recognition of this logistics provider. Previously, in 2014, SFC had already joined the NEEQ market (National Equities Exchange and Quotations), becoming one of the first cross-border e-commerce logistics companies to be listed in China. The group's market capitalization today reaches several billion yuan.

• Founding date: 2007, in Shenzhen in the Guangdong province of China
• Parent company: SFC Holdings Co., Ltd., listed on the ChiNext of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (code 301558)
• Headquarters: Shenzhen, China, with offices in Dongguan, Guangzhou, Huizhou, Yiwu and Hangzhou
• Workforce: Over 1,000 employees dedicated to logistics operations and customer service
• Processing capacity: Over 500,000 parcels per day during peak periods
• Registered members: Over 100,000 professional clients using SFC services

SFC's market positioning is based on a clear value proposition: to offer online sellers a complete logistics solution, from warehousing in China to final delivery to the customer, anywhere in the world. The company primarily targets e-commerce merchants operating on major international marketplaces, crowdfunding project creators, board game publishers and all professionals needing to ship products from China. This diverse customer base appreciates the flexibility of the solutions offered and SFC's ability to adapt to variable volumes, from small individual shipments to massive shipments.

SFC structures its activities around several complementary divisions to meet the different needs of its customers. SFC Express is the main division dedicated to express delivery, ensuring the quick and secure transport of parcels around the world through advanced logistics technologies. SFC Fulfillment offers comprehensive warehousing and order management solutions, handling storage, preparation, packaging and shipping on behalf of retailers. Finally, SFC Post offers cost-effective international postal services for low-value and small-size shipments such as documents, small parcels or ePacket-type shipments.

Which countries does SFC deliver to?

SFC has an exceptionally extensive geographical reach, serving over 220 countries and territories worldwide. This international presence makes this carrier one of the major players in cross-border logistics from China. Whether to North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America or Africa, SFC offers shipping solutions adapted to the specificities of each market.

In the Chinese domestic market, SFC has a vast national network serving the country's main cities and regions. This local coverage is essential for collecting parcels from sellers and forwarding them to international sorting centers. The company has strategic facilities in China's main economic centers, notably Shenzhen, Dongguan, Guangzhou, Huizhou, Yiwu and Hangzhou, enabling quick collection of goods before their international shipment.

SFC's dedicated lines cover over 30 countries, with special attention paid to the most dynamic markets for international e-commerce. These specialized lines offer optimized delivery times and enhanced tracking for destinations with high shipping volumes.

• North America: United States and Canada, with local warehouses enabling quick distribution and simplified customs clearance procedures
• Europe: All European Union countries as well as the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Norway, with a fulfillment center in Germany
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and many other destinations
• Latin America: Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and all countries in the region
• Middle East and Africa: United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and many other destinations

To ensure this worldwide coverage, SFC relies on an extensive network of logistics partners and local carriers. The company collaborates with major international express companies such as DHL, UPS and EMS, as well as with many national postal services such as China Post, Hong Kong Post, USPS (United States), Royal Mail (United Kingdom), La Poste (France), Netherlands Post, Swiss Post and Belgium Post. These strategic partnerships allow optimization of the last-mile delivery in each destination country.

The establishment of fulfillment centers abroad is a major competitive advantage for SFC. In addition to its Chinese facilities, the company has warehouses in the United States, Germany and Hong Kong. This international presence allows sellers to pre-position their inventory close to target markets, thus significantly reducing delivery times for end customers. A parcel shipped from a US warehouse to a US customer will arrive in just a few days, compared to several weeks for direct shipment from China.

What are SFC's shipping services and delivery times?

SFC offers a comprehensive range of delivery services to adapt to the varied needs of its customers, both in terms of delivery times and budget. Delivery time depends on the service chosen, the destination and any customs procedures. The company has developed over 60 different logistics channels to offer the most suitable solution for each shipping situation.

SFC's stated objective is to achieve worldwide delivery in 7 days for its fastest services. This ambition is based on the continuous optimization of logistics processes, the automation of sorting centers and the development of strategic partnerships with local carriers. Actual delivery times nevertheless vary depending on many factors, including geographical distance, customs procedures and the level of service selected.

• Express delivery: This premium service ensures fast transport by priority air mail. Delivery times typically range from 3 to 7 business days for major international destinations. The express option is ideal for urgent shipments requiring fast delivery and detailed tracking at each stage.
• Standard delivery: This reliable and economical option suits shipments where delivery time is not critical. Using traditional postal networks, this mode offers slower transit but at lower cost. Typically allow 7 to 15 business days for major destinations, which may extend to 30 days for some remote regions.
• Special Lines: SFC has developed dedicated lines to over 30 countries offering excellent value for money. These services combine competitive delivery times and optimized rates for destinations with high shipping volumes.
• Economic postal services: For small parcels and low-value shipments, SFC offers very economical postal options via its SFC Post division. These ePacket-type services offer attractive rates for light shipments, with delivery times ranging from 2 to 4 weeks depending on destinations.

Delivery times to Asia are generally the shortest, with an estimated 2 to 4 business days for standard services and 1 to 2 days for express. For European and North American destinations, standard delivery times range from 3 to 5 business days for express, while economical services may take 7 to 15 days. More distant or less-served destinations often require additional time, potentially reaching several weeks for the most economical options.

SFC also offers accelerated delivery options for very urgent parcels, potentially including next business day delivery for shipments to certain domestic markets. These premium services incur additional fees but guarantee priority processing at each stage of transport. Weekend and holiday delivery depends on the local carrier partners used for final distribution and varies by destination country.

It is important to note that stated delivery times are estimates based on normal shipping conditions. External factors such as seasonal activity peaks, exceptional weather conditions, enhanced customs inspections or health situations may impact transit times. SFC recommends that its customers plan for a safety margin, particularly for international shipments passing through customs services.

What are SFC's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

SFC pricing is designed to remain competitive while adapting to different customer profiles and types of shipments. Rates depend on several parameters and are calculated to offer economical solutions for cross-border e-commerce. The company offers online calculation tools on its official website allowing you to quickly obtain an estimate of shipping costs.

The main factors influencing the price of an SFC shipment include the actual weight and volumetric weight of the parcel, the origin and destination of the shipment, as well as the level of service selected. As with most international carriers, SFC applies the billable weight principle which retains the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight. This calculation method takes into account the space occupied by light but bulky parcels in transport vehicles.

• Billable weight: The higher of the actual weight (in kilograms) and the volumetric weight calculated according to the formula length x width x height divided by a variable dimensional factor depending on the service
• Distance: Rates increase with geographical distance, intercontinental destinations being more expensive than regional shipments
• Service type: Express and priority options are billed at higher rates than standard and economical services
• Shipping volume: Decreasing rates are generally offered to professional customers shipping large regular volumes
• Additional services: Insurance, signature delivery or enhanced tracking options may incur additional charges

Rates published by SFC generally include basic transportation fees as well as fuel surcharge. Conversely, certain fees are not included in the base price and may be added depending on circumstances. Surcharges for remote areas apply to deliveries in geographically isolated areas. Import taxes and customs duties in the destination country remain the responsibility of the recipient or shipper depending on the commercial terms agreed (Incoterms). Any storage fees in case of customs clearance delays attributable to the recipient are also not covered by the initial rate.

Regarding maximum dimensions and weight accepted, SFC can handle a wide range of parcels, from small light shipments to larger merchandise. The exact limits vary depending on the delivery service chosen and the partner carrier used for final distribution. For economical postal services, restrictions are generally stricter, with weight limits often set around 2 kilograms. Express services and special lines accept heavier parcels, which may reach 30 kilograms or more depending on destinations.

Certain goods are subject to shipping restrictions, regardless of their weight or dimensions. SFC complies with international regulations concerning dangerous goods, including lithium batteries which require specific packaging and labeling. Food products, flammable materials, illegal substances and certain regulated items may be prohibited or subject to special shipping conditions. It is recommended to check with SFC for specific restrictions before shipping sensitive goods.

What are SFC's delivery options?

SFC offers significant flexibility in delivery options to meet the varied expectations of end recipients. These options depend largely on the capabilities of partner carriers used for distribution in each destination country. The company strives to offer the most convenient delivery methods for end customers while optimizing costs for shippers.

Home delivery is the main distribution method for SFC parcels. The delivery person presents themselves directly at the address indicated by the recipient to hand over the parcel. In case of absence, procedures vary depending on the local carrier: some make a second delivery attempt, others leave a notice of passage inviting the recipient to collect their parcel or schedule a new delivery.

• Home delivery: Parcel delivered directly to the recipient's address, with or without signature depending on the service chosen and the declared value of the shipment
• Pickup point delivery: Depending on local partner carriers, possibility of delivery to nearby shops or pickup points, allowing the recipient to collect their parcel at their convenience
• Automatic lockers: In certain equipped countries, delivery in automated lockers accessible 24/7, offering great flexibility for pickup
• Safe deposit: Some carriers offer to deposit the parcel in a safe place designated by the recipient in case of absence

The tracking and notification system is a central element of the SFC delivery experience. Each shipment receives a unique tracking number allowing you to trace the parcel at each stage of its journey. This number, typically consisting of 10 to 20 alphanumeric characters, can take different formats depending on the service used. Common formats include combinations such as SFCAA followed by numbers, or codes starting with the letters SFC followed by an alphanumeric series.

SFC offers automatic email notifications at key stages of delivery. These alerts inform the shipper and potentially the recipient of the parcel's status: picked up, departed from country of origin, arrived in destination country, out for delivery and delivery confirmation. This complete traceability offers transparency appreciated by both sellers and their end customers.

Rescheduling delivery depends on the options offered by the final carrier in the destination country. Some partners such as USPS in the United States, Royal Mail in the United Kingdom or La Poste in France offer online services allowing the recipient to modify the date or place of delivery. However, these features are not uniformly available and vary depending on agreements between SFC and its local partners.

For shipments to SFC fulfillment warehouses abroad (United States, Germany), more diverse local distribution options may be offered. Parcels stored locally benefit from the developed delivery infrastructure in these mature markets, potentially including scheduled delivery slots, same-day delivery in certain areas or extended pickup point options.

What should I do if my SFC parcel is lost or damaged?

When faced with a lost or damaged SFC parcel, it is important to know the steps to take and the remedies available. The complaint procedure differs depending on whether you are the shipper (generally the e-commerce seller) or the end recipient (the customer). In most cases, the recipient must first contact the seller from whom they made their purchase, as the latter is responsible for proper delivery of the order.

The first step is to verify the parcel's status via the tracking system. A parcel appearing as undelivered may simply be in transit with a longer-than-expected delay, particularly for international shipments subject to customs procedures. If tracking shows no updates for several weeks or indicates a problem, you should then file a claim.

• Claim deadline: It is recommended to act quickly upon noticing the problem. For a damaged parcel, report the damage immediately and keep the packaging and contents in their reception state
• Documentation to provide: Gather the tracking number, photos of the parcel and its contents (for damage), the purchase invoice and any correspondence with the seller
• Customer service contact: SFC has a customer service available Monday to Friday from 9am to 7pm. The support email is [email protected] and the phone number for China is +400 866 8808
• Investigation procedure: An investigation will be opened to trace the parcel's journey and determine responsibilities. This investigation may take several days to several weeks depending on the complexity of the case

In many countries, consumer protection legislation offers significant guarantees. The seller is generally responsible for proper execution of the sales contract, including delivery. In case of lost or damaged parcel, the consumer can often require the seller to either provide full refund of the purchase amount including shipping fees, or provide free replacement of the product if still available. These rights generally apply even if the seller has entrusted delivery to a third-party carrier.

Regarding shipment insurance, SFC offers coverage options to protect shipped goods. The terms and amounts of this insurance vary depending on services and should be verified when creating the shipment. In the absence of additional insurance, compensation for loss or damage is generally limited according to international postal conventions or the carrier's general terms.

In case of persistent disagreement with the seller, several remedies are available to the consumer. Sending a formal complaint reminding you of your rights is a first step. If this approach has no effect, many countries have mediation services or consumer protection organizations allowing an attempt at amicable dispute resolution. As a last resort, legal action may be considered, although this option is often disproportionate to the amounts at stake for routine purchases.

For professional shippers regularly using SFC services, it is advisable to negotiate in advance the conditions for handling incidents and take out appropriate insurance for the value of goods shipped. Rigorous tracking of shipments and proactive communication with end customers also helps detect problems quickly and resolve them before they escalate into disputes.

Does SFC handle international shipments and customs procedures?

International shipments are at the heart of SFC's business, with the company's very name - Send From China - reflecting this specialization in cross-border shipping. The company has developed specific expertise in managing customs procedures, a crucial aspect of international e-commerce that can prove complex for uninitiated sellers.

SFC offers comprehensive management of customs procedures to facilitate the passage of goods across borders. This includes preparation of required shipping documents, customs declarations for export from China and support for customs clearance upon import in the destination country. The company has specialized teams mastering the customs regulations of major international markets.

• Export declaration: SFC prepares and submits the necessary declarations for the exit of goods from Chinese territory, ensuring compliance with local regulations
• Commercial documents: Commercial invoices, packing lists and certificates of origin are prepared according to the requirements of each destination country
• Customs classification: Assignment of appropriate tariff codes (HS codes) for correct calculation of applicable customs duties
• Declared value: Advice on value declaration compliant with regulations, with SFC strongly discouraging undervaluation which can result in penalties or confiscation of goods

Regarding customs duties and import taxes, it is essential to understand how they work to avoid unpleasant surprises. Customs duties and import VAT are determined by the destination country's customs authorities based on the nature of the goods, their value and origin. These fees are generally not included in the SFC shipping price and remain the responsibility of the recipient or shipper depending on the commercial terms agreed (Incoterms).

Some countries apply exemption thresholds below which imports are exempt from duties. For example, the United States allows duty-free import for shipments valued under $800. The European Union eliminated VAT exemption for imports from July 2021, making all parcels subject to VAT regardless of value. These regulations evolve regularly and SFC recommends that shippers stay informed of rules applicable in their target markets.

Customs clearance times vary by country and circumstances. In most cases, procedures are quick and add only a few hours to transit time. However, some shipments may be held for in-depth inspection, incomplete documentation or verification of declared value. SFC optimizes its procedures to minimize these delays, but additional delays may occur during enhanced customs inspections.

For regulated goods, SFC complies with international standards and restrictions specific to each country. Lithium batteries, for example, require specific packaging, labeling and documentation compliant with dangerous goods regulations. Some products are completely prohibited for import in certain countries and SFC refuses to ship them to avoid customs problems and legal sanctions.

Professional shippers using SFC benefit from support to optimize their customs procedures. The company can advise on best practices for declaration, advantageous customs regimes and strategies to reduce import costs while remaining in compliance with regulations. This expertise is a valuable asset for e-commerce sellers wishing to develop their international sales without running into the administrative complexities of cross-border trade.

Understanding tracking statuses

When tracking an SFC parcel online, different statuses may appear reflecting the successive stages of transport. Understanding these statuses allows you to precisely track your shipment and anticipate its delivery date. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: