How much will it cost me?
  Do you have a pick-up facility?
  Do Five Star Freight have after hours deliveries and collections?
  What documentation will I require?
  Can Five Star Freight pack for me or do I have to do my own packing?
  Can I seal the cases or cartons?
  Why are some air freight charges based on volume not on the actual weight?
  Does the cost include insurance?
  How can I pay?
  Do Five Star Freight offer student discounts?
  How long will my baggage take to get to my destination?
  How will I be contacted at destination?

+ What about dangerous goods?

» How much will it cost me?

This depends on the destination, please contact us by email, fax or phone, with the details and we will be happy to give you a quote.

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» Do you have pick up facilities?

Yes we can pick up your cargo from home, or university free of charge (conditions apply). Or you can drop it into our office.

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» Do Five Star Freight have after hours deliveries and collections?

If we are available, after hours collections are often possible. All you need to do is ask the question.

Our normal hours of operation are between 0800 and 1700 ( 8.00am to 5.00pm) Monday to Friday.

We are contactable outside of these hours on 9335 2242 for queries.

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» What documentation will I require?

You will need to complete a shippers letter of instruction, and also supply a packing declaration (see export packing list)
        - online shippers instruction letter - packing declaration (pdf)

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» Can Five Star Freight pack for me or do I have to do my own packing?

Unfortunately, Five Star Freight do not provide a packing service for excess baggage.

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» Can I seal the cases or cartons?

Cartons should be remain unsealed until pick up date ready for inspection. All shipments sent by air are subject to security and/or x-ray examination, which may involve a search. If cartons are sealed, a mandatory 7 day hold period will apply.

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» Do Five Star Freight store goods and how much does it cost?

We do provide storage facilities on small shipments. Maximum storage is three months, first month free.

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» Why are airfreight charges sometimes based on volume and not on the actual weight?

It is an international air cargo standard to charge for weight or volume, whichever is the greater according to the formula -- length x height x width (cm) x 167

This formula converts volume to weight, and ensures that the air carriers receive a reasonable amount of revenue for very light items. For example a bag of feathers would take up a great deal of space in a cargo hold but because of their low weight, the airline would earn little revenue from their carriage.

For example a tea carton dimensions 41x51x61cm; 16x20x24ins would be calculated as follows: 41x51x61x167=21kg volumetric weight

This means that the above items would be charged for the actual weight if greater than 21 kg. If the box weighed say 13kg, then the charge will still be for 21kg.

We are most happy to explain this concept further if you require. Please bear in mind that this is an International Standard ruling. Even if your chosen shipping company does not tell you about this charge, they will still rate your shipment on this basis and you will have to pay a accordingly!

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» Does the cost include insurance?

The airlines offer minimal coverage for loss, theft or negligence. However, if you require additional insurance please contact us. Five Star Freight are not common carriers, our full terms and conditions are available on request.

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» How can I pay?

We accept all common forms of payment. It is usually easiest to pay by credit card - Visa, Mastercard or EFTPOS. We also accept cash. Payments by cheque require clearance, and this may delay your shipment, as banks quote clearance periods of up to seven working days for domestic cheques.

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» Do Five Star Freight offer student discounts?

Yes our rates and services are tailored to meet the needs of the student community.

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» How long will my baggage take to get to my destination?

Transit times vary, but as a rule for intercontinental sea shipments allow 6-10 weeks; and for consignments sent by air allow 2-5 days

Please note that transit times are indicative only and are not guaranteed.

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» How will I be contacted at destination?

For ocean freight shipments the shipping company will contact you one week prior to arrival. We post documentation to you 2 to 3 days after the ship departs Australia.

For air shipments, the airline carrier, will notify you by phone when your personal effects arrive. It is essential for notification purposes that we have a destination telephone number. (Five Star Freight will also give you documentation if possible before your Australian departure).

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» What charges do I have to pay at the other end when sending my baggage to arrival port/airport only?

For freight shipments the airlines and shipping lines will charge a small handling fee, customs may levy duties and taxes, storage fees can apply if your goods are not collected after an initial period (24 hours airfreight, 1-5 days sea freight).

Please bear in mind that we have no control over the actions of customs services anywhere in the world. Every country has different rules and regulations. It is your responsibility that to insure that you abide by
the rules and regulations of the country that your are sending your goods to (or from).

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