Fake freight forwarders in China often use unrealistic prices, fake business licenses, and unverifiable company details. Always verify registration, check references, and choose established logistics partners to avoid scams.
Shipping from China can be a profitable opportunity — but it’s also where many importers lose money because of fake freight forwarders. Over my 12+ years as Co-founder of DFH Logistics, I’ve seen hundreds of cases where overseas buyers were deceived by low prices, fake documents, or non-existent shipping services.
This guide will show you exactly how to identify fake freight forwarders in China, verify legitimacy, and choose a reliable logistics partner you can trust.
Why Do Fake Freight Forwarders Exist in China?
The logistics industry in China is booming, but its scale also attracts fraudsters. Setting up a website or social media account claiming to be a “freight company” costs almost nothing — making it easy for dishonest individuals to appear legitimate.
Main Reasons:
- High global demand for cheap shipping services.
- Remote communication, so buyers cannot visit offices.
- Lack of understanding about Chinese company registration systems.
Fake forwarders usually disappear once payment is made, leaving you without cargo or refund.
What Are the Common Signs of Fake Freight Forwarders?
Fake freight forwarders often appear trustworthy at first glance — until you dig deeper. Here are the red flags to look out for:
Key Warning Signs
- Unrealistic shipping prices far below market rates.
- No physical address or fake office photos.
- Personal bank accounts for payment instead of company accounts.
- Inability to show a business license or export declaration examples.
- Poor communication, evasive answers, or refusal to video call.
- No official website, or site registered only recently.
- Fake tracking numbers that never update.
When you see any of these, stop the transaction and investigate before paying.
How to Verify a Freight Forwarder’s Legitimacy in China
Verifying a freight forwarder’s legal existence is easier than many importers think. You just need to know where and what to check.
Step-by-Step Verification
- Request the business license (营业执照) in Chinese. It must display the company’s Unified Social Credit Code (a unique registration number).
- Visit China’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (https://www.gsxt.gov.cn) and input the license number to confirm validity.
- Check the registered address on Google Maps or Baidu Maps.
- Ask for recent airway bills or customs declarations with their company name.
- Ask for warehouse or office photos — preferably with staff or company logo visible.
- Request a video call to confirm real existence.
These simple actions can save you from major financial loss.
Official Platforms to Verify Chinese Freight Forwarders
The following platforms help confirm whether a freight forwarder is real and legally registered in China:
| Platform | Purpose | Website |
|---|---|---|
| National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System | Verify company license & status | https://www.gsxt.gov.cn |
| China Customs Website | Verify export agent registration | http://english.customs.gov.cn |
| MIIT ICP Record System | Check if the company website is officially registered in China | https://beian.miit.gov.cn |
| Qichacha (企查查) | View company registration, shareholders, and legal representative details | https://www.qcc.com |
| Tianyancha (天眼查) | Check company credit records, court risks, and business license info | https://www.tianyancha.com |
A legitimate freight forwarder will never hesitate to share these details or provide screenshots from these platforms showing their verified company registration.
How to Check Company Background & Reputation
A professional freight forwarder’s reputation is built over years. To verify credibility, look for consistent online presence and real client feedback.
What to Check:
- Company reviews on Google, LinkedIn, or Alibaba.
- Website domain age (use Whois lookup tools).
- Testimonials, client case studies, or photos of real shipments.
- Search for the company name + “scam” or “complaint” on Google.
Reputable forwarders like DFH Logistics are often mentioned in trade forums, blogs, and review sites with consistent positive feedback.
Top Scam Scenarios Importers Should Avoid
Here are common scams that new importers often fall for:
- Disappearing after full payment — you pay, then the contact vanishes.
- Fake DDP services — they claim duties are included, but your goods get held by customs.
- Wrong consignee name — they use personal IDs, leading to clearance issues.
- Switching bank accounts mid-process — a classic sign of fraud.
- “Lost shipment” excuses with no supporting documents.
Once funds are transferred to an unverified company, recovery is nearly impossible.
How Genuine Freight Forwarders Operate
Real freight forwarders operate transparently, follow regulations, and provide traceable processes.
Genuine Forwarders Will:
- Provide a valid Chinese business license.
- Have a warehouse or office address you can verify.
- Use corporate bank accounts for payment.
- Offer tracking systems and shipping documentation.
- Provide customs clearance and duty payment services under your name or company.
- Maintain consistent communication with documentation proof.
Companies like DFH Logistics handle the full logistics chain — pickup, consolidation, export declaration, international transport, customs clearance, and door delivery — all under one transparent process.
You can also read more here: Top 10 Freight Forwarders in China
Checklist Before Paying a Freight Forwarder
| Step | What to Verify | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chinese Business License | Confirms legal registration |
| 2 | Unified Credit Code | Verifies identity |
| 3 | Bank Account Name = Company Name | Prevents fraud |
| 4 | Written Quotation & Terms | Protects you from hidden fees |
| 5 | Physical Address Proof | Confirms real operation |
| 6 | Website + ICP Record | Shows official online presence |
Save this checklist before transferring any funds.
When in Doubt, Choose an Established Partner
If you’re unsure about a Chinese freight forwarder’s legitimacy, the safest solution is to work with an established and transparent logistics provider.
At DFH Logistics, we provide:
- Over 12 years of experience shipping worldwide
- Verified Chinese business registration
- Warehousing in Shenzhen with real-time photo updates
- DDP shipping solutions covering customs clearance and duties
- Door-to-door delivery to Amazon FBA, business, or residential addresses
Conclusion
Importing from China should help your business grow — not expose you to scams. Always verify freight forwarders before payment, check documentation carefully, and partner only with registered logistics companies.
Contact DFH Logistics today for a free, verified shipping quote
Read more related blog:
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder in China
