01Why Electronics and high-tech needs specialised logistics
High-value, small packages, ESD protection, strict export controls (dual-use), lithium batteries per IATA/IMDG, rapid product-cycle churn. Airfreight peaks around product launches.
Requirements differ significantly from standard LCL logistics: different documents, different equipment, different safety standards.
02Typical goods and trade flows
Main commodities: Semiconductors, smartphones, servers, networking equipment, components, batteries.
Flows usually go from a small number of production and raw-material sources to global distribution centres. Transit time, frequency and capacity booking are therefore critical.
03Equipment and packaging
ESD bags, foam inlays, temperature-controlled ULDs, tamper-evident seals.
Equipment choice directly affects transport cost, CO₂ footprint and damage rate. Recommendation: agree an equipment concept with the carrier before requesting the first quote.
04Compliance and regulatory framework
Key frameworks: EU Dual-Use Regulation 2021/821, Wassenaar, ITAR, CE, RoHS, REACH, IATA DGR Section IA/II for batteries.
Beyond those, industry-specific certificates and audits (e.g. supplier audits, AEO, TAPA) are typically prerequisites for market access.
Frequently asked questions
Which Incoterm should I use for Electronics and high-tech?
In practice, FCA (Asien-Origin) / CIP is the industry default. The final choice depends on country, sales model and tax situation — always have the term reviewed by customs and tax advisers before contract.
Which regulations are most critical?
The frameworks named above — particularly EU Dual-Use Regulation 2021/821, Wassenaar — should be embedded in your SOPs and audit programme.