Hi there,
I was a business trader for 5 years, I got discounts 35% from fedex, 30% DHL/TNT/EMS etc. And that is for small sample order daily, mostly I ship goods by air and sea, it is much cheaper, and I can also ship the goods that has limits from customs.
It involes much though it is just several samples or goods. First, you have to pack it as smaller as it can to save freight cost, calculate the weight and volume, take notice the light goods and heavy goods, then you have to prepare Commercial invoice and Packing list, and also don't forget ask the Fuel Oil Surcharge in that month. If the goods is more than 45kgs, it is suggested shipped the goods by air, and it involves more procedures, like cooperate with a forwarder, check the H.S. code of the goods, assist to appy for Chinese customs, confirm the Bill of Lading(B/L) is no any problem, and send the Original B/L or copy/fax to clients, the Certificate of Origin(C/O) if it is required.
Best regards
Paul