Guide to Navigating Hidden LCL Shipping Costs

Guide to Navigating Hidden LCL Shipping Costs

LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping costs are complex and prone to hidden charges. This article delves into LCL pricing rules, exposing common traps like volumetric/weight surcharges, storage fees, and amendment fees. It provides practical advice on avoiding these risks, helping shippers effectively control costs and ensure the safe arrival of their goods. Understanding these hidden fees is crucial for accurate budgeting and preventing unexpected expenses in international LCL shipments.

01/29/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Apple Allows Thirdparty Payments Downloads in Brazil

Apple Allows Thirdparty Payments Downloads in Brazil

Brazilian regulators have compelled Apple to adjust its App Store policies, permitting third-party app stores and external payment methods. Apple will levy a 15% fee on external payment links and a 5% technology service fee on apps distributed through third-party stores. This move is expected to offer Brazilian users a more flexible and potentially lower-cost app consumption experience, while also granting developers greater autonomy and control over their distribution and monetization strategies.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Shopee Introduces Seller Fees in Southeast Asia

Shopee Introduces Seller Fees in Southeast Asia

Shopee announced a 5% technology service fee for sellers in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, effective February 2026, to cover platform operating costs. To mitigate the impact, Shopee will provide advertising credit subsidies. This move may prompt sellers to re-evaluate their operating costs and adjust their business strategies accordingly. The introduction of the fee represents a change in Shopee's pricing structure and could influence seller behavior within the cross-border e-commerce landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Forwarders Guide to Bill of Lading Amendments

Freight Forwarders Guide to Bill of Lading Amendments

Based on ROCKY_HIGHSUN's experience, this article provides a detailed analysis of the reasons, procedures, required documents, fees, and precautions for Bill of Lading (B/L) amendments. It aims to help freight forwarding practitioners efficiently handle B/L amendment issues and avoid unnecessary losses. The guide covers practical aspects and offers insights into navigating the complexities of B/L modifications within the context of freight forwarding operations, particularly considering the implications for Letter of Credit transactions.

08/21/2025 Document Interpretation
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Freight Forwarders Optimize Bill of Lading and Customs Processes

Freight Forwarders Optimize Bill of Lading and Customs Processes

This article focuses on key aspects of freight forwarding customs clearance, specifically addressing the Bill of Lading, its amendment process, and customs release procedures. It provides a detailed interpretation of important considerations and operational workflows, aiming to assist freight forwarding professionals in efficiently and compliantly completing customs clearance tasks. The goal is to help practitioners avoid unnecessary complications and potential losses by providing practical guidance on navigating these critical stages of the import/export process.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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12step Guide to Streamline International Shipping for Exporters

12step Guide to Streamline International Shipping for Exporters

This article provides a detailed analysis of twelve key steps in international shipping, including booking space, S/O issuance, container pickup, stuffing, customs clearance, document amendment and confirmation, cost settlement, and collection of export verification forms. It aims to help foreign trade enterprises efficiently and compliantly complete the process of shipping goods overseas. The article covers the entire shipping workflow, offering practical guidance for navigating the complexities of international trade and ensuring smooth export operations.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Amending or Canceling Customs Declarations

Guide to Amending or Canceling Customs Declarations

This article outlines five common scenarios in which companies may need to delete or amend customs declarations during the customs clearance process. It emphasizes the importance of submitting an application to the local customs authorities. Companies should understand the specific application procedures of their local customs to ensure compliant operations and avoid trade risks. Knowing the proper procedures for customs declaration amendment and deletion is crucial for businesses involved in international trade.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Global Trade Groups Propose HS Code Reforms

Global Trade Groups Propose HS Code Reforms

This article interprets the WCO's "HS Code Amendment Proposal Guidelines" to help businesses understand the modification process and proposal techniques. It aims to enable accurate commodity classification, mitigate trade risks, and promote global trade. By understanding the guidelines, companies can effectively navigate the HS code system, ensuring compliance and optimizing their international trade operations. This leads to smoother customs clearance and reduced potential for disputes, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and predictable trading environment.

01/05/2026 HS Code Query
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WCO Publishes 2022 HS Explanatory Notes for Trade Classification

WCO Publishes 2022 HS Explanatory Notes for Trade Classification

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released the 2022 edition of the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) in print. This provides practical guidance on technical descriptions and classification of goods, serving as the official interpretation of HS codes. Purchase of the print version includes amendment supplements. An online subscription option is also available through the WCO Trade Tools platform. As a global leader in customs affairs, the WCO assists trade professionals in accurate customs clearance.

01/05/2026 HS Code Query
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Asiapacific Nations Crack Down on Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

Asiapacific Nations Crack Down on Illegal Plastic Waste Trade

The Asia-Pacific region faces a significant challenge from the illegal trade of plastic waste. The Asia Pacific Plastic Waste (APPW) project, initiated by the World Customs Organization, aims to strengthen customs' response capabilities, mitigate the threat of illegal shipments, and promote the Basel Convention amendment. Through Coordinated Border Management (CBM) and international cooperation, the project seeks to effectively control and facilitate plastic waste trade, collectively building a future without 'plastic enclaves'.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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