Shipping Industry Adopts Slow Steaming to Cut Costs

Shipping Industry Adopts Slow Steaming to Cut Costs

A Drewry Maritime Advisors report indicates that 'slow steaming' will become more prevalent in the shipping industry due to rising fuel costs and environmental regulations, particularly on specific routes. Shipping companies are reducing vessel speeds to decrease fuel consumption, thereby lowering costs and reducing carbon emissions. This trend will impact the entire supply chain, potentially leading to longer transit times and adjustments in inventory management. The adoption of slow steaming is seen as a key strategy for mitigating financial and environmental pressures.

USPS Expands Lastmile Delivery to Private Bidders

USPS Expands Lastmile Delivery to Private Bidders

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced the opening of its 'last mile' delivery network, allowing shippers of all sizes to bid on access to over 18,000 Delivery Destination Units (DDUs). This initiative aims to increase USPS revenue, improve its financial sustainability, and help retailers achieve faster delivery times. Industry experts believe this move presents both opportunities and challenges, with the ultimate success hinging on effective implementation. The increased competition and potential for improved efficiency could reshape the last mile landscape.

USPS Expands Lastmile Delivery to Private Bidders

USPS Expands Lastmile Delivery to Private Bidders

USPS plans to open its last-mile delivery network, allowing various shippers to bid for access, aiming to increase revenue, improve financial health, and help retailers achieve faster delivery. This move faces challenges such as bidding process design, pricing predictability, and operational complexity. Its success or failure will reshape the US logistics landscape, impacting the last-mile delivery strategies of retailers and logistics companies. The initiative's outcome could significantly alter the competitive dynamics of e-commerce fulfillment and parcel delivery across the nation.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Risks of Collect on Delivery in Global Shipping Country Guide

Risks of Collect on Delivery in Global Shipping Country Guide

International Collect on Delivery (COD) service is not universally available and carries inherent risks. This report delves into the country-specific limitations and key risks associated with international COD shipments, including recipient refusal, cost discrepancies, and customs clearance issues. It offers recommendations for mitigating these risks, aiming to provide foreign trade practitioners with a practical risk management guide. Understanding these limitations and risks is crucial for businesses relying on COD for international transactions to avoid potential financial losses and logistical complications.

Global Airlines Face Debt Labor Challenges Amid Postpandemic Recovery

Global Airlines Face Debt Labor Challenges Amid Postpandemic Recovery

The global aviation industry is facing a triple threat: debt crisis, airport reopening challenges, and labor shortages. High debt burdens are weighing down airlines, while airports must balance security and efficiency. The labor market is experiencing layoffs. Despite these challenges, the industry is actively exploring digital transformation, cost control, and sustainable development pathways to find opportunities for recovery amidst the crisis. The focus is on navigating the complexities of restarting operations while managing financial constraints and adapting to a changing workforce.

Yinchuan Tax Refund Eases Solar Export Policy Shift

Yinchuan Tax Refund Eases Solar Export Policy Shift

Yinchuan Comprehensive Bonded Zone launched bonded warehousing services in response to adjustments in photovoltaic export tax rebate policies. It offers services like 'tax rebate upon entry,' helping companies alleviate financial pressure and accelerate capital recovery. Through standardized warehousing and one-stop customs clearance services, it assists enterprises in reducing costs, improving international competitiveness, and smoothly navigating the policy window. This initiative aims to support photovoltaic exporters by providing efficient and cost-effective solutions during the policy transition period and beyond.

02/03/2026 Warehousing
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World Customs Organization Updates Expert Mission Guidelines

World Customs Organization Updates Expert Mission Guidelines

This guide provides World Customs Organization (WCO) experts with comprehensive instructions for the entire mission execution process, covering pre-mission preparation, on-mission management, and post-mission wrap-up. It includes general procedures, logistical arrangements, mission preparation steps, and financial regulations. The aim is to assist experts in efficiently completing their missions, ensuring the quality and impact of their deliverables. It provides a practical framework for successful mission completion, from initial planning to final reporting, enhancing the overall effectiveness of WCO expert missions.

Trade Firms Urged to Manage Ocean Freight Costs Risks

Trade Firms Urged to Manage Ocean Freight Costs Risks

This article delves into the impact of ocean freight surcharges on the profits of foreign trade enterprises. It reveals the calculation logic of common surcharges, provides tiered response strategies for unreported surcharges, and proposes a plan for building a surcharge management system. The aim is to help companies effectively control ocean freight costs, enhance competitiveness, and mitigate financial risks associated with unexpected charges. By understanding and managing these surcharges, businesses can improve profitability and maintain a competitive edge in the global market.

Indonesia Streamlines Food Export Logistics for Independent Sellers

Indonesia Streamlines Food Export Logistics for Independent Sellers

This article provides a comprehensive guide for independent website sellers looking to export food products to Indonesia. It covers key aspects such as express delivery options, customs clearance strategies, payment methods, and last-mile delivery services. The analysis focuses on the characteristics of Indonesia's payment market and proposes specific logistics solutions and precautions tailored to the unique requirements of food products. This guide aims to help sellers successfully expand into the Indonesian market by addressing critical logistical and financial considerations for food exports.

02/02/2026 Logistics
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Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

Eastsouthern Africa Customs Officials Tackle Transfer Pricing

A joint workshop by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the OECD aimed to enhance the expertise of customs officials in East and Southern Africa on transfer pricing and customs valuation. The initiative promotes regional customs cooperation, maintains fair trade practices, and combats tax evasion. By strengthening the capacity of customs administrations in these areas, the workshop supports efforts to ensure accurate valuation of goods and prevent illicit financial flows, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and equitable global trading system.