Exploring Key Elements of the New Customs Declaration: The Significance of Consignors and Production Sales Units

Exploring Key Elements of the New Customs Declaration: The Significance of Consignors and Production Sales Units

In the new customs declaration form, the definitions and reporting requirements for consignees, consignors, and production and sales units are crucial. The consignee and consignor must be legally registered entities, ensuring they are party to the foreign contract. In special cases, the contract executing entity must be specified. The production and sales unit must report the organization that actually participates in the production or sale of goods to ensure accurate information.

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact on Wages Automation

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact on Wages Automation

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have signed a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement guarantees record wage increases for dockworkers and provides effective protections against automation, averting potential supply chain disruptions and laying the groundwork for port modernization. The contract was overwhelmingly approved by ILA members and welcomed by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
Maritime Industry Grapples With Rising Demurrage Costs

Maritime Industry Grapples With Rising Demurrage Costs

This article analyzes the meaning of "On Demurrage" in voyage charters and its relationship with demurrage charges. Demurrage fees are costs incurred by the charterer for exceeding the loading and unloading period specified in the contract, usually calculated on a daily basis. The contract outlines the conditions for entering a state of demurrage, which varies in terminology across different countries. Additionally, it explores the distinctions between demurrage in voyage charters and container transport.

Flexport Enhances Booking Tool for Realtime Shipping Management

Flexport Enhances Booking Tool for Realtime Shipping Management

Flexport has upgraded its booking management tools with a new quota management dashboard. By integrating booking, contract, and carrier data, it provides businesses with a real-time, comprehensive view of quota performance. This tool allows users to monitor freight volumes, identify contract deviations, and perform forward-looking planning. It empowers companies to optimize their ocean freight strategies and reduce supply chain costs by offering data-driven insights into quota utilization and potential areas for improvement.

12/30/2025 Logistics
Read More
Fedex Layoffs Signal Logistics Strain Before Singles Day

Fedex Layoffs Signal Logistics Strain Before Singles Day

FedEx Supply Chain is closing four facilities and laying off over 450 employees due to contract expirations. Facing intense market competition, FedEx needs to innovate its services, improve profitability, and expand its business footprint. This closure highlights the challenges within the logistics and supply chain sectors, requiring companies like FedEx to adapt and strategize for long-term sustainability. The contract losses underscore the importance of securing and maintaining key partnerships in the competitive landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
Freight Market Stabilizes Amid Capacity Surplus and Green Shift

Freight Market Stabilizes Amid Capacity Surplus and Green Shift

The 2023 State of the Transportation Report indicates a loose capacity freight market in the US for the coming year, characterized by stable contract relationships and a growing emphasis on sustainable transportation. Businesses should strengthen contract relationships with existing partners, explore sustainable transportation options like electric vehicles, improve operational efficiency, and enhance internal collaboration to address challenges and seize opportunities. Focusing on these areas will be crucial for navigating the evolving landscape and achieving success in the freight market.

UPS Wins USPS Air Cargo Deal Disrupting Delivery Sector

UPS Wins USPS Air Cargo Deal Disrupting Delivery Sector

UPS's successful acquisition of the USPS air cargo contract marks a significant shift in the express delivery landscape. This transition is driven by USPS's strategic transformation, FedEx's reluctant departure, and UPS's aggressive expansion. The future of the express delivery industry promises heightened competition, where only those who adapt to change will thrive. This contract solidifies UPS's position and signals a new era of strategic maneuvering within the industry, requiring competitors to re-evaluate their approaches to maintain market share and profitability.

Q1 Trucking Gains As LTL Struggles Parcel Prices Rise

Q1 Trucking Gains As LTL Struggles Parcel Prices Rise

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index Q1 report indicates emerging signs of recovery in the truckload market, with rising spot rates, although contract rates remain under pressure. Parcel pricing strategies are proving effective, with fuel surcharge adjustments generating revenue, but discount competition is intense. While LTL rates remain stable, pricing discipline is beginning to erode, and fuel surcharges are declining. The report offers insights into current trends and challenges within the freight transportation industry, highlighting the interplay of spot and contract rates, pricing strategies, and fuel surcharges.