Guide to Accurate HS Code Classification for Customs Compliance

Guide to Accurate HS Code Classification for Customs Compliance

This article details five methods for querying HS codes: querying on the official website of the General Administration of Customs, using third-party websites, utilizing AI-powered classification assistants, employing third-party customs systems for rough classification, and outsourcing to professional third-party classifiers. For each method, the operational steps, precautions, advantages, and limitations are explained. The aim is to help foreign trade enterprises efficiently and accurately classify commodities, thereby avoiding trade risks.

US Rail Freight Declines in February Raising Economic Worries

US Rail Freight Declines in February Raising Economic Worries

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both declined year-over-year for the week ending February 4th. While shipments of commodities like motor vehicles and petroleum increased, coal and grain volumes decreased. Overall, North American rail performance was weak, reflecting regional economic linkages and global economic downturn risks. The decline in freight volume may signal a potential economic slowdown and challenges for the supply chain.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in Early 2025 Amid Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Rebounds in Early 2025 Amid Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows significant growth in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume during the third week of January, with gains across various commodities. Coal, chemicals, and nonmetallic minerals led the increase. Cumulative data from early 2025 also indicate continued positive momentum. Key drivers include economic recovery, supply chain easing, increased energy demand, and infrastructure development. The industry faces both opportunities and challenges, requiring continuous innovation to thrive.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Shanghai Streamlines Customs for Returned Goods to Cut Costs

Shanghai Streamlines Customs for Returned Goods to Cut Costs

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the returned goods clearance process in Shanghai, focusing on key commodities such as new and used mechanical and electrical equipment, food, and cosmetics. It offers professional customs clearance strategies and standardized process guidance. The importance of selecting professional clearance services, preparing documents in advance, and maintaining communication with customs is emphasized. The aim is to help companies efficiently and compliantly complete returned goods clearance, reducing costs and risks.

Air Vs Sea Freight Balancing Speed and Cost

Air Vs Sea Freight Balancing Speed and Cost

International small packet shipping offers air and sea freight options. Air freight excels in speed, with delivery times ranging from 7-30 days, making it suitable for time-sensitive goods. Sea freight prioritizes cost-effectiveness, with delivery times of 30-90 days, ideal for bulk commodities. The optimal choice depends on budget, required delivery time, product type, and destination. Consulting a professional logistics advisor for a customized solution is highly recommended to determine the best approach.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Optimizing Crossborder Ecommerce Packaging

Guide to Optimizing Crossborder Ecommerce Packaging

This article provides a detailed interpretation of packaging standards and operational guidelines for general goods, dangerous goods, and special goods in cross-border e-commerce exports. It offers comprehensive guidance on packaging material selection, regulatory compliance, and cost control. The aim is to help cross-border sellers improve logistics efficiency, ensure cargo safety, and achieve compliant global expansion. It covers crucial aspects of export packaging to minimize risks and optimize the shipping process for various types of commodities.

COSCO OOCL Expand MWAX Service to Conakry Port

COSCO OOCL Expand MWAX Service to Conakry Port

COSCO SHIPPING and OOCL jointly upgraded the MWAX service, incorporating the Port of Conakry in Guinea into the network. This enhancement will improve the transportation capacity of bulk commodities, strengthen their position in the African market, and facilitate the development of China-Africa trade. Both parties will continue to optimize the service to address challenges and provide high-quality shipping services. The upgraded MWAX service aims to better serve the growing trade demands between China and West Africa.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Target Hits 96 Palm Oil Traceability in Sustainability Push

Target Hits 96 Palm Oil Traceability in Sustainability Push

Target has taken a significant step in its sustainability journey, successfully tracing 96% of its palm oil supply back to its source. The company is also actively promoting sustainable sourcing of other commodities like cotton. Collaborating with organizations like the Earthworm Foundation, Target is committed to achieving supply chain transparency, ensuring its products have a positive environmental and social impact. This effort sets a benchmark for the industry, demonstrating a dedication to responsible sourcing and sustainable practices.

US Rail Freight Sees Coal Oil Gains Amid Container Decline

US Rail Freight Sees Coal Oil Gains Amid Container Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed mixed results for the week ending March 4th. While total carloads decreased year-over-year, shipments of commodities like coal and petroleum increased. However, container traffic experienced a significant decline, weighing down overall freight volume. Year-to-date, both U.S. and North American rail freight volumes have slightly decreased. The future trajectory remains uncertain, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the rail freight industry.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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