Shipping Industry Faces Rising EBS Charges Amid Fuel Price Surges

Shipping Industry Faces Rising EBS Charges Amid Fuel Price Surges

This article analyzes the EBS (Emergency Bunker Surcharge) issue in international ocean freight. EBS is a fee levied by shipping companies to cope with fluctuating oil prices. In principle, it's not considered a local FOB charge, but in practice, it might be passed on to FOB customers. Exporters are advised to communicate and negotiate with buyers in a timely manner to clarify who bears the cost. This proactive approach can help avoid disputes and ensure a smoother transaction regarding the allocation of EBS responsibilities.

02/11/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Leverage User Insights to Avoid Price Wars Boost Brand Value

Leverage User Insights to Avoid Price Wars Boost Brand Value

This paper explores how companies can escape price wars and enhance brand value through user insights. It analyzes the importance of user insights, common pitfalls, and practical steps to improve insights at no cost. The article emphasizes that companies should prioritize user needs, establish internal insight mechanisms, and avoid outsourcing dependence. By focusing on understanding their customers and building internal capabilities, businesses can foster sustainable growth and differentiate themselves in a competitive market, ultimately leading to increased brand value and resilience against market pressures.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Updates price Actually Paid Definition to Boost Trade Compliance

WCO Updates price Actually Paid Definition to Boost Trade Compliance

The new WCO regulations clarify the definition of "price actually paid or payable," assisting companies with compliance, facilitating trade, and improving the accuracy and efficiency of customs valuation. This clarification helps businesses understand and adhere to international valuation standards, streamlining import/export processes. By providing a more precise definition, the WCO aims to reduce valuation disputes and promote fair trade practices globally. Ultimately, this leads to more predictable and transparent customs procedures, benefiting both businesses and customs administrations.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Oil Price Drop Strong Dollar Impact US Manufacturing and Services

Oil Price Drop Strong Dollar Impact US Manufacturing and Services

The ISM report indicates that falling oil prices generally benefit manufacturing by lowering raw material costs, while the non-manufacturing sector is less affected. A stronger USD has a complex impact on manufacturing, reducing import costs but weakening export competitiveness. Non-manufacturing is less sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations as it primarily exports services, not goods. Companies should rationally assess the impact of oil prices and exchange rates and adjust their strategies accordingly.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Russia Warns of Rising Fake Dairy Products Amid Price Surge

Russia Warns of Rising Fake Dairy Products Amid Price Surge

In 2025, the rate of dairy product counterfeiting in the Russian market soared to nearly 18%, a record high in recent years. Low-price retail channels have become the hardest hit areas for substandard dairy products. Consumers should be wary of low-price traps and choose reputable merchants and brands to protect their rights. The rise in fraud highlights significant food safety concerns and the vulnerability of consumers to deceptive pricing practices within the dairy sector.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Sellers Face Postholiday Return Challenges

Amazon Sellers Face Postholiday Return Challenges

The value of online shopping returns in the US is projected to increase significantly, putting profit pressure on Amazon sellers. Inflation and changing consumer shopping habits are major contributors. Sellers should analyze return reasons, optimize product descriptions, be vigilant against malicious returns, and take measures to reduce non-malicious return rates to cope with the upcoming return surge. Addressing these issues proactively is crucial for maintaining profitability in the increasingly competitive e-commerce landscape.

12/29/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Jump in February As Supply Chain Strains Persist

US Container Imports Jump in February As Supply Chain Strains Persist

Panjiva reports a 6.9% year-over-year increase in US container imports for February, but a 5.5% decrease compared to January. However, the daily average import volume reached a new high. Energy imports surged, while IT imports declined. Experts remain uncertain about the full-year trend, emphasizing the need to monitor inflation, consumer spending habits, and geopolitical factors. Shipping companies are adjusting their strategies to address future challenges and uncertainties in the global trade landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a mixed picture for the US rail freight market in late January. Carload traffic experienced a slight increase, driven by sectors like nonmetallic minerals, coal, and automotive. However, intermodal traffic continued to decline, potentially due to easing port congestion, inventory adjustments, and slowing consumer spending. Overall, North American rail freight saw a slight decrease. The rail freight market faces a future with both challenges and opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

US Freight Volume Reaches Record High Despite Economic Challenges

The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) reached a record high of 142.4 in June, surpassing the previous peak in August 2019. Despite mixed economic indicators, the increase in freight volume reflects economic resilience. Growth was observed across trucking, rail, air, and water transportation, while rail intermodal and pipeline transportation declined. Businesses should pay close attention to macroeconomic conditions, consumer demand, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory changes to adapt their strategies accordingly.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Rebounds in January Hinting at Economic Growth

US Trucking Rebounds in January Hinting at Economic Growth

According to the American Trucking Associations, U.S. trucking volume rebounded strongly in January 2019, with a seasonally adjusted index increase of 2.3%. While the year-over-year growth was slightly below the 2018 full-year average, it still indicates economic vitality. This analysis examines key factors influencing trucking volume, including macroeconomics, consumer spending, and capacity. It also previews future opportunities and challenges for the industry, emphasizing its crucial role as an economic barometer.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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