Monroe Port in Michigan will launch its first international container terminal compliant with the Safe Port Act in 2026, breaking a long-standing bottleneck in container transportation. The new terminal will provide convenient services for export and import businesses, promote regional economic development, and achieve efficient and cost-effective container shipping.
The concepts of free storage period and free container period are crucial in shipping. The free storage period refers to the timeframe during which containers can be stored at the terminal or yard without charge, while the free container period is the duration that the cargo owner can use the container for free. For imports, the common total of free storage and free container periods is 14 days, while for exports, it is usually 7 days.
This article analyzes container types (40HC, 40GP, 20GP, 45HC), their capacities, and height differences affecting loading. It clarifies tare weight vs loaded container concepts, aiding logistics decisions.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of international sea freight inquiry, covering aspects such as shipping quotes, full container rates, and key port information. It explores the components of sea freight, offers methods for checking shipping quotes, and discusses the differences and advantages of full container shipping versus less-than-container-load (LCL) shipping.
Container standardization is the cornerstone of global trade. This article delves into the importance of standardized container dimensions, international standards, common types, and the kinds of goods they carry. It also explores future trends in container development, revealing the crucial role containers play in facilitating global commerce. The standardization ensures efficiency and interoperability across different modes of transport, significantly reducing costs and streamlining the movement of goods worldwide. Understanding container dimensions is vital for optimizing logistics and international trade operations.
This article explores the definition and function of the Employer Identification Number (EIN) and its significance in international trade. It highlights the necessity for businesses to have this identification when interacting with U.S. customs and tax authorities, as well as the importance of applying for an EIN or CAIN through Flexport.
Recently, container freight rates on routes from Shanghai to Latin America have seen a significant increase, with rates from Shanghai to the Port of Santos reaching a historical high. This week, rates surged by 26%, reaching $3,646 per FEU. The phenomenon of vessel suspensions has led to increased profits for shipping companies, and regulators are beginning to pay attention to these changes, calling for companies to standardize their pricing management, although specific interventions regarding rates in Latin America remain uncertain.
In international shipping, both CLP (Container Loading Plan) and PL (Packing List) record cargo information but serve different purposes. The CLP focuses on describing the loading situation within a container, used for verification by shippers, terminals, and carriers. The PL is commonly used for customs declaration and inspection, serving as a basis for customs review. Understanding the differences between the two is crucial for freight forwarders to ensure smooth export of goods. Knowing which document to use for each step streamlines the process and avoids delays.
In the first half of 2025, the container throughput at Lazaro Cardenas Port increased by 14% year-on-year, reaching 1.27 million TEUs, while automobile transactions totaled 339,091 units. Automotive companies such as General Motors, Toyota, and newly established brands performed exceptionally, solidifying Mexico's status as a logistics hub.
This article explores the key factors influencing the pricing of container shipping freight rates, including the nature of the goods, conditions at the origin and destination, contract negotiation timelines, and the completion date of cargo readiness. These factors not only impact transportation costs but also reflect market supply and demand dynamics, as well as the shipper's urgency for transport, ultimately determining the final freight rate.
