During shipping peaks, carriers often lease containers from other operators or leasing companies. Leased containers typically receive equal treatment as owned units, but free-time allowances vary: 7 days for standard boxes, 5 days for special equipment. Specific rules depend on lease agreements.
This article analyzes the differences between the free storage period and the free container period. By effectively utilizing these terms, transportation costs can be reduced, and operational efficiency can be improved.
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.
The free container period allows cargo owners to use containers without charge. If the period is exceeded, fees apply. This period is typically 7 days but may be extended upon request to manage logistics effectively.
The validity of an ATA Carnet is one year and cannot be extended, but renewal can be applied for within the validity period. Due to the impact of the pandemic, a maximum extension of six months is permitted. Understanding these regulations helps businesses to manage their import and export tasks properly and safeguard their rights.
The ATA Carnet is valid for a maximum of one year and cannot be extended, but renewal is possible. Due to the impact of the pandemic, customs policies allow for up to six months' extension for goods that have already undergone three extensions and cannot be transported. These flexible policies assist businesses in effectively dealing with external challenges and maintaining normal operations.
Amazon introduces the "Account Health Assurance (AHA) program," providing eligible sellers with a 72-hour window to resolve issues and prevent unexpected account suspensions. This program isn't a "get-out-of-jail-free card" but rather sets higher standards for compliant operations. Sellers need to continuously monitor account health, familiarize themselves with policies, and establish emergency response mechanisms for sustainable growth. The AHA program emphasizes proactive account management and adherence to Amazon's guidelines to maintain a healthy and secure selling environment.
The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the comment deadline for its “Reciprocal Switching” proposal, which aims to provide poorly served freight rail shippers with the option to access other rail carriers. The new proposal establishes three key performance standards: service reliability, consistency, and local service. It also requires Class I railroads to provide historical data on service metrics. Industry response to the proposal has been mixed, but there's general agreement that it's intended to improve the quality of rail service.
This article focuses on the container release process in foreign trade export. It details how to rationally schedule container release time based on factors such as the validity period of the shipping company's equipment interchange receipt, container loading time, and shipping schedule to avoid the risk of exceeding storage capacity. It also explains the container release operation process and precautions, and answers frequently asked questions. The aim is to help foreign trade practitioners efficiently arrange container release and ensure the smooth shipment of goods.
Although the trans-Pacific ocean freight container rates are on a downward trend, they remain approximately $1,000/FEU higher compared to the same period last year. The calm period after the Spring Festival has led to a price decline, and it is expected that as service models return to normal, contract rates will decrease.
