A commercial invoice is an essential document issued by the seller to the buyer, detailing information about the goods involved in the transaction. This document allows the seller to collect payment. It is widely used in international trade for purposes such as payment reference, customs documentation, and applying for export licenses, making it an indispensable part of trade transactions.
This article provides a detailed interpretation of the HS codes for computers such as laptops and desktops. According to the Customs Import and Export Tariff, computers are classified as automatic data processing equipment, mainly based on classification criteria including weight, composition, and system form. Laptops are typically classified under 8471309000, while standard desktop computers fall under 8471414000.
This article outlines the complete process of hazardous cargo transportation, including order booking, preparation of declaration data, packaging and loading of goods, customs clearance, bill of lading confirmation, fee confirmation, and settlement archiving. Hazardous cargo transport must comply with strict regulations, and the coordination and accuracy of each step ensure the safe and smooth transportation of goods.
This article provides a detailed overview of the key processes involved in international freight forwarding, including inquiry, authorization receipt, booking, cargo packing, customs declaration, bill of lading verification and signing, cost settlement, and document delivery. By interpreting each step, it helps enhance freight efficiency and ensures that goods arrive safely and on time at their destination.
This paper delves into the distinctions between detention and demurrage in international ocean freight, clarifying their responsible parties, triggering mechanisms, and calculation methods. Furthermore, it proposes interconnected mitigation strategies, including accurately understanding the start date, optimizing customs clearance processes, and selecting appropriate transportation modes. The aim is to assist businesses in effectively controlling logistics costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
The World Customs Organization has released the 5th major revision of the HS Code, involving 233 adjustments across various sectors including agriculture, chemicals, timber, and textiles. This revision aims to improve the accuracy of trade statistics, facilitate trade, and address emerging trade challenges. Businesses should promptly understand these new changes to effectively navigate the evolving landscape of international trade.
The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) released its 'Top 10 Trends for 2026' report, revealing that AI, trade dynamics, workforce evolution, resilience, and sustainability will reshape global supply chains. Businesses need to pay attention to these trends to build intelligent, resilient, and sustainable supply chains to meet future challenges. The report highlights the importance of adapting to changing trade landscapes and leveraging technology like AI to improve efficiency and visibility. Furthermore, building robust and flexible supply chains is crucial for navigating disruptions and ensuring long-term success.
The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a tentative six-year agreement, aiming to ensure labor stability at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. A key focus is balancing automation advancement with workers' rights, averting potential strike disruptions. The agreement's ratification and implementation will significantly impact the supply chain. Continued collaboration between the ILA and USMX is crucial for achieving mutual benefits and fostering a stable and efficient port environment. This agreement is a significant step towards ensuring supply chain resilience.
Ports along the US East Coast and Gulf Coast are actively preparing for a potential strike by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA). Ports are implementing measures to minimize potential operational disruptions, including extending operating hours, adjusting cargo receiving strategies, and offering fee waivers. Key ports like the Port of New York and New Jersey, the Port of Savannah, and the Port of Houston have announced specific contingency plans to ensure smooth cargo movement. These efforts aim to mitigate the impact of the potential labor action on the supply chain.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the I-ASC Aviation Safety Culture Survey Tool to help airlines assess, benchmark, and improve their safety culture. The tool evaluates nine key drivers, providing quantitative and qualitative data to support the development of improvement plans. It offers industry benchmarking, risk identification, global coverage, and continuous improvement tracking capabilities. This helps airlines enhance their safety performance by providing actionable insights and facilitating a proactive approach to safety management. Ultimately, the I-ASC tool aims to foster a stronger safety culture within the aviation industry.
