Ecommerce Firms Face Rising Customs Fees Seek Cost Strategies

Ecommerce Firms Face Rising Customs Fees Seek Cost Strategies

This article provides a detailed analysis of the various fees that may arise when international express deliveries are detained by customs, including customs duties and penalties, storage and demurrage fees, and customs clearance agency fees. It also proposes corresponding strategies for cross-border e-commerce sellers to help them minimize losses caused by detention and improve the efficiency of their cross-border business. The aim is to equip sellers with the knowledge to navigate customs issues effectively and reduce the financial impact of unexpected delays.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China Imports Best Practices to Avoid Demurrage Costs

China Imports Best Practices to Avoid Demurrage Costs

This article focuses on how freight forwarders can avoid demurrage charges during import unpacking operations. It provides a detailed analysis of key steps, including obtaining vessel and voyage information, scheduling pickup, handling customs inspections, and adhering to container weight limits. It also highlights special considerations such as unreliable vessel schedules in the Waigaoqiao port area. The aim is to help freight forwarding personnel improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs by providing practical guidance on managing the import unpacking process and minimizing the risk of incurring costly demurrage fees.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Crossborder Ecommerce Boom Strains Shenzhen Logistics Firm

Crossborder Ecommerce Boom Strains Shenzhen Logistics Firm

A Shenzhen-based freight forwarding company's financial issues led to the detention of eight containers in US ports, incurring substantial demurrage fees and causing concern among cross-border e-commerce sellers. High demurrage costs and chaotic shipping conditions exacerbate the risk of financial collapse in the freight forwarding industry. This article advises sellers to exercise caution when selecting freight forwarders and provides a series of tips to avoid potential pitfalls, ensuring cargo security and reducing operational risks. This situation highlights the importance of due diligence in the current volatile shipping environment.

01/04/2026 Logistics
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Global Logistics Firms Grapple With Rising Demurrage and Detention Costs

Global Logistics Firms Grapple With Rising Demurrage and Detention Costs

This article provides a detailed explanation of demurrage and detention fees in cross-border logistics, including their definitions, causes, and avoidance methods. Demurrage refers to the charges incurred for exceeding the free time allowed for cargo to remain in a port terminal. Detention, on the other hand, is charged for exceeding the free time allowed for the return of shipping containers to the carrier. The article offers practical advice from various perspectives, such as customs clearance preparation, time management, and responsibility allocation, to help importers and exporters reduce logistics costs and improve trade efficiency.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Prepull Shipping Cuts Demurrage Costs for FCL Cargo

Prepull Shipping Cuts Demurrage Costs for FCL Cargo

Pre-pull transportation is a method of retrieving FCL goods from the port in advance and storing them in the carrier's warehouse, aimed at avoiding demurrage fees and increasing delivery flexibility. With this service, customers can ensure the safety of their goods while reasonably arranging delivery times, thereby reducing transportation costs.

08/05/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Avoiding Container Demurrage Charges

Guide to Avoiding Container Demurrage Charges

This article highlights the importance of free demurrage for containers and clarifies that it's determined by the country/region of the discharge port. It provides two convenient methods for checking free demurrage: online self-service via the Maersk website dashboard and offline consultation with the local Maersk office. Utilizing these methods helps users avoid additional detention charges and improve logistics efficiency. Knowing your free demurrage period is crucial for effective container management and cost control in logistics operations.

09/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Fedex Repurposes Empty Containers to Ease Supply Chain Delays

Fedex Repurposes Empty Containers to Ease Supply Chain Delays

FedEx has introduced an innovative service selling imported empty container capacity to shippers, helping them bypass congested ports and save transit time. This move aims to alleviate supply chain bottlenecks and improve port throughput. Simultaneously, measures such as extended port operating hours, clearing empty containers, and considering demurrage fees are gradually improving congestion.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Streamlining Cargo Reallocation Cuts Demurrage Boosts Efficiency

Streamlining Cargo Reallocation Cuts Demurrage Boosts Efficiency

The cargo re-allocation process after inspection involves obtaining a Non-Shipment Certificate, submitting a re-allocation application, and canceling/re-declaring customs. This article details the key operational points of each step, providing strategies for cost control and handling special circumstances. It aims to help freight forwarding companies efficiently complete re-allocation, reducing the risk of port detention. The process includes understanding the necessary documentation and procedures for successful cargo re-allocation.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Distinguishing Between Free Demurrage and Free Detention

Distinguishing Between Free Demurrage and Free Detention

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.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Los Angeles and Long Beach Ports Postpone Container Dwell Fee Indefinitely

Los Angeles and Long Beach Ports Postpone Container Dwell Fee Indefinitely

The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have once again delayed the implementation of container demurrage fees, highlighting the complexities of port congestion. Although not yet enforced, the threat of these fees has had a deterrent effect. The ports are actively working to alleviate congestion through measures such as extended operating hours and encouraging the use of nighttime gates. Addressing port congestion requires a multifaceted approach, including strengthening infrastructure, optimizing operational processes, and fostering international collaboration. This comprehensive strategy aims to improve efficiency and reduce bottlenecks in the supply chain.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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