Guide to Mastering FCL Shipping in International Ocean Freight

Guide to Mastering FCL Shipping in International Ocean Freight

This article provides a detailed analysis of the operational process for international sea freight FCL booking, covering stages such as booking, container pickup, loading, customs declaration, loading onto the vessel, sea transportation, arrival at port, distribution, unloading, container return, and settlement. It offers comprehensive guidance for foreign trade companies, aiming to facilitate smooth and worry-free freight forwarding. The guide aims to demystify the entire FCL shipping process, providing practical insights for businesses involved in international trade.

01/16/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

Descartes' latest report reveals a slight month-over-month increase in US container imports for June, but a year-over-year decline. Imports from China continue to fall, while Southeast Asia is gaining prominence. West Coast ports are regaining market share, with the Port of Los Angeles showing strong performance. The report emphasizes the importance for businesses to monitor policy changes, optimize supply chains, enhance digitalization, strengthen risk management, and embrace innovation to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Rise Unexpectedly in September

US Container Imports Rise Unexpectedly in September

Descartes' latest report reveals a counter-seasonal surge in US container imports for September. The Ports of Long Beach and Tacoma performed strongly, increasing the West Coast's market share. China remains the top exporting country, while Italy experienced a significant decline. Port delays shifted westward. Factors driving this growth include holiday season preparations, consumer demand, supply chain recovery, and trade policies. Shipping companies and ports should closely monitor data and adapt accordingly to navigate the evolving market landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed divergence in the week ending August 7th. Carload traffic increased by 6.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by strong demand for metallic ores and coal. However, intermodal volume decreased by 0.6% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and truck driver shortages. While year-to-date figures remain positive, supply chain challenges and industrial restructuring remain key areas of focus moving forward.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Carload Rises As Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed divergence in the week ending August 14. Carload traffic increased by 5.7% year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and metallic ores. Intermodal traffic decreased by 3% year-over-year, constrained by port congestion and other factors. Year-to-date figures show carload and intermodal traffic up 9% and 14.6% respectively. Railroad companies need to adopt differentiated strategies to address the changing market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Supply Chain Delays Risk Holiday Retail Shortages

Supply Chain Delays Risk Holiday Retail Shortages

Global supply chain pressures persist, potentially leading to a container shortage during the year-end shopping season. Worsening port congestion forces retailers to prepare in advance, yet the 'congestion' remains a significant hurdle. Companies need to plan ahead, diversify transportation methods, optimize inventory, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and embrace digital transformation to effectively address these challenges. The current situation presents significant logistics challenges and requires proactive measures to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure timely delivery of goods.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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California Exports Hold Steady Despite Economic Challenges

California Exports Hold Steady Despite Economic Challenges

California's export trade is showing positive momentum, benefiting from robust demand from key trading partners and increased port throughput. However, uncertainties in US trade policy and misconceptions about the trade deficit with China pose potential risks. California should strengthen cooperation with trading partners, diversify export markets, enhance product competitiveness, and monitor trade policy changes to address challenges and maintain growth momentum. This requires a proactive approach to navigate the evolving global trade landscape and ensure continued economic resilience.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Shipping Guide Cargo Release and Risk Management

Global Shipping Guide Cargo Release and Risk Management

This paper delves into four common methods of cargo release in international ocean freight: Telex Release, Ocean Bill of Lading, Sea Waybill, and Destination Release. It compares and analyzes their advantages, disadvantages, applicable scenarios, and risk levels. The study emphasizes that when selecting a release method, factors such as the trust level between buyer and seller, payment status, cargo value, and time constraints must be comprehensively considered. The goal is to achieve a balance between risk control and efficiency improvement in international logistics operations.

02/05/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Streamlining Nonylphenol Export Compliance

Guide to Streamlining Nonylphenol Export Compliance

This article provides a detailed analysis of the necessary documents, packaging requirements, and precautions for nonylphenol sea freight export, aiming to assist exporters in smoothly completing the customs clearance process. It covers essential documents such as MSDS, dangerous goods packaging certificate, booking form, DG Form, and customs declaration documents, as well as the robustness of packaging and the standardization of labeling. The importance of advance booking and understanding the destination country's import requirements is also emphasized, helping companies avoid risks and achieve the successful export of nonylphenol.

10/08/2024 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Safe Limited Quantity Shipping for Dangerous Goods

Guide to Safe Limited Quantity Shipping for Dangerous Goods

Troubled by the lack of a Dangerous Goods Packing Certificate for exporting hazardous materials? This article unveils the alternative solution of "Limited Quantity Declaration." It details the principles, scope, operational key points, and precautions of limited quantity packaging, helping you smoothly solve the challenges of dangerous goods export. Ensure your cargo reaches its destination safely and compliantly by understanding and utilizing this method. This allows for the export of small quantities of certain hazardous materials without the full requirements of a dangerous goods packing certificate.

03/11/2024 Logistics Encyclopedia
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