Shipping Companies Face FMC Investigation Over Risk of Penalties for Urging Return of Empty Containers or Refusing Export Services

Shipping Companies Face FMC Investigation Over Risk of Penalties for Urging Return of Empty Containers or Refusing Export Services

Due to labor shortages caused by the pandemic, ports in Southern California are severely congested. Shipping companies are eager to send empty containers back to Asia, potentially neglecting services for U.S. exporters. If the charges against the carriers are confirmed, the Federal Maritime Commission will impose fines, emphasizing the responsibility of the shipping industry to comply with laws and regulations.

07/23/2025 Logistics
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Understanding Port Congestion Surcharges: Detailed Analysis and Latest Insights

Understanding Port Congestion Surcharges: Detailed Analysis and Latest Insights

This article explores the concept of Port Congestion Surcharge (PCS) and its impact on logistics costs, analyzing the detailed PCS charges of major shipping companies at various destination ports. This information aids shippers in formulating a reasonable logistics budget and minimizing potential losses. Moreover, the PCS fees vary depending on the port and congestion conditions, necessitating attention to updates from shipping companies.

07/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Understanding Sea Freight Full Container Load Costs: Port Fees and Quotation Analysis

Understanding Sea Freight Full Container Load Costs: Port Fees and Quotation Analysis

The costs of full container load (FCL) shipping include not only the ocean freight but also various local charges, such as port dues, security fees, manifest fees, and seal fees. These costs can vary depending on the port, shipping lines, and freight forwarders. Understanding the standards and calculation methods for these fees can help businesses better manage their budgets during international cargo transportation.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Forwarders Adopt New Strategies to Secure Timely Payments

Freight Forwarders Adopt New Strategies to Secure Timely Payments

In the competitive transportation market, freight forwarders need to pay attention to the risks of prepaid freight clauses, the rights of bill of lading holders, and the identity of the actual freight payers when collecting freight charges. By establishing reasonable contractual agreements and selecting reputable charterers, freight forwarders can effectively protect their interests, ensure timely collection of freight, and reduce economic risks.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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TACT Manual Standardizes Global Air Cargo Operations Amid Trade Growth

TACT Manual Standardizes Global Air Cargo Operations Amid Trade Growth

The TACT (The Air Cargo Tariff) is an air freight rate manual published by the International Air Transport Association. It addresses inconsistencies in airline rate manuals that emerged in the 1970s. TACT consists of three parts: TACT Rules, North American rates, and global rates. It covers carrier rules, charges, rates, and special provisions, providing standardized references for international freight, thereby enhancing industry efficiency.

07/28/2025 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 Shipping Firms Adapt to Stricter Wood Packaging Rules

Global Shipping Firms Adapt to Stricter Wood Packaging Rules

Fumigation is not always mandatory for wood packaging in international shipping. It depends on the material, importing country's regulations, and cargo characteristics. Natural solid wood requires pest control treatment and IPPC marking, while engineered wood is often exempt. Countries like the US, EU, Canada, Australia, and Japan have strict requirements, and non-compliance can lead to detention. This article details IPPC marking specifications and pest control methods to help your goods move smoothly worldwide. Understanding these regulations is crucial for avoiding delays and ensuring compliance with international standards.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Ustrs New Fees on Chinese Ships Stir Trade Tensions

Ustrs New Fees on Chinese Ships Stir Trade Tensions

The USTR announced a new fee policy for Chinese shipping starting in 2025, which includes charges based on the number of voyages to the U.S. and operational restrictions, aimed at addressing unfair trade practices. This policy revision is more moderate compared to the original version but will still impact the shipping market, and the varying fees faced by different carriers may lead to shifts in market dynamics.

08/06/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Forwarding Experts Address Customs and LCL Challenges

Freight Forwarding Experts Address Customs and LCL Challenges

Freight forwarding expert VICTOR addresses practical challenges in freight forwarding, such as LCL tax refunds, manifest modifications, and overbooking/cargo rejection. He emphasizes the importance of customs declaration number allocation and provides professional advice on customs transit, demurrage charges, and invoice issuance to help freight forwarding companies mitigate risks. The discussion covers various aspects of LCL operations and offers solutions to common issues encountered in the industry.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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ABN AMRO Bank Enhances Secure Global Payments Via SWIFT

ABN AMRO Bank Enhances Secure Global Payments Via SWIFT

This article provides an in-depth analysis of ABN AMRO Bank's SWIFT code (ABNANL2ACOL), detailing its structure, importance, and correct usage. It addresses frequently asked questions to help readers conduct cross-border payments safely and efficiently, avoiding potential errors in fund transfers or incurring extra charges. The goal is to provide clarity and practical guidance for using the ABN AMRO SWIFT code effectively for international transactions.

09/03/2025 International Settlement
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