Guide to FOB Trade Terms and Risk Mitigation in Ocean Freight

Guide to FOB Trade Terms and Risk Mitigation in Ocean Freight

Under FOB (Free On Board) terms, the seller is responsible for costs up to the port of shipment, while the buyer bears the ocean freight and destination port charges. Pay close attention to the division of insurance responsibilities and the transfer of risk to avoid potential trade risks. Understanding these aspects of FOB is crucial for both parties involved in international transactions to ensure clarity and minimize disputes related to costs and liabilities during the shipping process.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Guide to Container Weight Compliance for Shipping Industry

Guide to Container Weight Compliance for Shipping Industry

This article explains the key weight markings on container doors, including gross weight, tare weight, payload, and cubic capacity. It highlights the Shipper's responsibilities under the new VGM regulations, emphasizing the accurate declaration of weight, assuming liability, and timely provision of VGM. Customers are advised to photograph the weight markings during container loading to ensure smooth shipment. This practice helps verify declared weights and avoid potential delays or penalties related to inaccurate weight declarations as mandated by VGM regulations.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Global Freight Firms Warn of Surcharges for Improper Cargo

Global Freight Firms Warn of Surcharges for Improper Cargo

In international freight, exceeding volume limits, under-utilizing volume, and exceeding weight limits are key factors affecting costs. This paper delves into these three issues, providing practical strategies such as advance planning, optimized packing, and the use of specialized containers. These strategies help you to be cost-effective in international freight, avoid extra expenses, and ensure the safe and efficient transportation of goods. By addressing these challenges proactively, businesses can significantly reduce shipping costs and improve overall logistics efficiency.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Alibabas 1688 Overseas Platform Sparks SME Competition Debate

Alibabas 1688 Overseas Platform Sparks SME Competition Debate

Alibaba is launching a new cross-border e-commerce platform, "1688overseas," targeting overseas small and medium-sized B-end buyers. It will operate under a fully managed model, providing services such as logistics and operations. Leveraging its vast domestic supplier resources, the platform promises supply prices lower than Alibaba.com and offers features like AI translation and VR factory inspections. The initial trial operation will focus on blue ocean markets such as Southeast Asia and Central Asia.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Lanzhou South Asia International Freight Train Launches: Opening a New Economic Corridor

Lanzhou South Asia International Freight Train Launches: Opening a New Economic Corridor

On May 11, 2023, Lanzhou launched the 'Lanzhou Line' for international freight rail and road transport to South Asia. This new route tightly connects Lanzhou with South Asian countries, promoting local economic development and enhancing Sino-Nepalese relations. As a vital logistics hub, Lanzhou's strategic advantage under the Belt and Road Initiative is significantly elevated. The market recognition is gradually increasing, and it is expected to bring economic development opportunities to multiple regions in the future.

05/11/2023 Logistics
Read More
Does Express Delivery Belong to Third-party Logistics?

Does Express Delivery Belong to Third-party Logistics?

Express delivery broadly falls under third-party logistics, where courier companies efficiently handle packages using various transport methods, including collection, entry, and delivery. Third-party logistics providers offer specialized services that help businesses focus on their core operations. Although express delivery and logistics are often interconnected, the industry typically distinguishes between the two. Common third-party logistics companies include Debon Logistics and China Railway Express, which assist businesses in enhancing their logistics choices and customer satisfaction.

07/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Sri Lanka Customs Adopts Risk System to Boost Efficiency

Sri Lanka Customs Adopts Risk System to Boost Efficiency

Sri Lanka Customs, under the guidance of the World Customs Organization, held a seminar to enhance risk management capabilities, optimize the customs examination system, and strengthen intelligence analysis and resource allocation. The seminar aimed to improve efficiency and effectiveness in identifying and mitigating potential risks, streamlining inspection processes, and leveraging intelligence for informed decision-making. This initiative reflects Sri Lanka's commitment to modernizing its customs operations and aligning with international best practices in border security and trade facilitation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Madagascar Customs Boosts Valuation Skills Via WCO Support

Madagascar Customs Boosts Valuation Skills Via WCO Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted an online workshop to enhance Madagascar Customs' valuation capabilities, covering valuation principles, Incoterms, the transaction value method, used vehicle valuation, and combating under-invoicing. Madagascar Customs officials actively participated, significantly improving their valuation skills. WCO experts commended their efforts and recommended strengthening valuation database development, enhancing risk management, fostering international cooperation, and continuing capacity building initiatives. This initiative aims to improve revenue collection and ensure fair trade practices in Madagascar.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
European Aviation Struggles Amid Market Challenges IATA Report

European Aviation Struggles Amid Market Challenges IATA Report

This article delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the European aviation industry. Through IATA's analysis of 15 key markets, it reveals the challenges and opportunities facing national aviation sectors. The article emphasizes the need for airlines to be flexible, innovative, and collaborative. It highlights the importance of working together under IATA's leadership to achieve sustainable development and revitalize the European aviation industry. Airlines must adapt and innovate to thrive in the post-pandemic environment.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Guide to HS Code 56 Textile Tariffs and Compliance Rules

Guide to HS Code 56 Textile Tariffs and Compliance Rules

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of textile wadding, felt, nonwovens, and special yarns under HS Code 56, detailing the composition and classification rules for each category. It emphasizes the importance of accurate classification for tariff optimization and compliance, offering practical classification suggestions to help businesses navigate international trade. Proper HS code classification is crucial for determining applicable tariffs and ensuring adherence to import/export regulations. This study aims to provide clarity and guidance in this complex area.

12/30/2025 HS Code Query
Read More