West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, with October volumes up 8.9% year-over-year. This growth was fueled by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International containers were a key driver, showing a cumulative increase of 15.2% for the year. Industry experts anticipate strong international freight volumes to continue through the end of the year. Tightening truck capacity is expected to further benefit intermodal transportation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Guide to Efficient Costeffective International Ocean Freight

Guide to Efficient Costeffective International Ocean Freight

This article provides an in-depth analysis of various international shipping methods. It details the characteristics and suitable scenarios of different ocean freight options from four dimensions: cargo loading, transportation routes, service types, and specific cargo attributes. These include FCL, LCL, direct, transshipment, deep-sea, short-sea, port-to-port, door-to-door, breakbulk, and special containers. The aim is to assist businesses in selecting the most appropriate shipping solution for their needs, achieving efficiency and cost reduction.

Used Refrigerated Container Market Prices Trends and Uses

Used Refrigerated Container Market Prices Trends and Uses

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the second-hand refrigerated container market, covering price influencing factors, purchasing strategies, diverse application scenarios, and risk warnings. It serves as a detailed purchasing guide for businesses, helping them achieve cost control and efficiency improvements in the cold chain logistics sector. The analysis aims to provide practical insights for making informed decisions when considering used refrigerated containers, highlighting both the potential benefits and associated risks involved in this market.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Guide to DDU Bills of Lading and Freight Forwarding Explained

Guide to DDU Bills of Lading and Freight Forwarding Explained

This article provides a detailed interpretation of common terms and operational procedures in international trade, including the responsibilities under DDU, the difference between prepaid and collect sea waybills, identification of genuine containers, key considerations for LCL cargo, types of freight forwarders, and the importance of cargo tracking. It aims to offer practical guidance for professionals engaged in international trade. The focus is on providing clear explanations and actionable insights to improve understanding and efficiency in daily operations within the global trade landscape.

Freight Forwarding Strategies for Costefficient Shipping

Freight Forwarding Strategies for Costefficient Shipping

Are you frustrated by the various fees and 'hidden rules' of sea freight forwarders? This article, shared by experienced drivers from the iTractor platform, offers practical advice to help you navigate the complexities. It analyzes common issues like missed loading fees, detention charges, and negative sea freight rates. Furthermore, it provides practical tips such as splitting one container into three customs declarations and identifying overweight containers. Learn how to master sea freight, save money, and improve efficiency with these valuable insights.

Shipping Firms Optimize Customs Schedules Amid Global Trade Shifts

Shipping Firms Optimize Customs Schedules Amid Global Trade Shifts

This article outlines the import and export process for containers, focusing on customs clearance timeliness, import appointment scheduling, and strategies for handling shipping schedule changes. It emphasizes that timely access to accurate information and selecting the right logistics partner are crucial for ensuring smooth import and export of goods. Proactive planning and clear communication are essential to mitigate potential delays and disruptions in the international trade process. Efficient customs procedures and flexible scheduling are key to optimizing supply chain operations.

Freight Forwarders Optimize Weekend Container Releases

Freight Forwarders Optimize Weekend Container Releases

This article focuses on the issue of container release by freight forwarders on weekends. It details the operating hours and precautions for both on-site manual release and online release. It emphasizes the importance of confirming on-duty arrangements with the release company in advance and avoiding the release of special containers on weekends. The aim is to help foreign trade enterprises and freight forwarding companies mitigate risks and improve efficiency by providing practical guidance on navigating weekend container release procedures.

Flexitanks Gain Popularity in Liquid Bulk Shipping for Cost Efficiency

Flexitanks Gain Popularity in Liquid Bulk Shipping for Cost Efficiency

Flexitanks, a novel soft packaging solution for non-hazardous liquid cargo, are revolutionizing ocean freight. Compared to traditional packaging methods, flexitanks offer significant advantages in cost control and operational convenience. Widely used in food, industrial, and chemical sectors, they help foreign trade enterprises reduce costs and increase efficiency. Their ease of installation and maximized cargo capacity within standard containers make them a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for transporting bulk liquids globally, contributing to streamlined supply chains and enhanced export capabilities.

Guide to Safe Ocean Freight Exports of Hazardous Chemicals

Guide to Safe Ocean Freight Exports of Hazardous Chemicals

This article focuses on the sea freight export of dangerous goods, providing a detailed interpretation of key aspects such as flexitank transportation in containers, dangerous goods declaration, specific requirements of Shanghai Port, and the process of obtaining dangerous goods packaging certificates for lithium batteries. It also offers professional advice for the export of Class 2.3 dangerous goods, helping you avoid risks and efficiently complete sea freight operations. The aim is to provide practical guidance for navigating the complexities of hazardous materials shipping.

Maersk Simplifies VGM Submission for Container Shipping

Maersk Simplifies VGM Submission for Container Shipping

This article provides a detailed guide on declaring Verified Gross Mass (VGM) for containers on the Maersk platform, covering the process, permissions, key considerations, and potential consequences. Accurate VGM declaration is crucial for ensuring maritime safety, avoiding legal liabilities, and preventing financial losses. This guide helps users understand how to conveniently submit VGM through the Maersk platform, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods. It emphasizes the importance of compliance and the steps to take for a smooth VGM submission process.