Guide to Streamlining Customs Clearance for Trade Businesses

Guide to Streamlining Customs Clearance for Trade Businesses

Customs clearance is a critical step in import and export trade, involving government approvals and permits. This article provides a detailed overview of the definition and process of customs clearance, emphasizing the importance of choosing a professional customs broker. It aims to help you understand the entire clearance process and avoid delays or hold-ups of your goods at customs. By understanding the procedures and regulations, businesses can ensure a smooth and efficient flow of goods across international borders.

11/03/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Maersk Opens Largest Southeast Asia Logistics Hub in Philippines

Maersk Opens Largest Southeast Asia Logistics Hub in Philippines

Maersk has opened its largest distribution center in the Philippines, named 'Optimus.' Covering 100,000 square meters, it aims to be a logistics hub for Southern Luzon. Equipped with advanced technology, the center supports multiple industries and is committed to sustainability. Optimus will enhance the Philippines' import and export operations, fostering local economic growth. This strategic investment by Maersk underscores the Philippines' growing importance in the global supply chain and its potential as a key player in Southeast Asian logistics.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Maersk Adjusts Asia Import Surcharge for Thai Ports

Maersk Adjusts Asia Import Surcharge for Thai Ports

Maersk announced an adjustment to the Equipment Positioning Origin Import (POI) surcharge for intra-Asia imports to Sahathai and TCT terminals, effective May 14, 2021. This surcharge applies to containers exceeding road transport weight limits and opting for barge transportation. Maersk advises customers to accurately calculate cargo weight, plan transportation strategies effectively, and communicate in advance to optimize transportation costs. This adjustment aims to manage equipment repositioning costs associated with heavier cargo requiring barge services within the region.

09/28/2025 Logistics
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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
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Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics Guide for Smes

Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics Guide for Smes

This paper provides an in-depth comparison of two logistics models for small and medium-sized cross-border e-commerce sellers: cross-border logistics agency and self-operated logistics. It analyzes the costs, risks, and benefits of each model in detail. The aim is to help sellers make informed decisions about their logistics model based on their own resources, capabilities, and business needs. This will ultimately improve operational efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and enhance market competitiveness.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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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
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Freight Forwarding Guide Highlights Cost Savings and Pitfalls

Freight Forwarding Guide Highlights Cost Savings and Pitfalls

Based on the author's experience in freight forwarding, this article delves into various costs associated with consolidation, including drop-off fees, pre-entry port fees, Brazilian THC, and surcharges from shipping companies. It provides practical operational advice and tips to avoid common pitfalls in key areas such as customs declaration, cargo entry inquiry, dangerous goods identification, and MBL/HBL telex release. The aim is to help readers effectively control consolidation costs, improve efficiency, and ensure cargo safety throughout the shipping process.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Yiwu Toy Makers Rebound As US Retailers Revive Orders

Yiwu Toy Makers Rebound As US Retailers Revive Orders

Good news for Yiwu toy exporters: Walmart and Target are resuming supplies and absorbing the increased tariff costs. This decision stems from multiple factors, including supply chain stability concerns, the failure to pass on costs, and intense market competition. While uncertainties remain, this development brings a ray of hope to the Yiwu toy industry. The restoration of supply contracts and cost absorption by major retailers like Walmart and Target provides crucial support for Yiwu's toy manufacturers facing international trade challenges.

11/03/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Africa Ecommerce Gains As Customs and Delivery Improve

Africa Ecommerce Gains As Customs and Delivery Improve

Cross-border e-commerce in Africa is booming, but customs clearance efficiency and last-mile delivery costs constrain the development of small package line haul services. This paper analyzes the fragmented customs policies across African countries, as well as the address challenges and dispersed transportation capacity in last-mile delivery. By implementing localized strategies such as digital pre-clearance, hybrid transportation models, and self-pickup point deployment, businesses can potentially reduce costs, improve efficiency, and achieve sustainable development in the African market.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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