Bill of Lading Key to Global Trade Transactions

Bill of Lading Key to Global Trade Transactions

The original bill of lading is a crucial document of title in international trade, issued by the shipping company to evidence the contract of carriage and ownership of goods at sea. The holder of the original bill of lading has control over the goods. While telex release bills of lading offer a slightly different functionality, a correct understanding and proper use of the original bill of lading is essential to protect the interests of both trading parties. It serves as a receipt for the goods, a contract of carriage, and a document of title.

08/21/2025 Document Interpretation
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China Tightens Wildlife Trade Rules to Boost Conservation

China Tightens Wildlife Trade Rules to Boost Conservation

The Endangered Species Import and Export Management Office of the People's Republic of China, in conjunction with the General Administration of Customs, has issued an announcement updating the 'Import and Export Commodity Catalogue of Wild Fauna and Flora Species'. This aims to strengthen the supervision of wild fauna and flora import and export, ensuring international trade complies with relevant conventions. Enterprises and individuals are required to carefully review the latest catalogue, abide by laws and regulations, and jointly maintain biodiversity.

08/21/2025 Customs Knowledge
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China Streamlines Temporary Trade Clearance with Security Deposits

China Streamlines Temporary Trade Clearance with Security Deposits

This document outlines the key points for preparing a confirmation application for bonded goods under temporary import/export regulations. It covers clarifying the purpose of the application, accurately completing the application form, and preparing the necessary supporting documents. A downloadable application form template is provided, along with recommendations for related customs clearance and inspection services. This aims to simplify the application process for businesses involved in temporary import/export activities requiring surety bonds.

08/21/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to FOB Trade Managing Freight and Risk

Guide to FOB Trade Managing Freight and Risk

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the operational procedures for nominated cargo under FOB trade terms, emphasizing the importance of information communication and instruction execution. It details potential risks such as release of goods without original Bill of Lading and cost settlement issues, along with corresponding mitigation strategies. The article also compares and contrasts the differences and applications of HBL, MBL, and OBL, offering comprehensive operational guidance and risk prevention advice for export companies. This aims to help exporters navigate the complexities of FOB shipments and minimize potential losses.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shipping Delays Holiday Customs Closures Disrupt Global Trade

Shipping Delays Holiday Customs Closures Disrupt Global Trade

This article discusses cargo delays caused by a ship collision and the subsequent transshipment arrangements. It also explains the impact of the 2017 Qingming Festival holiday schedule of Shanghai Customs on import and export businesses. Furthermore, it mentions the new industry regulation requiring freight forwarders to provide NVOCC numbers by KMTC. The collision significantly disrupted shipping schedules, while the holiday affected customs clearance efficiency. The NVOCC requirement adds a layer of compliance for freight forwarders operating in the region.

08/23/2025 Logistics
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New Customs Rules Simplify Trade Compliance for Businesses

New Customs Rules Simplify Trade Compliance for Businesses

To standardize customs declaration practices, the General Administration of Customs and the China Customs Brokers Association will promote a standardized paper format for the Power of Attorney for Customs Declaration. The new regulations emphasize the 'reasonable review' obligation of customs brokers and standardize customs declaration form filling, aiming to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce corporate risks, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises. Companies should understand the new regulations in advance and prepare for compliance.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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