Key Differences Between Bills of Lading and Waybills in Global Shipping

Key Differences Between Bills of Lading and Waybills in Global Shipping

Bills of Lading (B/L) and Air Waybills (AWB) are crucial documents in cross-border logistics, but differ significantly in application, legal nature, and function. A B/L is a document of title, primarily used for the international leg of ocean and air freight, transferable, and requires the original for cargo release. An AWB serves as a receipt and proof of the transportation contract, suitable for express delivery, air, land transport, and end-to-end logistics; it's non-transferable and doesn't require the original for pickup. Choosing the correct document is vital for smooth cross-border trade.

02/04/2026 Document Interpretation
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Global Exporters Urged to Master Shipping Cutoff Times

Global Exporters Urged to Master Shipping Cutoff Times

This article provides an in-depth analysis of three key deadlines in international shipping: cut-off time for Shipping Instructions (SI), customs clearance cut-off, and container yard (CY) cut-off. The SI cut-off is the deadline for submitting cargo manifest information. The customs cut-off is the deadline for completing customs clearance and release. The CY cut-off is the final time for containers to enter the terminal yard. The article details the significance, precautions, and strategies for each stage, aiming to help shippers and freight forwarders understand the shipping process, avoid delays, and prevent additional costs.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Amazon FBA Sellers Guide to FCL Vs LCL Shipping

Amazon FBA Sellers Guide to FCL Vs LCL Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the advantages and disadvantages, applicable scenarios, and cost considerations of Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) ocean freight for Amazon FBA first-leg shipping, offering decision-making guidance for cross-border e-commerce sellers. FCL is suitable for large-volume, high-value goods, offering stable transit times but higher entry barriers. LCL is ideal for small to medium-sized shipments, with lower costs but higher risks. Sellers should comprehensively consider shipment volume, cargo type, and cost factors to choose the most suitable option, while paying attention to future trends such as digitalization, customization, and green logistics.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Logistics Sector Faces Rising Costs Tight Capacity LMI Report

Logistics Sector Faces Rising Costs Tight Capacity LMI Report

The latest LMI report indicates continued expansion in the logistics industry, but rising costs, warehousing constraints, and trade policy uncertainty pose challenges. High inventory costs, tight warehouse space, and a weak transportation market are observed. Businesses need to closely monitor market dynamics and flexibly adjust their strategies. Despite overall growth, these factors are creating significant headwinds for logistics operations. Addressing these issues will be crucial for maintaining profitability and efficiency in the current economic climate. Careful planning and adaptive approaches are essential.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Boom Offsets Consumer Spending Worries

US Manufacturing Boom Offsets Consumer Spending Worries

Amidst sluggish consumption, manufacturing is emerging as a key driver of economic recovery. Factors such as global supply chain restructuring, technological innovation and industrial upgrading, and supportive government policies are fueling this resurgence. However, the manufacturing sector faces challenges, requiring increased investment in technological innovation, talent development, diversification of markets, and strengthened supply chain management. While manufacturing is vital, a full economic recovery ultimately hinges on a rebound in consumer spending.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows but Expands in January

US Service Sector Growth Slows but Expands in January

The ISM's January report indicates a slowdown in non-manufacturing activity in the US, but the NMI remains above 50, signaling continued overall expansion. While sub-indexes experienced declines, they remain in growth territory. Sector performance is mixed, and experts hold differing views on the economic outlook. Non-manufacturing is crucial to the US economy, and closely monitoring its performance is essential for understanding the economic pulse. The NMI suggests a moderate pace of expansion despite some softening in key indicators.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Slips in September but Remains Resilient

US Services Sector Slips in September but Remains Resilient

The U.S. ISM Non-Manufacturing NMI decreased slightly to 58.6 in September, according to the Institute for Supply Management. However, it remains well above the expansion threshold, indicating the non-manufacturing sector has experienced growth for 56 consecutive months. Analysis should focus on sub-indices and the macroeconomic context. Businesses should pay attention to structural changes and embrace new technologies to address challenges and seize opportunities. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector remains resilient, with a cautiously optimistic outlook for future development.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing PMI Surges Signaling Rebound

US Manufacturing PMI Surges Signaling Rebound

The latest ISM report shows the manufacturing PMI surged to 52.6, the first expansion in nearly a year, signaling a rebound in manufacturing activity. The overall economy has been growing for 15 consecutive months, with the growth rate accelerating. The recovery in manufacturing is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the overall economy. Businesses should seize the opportunities and actively adjust their strategies to capitalize on this upturn.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Understanding Shanghai Port Shipping Export Container Operations

Understanding Shanghai Port Shipping Export Container Operations

This article explores the operational practices of full container shipping at Shanghai Port, including customs clearance procedures, electronic packing list information, and cargo consolidation arrangements. Customs clearance at Shanghai Port typically occurs after receiving the pre-assigned shipping list, with the electronic packing list facilitating the customs process once the loaded container arrives at the port.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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