Global Shipping Costs Explained for Importers and Exporters

Global Shipping Costs Explained for Importers and Exporters

International ocean freight costs consist of basic freight, surcharges, and miscellaneous fees. The calculation of basic freight differs between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments. Ocean freight prices are affected by factors such as cargo type, route ports, seasonal supply and demand, and trade terms. It is recommended to obtain real-time quotes through professional freight forwarders, pay attention to hidden costs, and accurately declare dangerous goods to minimize cost risks.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Exporters Adopt Strategies to Reduce Dead Freight Losses

Exporters Adopt Strategies to Reduce Dead Freight Losses

This article delves into the definition, occurrence scenarios, charging standards, and mitigation strategies of 'Dead Freight' in full container load (FCL) ocean shipping. By analyzing common dead freight situations, it provides practical advice for businesses to avoid or reduce dead freight losses, helping them optimize ocean freight cost management. The analysis covers key factors contributing to dead freight and offers actionable steps for shippers to improve booking accuracy and communication with carriers, ultimately leading to significant cost savings.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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DAT Acquires Convoy to Expand Digital Freight Services

DAT Acquires Convoy to Expand Digital Freight Services

DAT Freight & Analytics has announced the acquisition of Flexport's Convoy digital freight platform. This move will enhance its product offerings by integrating automation and digital freight matching technologies, bringing new development opportunities and value to the industry.

08/06/2025 Logistics
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Guangzhou Debuts Ecommerce Express on Chinaeurope Freight Route

Guangzhou Debuts Ecommerce Express on Chinaeurope Freight Route

The first China-Europe Railway Express e-commerce fast line from Guangzhou has officially launched, with e-commerce goods expected to arrive in Italy within 13 days. This new model effectively enhances the transportation efficiency of cross-border e-commerce and helps meet the demand of the European market.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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MSC Adjusts Megaship Routes Amid Falling Freight Rates

MSC Adjusts Megaship Routes Amid Falling Freight Rates

MSC has announced a strategic redeployment of its Ultra Large Container Vessels, shifting them from the Asia-Europe trade route to the more profitable Mediterranean and West Africa routes in response to declining freight rates. This move not only highlights MSC's adaptability but may also prompt other shipping companies to reconsider their independent operational models.

08/04/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Guangzhoumexico Freight Route Opens to Boost Trade Growth

Guangzhoumexico Freight Route Opens to Boost Trade Growth

The international freight route from Guangzhou to Harbin and then to Mexico has officially opened, operating two flights per week and expected to contribute $9.27 million in import and export value annually. The route features the addition of bonded fuel in Harbin, which saves costs while increasing transport revenues, showcasing efficient logistics services.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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New Freight Model Boosts Chinahong Kong Logistics Efficiency

New Freight Model Boosts Chinahong Kong Logistics Efficiency

For the first time, the mainland and Hong Kong have achieved the 'one document, two declarations' for road consignments, significantly enhancing customs clearance efficiency. Companies only need to input consignment information once to complete declarations in both regions, which notably reduces customs costs and optimizes the business environment.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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