Ecommerce Sellers Face IP Risks US EU Patent Guide

Ecommerce Sellers Face IP Risks US EU Patent Guide

This article provides a practical guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers on searching design patents and trademarks in the US and Europe. It details how to effectively and quickly search for design patent and trademark information in the US and EU markets using tools like WIPO, EUIPO, and TMview, employing keywords, Locarno Classification, and International Classification. This guide helps sellers mitigate infringement risks and ensure smooth business operations.

12/31/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked System to Speed Clearance

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked System to Speed Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assisted Bahamas Customs in establishing an advance ruling system for goods classification, aiming to facilitate trade, reduce clearance delays, and enhance trade predictability. This system will mitigate trade frictions by resolving classification disputes in advance, leading to economic growth and improved international reputation for the Bahamas. The advance ruling system will improve efficiency and transparency, contributing to a more streamlined and predictable trading environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Watch and Clock Manufacturing Industry Overview

Global Watch and Clock Manufacturing Industry Overview

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the classification standards for wristwatches, clocks, and their components, covering key elements such as HS codes, materials, and functions. It aims to offer a clear and comprehensive reference guide for professionals in the field, helping them better understand the complexities of the horology industry. It serves as a resource for accurate classification and efficient trade practices related to watches and clocks.

01/19/2026 HS Code Query
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Mastering HS Code 21069076 Helps Avoid Supply Chain Tariffs

Mastering HS Code 21069076 Helps Avoid Supply Chain Tariffs

Accurate HS code classification is crucial for international trade, impacting compliance, cargo admissibility, and supply chain advantages. Incorrect classification can lead to penalties and delays. Businesses should prioritize HS code accuracy, leveraging tools to calculate tariffs in real-time, optimize supply chain costs, and gain a competitive edge in the market. Proper HS coding ensures smooth customs clearance and avoids costly errors, contributing to overall profitability and efficient global operations.

01/27/2026 HS Code Query
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Global Freight Guide Weight Vs Volume Classifications Explained

Global Freight Guide Weight Vs Volume Classifications Explained

In international freight, the classification of heavy goods, light/bulky goods (also known as chargeable weight), and flat goods significantly impacts shipping costs. This article details these concepts and explains their classification standards based on different transportation modes, including air, sea, and land freight. It also highlights that the actual standards may vary among different companies, requiring specific consultation for accurate assessment. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for optimizing logistics cost management in international trade.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Ethiopia Boosts Trade with WCO Harmonized System Partnership

Ethiopia Boosts Trade with WCO Harmonized System Partnership

The Ethiopian Customs Commission (ECC), in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), enhances the professional capacity of its officers in the Harmonized System (HS). This article emphasizes the importance of commodity classification, shares highlights from the ECC's study visit, and provides references and suggestions for customs and enterprises in other developing countries. The aim is to improve trade competitiveness through strengthened customs expertise and efficient classification practices, ultimately contributing to smoother international trade flows.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Revises Trade Rules for Alcohol Powder Apparel Sets

WCO Revises Trade Rules for Alcohol Powder Apparel Sets

The 56th session of the Harmonized System Committee (HSC) of the World Customs Organization (WCO) released the latest commodity classification decisions, covering goods such as powdered alcohol, two-piece suits, and children's carriers. These decisions aim to provide clearer commodity classification criteria for international trade, reduce trade risks, improve customs clearance efficiency, and lower trade costs. They offer guidance for consistent application of the Harmonized System, facilitating smoother and more predictable global trade flows.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ivory Coast Enhances Customs Training for Advanced Ruling System

Ivory Coast Enhances Customs Training for Advanced Ruling System

Côte d'Ivoire is actively enhancing its customs classification skills in preparation for implementing an advance rulings system, aligning with the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. With support from the EU and Germany, Côte d'Ivoire held a customs classification workshop aimed at developing expertise, improving trade facilitation, and contributing to global trade. The advance rulings system, a key mechanism, will enhance trade predictability, reduce costs, promote compliance, and facilitate Côte d'Ivoire's integration into the global trading system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Judge Overturns 80 Million Penalty in Walmart Truck Driver Lawsuit

Judge Overturns 80 Million Penalty in Walmart Truck Driver Lawsuit

A federal judge dismissed an $80 million penalty against Walmart in a minimum wage lawsuit involving truck drivers. The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding driver classification in the logistics industry, with companies like Amazon and Swift facing similar challenges. The independent contractor model presents both advantages and disadvantages. The industry needs reform, including clear driver classification standards, improved income, better benefits, stronger regulation, and technological innovation, to achieve a fairer balance.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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