Freight Forwarders Guide to Decoding Global Shipping Costs

Freight Forwarders Guide to Decoding Global Shipping Costs

International sea freight costs consist of basic freight, surcharges, and other fees. Basic freight is calculated based on cargo size and distance. Surcharges, including port, fuel, currency adjustment, and peak season surcharges, fluctuate with the market. Other fees cover insurance, customs clearance, and quarantine. Savvy freight forwarders need to understand the cost structure to choose the appropriate solution and control logistics costs effectively.

01/16/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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WCO Adopts Resolution to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

WCO Adopts Resolution to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

World Customs Organization (WCO) resolutions aim to strengthen customs-industry cooperation and enhance global supply chain resilience in response to global challenges. By reinforcing resilience awareness, innovating collaborative models, and optimizing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, these resolutions seek to build a safer and more efficient global trade environment. The goal is to promote international trade facilitation and economic prosperity by fostering greater collaboration and preparedness within the supply chain ecosystem. This includes addressing vulnerabilities and ensuring business continuity in the face of disruptions.

01/16/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global SAF Registry Launched to Accelerate Aviation Decarbonization

Global SAF Registry Launched to Accelerate Aviation Decarbonization

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has established the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO) to manage a global Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) registry system. This initiative aims to create a transparent and efficient SAF market by connecting supply and demand, tracking environmental benefits, reducing costs, and accelerating SAF adoption. CADO membership is open to all stakeholders, encouraging broad participation to collectively advance the aviation industry's sustainable development. The registry will be crucial for ensuring the credibility and scalability of SAF usage within the sector.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Walmart Expands Microfulfillment Centers to Boost Retail Automation

Walmart Expands Microfulfillment Centers to Boost Retail Automation

Walmart is accelerating its deployment of automated micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs) to shorten order fulfillment times, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience, leading the industry's development. This strategic move allows Walmart to bring products closer to customers, enabling faster delivery and more efficient operations. The investment in MFCs demonstrates Walmart's commitment to leveraging technology to optimize its supply chain and meet the evolving needs of its customers in the rapidly changing retail landscape. The focus is on improved speed and efficiency in fulfilling online orders.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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USPS Considers Reducing Integrator Discounts to Curb Losses

USPS Considers Reducing Integrator Discounts to Curb Losses

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is adjusting its contracts with package consolidators to optimize operational efficiency and financial performance. This move eliminates discounts for consolidators dropping off packages at postal facilities, focusing on developing its own ground package service. Experts suggest this could lead to increased shipping costs and longer delivery times, potentially benefiting competitors. USPS needs to optimize its network, improve service, and control costs to ensure a successful transition. The adjustment represents a strategic shift in USPS's approach to package delivery.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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FMCSA Revamps SMS to Enhance Trucking Safety Efficiency

FMCSA Revamps SMS to Enhance Trucking Safety Efficiency

The U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has proposed reforms to the Safety Measurement System (SMS). These reforms aim to enhance data-driven safety management and reduce accident rates by reorganizing safety categories, refining violation classifications, and simplifying violation weights. A public comment period has been initiated. The goal is to build a more scientific and equitable evaluation system, promoting improved safety levels and sustainable development within the industry. The proposed changes are intended to lead to more effective safety oversight and ultimately, safer roads for all.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Fedex to Pay 228M in California Contractor Lawsuit

Fedex to Pay 228M in California Contractor Lawsuit

FedEx has agreed to pay $228 million to settle a California lawsuit involving over 2,300 independent contractors who claimed they were misclassified. This settlement stems from a court ruling that FedEx exerted excessive control over its drivers. The move serves as a warning to businesses to value worker rights, reflect on their employment models, and build a fairer business environment. The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the classification of workers and the potential for misclassification to deprive individuals of employee benefits and protections.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Fedex Pays 228M to Settle Contractor Misclassification Claims

Fedex Pays 228M to Settle Contractor Misclassification Claims

FedEx's $228 million settlement over independent contractor classification highlights the legal risks inherent in this business model. Companies should conduct compliance audits, re-evaluate worker classifications, strengthen contract management, and consider alternative models to navigate an increasingly stringent regulatory environment and ensure long-term sustainability. This case underscores the potential for costly labor disputes and the need for proactive measures to mitigate compliance risks associated with independent contractor arrangements.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AI to Transform Freight Payment Systems by 2026

AI to Transform Freight Payment Systems by 2026

The freight payment industry is undergoing profound transformation, driven by AI empowerment, deepened expertise, and global integration. AI enhances audit accuracy, reduces fraud risk, and optimizes transportation spend. Deeper ERP integration, multimodal capabilities, and event-driven digital payments are reshaping freight bill payment, transforming it from a back-office function into a strategic decision-making hub. This provides businesses with improved visibility, control, and global reach, ultimately streamlining processes and optimizing financial performance within the supply chain.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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USPS Tenyear Plan Aims to Revive Struggling Service

USPS Tenyear Plan Aims to Revive Struggling Service

The United States Postal Service (USPS) faces significant financial challenges, with widening losses in the third quarter. Despite overall operating revenue growth, the net loss reached $3.0 billion. Marketing mail rebounded, but shipping and package revenue declined. USPS is actively pursuing a ten-year reform plan aimed at achieving financial sustainability and improving service quality. However, it still faces challenges such as market competition and labor costs. The successful implementation of the reform plan will determine the future of the USPS.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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