GRI (General Rate Increase) is a pricing adjustment mechanism used by ocean shipping companies that must be announced 30 days in advance according to U.S. regulations. The amount and implementation of GRI vary with market changes, significantly impacting transportation costs for businesses. Understanding the GRI mechanism can help companies better manage their shipping expenses.
Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF) is closely linked to international crude oil prices. Brent Crude is a global benchmark, and OPEC production cuts and Iranian sanctions are key factors driving prices up. Businesses should closely monitor crude oil market dynamics, optimize shipping routes, lock in freight rates, and diversify risks to effectively control logistics costs. By understanding these factors and implementing proactive strategies, companies can mitigate the impact of fluctuating fuel prices on their supply chains and maintain profitability.
HTS codes are crucial in the product import process, influencing tariffs and compliance. This article outlines how to find a product's HTS code, including GRI rules, USITC searches, and the importance of customs brokers, as well as methods for applying for final determinations.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of five common ocean freight surcharges: ORC, LLA, HLA, GRI, and EBS. It examines their definitions, scope of application, and calculation methods. The aim is to help shippers understand ocean freight bills, effectively control logistics costs, and suggests maintaining communication with shipping companies or freight forwarders to stay informed about the latest fee standards. Understanding these surcharges is crucial for accurate budgeting and cost management in international trade.
Trade lane cost variations are influenced by supply and demand, General Rate Increases (GRIs), and seasonality. High-demand lanes tend to have lower freight rates, while GRI implementation increases them. Peak Season Surcharges (PSS), Chinese New Year, and port congestion also contribute to freight rate fluctuations. Businesses should leverage data analytics to optimize transportation strategies and reduce logistics costs. Understanding these factors allows for better cost management and improved supply chain efficiency. Proactive planning and data-driven decisions are crucial for navigating the complexities of international trade.
Maersk announced an adjustment to the Equipment Positioning Origin Import (POI) surcharge for intra-Asia imports to Sahathai and TCT terminals, effective May 14, 2021. This surcharge applies to containers exceeding road transport weight limits and opting for barge transportation. Maersk advises customers to accurately calculate cargo weight, plan transportation strategies effectively, and communicate in advance to optimize transportation costs. This adjustment aims to manage equipment repositioning costs associated with heavier cargo requiring barge services within the region.
Maersk announced that starting July 13, 2025, the import operations of its UCLA service will move from the Santos DP World terminal back to the Brazil Terminal (BTP). This move aims to enhance operational efficiency and logistics connectivity, and customers are advised to make arrangements in advance to adapt to the adjustment.
The adjustment of the T86 policy has placed significant tariff pressure on cross-border e-commerce. Air freight logistics from the United States, known for its speed and safety, has gradually become the preferred solution for sellers to cope with new regulations, helping businesses seek new development opportunities in a complex trade environment.
BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor) is a fee established by shipping companies to address fluctuations in fuel prices. By dynamically adjusting this fee, companies can manage cost changes. Combined with the IMO's low-sulfur fuel policy, BAF impacts logistics costs on shipping routes. Flexport has incorporated BAF into its rates to provide clients with a more transparent fee structure and better budget management.
Flexport's ocean timeliness metrics show that transit times from China to the U.S. West Coast remain at 35 days, while the time to Northern Europe has slightly decreased to 61.1 days, and the East Coast has risen to 55.6 days. This data reflects the dynamic changes in global shipping amid the current complex situation, highlighting the need for businesses to prioritize the management and adjustment of transit times.
