Beginners Guide to Containerized Ocean Import Shipping

Beginners Guide to Containerized Ocean Import Shipping

This article provides a detailed overview of the complete process for sea freight container import business. It covers document preparation, exchange orders, customs declaration, inspection and quarantine, three inspections, port charges payment, cargo pickup, and container dispatch and handover. The aim is to help beginners quickly grasp the key operational points of import freight forwarding and trucking.

Zhengou International Freight Train Successfully Completes Import Grain Transportation, Supporting New International Logistics Corridor

Zhengou International Freight Train Successfully Completes Import Grain Transportation, Supporting New International Logistics Corridor

The Zhengzhou Europe Railway Express successfully completed its first imported grain shipment, marking the successful testing of Zhengzhou's designated port for imported grain. A total of 136 tons of wheat were imported from Kazakhstan, showcasing efficient international logistics capabilities. With more batches of grain set for import, Zhengzhou provides significant support for international trade under the Belt and Road Initiative.

12/24/2023 Logistics
Read More
Freight Logistics Data Reveals Key Economic Trends

Freight Logistics Data Reveals Key Economic Trends

This paper delves into the discrepancies between current freight logistics and macroeconomic data, revealing the impact of shifting consumption patterns, optimized inventory management, and supply chain regionalization on freight volume. It emphasizes that focusing solely on freight volume is insufficient. A comprehensive consideration of freight structure, transportation modes, and transport distances is crucial for accurately forecasting market demand, optimizing inventory management, and adjusting production plans. This multi-dimensional approach provides a more nuanced understanding of the freight logistics landscape and its connection to broader economic trends.

US Imports Stay Strong Despite Inflation Geopolitical Strains

US Imports Stay Strong Despite Inflation Geopolitical Strains

Panjiva reports a month-over-month decrease but year-over-year increase in US containerized freight imports for February. The daily import volume reached a record high, indicating supply chain resilience. Imports of energy, consumer goods, and industrial equipment showed varied performance. Inflation and shifting demand may impact future imports, requiring businesses to adapt flexibly. This data highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing US trade and the need for businesses to closely monitor economic trends to navigate the evolving landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

Cass Freight Index Reports October Decline Amid Weak Demand Strikes

The Cass Freight Index report reveals a 9.5% year-over-year decrease in freight volume and a 23.3% year-over-year drop in expenditures for October. Weak demand, compounded by the United Auto Workers strike, contributed to these record lows. Analysts anticipate continued downward pressure on freight volume and rates in the short term. However, the impact of the strike may create the potential for a future rebound in freight activity as production resumes and backlogs are addressed.

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Mixed Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US rail freight carload volume saw a slight increase, while intermodal volume experienced a significant decrease. Carload traffic was driven by commodities like nonmetallic minerals. Intermodal volume was impacted by competition from trucking. Year-to-date cumulative volume showed growth, but the industry continues to face challenges. The increase in carload is not enough to offset the decrease in intermodal, raising concerns about the overall health of the rail freight sector. Further analysis is needed to understand the long-term implications of these trends.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
ATA Forecasts Trucking Industry to Haul 14B Tons by 2035

ATA Forecasts Trucking Industry to Haul 14B Tons by 2035

The American Trucking Associations forecasts significant growth for the trucking industry over the next decade. Freight volume is projected to approach 14 billion tons by 2035, maintaining its dominance in the freight market. The report analyzes trends in freight volume and revenue growth, alongside the development of other transportation modes. It emphasizes the importance of technological innovation and policy attention for the future development of the trucking industry.

US Rail Freight Decline Raises Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Decline Raises Economic Concerns

Recent data reveals a year-over-year decrease in U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, though segmented data indicates varying performance across industries. While cumulative freight volume increased, intermodal volume declined. North American data mirrors the U.S. trend. Rail freight serves as an economic barometer, requiring comprehensive analysis of various factors to assess the economic situation. The rail industry needs innovation and transformation to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Ports Face Strike Threat As Imports Surge

US Ports Face Strike Threat As Imports Surge

A potential strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports threatens to cause a surge in U.S. import volume in August. Retailers are proactively mitigating risks by accelerating shipments and diverting cargo to alternative ports. Reports predict significant import volume growth for the full year 2024. However, risks such as supply chain disruptions and inventory shortages remain. Retailers should closely monitor the situation and take proactive measures to minimize potential losses. Early preparation and diversification are key strategies to navigate the uncertainty.

01/30/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Struggles As Auto Shipments Offset Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Struggles As Auto Shipments Offset Coal Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in the first week of February. However, automobile and parts transportation saw an increase, while coal shipments experienced a significant drop. Year-to-date freight volume showed a slight increase, but intermodal remained weak. North America mirrored the U.S. trend, with a small rise in overall freight volume but a decrease in intermodal transportation. The divergence highlights shifting dynamics within the freight transportation sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More