Guide to Avoiding Costly Errors in International Shipping Documents

Guide to Avoiding Costly Errors in International Shipping Documents

This article provides a detailed interpretation of key filling points for ocean bills of lading, including shipper, consignee, vessel name, loading and unloading ports, marks and numbers, goods description, gross weight and volume, freight payment, place and date of issue, etc. It offers practical guidance with real-world examples to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure the smooth arrival of your goods. This guide aims to assist in accurately completing the bill of lading, a crucial document in international trade.

08/21/2025 Document Interpretation
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West Coast Port Labor Dispute Sparks Calls for White House Action

West Coast Port Labor Dispute Sparks Calls for White House Action

The labor dispute at US West Coast ports is escalating, prompting trade associations to urge the Biden administration to intervene. The White House is taking a cautious approach, emphasizing negotiated solutions. The retail and manufacturing sectors face the risk of supply chain disruptions, requiring businesses to proactively adjust their strategies. The ongoing situation threatens to further strain global commerce and highlights the vulnerability of international supply networks to localized conflicts. Businesses are exploring alternative shipping routes and diversifying suppliers to mitigate potential impacts.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Beginners Guide to Essential Export Trade Terms

Beginners Guide to Essential Export Trade Terms

This article provides a comprehensive overview of core terminology in foreign trade, covering key aspects such as booking, freight, air freight, ports, and bills of lading. It aims to help newcomers quickly master the industry language, enhance their professional skills, and ultimately work more efficiently. By understanding these terms, individuals can reduce operating costs, mitigate potential risks, and achieve success in the foreign trade sector. This resource is designed to empower individuals to navigate the complexities of international trade with confidence.

12/29/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Ocean Freight Delays Direct Vs Transshipment Routes to US Europe

Ocean Freight Delays Direct Vs Transshipment Routes to US Europe

This paper delves into the transit time differences between direct and transshipment ocean shipping from China to major European and American ports. Providing reference data for December 2025, it reveals influencing factors such as transshipment processes and route selection. Practical recommendations are offered to help businesses optimize logistics plans, reduce costs, and improve supply chain efficiency. The analysis aims to provide insights for selecting the most efficient shipping options based on time sensitivity and cost considerations, ultimately benefiting businesses engaged in international trade.

12/15/2025 Logistics
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Chinas Port Growth Signals Global Trade Rebound

Chinas Port Growth Signals Global Trade Rebound

China's port container throughput surged by 10% year-on-year in Q1 2024, with Shanghai port leading the way. The China-Europe Railway Express and China-Russia railway freight volume also experienced significant growth, reflecting a global trade recovery. Regional imbalances in port development and potential influencing factors warrant attention. This growth highlights the increasing importance of China's ports in facilitating international trade and the effectiveness of initiatives like the China-Europe Railway Express in connecting China with global markets.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Customs Vs National Territory Key for Crossborder Trade

Customs Vs National Territory Key for Crossborder Trade

This paper delves into the distinction between customs territory and national border, emphasizing that the key to defining a customs territory is the “implementation of the same customs law,” and correcting misconceptions about “within the border but outside customs.” It also provides a detailed introduction to the concept and operation of free trade ports, using Singapore and Hong Kong as examples to illustrate the role of free port policies in promoting international trade. Understanding these concepts is crucial for practitioners in cross-border trade.

09/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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