Ecommerce Firms Urged to Select Proper Bills of Lading

Ecommerce Firms Urged to Select Proper Bills of Lading

Cross-border e-commerce sellers should be aware of the risks associated with choosing between ocean bills of lading and forwarder bills of lading. Ocean bills of lading, issued by shipping companies, offer a simpler cargo retrieval process and stronger proof of ownership, suitable for full container load (FCL) shipments. Forwarder bills of lading, issued by freight forwarders, are appropriate for less than container load (LCL) shipments and specific trade terms but carry the risk of destination port agent issues. Selecting the wrong bill of lading can lead to cargo detention and financial loss. Consulting with professional logistics advisors is recommended.

11/03/2025 Document Interpretation
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Uschina Trade War Disrupts Shipping Alters Supply Chains

Uschina Trade War Disrupts Shipping Alters Supply Chains

Escalating US-China trade tensions have led some international brands to suspend ocean freight from China to the US. The Port of Los Angeles is experiencing a surge in canceled sailings, posing difficult choices for businesses. While short-term freight volume data remains acceptable, a decline is anticipated in the second half of the year. The trade friction may trigger a reshaping of supply chains, requiring businesses to proactively address challenges and seize opportunities. Companies must adapt to the evolving landscape to maintain competitiveness.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Crossborder Logistics Firms Face Scrutiny Over Blacklist Risks

Crossborder Logistics Firms Face Scrutiny Over Blacklist Risks

A cross-border logistics "blacklist" exposes industry malpractices, including tax compliance risks, channel fraud, and poor service quality. Sellers should enhance risk awareness by selecting reputable freight forwarders, signing detailed contracts, and tracking shipments throughout the process. Utilizing data analysis to optimize logistics choices is also crucial. By taking these precautions, sellers can effectively avoid risks and safeguard their own interests in the complex landscape of international shipping.

01/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ELD Mandate Helps Shippers Turn Compliance into Advantage

ELD Mandate Helps Shippers Turn Compliance into Advantage

With the ELD mandate approaching, shippers face challenges like tightening capacity and rising costs, but also opportunities to optimize routes and improve efficiency. Proactive planning, selecting suitable carrier partners, training employees, reviewing contracts, leveraging data, and staying vigilant are crucial for shippers to seize the initiative and turn challenges into opportunities. By embracing these strategies, shippers can navigate the changing landscape and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving freight market.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Asian Shippers Push for Transparent Pricing Fair Practices

Asian Shippers Push for Transparent Pricing Fair Practices

The Asian Shippers' Alliance annual meeting adopted an action plan to address rising ocean freight rates and opaque surcharges. The plan includes appeals to the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Organization, advocating for simplified freight rates and reasonable surcharges. It also supports supply chain security measures and urges Asian countries to develop pro-competitive maritime regulations to protect shipper rights. The alliance aims to ensure fee transparency and fair treatment for shippers in the face of increasing costs and complex fee structures in the maritime industry.

09/26/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Lithium Battery Export Certification Requirements for Sea Freight

Lithium Battery Export Certification Requirements for Sea Freight

Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods (Class 9), and their ocean export requires adherence to specific procedures, including the provision of a Dangerous Goods Packing Certificate (DGPC). If the manufacturer cannot provide this certificate, freight forwarding companies can offer solutions. Booking should be prepared 10 days in advance, along with submission of the shipping order, English version of the MSDS, and DGPC.

07/17/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Export Shipping Process for General Cargo Containers in Shanghai Port

Export Shipping Process for General Cargo Containers in Shanghai Port

This article provides a detailed overview of the ocean freight process for general cargo export from Shanghai Port, covering steps such as booking, releasing documents, customs declaration, container loading, port entry, and bill of lading confirmation. It emphasizes important considerations at each stage, including the required documentation for booking, the significance of cutoff times, and the timeliness of bill issuance.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Global Shipping Costs Key Fees and Surcharges Explained

Global Shipping Costs Key Fees and Surcharges Explained

International shipping costs mainly consist of three core components: ocean freight, origin port charges, and destination port charges. Additional surcharges may apply in specific circumstances. This article provides a detailed analysis of the composition, calculation methods, and influencing factors of each cost component. It aims to help businesses better control expenses and optimize their logistics solutions by understanding these costs and their drivers.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Fixture Notes: The Psychological Foundations of Maritime Chartering

Fixture Notes: The Psychological Foundations of Maritime Chartering

A Fixture Note serves as a charter confirmation document commonly used for the final confirmation of charter contracts. Although it is not entirely equivalent to a contract, it is often regarded as one in practice. The Fixture Note primarily includes vessel information, details of the shipowner and charterer, cargo description, loading and unloading ports, freight, deposits, loading and unloading rates, demurrage fees, and other related terms to ensure its legality and enforceability.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Market Stabilizes As Capacity Grows Green Shift Looms

Freight Market Stabilizes As Capacity Grows Green Shift Looms

A recent report suggests that US freight market capacity is expected to ease in the coming year, but rates are projected to remain high. Shippers are focused on strengthening contracts, expanding partnerships, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. They are also actively seeking electric or alternative energy vehicles to reduce emissions. While carriers show strong interest in electric vehicles, large-scale adoption faces challenges. Overall, the industry is confident in its ability to address these challenges.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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