Although the trans-Pacific ocean freight container rates are on a downward trend, they remain approximately $1,000/FEU higher compared to the same period last year. The calm period after the Spring Festival has led to a price decline, and it is expected that as service models return to normal, contract rates will decrease.
This article explores the key differences between booking spaces for general cargo and dangerous goods in ocean freight exports, highlighting the varying documentation requirements and port entry processes. General cargo requires a shipping order and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), while dangerous goods must provide a Hazardous Cargo Declaration and undergo hazardous goods declaration.
This article explains the concepts of "Space Release" and "Container Release" in international freight forwarding. It clarifies the differences and connections between them in terms of definition, prerequisites, results, and subsequent operations. The aim is to help readers clearly understand the ocean freight process, avoid operational confusion, and ensure the smooth shipment of goods. It details the nuances involved in securing space on a vessel and obtaining the physical container, highlighting the importance of understanding these steps for efficient international shipping.
The LSS (Low Sulfur Surcharge) was introduced in 2015 due to international environmental regulations mandating vessels to reduce emissions in specific areas. The increased cost of using low sulfur fuel has led shipping companies to implement this new fee. Different freight forwarders may quote LSS fees differently, so shippers should clarify this when requesting quotes. Additionally, the LSS surcharge is generally considered part of the ocean freight costs, with varying responsibilities for shippers depending on the terms of the contract.
Tariff reductions between the US and China in 2025 present opportunities for foreign trade, but soaring ocean freight rates pose a significant challenge. This paper analyzes the reasons behind the freight rate hikes and provides strategic recommendations for foreign trade enterprises to cope with the difficulties. These recommendations include optimizing logistics strategies, implementing cost control and effective customer communication, and establishing long-term planning. By adopting these strategies, businesses can seize opportunities, mitigate risks, and navigate the current challenging environment.
The Canada international shipping hotline provides comprehensive international ocean freight solutions, including container, bulk cargo, Ro-Ro, and special cargo transport. Leveraging a global network of routes, a professional team, and technology, we offer efficient, transparent, and reliable sea freight services to help businesses optimize global logistics. We provide tailored solutions to meet specific shipping needs, ensuring smooth and cost-effective transportation of goods to and from Canada. Contact us today to learn more about how we can streamline your international shipping operations.
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.
In 2025, the international air freight market reveals a structural divergence in capacity, with a stark contrast between surplus bellyhold capacity on passenger planes and a shortage of dedicated freighters. Regional freight rates are highly volatile, with prices soaring from Southeast Asia to Europe while decreasing on the trans-Pacific routes. Companies need to leverage data analytics to optimize their shipping routes and tackle these challenges.
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.
This article addresses common issues in freight forwarding practice, including non-vessel operating certificates, customs declaration cancellation, ocean bills of lading, and Shenzhen port charges. It emphasizes the timeliness of applying for certificates of origin and provides detailed explanations of the calculation methods for various fees. The aim is to offer practical reference for foreign trade practitioners.
