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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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.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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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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Trucking Sector Grows As LTL Struggles Parcel Pricing Holds Firm

Trucking Sector Grows As LTL Struggles Parcel Pricing Holds Firm

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index report reveals emerging signs of recovery in the trucking market, despite persistent overcapacity. Parcel shipping pricing strategies are proving effective, although intense competition for discounts remains. Less-than-truckload (LTL) pricing remains robust but faces competitive pressures. Overall, the report provides valuable market insights and benchmarks for freight companies navigating the current landscape. It highlights the complex interplay of supply, demand, and pricing dynamics across different freight modes, offering a crucial reference point for strategic decision-making.

01/15/2026 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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A New Growth Point for Rail Freight Driving Economic Development and Cost-effective Logistics

A New Growth Point for Rail Freight Driving Economic Development and Cost-effective Logistics

Rail freight has demonstrated significant growth potential in promoting economic development, particularly by improving transportation efficiency, optimizing services, and building modern logistics systems that provide strong support for various businesses. Through in-depth market-oriented reforms, the establishment of green channels, and the promotion of multimodal transport, rail freight has effectively reduced operating costs and contributed to the recovery and development of the national economy.

08/07/2024 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Sentiment Mixed in Q3 TD Cowen Reports

Freight Market Sentiment Mixed in Q3 TD Cowen Reports

The latest TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index reveals a diverging Q3 logistics market: unprecedented parcel discounts, resilient LTL pricing, and weak truckload demand. Anticipated Fed rate cuts are unlikely to immediately impact freight pricing. Holiday season parcel competition will intensify, LTL prices will continue to rise, and a truckload recovery remains distant. The index highlights ongoing complexities in the freight sector, with varying performance across different transportation modes. The parcel sector is facing significant pricing pressure, while LTL demonstrates strength. Truckload continues to struggle with soft demand.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Flexport Expands German Trade Operations for Global Growth

Flexport Expands German Trade Operations for Global Growth

Flexport empowers German trade by simplifying complex logistics through a robust local network, leading technology platform, and expert service team. We automate order management and facilitate supplier collaboration. Optimizing ocean and air freight solutions, we offer efficient customs clearance and trade consulting to help you navigate the global market seamlessly. Let us streamline your supply chain and unlock new opportunities for your business in Germany and beyond.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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