The U.S. has strengthened the customs clearance review for FBA shipments under the 321 Act. Certain packages that meet specific criteria will no longer qualify for the $800 tax exemption, posing a risk of being returned. Merchants need to prepay duties in advance and understand the new customs requirements to ensure smooth entry of their goods.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the differences between House Bill of Lading (HBL) and Master Bill of Lading (MBL), offering a practical guide to avoid pitfalls in LCL consolidation operations. It covers key distinctions such as cargo ownership, payment methods, and header signatures. Through real-world case studies, the article provides solutions to common issues like container leasing, customs declaration, port entry, and container drop-off. The aim is to help shippers and freight forwarders mitigate risks and successfully complete international cargo transportation.
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.
This article focuses on ten key precautions for liner agents to consider when releasing goods at the destination port. It emphasizes the importance of the original Bill of Lading (B/L) and proposes risk prevention measures for situations such as B/L discrepancies, unclear authorizations, and mismatched information. The aim is to help practitioners enhance their risk awareness and ensure smooth business operations. By highlighting potential pitfalls and offering practical solutions, this paper provides valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of cargo release in liner agency services.
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.
China is actively involved in restarting the South American Transcontinental Railway project, aiming to connect Brazil and Peru and establish a new international transport route directly to Asia. This project will shorten transportation times, reduce costs, and enhance South America's competitiveness in the global market. Visits by Chinese delegations and the opening of the Port of Chancay have laid a solid foundation for the project's advancement, potentially becoming another model of China-Latin America cooperation. The railway promises significant economic benefits and strengthened ties between the regions.
A looming railway strike in Canada has prompted industry organizations to urge labor and management to reach an agreement quickly, preventing further disruption to the supply chain. The Port of Vancouver, retailers, and the grain and feed industries have all expressed concerns that a strike would severely impact cargo transportation, exacerbate supply chain tensions, and even called for government intervention to maintain economic stability. The potential strike threatens to significantly hinder the movement of goods and negatively affect various sectors of the Canadian economy.
The US government has issued an executive order aimed at suppressing Chinese shipping and revitalizing the US shipbuilding industry through measures such as levying port docking fees and strengthening fee collection. Whether this move will be effective and what impact it will have on the global maritime landscape remains to be seen. The policy's potential consequences for international trade and competition in the shipbuilding sector are significant and warrant close observation.
In an interview, AlixPartners' Marc Iampieri delves into critical factors impacting the freight logistics industry, including peak season challenges, last-mile delivery investigations, port labor issues, interest rate fluctuations, freight rates, and tariffs. He emphasizes the need for companies to closely monitor market dynamics, flexibly adjust strategies, and continuously innovate to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Adaptability and a proactive approach are crucial for success in this evolving landscape.
This article provides a detailed analysis of the maritime declaration process for dangerous goods sea freight exports. It clarifies the differences between cargo declaration and vessel declaration, outlines the specific steps of cargo declaration, emphasizes the importance of cut-off declaration for dangerous goods, and details the necessary documentation. Furthermore, it explains the connection between dangerous goods declaration and port customs clearance. The aim is to help businesses understand the critical aspects of dangerous goods sea freight exports, mitigate risks, and ensure the safe and compliant transportation of goods.
