Six Practical Tips for Mastering Less Than Container Load Shipping

Six Practical Tips for Mastering Less Than Container Load Shipping

This article shares six key tips for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping, including understanding the English terminology for LCL, being attentive to shipping terms during client negotiations, ensuring accurate cargo billing, being mindful of minimum charge issues, and offering advice on remote port and inland delivery. These tips aim to enhance the operational efficiency and responsiveness of practitioners in the LCL shipping process.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Container Imports Rise Briefly Amid Trade Shifts Longterm Worries

US Container Imports Rise Briefly Amid Trade Shifts Longterm Worries

U.S. container imports rebounded slightly in June, but long-term concerns persist. The share of imports from China decreased, while imports from Southeast Asia increased, indicating a trend towards diversified sourcing. West Coast ports recovered, while the East Coast's share declined, suggesting a rebalancing of trade flows. Changes in trade policies and geopolitical risks are driving companies to enhance supply chain resilience. The shift highlights a strategic move to mitigate risks and ensure stability in the face of global uncertainties, ultimately reshaping international trade dynamics.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Rise in June As Chinas Share Dips

US Container Imports Rise in June As Chinas Share Dips

A Descartes report indicates a slight month-over-month increase but a year-over-year decrease in US container imports for June. China's share continues to decline. Key factors include trade policy adjustments, supply chain diversification, and evolving port dynamics. Southeast Asian countries are gaining prominence, while West Coast ports are rebounding. US importers need to adapt to these shifts and adjust their supply chain strategies accordingly.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Rise in June As Trade Patterns Shift

US Container Imports Rise in June As Trade Patterns Shift

A Descartes report indicates that U.S. container imports increased by 1.8% month-over-month in June, but decreased by 3.5% year-over-year. Ongoing adjustments to trade policy with China continue to impact imports, with China's share reaching a four-year low, signaling accelerated supply chain diversification. West Coast ports are showing a strong rebound, indicating a rebalancing of trade flows. These shifts suggest evolving dynamics in global trade patterns and the increasing importance of alternative sourcing strategies.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Forward Air Acquires Chickasaw Container Services to Boost Intermodal Reach

Forward Air Acquires Chickasaw Container Services to Boost Intermodal Reach

Forward Air's acquisition of Chickasaw Container Services aims to expand its intermodal operations in the Mobile market and solidify its position in Memphis. This move highlights the growing importance of intermodal transportation as a key growth area in the logistics industry, foreshadowing accelerated industry consolidation, digitalization, green initiatives, and collaborative trends. Forward Air's strategic deployment warrants attention. The acquisition strengthens Forward Air's network and service offerings, positioning them for further growth in the competitive logistics landscape. This acquisition is a strategic move to capture a larger share of the intermodal market.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Jump in February Easing Supply Chain Strains

US Container Imports Jump in February Easing Supply Chain Strains

A Panjiva report indicates a 6.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. container imports for February, but a 5.5% decrease compared to January. Energy imports surged while IT imports declined. Experts note a record high for a single day in February, but the full-year trend remains uncertain. Inflation, geopolitical factors, and changing consumer behavior could influence future demand, requiring flexibility from the shipping industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Hit Record High As Supply Chains Improve

US Container Imports Hit Record High As Supply Chains Improve

US import data for February presents a mixed picture: a month-over-month decrease but a year-over-year increase in total volume. Record container throughput suggests easing supply chain bottlenecks. Energy imports surged, while consumer goods and industrial equipment imports rose. Raw materials and IT product imports declined. Looking ahead, challenges include inflation and geopolitical risks, but opportunities exist in economic recovery and infrastructure investment. Businesses and individuals should monitor data closely to capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Michigans Monroe Port to Transform Great Lakes Shipping

Michigans Monroe Port to Transform Great Lakes Shipping

Monroe Port in Michigan will launch its first international container terminal compliant with the Safe Port Act in 2026, breaking a long-standing bottleneck in container transportation. The new terminal will provide convenient services for export and import businesses, promote regional economic development, and achieve efficient and cost-effective container shipping.

08/07/2025 Logistics
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Distinguishing Between Free Demurrage and Free Detention

Distinguishing Between Free Demurrage and Free Detention

The concepts of free storage period and free container period are crucial in shipping. The free storage period refers to the timeframe during which containers can be stored at the terminal or yard without charge, while the free container period is the duration that the cargo owner can use the container for free. For imports, the common total of free storage and free container periods is 14 days, while for exports, it is usually 7 days.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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