Guide to Key International Shipping Surcharges THC BAF CAF

Guide to Key International Shipping Surcharges THC BAF CAF

This article provides an in-depth analysis of common surcharges in international ocean freight, focusing on three key fees: THC (Terminal Handling Charge), BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor), and CAF (Currency Adjustment Factor). It examines the characteristics of these surcharges and offers strategies for dealing with them. The aim is to help cargo owners better understand the composition of ocean freight costs and effectively control transportation expenses. Understanding these surcharges is crucial for accurate budgeting and cost management in international trade.

01/29/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Smallbatch Ecommerce Firms Weigh Express Vs Dedicated Shipping Costs

Smallbatch Ecommerce Firms Weigh Express Vs Dedicated Shipping Costs

Choosing between international express and dedicated lines for small-batch cross-border e-commerce shipments? This article delves into the advantages and disadvantages of both options. It provides a selection guide based on delivery time, cargo value, type, and target market, helping you maximize cost-effectiveness. Discover flexible strategies to cater to diverse market needs and tailor the optimal solution. Learn how to make informed decisions for your international shipping, balancing speed, cost, and reliability to achieve the best results for your business.

01/29/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Target Overhauls Supply Chain for Smallstore Efficiency

Target Overhauls Supply Chain for Smallstore Efficiency

Target is testing new delivery strategies to shorten replenishment cycles and reduce in-store inventory, particularly in its smaller format stores. Through initiatives like piloting “flow centers,” upgrading warehouse management systems, and acquiring Shipt, Target is reshaping its supply chain. This aims to address e-commerce competition and enhance the competitiveness of its small store strategy. The focus is on optimizing the supply chain to ensure efficient and timely delivery of goods to these smaller locations, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Retailers Face 260B Returns Challenge Amid Logistics Strain

Retailers Face 260B Returns Challenge Amid Logistics Strain

The retail industry grapples with reverse logistics costs reaching $260 billion. This paper analyzes the challenges and optimization strategies for reverse logistics. Drawing on successful experiences from retail giants and the automotive industry, it proposes transforming reverse logistics from a cost center into a profit center through data-driven approaches, lean management, and technological empowerment. This transformation aims to reshape the future of retail by optimizing the returns process and unlocking value from returned goods, ultimately boosting profitability and enhancing customer satisfaction.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Market Decline Stabilizes As Volumes Ease

US Freight Market Decline Stabilizes As Volumes Ease

The Bank of America Freight Payment Index indicates a continued decline in the US freight market, although the rate of decrease is slowing, potentially signaling a bottoming out. Key influencing factors include shifts in consumer spending patterns, macroeconomic headwinds, and internal industry competition. The Western region demonstrates relative stability. The report advises businesses to closely monitor market dynamics, adjust strategies, and prepare for future opportunities. The narrowing decline suggests a possible turning point, but vigilance remains crucial in navigating the evolving landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Logistics Evolves with Lastmile Delivery Focus

Ecommerce Logistics Evolves with Lastmile Delivery Focus

Rick Watson, founder of RMW Consulting, provides an in-depth analysis of e-commerce logistics. He examines supply chain challenges, the competition between UPS, FedEx, and Amazon, parcel rates and pricing, last-mile delivery innovations, and peak season logistics strategies. This analysis offers e-commerce businesses practical solutions to navigate the complexities of modern e-commerce fulfillment and optimize their logistics operations for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. He highlights key areas for improvement and adaptation in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ottawa Logistics Surges 190 Amid Ecommerce Boom

Ottawa Logistics Surges 190 Amid Ecommerce Boom

Ottawa Logistics successfully transitioned from traditional warehousing to e-commerce logistics by embracing e-commerce strategies, optimizing operational processes, and collaborating with technology experts. This resulted in a nearly 190% increase in e-commerce orders within a year. Their experience demonstrates that traditional 3PL companies can succeed in the e-commerce logistics market through lean operations, packaging optimization, and technology enablement. This transformation highlights the importance of adapting to the evolving demands of the e-commerce landscape for sustained growth and competitiveness.

01/28/2026 Warehousing
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Ottawa Logistics Booms 200 with Ecommerce Shift

Ottawa Logistics Booms 200 with Ecommerce Shift

Ottawa Logistics successfully transformed into e-commerce logistics by optimizing picking and packing processes, reducing order errors, and collaborating with technology experts, resulting in a nearly 190% increase in order volume within a year. This article shares their transformation experience and announces a webinar to delve deeper into e-commerce logistics strategies and methods, helping businesses optimize warehousing costs and win in the supply chain. Learn how they streamlined operations and leveraged technology to achieve significant growth in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

01/28/2026 Warehousing
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Truckload Carriage Gains Momentum in Freight Industry

Truckload Carriage Gains Momentum in Freight Industry

Dedicated transportation is rapidly emerging as a new growth area in the trucking industry. It offers significant benefits to businesses by guaranteeing capacity, stabilizing demand, optimizing costs, and fostering long-term partnerships. Factors such as stricter regulations, driver shortages, and economic recovery are driving its development. The future trends include intelligent solutions, customized services, and platform integration. Businesses should fully understand the characteristics and risks of dedicated transportation and develop appropriate strategies to improve supply chain efficiency and reduce transportation costs.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Fourkites Glenn Koepke Forecasts Key Logistics Trends

Fourkites Glenn Koepke Forecasts Key Logistics Trends

In an interview, FourKites expert Glenn Koepke delved into current logistics trends and future directions. He emphasized the importance of end-to-end visibility, collaborative partnerships, and data-driven decision-making. Koepke also outlined strategies for building resilient supply chains. FourKites is committed to providing leading logistics technology and solutions to help businesses navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and secure future success. The focus is on providing the tools and insights needed to optimize supply chain performance and adapt to the evolving landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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