Global Logistics Firms Grapple With Rising Demurrage and Detention Costs

Global Logistics Firms Grapple With Rising Demurrage and Detention Costs

This article provides a detailed explanation of demurrage and detention fees in cross-border logistics, including their definitions, causes, and avoidance methods. Demurrage refers to the charges incurred for exceeding the free time allowed for cargo to remain in a port terminal. Detention, on the other hand, is charged for exceeding the free time allowed for the return of shipping containers to the carrier. The article offers practical advice from various perspectives, such as customs clearance preparation, time management, and responsibility allocation, to help importers and exporters reduce logistics costs and improve trade efficiency.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Importers Optimize Ocean Freight from China

US Importers Optimize Ocean Freight from China

This article delves into the factors affecting the shipping time of US dedicated ocean freight consolidation services, including shipping routes, schedules, port efficiency, customs clearance processes, cargo characteristics, and uncontrollable factors. It offers practical strategies for optimizing shipping time, such as selecting appropriate routes and schedules, preparing customs documents in advance, and optimizing cargo packaging. Furthermore, it addresses frequently asked questions about ocean shipping time to help readers better estimate and control cargo transit times. The aim is to provide insights for improved predictability and management of ocean freight timelines.

01/30/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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China Imports Best Practices to Avoid Demurrage Costs

China Imports Best Practices to Avoid Demurrage Costs

This article focuses on how freight forwarders can avoid demurrage charges during import unpacking operations. It provides a detailed analysis of key steps, including obtaining vessel and voyage information, scheduling pickup, handling customs inspections, and adhering to container weight limits. It also highlights special considerations such as unreliable vessel schedules in the Waigaoqiao port area. The aim is to help freight forwarding personnel improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs by providing practical guidance on managing the import unpacking process and minimizing the risk of incurring costly demurrage fees.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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New Container Return Rules Risk Hefty Fines for Importers

New Container Return Rules Risk Hefty Fines for Importers

A new container return rule for shipping containers will take effect on July 7, 2025, mandating that containers be returned to their original pick-up location whenever possible. Non-compliant returns will incur substantial fees, with port returns costing $300 per container and other depots charging up to $1200. This article provides a detailed interpretation of the new regulations, offers practical tips to avoid penalties, and analyzes the impact on shippers, freight forwarders, shipping companies, and container yards. It aims to help stakeholders prepare in advance and avoid unnecessary losses.

07/03/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Mitigating Risks in House Bills of Lading for Global Trade

Guide to Mitigating Risks in House Bills of Lading for Global Trade

This paper addresses the risks faced by foreign trade enterprises and cross-border e-commerce companies when using Forwarder Bills of Lading (HBL), such as forwarder qualifications, destination port agents, and property rights protection. It proposes a systematic risk management strategy, including strict forwarder selection, standardized contract signing, enhanced property rights control, monitoring cargo status, utilizing financial instruments, and establishing emergency plans. The aim is to help companies effectively mitigate HBL risks and ensure trade security. This approach provides a comprehensive framework for managing potential issues associated with HBL usage in international transactions.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Coscos New Route Boosts Chinalatin America Trade

Coscos New Route Boosts Chinalatin America Trade

COSCO SHIPPING Lines launched the WSA5 route, connecting Asia and the west coast of South America. With the Port of Chancay in Peru as its hub, it covers key ports in multiple countries. This route shortens transit times, expands coverage, and optimizes services, promoting the growth of China-Latin America trade, optimizing commodity structure, and improving supply chain efficiency. It represents a crucial step in the construction of the New Asia-Latin America Land-Sea Trade Corridor, contributing to building a strong trading nation and a strong shipping nation.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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Essential Guide to Completing Air Cargo Export Customs Declarations in Beijing

Essential Guide to Completing Air Cargo Export Customs Declarations in Beijing

This article outlines the requirements for filling out the customs declaration form for air export goods from Beijing, including key items such as pre-entry number, export port, filing number, and transportation method. Typically, the owner does not need to worry about dates and numbers, focusing instead on the consistency between the operating unit and the shipping unit, as well as the provision of necessary documents. For trade methods and settlement methods, the owner can fill out according to actual circumstances. The article aims to assist owners in smoothly navigating customs declarations.

07/28/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Chinaus Ocean Freight Express Vs Standard Shipping Options

Chinaus Ocean Freight Express Vs Standard Shipping Options

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the transit time differences between express and standard ocean freight services on the China-US route. It highlights the key distinctions and influencing factors to help businesses make informed decisions balancing speed and cost. The analysis emphasizes the impact of port congestion, weather conditions, and shipping line schedules on transit times. Door-to-door transit time estimates are provided as a reference, assisting businesses in optimizing their cross-border trade strategies. This information empowers companies to choose the most suitable shipping option for their specific needs.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Hainan Tightens Oversight of Zerotariff Goods

Hainan Tightens Oversight of Zerotariff Goods

China's General Administration of Customs has issued new regulations to strengthen the supervision of 'zero-tariff' imported goods in the Hainan Free Trade Port. The new rules stipulate that 'zero-tariff' goods must be imported uniformly by customs-approved duty-free shops and sold in designated areas. Operating units are required to register and equip themselves with information systems to connect with customs, enabling full traceability of goods and verification of resident identity. This aims to ensure the effective implementation of the policy and prevent abuse of the zero-tariff benefits.

02/11/2026 Customs Knowledge
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