Shipping Industry Adapts to SOLAS VGM Compliance Challenges

Shipping Industry Adapts to SOLAS VGM Compliance Challenges

The SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulation regarding Verified Gross Mass (VGM) of containers presents new challenges for the shipping industry. Based on an interview with the President of INTTRA, this paper explores key issues in VGM compliance and offers strategies for addressing them, including early preparation, IT system optimization, and partner selection. VGM compliance will enhance supply chain transparency, strengthen risk management, accelerate technological innovation, and promote the unification of industry standards. Successfully navigating VGM requirements is crucial for efficient and safe maritime operations.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shipping Costs from Shenzhen to UK Surge Amid Supply Chain Shifts

Shipping Costs from Shenzhen to UK Surge Amid Supply Chain Shifts

This article provides a detailed analysis of shipping costs from Shenzhen to the UK, covering both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options. It examines key factors influencing sea freight charges, including cargo characteristics, shipping terms, shipping market dynamics, and surcharges. The article also touches upon express delivery cost calculation and offers practical strategies for reducing shipping expenses. The aim is to assist businesses and individuals in optimizing their cross-border logistics costs when shipping between Shenzhen and the UK.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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40HQ Containers Real Capacity Falls Short of Theoretical Volume

40HQ Containers Real Capacity Falls Short of Theoretical Volume

This article delves into the actual loading capacity of 40HQ containers, debunking the myth of "theoretical volume." By analyzing crucial factors such as cargo packaging, shape, and weight restrictions, it reveals the real-world influences on loading capacity. Practical packing tips are provided to help readers utilize container space more effectively and avoid potential risks during sea freight. The analysis emphasizes that the practical loading capacity is often less than the theoretical volume due to various constraints, offering valuable insights for optimizing container utilization.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shipping Industry Faces Peak Blank Sailings Amid Demand Uncertainty

Shipping Industry Faces Peak Blank Sailings Amid Demand Uncertainty

A Sea-Intelligence report suggests that the surge in shipping blank sailings may have peaked, but uncertainty remains regarding demand recovery. The article analyzes the impact of blank sailings on capacity and schedule reliability, offering guidance for shippers on how to respond. Facing these challenges, the shipping industry needs to embrace digitalization, and shippers should strengthen supply chain collaboration to jointly navigate the uncertainties. The report emphasizes proactive measures and strategic partnerships as crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring operational resilience in the current volatile market.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO IPPC Align Trade Facilitation with Plant Health Rules

WCO IPPC Align Trade Facilitation with Plant Health Rules

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) have signed a cooperation agreement to enhance plant health protection while facilitating trade, addressing the challenges of plant pest and disease spread in global trade. The collaboration will focus on areas such as electronic phytosanitary certificates, e-commerce, sea containers, single windows, information exchange, and advocacy. The goal is to build a global community for plant health security, ensuring safer and more efficient international trade while safeguarding plant resources from harmful pests and diseases.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Optimizing Full Container Load FCL Shipping

Guide to Optimizing Full Container Load FCL Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the advantages and applicable scenarios of Full Container Load (FCL) shipping, emphasizing its strengths in cargo security, stable transit times, and cost control. By analyzing different container sizes and typical application cases, it helps readers choose the optimal sea freight solution based on their specific needs and improve international trade efficiency. It covers the benefits of FCL over other shipping methods and provides guidance for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain through efficient FCL transport.

01/29/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Rising Costs Delays Challenge Shenzhenus Shipping Routes

Rising Costs Delays Challenge Shenzhenus Shipping Routes

This article analyzes the current situation of the Shenzhen to US ocean freight market, detailing the key factors influencing shipping costs and providing the latest ocean freight rates and schedule references for major ports. It also highlights important considerations during the shipping process and effective ways to inquire about ocean freight costs. The aim is to provide foreign trade enterprises with a comprehensive freight guide, helping them navigate the complexities of sea freight from China to the United States and optimize their shipping strategies.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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US Ocean Freight Costs Key Factors in Container Shipping

US Ocean Freight Costs Key Factors in Container Shipping

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the cost components for shipping containers to the US, including ocean freight, bunker surcharge, and terminal handling charges. It examines key factors influencing shipping time, such as route selection, port congestion, and weather conditions. Furthermore, it proposes strategies for optimizing shipping costs, including advanced planning, selecting appropriate container types, and comparing quotes from different carriers. The aim is to assist businesses in gaining a competitive edge in global trade by effectively managing their sea freight expenses and transit times.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Shenzhendakar Route Boosts Chinaafrica Trade

Shenzhendakar Route Boosts Chinaafrica Trade

Sea freight from Shenzhen to Dakar is a crucial component of China-Africa trade, favored for its relatively reasonable prices and stable transit times. This paper analyzes the price factors, factors influencing transit time, and key considerations for this route. It also explores the significant role this shipping lane will continue to play in future China-Africa trade relations, highlighting its importance for businesses seeking cost-effective and reliable logistics solutions between the two regions. The route offers a vital link for facilitating economic exchange.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Imports West Coast Shift

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Imports West Coast Shift

The National Retail Federation reports a potential surge in August import volume due to retailers front-loading shipments and shifting to the West Coast amid East and Gulf Coast port strike risks. Labor negotiation stalemates and the Red Sea crisis exacerbate existing supply chain challenges, highlighting the importance of supply chain resilience. Retailers need to closely monitor developments and develop contingency plans to ensure business continuity. This proactive approach is crucial to mitigate potential disruptions caused by the combined pressures on global trade routes and labor relations.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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