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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Guide to Reducing International Shipping Terminal Fees

Guide to Reducing International Shipping Terminal Fees

This article delves into the local operation fees at the destination port in international ocean freight. It details the composition and influencing factors of various fees, including terminal handling charges, customs clearance fees, container fees, and delivery charges. The aim is to help readers understand the charging standards of each fee, thereby effectively controlling international ocean freight costs and avoiding unnecessary additional expenses. Choosing the right port, customs broker, and transportation method, along with pre-planning the delivery schedule, are key to reducing destination port local operation fees.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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North American Intermodal Market Grows Despite Challenges

North American Intermodal Market Grows Despite Challenges

North American intermodal transportation rebounded strongly in the second quarter, but the growth is partially due to a low base effect and asynchronous trends between international freight and import volumes. International container transport was driven by Canada, and IMC highway transportation saw a strong recovery. Future focus should be on economic, policy, and technological factors to optimize supply chains and capitalize on intermodal opportunities. While the rebound is positive, underlying issues need addressing for sustained growth in the freight market. Careful monitoring of these factors will be crucial for stakeholders.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Exploring the Nature of Contracts Between Freight Forwarders and Shippers in International Trade

Exploring the Nature of Contracts Between Freight Forwarders and Shippers in International Trade

This case study explores the complexities of the contractual nature between freight forwarders and shippers. With the development of international cargo transportation, maritime freight forwarders can act as either agents or carriers, leading to disputes regarding legal relationships. The crux lies in whether both parties negotiated freight for the entire transport; if the agent's role is not explicitly defined, they may be regarded as the carrier. The findings indicate that specific expressions of intent and the classification of cost types are crucial in determining the nature of the legal relationship.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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Global Air Freight Firms Adapt to Oversized Cargo Challenges

Global Air Freight Firms Adapt to Oversized Cargo Challenges

Weight and size restrictions in international air freight significantly impact transportation efficiency and cost. This paper analyzes weight and size limitations for various aircraft types and routes. It provides strategies for handling oversized cargo, including disassembly and repackaging, aircraft matching, and charter flights. The aim is to help foreign trade companies achieve an optimal balance between cost, time efficiency, and risk management when dealing with shipments exceeding standard air freight dimensions and weight limits. By understanding these limitations and employing effective strategies, businesses can optimize their international air freight operations.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Air Freight Rate Categories Explained for Logistics Efficiency

Air Freight Rate Categories Explained for Logistics Efficiency

In the air freight pricing table, M and N represent the minimum rate and base rate, respectively, applicable to goods of different weights. M refers to the minimum rate, while N is for general cargo under 45 kilograms. The pricing table also includes information on quantities, weights, and dimensions. Other classifications such as Q, C, R, and S correspond to different types of freight rates, assisting customers in making optimal choices.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Ecommerce Firms Urged to Select Proper Bills of Lading

Ecommerce Firms Urged to Select Proper Bills of Lading

Cross-border e-commerce sellers should be aware of the risks associated with choosing between ocean bills of lading and forwarder bills of lading. Ocean bills of lading, issued by shipping companies, offer a simpler cargo retrieval process and stronger proof of ownership, suitable for full container load (FCL) shipments. Forwarder bills of lading, issued by freight forwarders, are appropriate for less than container load (LCL) shipments and specific trade terms but carry the risk of destination port agent issues. Selecting the wrong bill of lading can lead to cargo detention and financial loss. Consulting with professional logistics advisors is recommended.

11/03/2025 Document Interpretation
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