The legal relationship between freight forwarders and shippers is complex, with responsibility defined by contract terms and the nature of the agency. There is a need for enhanced understanding and management of these relationships.
As the issue of overcapacity in sea freight becomes more severe, shippers are turning to air freight to meet market demands. The backlog of cargo and slow sailing strategies implemented by shipping companies have sparked concern and anxiety among shippers. A report from UPS indicates a significant increase in international parcel volume and cargo revenue, prompting shippers to adopt more flexible logistics strategies to tackle peak season challenges.
This article delves into chassis fees and overweight fees in ground transportation, detailing their calculation methods, triggering conditions, and avoidance strategies. Understanding these cost components enables shippers to effectively control logistics expenses and improve transportation efficiency. Platforms like Flexport offer transparent fee services, empowering shippers to make more informed decisions. By optimizing loading and route planning, shippers can minimize the risk of incurring these charges and reduce overall transportation costs, leading to better supply chain management.
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.
VGM (Verified Gross Mass) errors in international shipping can lead to serious safety hazards. Carriers require shippers to provide accurate cargo weights to mitigate their liability. If shippers provide false weight information, they bear the consequences, especially in cases of overloaded loading equipment. Ensuring the accuracy of VGM is critical in reducing the risk of transportation accidents.
Rising fuel prices have led shipping companies to implement Emergency Bunker Surcharges (EBS), increasing transportation costs for shippers. This article analyzes the reasons behind fuel price increases, explores the impact of EBS, and proposes coping strategies for shippers. It also looks ahead to sustainable development solutions for the shipping industry, aiming to mitigate the impact of fuel price volatility and promote environmentally responsible practices in maritime transport.
Verified Gross Mass (VGM) refers to the total weight of cargo including its packaging and container, playing a crucial role in ensuring cargo safety. Shippers must provide accurate VGM as required by SOLAS, using either weighing methods or component weighing methods to avoid loading delays and safety risks. Accurate VGM not only protects the interests of shippers but also upholds the overall safety of the shipping industry.
Air consolidated shipping is a method where goods from multiple shippers are gathered together by a consolidator who books space with an airline. This process allows shippers to enjoy lower freight rates while enhancing transportation efficiency. Consolidated shipping involves the use of master air waybills and house air waybills, ensuring that goods are delivered safely and on time, making it an indispensable part of modern logistics.
This article explores the concept, calculation methods, and applicable situations of declared value surcharges in international air freight. Shippers need to decide whether to declare the value based on the specific worth of the cargo to avoid unnecessary financial losses in case of damage. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of protecting valuable items and the reasonableness of surcharges, reminding shippers to make appropriate arrangements for better protection.
Consolidated shipping weight is a crucial aspect of export trade. This article focuses on providing practical advice regarding truck weighing, Verified Gross Mass (VGM) weighing, and cost consultation. It aims to help shippers avoid potential risks and optimize logistics costs, ultimately leading to a smoother and more efficient freight consolidation process. By addressing these key areas, shippers can improve accuracy, reduce unexpected charges, and streamline their overall shipping operations.
