Complete Guide to Full Container Load (FCL) Sea Freight Export Operations

Complete Guide to Full Container Load (FCL) Sea Freight Export Operations

This report outlines the operational process and key steps for exporting full container loads (non-hazardous goods) via sea freight. It includes stages such as cargo solicitation, price inquiry, booking, stowage, loading, and customs clearance. The report highlights the necessary documents and important considerations for each step, aiming to assist practitioners in improving operational efficiency and service quality.

Understanding COV Fees in Ocean Freight Forwarding: An Insight into Change of Vessel Fee

Understanding COV Fees in Ocean Freight Forwarding: An Insight into Change of Vessel Fee

COV (Change of Vessel Fee) is a common charge in maritime freight forwarding, typically around 200 RMB per instance. This fee applies in cases where changes to the vessel are required due to customer reasons, helping to prevent empty cargo holds during voyages. Understanding the background and implications of change of vessel fees can assist customers in making more efficient arrangements for cargo transport and avoid unnecessary costs.

Los Angeles Port Faces Doubledigit Cargo Decline Amid Tariffs

Los Angeles Port Faces Doubledigit Cargo Decline Amid Tariffs

The Port of Los Angeles, the busiest import gateway in the US, anticipates a 10% drop in container volumes in the second half of the year. High inventory levels due to earlier front-loading, coupled with US tariffs increasing import prices, are forcing importers to alter procurement strategies. Larger companies are better equipped to adapt, while SMEs face challenges. Ultimately, tariff costs may be passed on to consumers. Businesses need to strengthen demand forecasting, diversify supply chains, and enhance technological innovation to navigate these changes.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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Mississippi River Drought Threatens US Supply Chains

Mississippi River Drought Threatens US Supply Chains

Drought conditions have lowered the Mississippi River to its lowest level in a decade, causing waterway closures, hundreds of stranded vessels, and hindered agricultural product transport, leading to soaring freight costs. Concurrently, US imports are projected to fall to a near two-year low, reflecting weakened demand and ongoing supply chain challenges. The combination of extreme weather events and slowing global demand is exacerbating economic uncertainty. The low water levels are severely impacting the ability to move goods along this vital waterway.

12/29/2025 Logistics
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Suez Canal Reopens Amid Global Supply Chain Challenges

Suez Canal Reopens Amid Global Supply Chain Challenges

The Suez Canal reopening eased some pressure, but the backlog of ships will impact global supply chains. Companies should pre-book slots, optimize transport routes, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and, in the long term, diversify, digitalize, regionalize, and green their operations to enhance resilience and address future challenges. The congestion caused by the incident highlights the fragility of global trade and the need for businesses to proactively manage potential disruptions to their supply networks. This proactive approach is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly volatile global landscape.

Arcbest Adopts Spacebased Pricing As LTL Costs Rise

Arcbest Adopts Spacebased Pricing As LTL Costs Rise

ArcBest's adoption of 'space-based pricing' in the LTL industry signals a shift towards more granular operations. This move aims to address the 'dimensional overload' issue caused by e-commerce, standardize industry practices, and improve transportation efficiency. Shippers need to focus on optimizing packaging to cope with cost pressures. The LTL industry may be entering a new era of transformation. This pricing model is designed to more accurately reflect the space occupied by shipments, leading to fairer pricing and potentially incentivizing more efficient packaging practices.

Swiss Retail Rebounds in Q3 Amid Economic Concerns

Swiss Retail Rebounds in Q3 Amid Economic Concerns

The Swiss retail market rebounded in the third quarter, with the fashion industry, especially warm clothing, experiencing a surge in demand. E-commerce channels are also gradually recovering. Despite economic downturn and inflationary pressures, cross-border e-commerce sellers can seize opportunities in the Swiss market by focusing on warmth needs, paying attention to energy-saving products, implementing refined operations, and adopting localization strategies. This includes offering products tailored to the Swiss climate and consumer preferences to capitalize on the increased demand for thermal wear and related items.

US Chamber Urges Infrastructure Modernization As Market Hits 1T

US Chamber Urges Infrastructure Modernization As Market Hits 1T

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly advocates for infrastructure modernization as crucial for economic revitalization. They urge the government to increase infrastructure investment, covering areas like roads, bridges, and network upgrades, while streamlining approval processes. The Chamber also addresses concerns regarding labor shortages and cybersecurity. They aim to provide businesses with actionable guidance for participating in the infrastructure market, ensuring projects are completed efficiently and securely, thus contributing to a stronger and more resilient economy.