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.

UPS Fedex Compete for Small Businesses As Amazon Expands

UPS Fedex Compete for Small Businesses As Amazon Expands

Facing booming e-commerce and the loss of large clients, UPS and FedEx are intensely competing in the more profitable SME market. UPS is emphasizing digitalization and quick deals, while FedEx is reshaping its network and launching the fdx platform. Simultaneously, Amazon, leveraging its robust logistics capabilities, has emerged as a significant competitor, further intensifying the market rivalry. Both UPS and FedEx are adapting their strategies to cater to the specific needs of smaller businesses, aiming to capture a larger share of this growing and lucrative segment of the logistics industry.

Small Logistics Firm Cheng Yi Adapts to Global Freight Challenges

Small Logistics Firm Cheng Yi Adapts to Global Freight Challenges

Ningbo Chengyi International Logistics Co., Ltd., a small and micro enterprise, has built a logistics network covering multiple countries by focusing on specific routes and specialized cargo transportation. Its success lies in differentiated competition, optimized services, and expanded overseas warehouse layout, relying on six major domestic airport hubs to form a nationwide cargo collection network. Facing challenges, Chengyi International needs to strengthen refined operations, diversified development, and technological innovation to achieve sustainable development in the global logistics market.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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Canadas CBSA Simplifies Compliance to Boost Business Competitiveness

Canadas CBSA Simplifies Compliance to Boost Business Competitiveness

The Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) "Business Lens Checklist" (BLC) aims to reduce the compliance burden on businesses, particularly SMEs, and enhance their competitiveness through early consultation and policy simplification. This internal tool complements the government's "Small Business Lens" initiative, striving for a balance between compliance obligations and the needs of businesses. Ultimately, the BLC seeks to support Canadian businesses in achieving success in the global marketplace by making regulatory compliance more efficient and less burdensome.

Trade War Uncertainty Tests SMB Supply Chain Resilience

Trade War Uncertainty Tests SMB Supply Chain Resilience

Research indicates that 45% of SMEs are concerned about inflation, and supply chain optimization faces challenges amidst trade friction. Companies should enhance transparency and resilience, leverage technology, and focus on critical elements like trucking, rail, and maritime transport. Proactive risk management and policy responses are also crucial for navigating uncertainty and fostering growth. SMEs need to adapt their supply chains to mitigate the impact of trade wars and inflationary pressures, ensuring business continuity and competitiveness in a volatile global market.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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