US Container Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid China Trade Strain

US Container Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid China Trade Strain

Descartes' Global Shipping Report reveals a significant drop in US container imports in May, impacted by trade fluctuations and tariff policies, with a sharp decrease in imports from China. Throughput declined across the top ten ports, and there was a shift in market share between East and West Coast ports. The report highlights the influence of trade protectionism, geopolitical risks, and economic uncertainty on the global trade landscape. Businesses need to adapt their supply chain strategies to navigate these challenges.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Port Traffic Drops Sharply Amid Trade Disruptions

US Port Traffic Drops Sharply Amid Trade Disruptions

Descartes' latest report reveals a significant drop in US port container volume in May, impacted by trade volatility and tariff policies, with a substantial decline in imports from China. The report highlights changes in US port throughput, major exporting countries' exports to the US, and shifts in market share between East and West Coast ports. This provides crucial insights for businesses to navigate trade risks. The decline is primarily attributed to ongoing trade tensions and their effect on global supply chains.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Freight Customs Rules A Compliance Guide

Global Air Freight Customs Rules A Compliance Guide

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the customs clearance policy differences in major regions for international air freight, including Europe and the United States, Japan and South Korea, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America. It covers aspects such as declaration rules, document requirements, tariff standards, and sensitive goods control. The aim is to help businesses and individuals better understand the key points of customs clearance in various countries, thereby avoiding the risk of cargo detention or return.

01/15/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to FOB Trade Managing Freight and Risk

Guide to FOB Trade Managing Freight and Risk

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the operational procedures for nominated cargo under FOB trade terms, emphasizing the importance of information communication and instruction execution. It details potential risks such as release of goods without original Bill of Lading and cost settlement issues, along with corresponding mitigation strategies. The article also compares and contrasts the differences and applications of HBL, MBL, and OBL, offering comprehensive operational guidance and risk prevention advice for export companies. This aims to help exporters navigate the complexities of FOB shipments and minimize potential losses.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Explaining the three Self Model in FOB Shipping

Explaining the three Self Model in FOB Shipping

This paper delves into the "Self-Operation" model of freight forwarders, elaborating on its concept, operational process, advantages, and disadvantages, while comparing it with the "Non-Self-Operation" model. Focusing on common scenarios under FOB terms, it analyzes the factors to consider and risk mitigation methods when choosing the "Self-Operation" model. The aim is to assist cargo owners/shippers in making more informed decisions, achieving cost control, and improving efficiency in international trade logistics. It provides practical insights into navigating the complexities of freight forwarding under FOB Incoterms.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Firms Prioritize Resilient Supply Chains Over Costcutting

Firms Prioritize Resilient Supply Chains Over Costcutting

This paper argues that traditional supply chain management overly focuses on cost control and supplier monitoring, neglecting the importance of supply chain resilience. It emphasizes that supply chain management should prioritize optimizing supply chain structure, enhancing the ability to withstand external shocks, and gaining a deep understanding of supplier market characteristics. By analyzing supply chain elasticity, the vulnerability of the supply chain can be assessed and improved, ultimately building a more competitive supply chain network. This shift in focus allows for proactive risk mitigation and a more robust response to disruptions.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Customs Delays Disrupt Amazon Walmart Supply Chains

US Customs Delays Disrupt Amazon Walmart Supply Chains

US customs inspections are intensifying, leading to increased port congestion. Amazon and Walmart warehouses are experiencing capacity issues, making delivery appointments difficult. Some warehouses are even refusing floor-loaded shipments. Oakland terminal's GATE FEE is set to increase, and inspection rates are soaring across multiple ports, with a focus on cargo value and compliance. Export businesses should closely monitor the latest developments at ports and warehouses, proactively assess risks, and implement appropriate mitigation strategies. This includes considering alternative ports or shipping methods to avoid delays and potential storage fees.

01/05/2026 Logistics
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Novelis Fire Sparks Aluminum Supply Worries for Automakers

Novelis Fire Sparks Aluminum Supply Worries for Automakers

Another fire at Novelis' New York plant exacerbates aluminum supply constraints for the automotive industry. The company is quickly restoring partial operations and plans a new plant to bolster supply. Ford is affected by production impacts and actively seeking alternatives. This event highlights the importance of supply chain resilience. Automakers need to diversify supply sources, enhance recycling efforts, and deepen collaboration to address future challenges. The fire underscores the vulnerability of relying on single suppliers and the need for proactive risk mitigation strategies within the automotive supply chain.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ebay Tips for Safe Secondhand Shopping

Ebay Tips for Safe Secondhand Shopping

This article delves into search techniques and risk mitigation strategies for buying used items on eBay. It covers keyword optimization, multi-site searching, condition assessment, domestic/international price difference analysis, seller location distribution, snipe bidding, and eBay buyer protection mechanisms. The aim is to help readers find desired used goods on eBay more effectively and ensure transaction security. It provides practical guidance on navigating the platform, understanding potential pitfalls, and employing smart bidding techniques to maximize success while minimizing risks associated with cross-border transactions and purchasing used items.

12/31/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Brazilian Beef Prices Rise Amid Global Demand Report Shows

Brazilian Beef Prices Rise Amid Global Demand Report Shows

This article analyzes Brazilian beef import quotations provided by Simba International of Spain in December 2025. It covers prices, shipping schedules, and payment terms for various brands and categories of beef. Through a detailed interpretation of different brands and cuts, it provides decision-making references for relevant enterprises. The analysis highlights market risks and offers corresponding mitigation strategies. The quotations encompass a range of Brazilian beef products, offering a comprehensive overview of the import market at that time. This information is intended to assist businesses in making informed decisions regarding Brazilian beef imports.

12/26/2025 Customs Knowledge
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