Ocean Freight Surcharges How to Avoid Hidden Costs

Ocean Freight Surcharges How to Avoid Hidden Costs

This article provides an in-depth analysis of common surcharges in sea freight, such as THC, ORC, BAF, CAF, and EBS, detailing their meanings, applicable scenarios, and calculation methods. By classifying surcharges based on origin port, fuel currency, peak season specifics, and destination port, it helps readers better understand sea freight quotations and effectively avoid unnecessary expenses. The article aims to demystify these charges and empower informed decision-making in international logistics.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Optimizing Customs Clearance at Mexican Seaports

Guide to Optimizing Customs Clearance at Mexican Seaports

This article delves into the port selection strategy for maritime customs clearance in Mexico. It analyzes the characteristics of major ports such as Veracruz and Manzanillo. Considering factors like customs clearance convenience, logistics costs, and cargo types, this study provides professional advice for businesses to optimize logistics efficiency and control costs. It aims to help companies make informed decisions regarding port selection to streamline their supply chains and improve overall competitiveness within the Mexican market.

02/02/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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South Carolina Ports Report Cargo Decline Auto Exports Rise

South Carolina Ports Report Cargo Decline Auto Exports Rise

South Carolina Ports saw a 9% year-over-year decline in cargo volume in August, mirroring weakened US consumer demand and an economic slowdown. Bucking the trend, automobile transportation surged by 9%, driven by the automotive industry's recovery and increased demand for electric vehicles. The inland port in Greer demonstrated strong performance. Moving forward, the port needs to embrace digital transformation and diversify its development strategies to navigate the challenging economic landscape.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Drop Hinting at Economic Slowdown

US Container Imports Drop Hinting at Economic Slowdown

Descartes' latest report reveals a significant drop in US import container volume, down 16.2% month-over-month and 25.0% year-over-year, but consistent with pre-pandemic levels. Multiple factors contribute to the decline, including increased port congestion, stabilization of East and West Coast port shares, and the rise of smaller ports. Experts advise businesses to diversify supply chains, strengthen inventory management, monitor policy changes, embrace digital transformation, and cautiously navigate global trade challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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San Pedro Bay Ports Implement New Rules to Reduce Congestion

San Pedro Bay Ports Implement New Rules to Reduce Congestion

The Port of San Pedro Bay has introduced new vessel queuing rules, shifting the queuing basis from 'actual arrival time' to 'time of departure from the previous port'. This aims to alleviate congestion, reduce emissions, and increase transparency. After implementation, close monitoring of the number of anchored vessels, waiting times, emissions, and transit times is crucial. Furthermore, optimizing supply chain strategies is essential to collectively build an efficient and green supply chain.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Less Than Container Load Shipping An Economic Choice For Small Shipments

Less Than Container Load Shipping An Economic Choice For Small Shipments

Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping is a transportation method suitable for small shipments, where goods from different shippers are consolidated in a single container. This approach not only reduces shipping costs but also offers significant flexibility to quickly adapt to market demands. Additionally, LCL shipping has a smaller environmental impact, making it an economical and eco-friendly transportation option.

07/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Understanding Marine Freight Surcharges: Types and Impacts

Understanding Marine Freight Surcharges: Types and Impacts

In maritime shipping, in addition to the basic freight, shipping companies charge various surcharges due to special circumstances. Common surcharges include fuel surcharges, currency depreciation surcharges, and diversion surcharges. These surcharges aim to compensate for the additional costs incurred during transportation and may be adjusted with changes in circumstances. Understanding these categories of surcharges helps clients make informed shipping decisions.

07/18/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shopee Enhances Logistics to Support Sellers During Peak Season

Shopee Enhances Logistics to Support Sellers During Peak Season

Shopee is upgrading its cross-border logistics services to help sellers succeed during peak season sales, enhancing efficiency and convenience. Sellers can optimize their shipping processes and improve logistics fulfillment efficiency by implementing strategies such as refined inventory management, rational warehouse layout, and timely shipping arrangements. Utilizing the First Mile Forecast feature further streamlines the shipping process and helps achieve order surge targets.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Claval Cuts Logistics Costs Six Figures with Mobile Measurement

Claval Cuts Logistics Costs Six Figures with Mobile Measurement

Cla-Val modernized its shipping process by implementing MobileDemand's xDIM and xScale systems. This solution utilizes mobile dimensioning and photographic documentation to effectively reduce shipping errors, customer disputes, and carrier surcharges. The implementation saves the company over six figures annually and significantly improves shipping efficiency. By leveraging mobile measurement, Cla-Val achieved better logistics optimization and tighter cost control within their transportation operations.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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CMA CGM Merges European Shortsea Brands As Market Shifts

CMA CGM Merges European Shortsea Brands As Market Shifts

CMA CGM's integration of Containerships and MacAndrews marks the end of another established shipping company's independent existence. This consolidation aims to create a leading intra-European brand, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen regional coverage. The deployment of LNG-powered vessels demonstrates CMA CGM's commitment to green shipping. The accelerated reshuffling of the shipping industry suggests a future filled with uncertainty and change.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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