The Port of Berbera is a key economic center in northern Somalia, enhancing the circulation of agricultural and livestock products due to its strategic location and well-developed transport infrastructure. The port is equipped with modern loading and unloading facilities, primarily exporting sheep and gum, while mainly importing agricultural products.
This article explores the differences between document centers and branch offices in the shipping industry, as well as the crucial role of document centers in bill of lading preparation. It also discusses the geographical distribution of document centers across shipping companies and the approval process for hazardous materials, highlighting their significant impact on shipping efficiency.
This article shares six key tips for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping, including understanding the English terminology for LCL, being attentive to shipping terms during client negotiations, ensuring accurate cargo billing, being mindful of minimum charge issues, and offering advice on remote port and inland delivery. These tips aim to enhance the operational efficiency and responsiveness of practitioners in the LCL shipping process.
This article analyzes the meaning of "On Demurrage" in voyage charters and its relationship with demurrage charges. Demurrage fees are costs incurred by the charterer for exceeding the loading and unloading period specified in the contract, usually calculated on a daily basis. The contract outlines the conditions for entering a state of demurrage, which varies in terminology across different countries. Additionally, it explores the distinctions between demurrage in voyage charters and container transport.
President Trump's threat regarding Greenland, stemming from not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, has raised the possibility of EU retaliation, potentially suspending intellectual property protection for the US. This could destabilize the global IP system, significantly impacting the American tech industry. Investors should closely monitor developments, manage positions cautiously, allocate to safe-haven assets, and explore opportunities within the domestic market. The escalating tensions highlight the interconnectedness of geopolitical events and economic stability, demanding a proactive and diversified investment approach.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized the United States for imposing tariffs based on Greenland, reaffirming the EU's support for Greenland and Danish sovereignty. The EU will launch an Arctic Security Support Program, increasing investment and strengthening cooperation with multiple countries in the Arctic region. Simultaneously, the EU will upgrade its own security strategy while respecting the rights of all countries to pursue their own development paths.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the advantages and disadvantages, applicable scenarios, and cost considerations of Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) ocean freight for Amazon FBA first-leg shipping, offering decision-making guidance for cross-border e-commerce sellers. FCL is suitable for large-volume, high-value goods, offering stable transit times but higher entry barriers. LCL is ideal for small to medium-sized shipments, with lower costs but higher risks. Sellers should comprehensively consider shipment volume, cargo type, and cost factors to choose the most suitable option, while paying attention to future trends such as digitalization, customization, and green logistics.
Recently, container freight rates on routes from Shanghai to Latin America have seen a significant increase, with rates from Shanghai to the Port of Santos reaching a historical high. This week, rates surged by 26%, reaching $3,646 per FEU. The phenomenon of vessel suspensions has led to increased profits for shipping companies, and regulators are beginning to pay attention to these changes, calling for companies to standardize their pricing management, although specific interventions regarding rates in Latin America remain uncertain.
Although the trans-Pacific ocean freight container rates are on a downward trend, they remain approximately $1,000/FEU higher compared to the same period last year. The calm period after the Spring Festival has led to a price decline, and it is expected that as service models return to normal, contract rates will decrease.
In June 2025, cross-border freight volume experienced a slight year-on-year decline of 0.3%, primarily due to a 27.8% reduction in truckbed transportation. Although the total domestic equipment slightly decreased, international containers achieved a 1.0% annual growth. Overall, transportation increased by 4.3% in the first six months of 2025.
