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Ben Thompson

Highlights

  • Experienced founders that have successfully founded International Trading Companies.
  • Over 14+ years of Global Trade experience, buying and selling products all over the world.
  • Developed innovative cloud software solutions to streamline global trade documentation for Small and Medium Businesses worldwide.

Created the Global Trade Newsletter, to inform and educate over 150K+ subscribers to help them succeed in global trade

About Ben Thompson

Ben is passionate about International Trade, Import/Export, International Shipping and connecting world markets. For the last 14 years Ben has specialized in importing and exporting goods around the world, and creating content and software solutions to help small and medium sized businesses to become successful in global trade.

After facing the many challenges of running their own trading company, in 2016 Ben Thompson and Brandon Boor founded IncoDocs, a new cloud based software tool to help importers and exporters to streamline their global trade documentation. In 2019 IncoDocs secured investment from global shipping line giant Maersk, as they shared their vision to digitize global supply chain processes. Since then Ben and Brandon have grown IncoDocs to provide solutions to companies in over 120 countries.

Additionally, the IncoDocs team continues to provide detailed industry articles, videos, podcasts, guides and tools to help companies thrive in global trade. The IncoDocs YouTube channel has gained over 20K+ subscribers, and had over 1 Million video views.  The team are consistently providing useful content to help importers and exporters solve their problems along the supply chain.

Ben and Brandon also created the Global Trade Newsletter, which continues to provides news, resources and helpful content to over 150k+ subscribers.

The IncoDocs team are passionate about global trade and understand the complexities of the global supply chain and continue to create content and solutions to streamline the import export process and drive the future of global trade.

Posts by Ben Thompson

  • Create and Download a Commercial Invoice Template for Global Trade

    Last updated on February 8, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Create and Download a Commercial Invoice template for Global Trade

    A Commercial Invoice is an important trade document that is used in Global Trade and shipping. When products are shipped Internationally the shipper must provide the Consignee (importer) with a detailed Commercial Invoice template and other shipping documentation.

  • Countersigning Proforma Invoices, Purchase Orders and Sales Contracts used in Global Trade

    Last updated on February 5, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Trade documents with digital signatures

    If you’re an importer, exporter or trading company then you would understand the process of countersigning and adding countersignatures to important sales contracts and documents. Countersigning proforma invoices, purchase orders and sales contracts requires both buyer and seller to add their company stamp or company seal, and their signature onto both documents.

  • How Many Cars Fit in a Shipping Container: Maximizing Space for Car Shipping

    Last updated on February 2, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    The advantages of car container shipping, where safety meets cost-effectiveness. This method not only shields your vehicle from harm but also offers the convenience of transporting multiple cars simultaneously. Explore how it's changing the game in vehicle logistics.

  • Incoterms® 2024: Guide, and changes of Incoterms® Explained

    Last updated on January 31, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Incoterms 2024

    Incoterms® Guide to use in 2024 Incoterms® were first published in 1936 and are continually updated over time to reflect the changing global business environment to be continually used in 2024 and beyond. The International Chamber of Commerce ICC published the latest version of Incoterms® 2020.  These changes came into effect on the 1st of January 2020 and…

  • Tracking Shipments Along the Global Supply Chain

    Last updated on January 29, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    Discover how technology revolutionizes shipment tracking in the global supply chain. From digital freight forwarders offering real-time updates to IoT enhancing visibility, managing disruptions with advanced tech, and GPS tracking ensuring timely, safe delivery. Learn more about these game-changing tools.

  • ISF Importer Security Filing for shipments to the USA

    Last updated on January 26, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Document for Importer Security Filing ISF

    If you’re shipping goods to the USA, you will have to be aware of the Importer Security Filing process so that important information can be transmitted on time.

  • Shipping Pallet Dimensions: Pallet Sizes and Shipping Constraints

    Last updated on January 24, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    pallet size dimensions

    Shipping pallets: essential for transporting and storing goods, they come in various materials like wood, plastic, and metal, each suited for different needs. Standard pallet sizes are crucial in logistics, ensuring efficient space use in trucks and warehouses.

  • Understanding Risk Factors Along the Global Supply Chain

    Last updated on January 22, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    In international trade, managing supply chain risks is crucial. It involves understanding risks from sourcing to delivery, including due diligence on suppliers and buyers. Key aspects include cybersecurity, payment terms, shipping methods, and understanding global trade dynamics. Effective risk management and strategic planning are essential for successful global trade, emphasizing the importance of thorough research,…

  • Planning Marketing and Sales Channels to Grow Your Import Business

    Last updated on January 19, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    To grow your import business, understand landed costs, profit margins, and operating costs. Create a solid plan for selling products in your market. Calculate landed costs, set profitable selling prices, and consider operating expenses like storage and working capital. Plan sales and marketing strategies, considering market risks and costs. Invest in efficient software to streamline…

  • Alpha, Bravo, Charlie code: the NATO Phonetic Alphabet

    Last updated on January 17, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Phonetic Alphabet communication

    This alphabet assigns unique code words to each letter, from 'Alpha' for 'A' to 'Zulu' for 'Z', ensuring clarity, especially in noisy environments. It's a simple yet effective method to avoid misunderstandings and is widely used in global logistics, customer service, and international business. Learn the pronunciation and application of each of the 26 code…

  • Create and Download a Commercial Invoice Template for Global Trade

    Last updated on February 8, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Create and Download a Commercial Invoice template for Global Trade

    A Commercial Invoice is an important trade document that is used in Global Trade and shipping. When products are shipped Internationally the shipper must provide the Consignee (importer) with a detailed Commercial Invoice template and other shipping documentation. Read More »

  • Countersigning Proforma Invoices, Purchase Orders and Sales Contracts used in Global Trade

    Last updated on February 5, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Trade documents with digital signatures

    If you’re an importer, exporter or trading company then you would understand the process of countersigning and adding countersignatures to important sales contracts and documents. Countersigning proforma invoices, purchase orders and sales contracts requires both buyer and seller to add their company stamp or company seal, and their signature onto both documents. Read More »

  • How Many Cars Fit in a Shipping Container: Maximizing Space for Car Shipping

    Last updated on February 2, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    The advantages of car container shipping, where safety meets cost-effectiveness. This method not only shields your vehicle from harm but also offers the convenience of transporting multiple cars simultaneously. Explore how it's changing the game in vehicle logistics. Read More »

  • Incoterms® 2024: Guide, and changes of Incoterms® Explained

    Last updated on January 31, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Incoterms 2024

    Incoterms® Guide to use in 2024 Incoterms® were first published in 1936 and are continually updated over time to reflect the changing global business environment to be continually used in 2024 and beyond. The International Chamber of Commerce ICC published the latest version of Incoterms® 2020.  These changes came into effect on the 1st of January 2020 and […] Read More »

  • Tracking Shipments Along the Global Supply Chain

    Last updated on January 29, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    Discover how technology revolutionizes shipment tracking in the global supply chain. From digital freight forwarders offering real-time updates to IoT enhancing visibility, managing disruptions with advanced tech, and GPS tracking ensuring timely, safe delivery. Learn more about these game-changing tools. Read More »

  • ISF Importer Security Filing for shipments to the USA

    Last updated on January 26, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Document for Importer Security Filing ISF

    If you’re shipping goods to the USA, you will have to be aware of the Importer Security Filing process so that important information can be transmitted on time. Read More »

  • Shipping Pallet Dimensions: Pallet Sizes and Shipping Constraints

    Last updated on January 24, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    pallet size dimensions

    Shipping pallets: essential for transporting and storing goods, they come in various materials like wood, plastic, and metal, each suited for different needs. Standard pallet sizes are crucial in logistics, ensuring efficient space use in trucks and warehouses. Read More »

  • Understanding Risk Factors Along the Global Supply Chain

    Last updated on January 22, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    In international trade, managing supply chain risks is crucial. It involves understanding risks from sourcing to delivery, including due diligence on suppliers and buyers. Key aspects include cybersecurity, payment terms, shipping methods, and understanding global trade dynamics. Effective risk management and strategic planning are essential for successful global trade, emphasizing the importance of thorough research, professional advice, and clear communication throughout the supply chain. Read More »

  • Planning Marketing and Sales Channels to Grow Your Import Business

    Last updated on January 19, 2024 by Ben Thompson

    To grow your import business, understand landed costs, profit margins, and operating costs. Create a solid plan for selling products in your market. Calculate landed costs, set profitable selling prices, and consider operating expenses like storage and working capital. Plan sales and marketing strategies, considering market risks and costs. Invest in efficient software to streamline processes. A comprehensive plan, backed by research and professional advice, is key to success. Read More »

  • Alpha, Bravo, Charlie code: the NATO Phonetic Alphabet

    Last updated on January 17, 2024 by Ben Thompson
    Phonetic Alphabet communication

    This alphabet assigns unique code words to each letter, from 'Alpha' for 'A' to 'Zulu' for 'Z', ensuring clarity, especially in noisy environments. It's a simple yet effective method to avoid misunderstandings and is widely used in global logistics, customer service, and international business. Learn the pronunciation and application of each of the 26 code words, and discover how this alphabet streamlines operations in trade, enhances safety in aviation, and aids in maritime communication. Dive into its history, from its early aviation days to becoming a global standard, and see how it's used in everyday trade and transport scenarios. Read More »

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Glossary of Shipping Terms

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Export Manager's Guide to Remote Working

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Download a Proforma Invoice Template PDF

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Unit Load Device ULD Air Container Specifications

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