Shipping & Logistics

Accurate weight management is important in shipping and logistics. Terms like Net Weight, Gross Weight, and Tare Weight are used to measure cargo. These terms are often confused and can lead to mistakes.  Weight affects safety, pricing, and transport limits. Incorrect declarations may overload vehicles, creating safety risks and breaking legal limits. This can lead […] Read More »

The most favored nation (MFN) principle is an important rule in global trade. It acts as a non-discriminatory trade policy, meaning a country must give the same trade terms to all its partners. If one country receives a benefit, like a lower tariff, then all trading partners should get the same. This rule helps prevent […] Read More »

Unloading containers is a crucial step in the shipping process. Shipping containers arrive and need to be carefully unloaded so that the products can be used or onsold into the market. It may seem like a straightforward process, however many steps should be taken to ensure that the goods are unloaded safely and efficiently without causing any damage or problems. Read More »

Many companies ship goods from China to the US because of the low prices and variety of products available. Platforms like Alibaba and Made-in-China make it simple to find suppliers and compare options. With careful planning, businesses can secure quality products while keeping costs under control. Shipping from China to the US can come with […] Read More »

Importers often struggle to keep shipping costs low when importing from China. Rising expenses can squeeze profits and reduce competitiveness. Without a clear plan, small costs quickly add up, cutting into profit margins. Every choice counts, from shipping methods to choosing the right partners. This article covers practical strategies to reduce shipping costs. You’ll learn […] Read More »

Shipping containers are key in global trade. They help move vast amounts of cargo across oceans daily. More than 80% of the world’s goods are transported by sea, with containers handling the majority. There are millions of containers in circulation today, each identified by a unique number. These numbers tell you who owns the container […] Read More »

Protectionism is a term often associated with international trade, and it’s a critical topic because of its impact on how countries interact economically. Governments sometimes adopt protectionist policies to shield their domestic industries from foreign competition. These policies can significantly affect a nation’s economy, influencing prices, job availability, and the overall trade landscape. In this […] Read More »

During the global supply chain process, container seals and their unique container seal numbers are used to ensure the integrity of a shipment, and to identify if a container has been tampered with during transit. Container seals are placed onto shipping containers before shipment, and should remain intact until the container reaches it’s final destination. In international trade, container seals are essential for both security and compliance with customs regulations. They provide shippers, customs authorities, and consignees with peace of mind that the goods have not been tampered with while in transit. Read More »

A General Rate Increase (GRI) is when shipping companies raise base rates due to rising costs like fuel and labor. It affects importers and exporters, making shipping more expensive. Businesses can reduce the impact by tracking GRI announcements, negotiating contracts, and adjusting shipment volumes. Read More »

The Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) is a voluntary program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that strengthens global supply chain security. Learn about its benefits, certification requirements, and how it compares with other global trade programs like AEO and PIP. Read More »