Shippers and Carriers Debate Responsibility for Container Weighing Fees

Shippers and Carriers Debate Responsibility for Container Weighing Fees

This article explores the current state and coping strategies for VGM (Verified Gross Mass) charges in the freight forwarding industry. It points out that VGM charges have become an industry-wide phenomenon, with freight forwarders in a weak position when dealing with shipping companies and port areas. Some freight forwarders avoid risks by shifting responsibility to customers. The article emphasizes the importance of freight forwarders balancing costs and ensuring profits while remaining compliant with regulations. It highlights the need for strategic approaches to navigate the challenges posed by VGM charges.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Safe Hazardous Goods Shipping for Container Exports

Guide to Safe Hazardous Goods Shipping for Container Exports

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the key aspects of exporting dangerous goods via FCL & LCL ocean freight. It covers export requirements, document preparation, category restrictions, and freight forwarder selection for common dangerous goods such as Class 9 lithium batteries and fire extinguishers. The aim is to help businesses mitigate risks and safely and efficiently complete dangerous goods ocean shipping. It details specific considerations for consolidating these goods, ensuring compliance and minimizing potential hazards throughout the shipping process.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Forwarders Adopt Advanced Tracking for Efficient Container Management

Freight Forwarders Adopt Advanced Tracking for Efficient Container Management

Freight forwarding professionals share practical experiences in telex release operations, voyage verification, loading sequence, customs clearance, container seal management, and tracking. The importance of risk control, information verification, and standardized procedures is emphasized. This provides a valuable reference for newcomers to the industry, highlighting best practices in managing container shipments and ensuring smooth and compliant freight forwarding processes. It offers insights into navigating the complexities of international trade and logistics.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Guide to Equipment Release Validity and Container Return Procedures

Guide to Equipment Release Validity and Container Return Procedures

This article provides a detailed overview of the equipment interchange receipt (EIR) validity period and customs clearance return/empty container return procedures for major shipping companies. It serves as a practical guide to help foreign trade professionals avoid losses due to information asymmetry. The content covers specific regulations of companies such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and COSCO. Readers are reminded to verify the latest policies directly with the shipping lines. This information is critical for smooth logistics and cost-effective operations.

08/22/2025 Shipping Company Encyclopedia
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Shipping Firms Adopt Smarter Container Tracking to Cut Costs

Shipping Firms Adopt Smarter Container Tracking to Cut Costs

This article details the importance of "container monitoring" in the freight forwarding industry and the situations that necessitate it. It emphasizes key steps such as starting early, paying attention to second release information, and maintaining communication with all parties. The article also provides advice on how to deal with special circumstances such as vessel delays and customs inspections. The goal is to help freight forwarding practitioners avoid container demurrage and ensure the smooth shipment of goods.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Forwarders Adopt Best Practices for Container Risk Management

Freight Forwarders Adopt Best Practices for Container Risk Management

This paper delves into the container loading process, operational key points, and risk control within freight forwarding. It covers the definition and types of loading (in-house, production loading, and 'three-self' loading), detailed procedures (pre-loading preparation, loading process, post-loading handling), common problems, and risk control measures. Furthermore, it explores strategies to improve loading efficiency. This serves as a practical guide for foreign trade enterprises and freight forwarding practitioners, providing insights into best practices and risk mitigation in container loading operations.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Key Fees and Practices in Heavy Container Shipping Explained

Key Fees and Practices in Heavy Container Shipping Explained

This article delves into the multiple definitions of a 'heavy container' in sea freight, encompassing ISO standards, shipping company regulations, port weight restrictions, and specific business contexts. It elaborates on the mechanisms that generate overweight charges and provides practical advice on how to avoid them. Suggestions include accurately measuring cargo weight and applying for 'heavy-rated containers.' The aim is to help foreign trade enterprises and freight forwarders effectively control logistics costs and improve operational efficiency by mitigating the risks associated with overweight containers.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US and UK Ports Adapt to Container Weighing Regulations

US and UK Ports Adapt to Container Weighing Regulations

The mandatory container weighing regulation aims to enhance shipping safety but poses challenges for ports. UK ports proactively offer weighing services, turning challenges into opportunities. US ports prioritize efficiency, favoring optimization through information systems. Balancing safety and efficiency is crucial. International port cooperation is essential to facilitate the implementation of the new regulation and improve global trade efficiency. Different approaches are being taken to comply with the new rules, reflecting varying priorities and operational strategies.

09/26/2025 Logistics
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Dry Bulk and Tankers Thrive As Container Shipping Slows

Dry Bulk and Tankers Thrive As Container Shipping Slows

Goldman Sachs predicts a "two highs, one low" scenario for the shipping industry in the coming years. Dry bulk and tanker freight rates are expected to remain high, benefiting from demand growth and capacity constraints. However, container liner freight rates face the risk of decline due to overcapacity and increased competition. The report analyzes the supply and demand dynamics and investment opportunities in each segment, providing a reference for investors. It highlights the diverging trends within the shipping sector.

09/26/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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New Container Return Rules Risk Hefty Fines for Importers

New Container Return Rules Risk Hefty Fines for Importers

A new container return rule for shipping containers will take effect on July 7, 2025, mandating that containers be returned to their original pick-up location whenever possible. Non-compliant returns will incur substantial fees, with port returns costing $300 per container and other depots charging up to $1200. This article provides a detailed interpretation of the new regulations, offers practical tips to avoid penalties, and analyzes the impact on shippers, freight forwarders, shipping companies, and container yards. It aims to help stakeholders prepare in advance and avoid unnecessary losses.

07/03/2025 Logistics
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