Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has restarted pandemic-era diamond-level freight rates, raising prices to $8,000 (West Coast) and $10,000 (East Coast), reflecting the current tight capacity in the shipping market and rising demand. Industry insiders are concerned about further increases in freight rates, prompting importers to reassess their supply chain strategies.
This article outlines the specific steps for selecting an excellent third-party logistics (3PL) provider, including involving professionals, gathering information, drafting RFI and RFP documents, and screening potential vendors. The aim is to assist companies in making more scientific and rational decisions to enhance logistics efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The State Council recently issued guidance outlining four key tasks for building a modern commerce and trade system: enhancing supply chain efficiency, developing digital commerce, strengthening cold chain logistics infrastructure, and promoting the greening of distribution tools. These measures aim to drive high-quality economic development.
This article explores the new challenges faced by e-commerce logistics and the strategies to address them. It emphasizes the importance of CSSP, how to turn returns into advantages, and the three key elements of a successful supply chain. It highlights the critical role of data-driven decision-making in the future of logistics.
This article discusses the key elements in the process of invoice preparation, including detailed terms, special clauses, stamping requirements, number of copies, and other important items. The aim is to enhance the compliance and accuracy of invoices, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of international trade.
This guide provides a comprehensive analysis of the key elements of international air freight, including pricing composition and commonly used terminology. It serves as an effective operational reference for foreign trade practitioners, helping to optimize transportation processes, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.
The surge in demand resulting from the US-China trade agreement brings potential risks to the supply chain. While the decline in idle ship rates indicates a recovery in capacity, shipping companies may face significant challenges including reduced quotas, difficulties in booking, and rising costs, which have a considerable economic impact on end consumers.
This article introduces seven commonly used types of bills of lading in sea, air, and land transportation, including straight bill of lading, order bill of lading, electronic bill of lading, express bill of lading, air waybill, and land waybill. By understanding the characteristics and applications of these bills, readers can better manage logistics in complex cargo transportation and reduce risks.
Out-of-box goods refer to standalone items that cannot be transported using standard containers. Although the transportation process is relatively complex, this method is particularly crucial for specific goods such as construction equipment and manufacturing materials. Understanding the characteristics of out-of-box goods can help companies enhance efficiency and safety in logistics.
A late payment fee refers to the charge that freight forwarders or customs brokers impose on customers after paying customs duties and value-added tax on their behalf, typically calculated as a percentage of the amount paid. Understanding this fee can help businesses optimize their import processes, control costs, and enhance market competitiveness.
