Guide to Essential Import Documentation for Businesses

Guide to Essential Import Documentation for Businesses

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the seal requirements and original document issues for contracts, invoices, and packing lists in import trade. It emphasizes that contracts require foreign signatures and domestic seals, while invoices and packing lists can be sealed only by the domestic consignee. The importance of original documents is highlighted, and key points of document management are summarized. The aim is to help companies improve import efficiency and reduce operating costs by understanding these requirements and best practices.

08/22/2025 Document Interpretation
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China Imports Best Practices to Avoid Demurrage Costs

China Imports Best Practices to Avoid Demurrage Costs

This article focuses on how freight forwarders can avoid demurrage charges during import unpacking operations. It provides a detailed analysis of key steps, including obtaining vessel and voyage information, scheduling pickup, handling customs inspections, and adhering to container weight limits. It also highlights special considerations such as unreliable vessel schedules in the Waigaoqiao port area. The aim is to help freight forwarding personnel improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs by providing practical guidance on managing the import unpacking process and minimizing the risk of incurring costly demurrage fees.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Shipping Surcharges Significantly Reduced, Easing Burden on Export Enterprises

Shipping Surcharges Significantly Reduced, Easing Burden on Export Enterprises

With the government's cleanup of fees related to import and export processes, shipping companies have begun to reduce additional charges, lightening the economic burden on export enterprises. Investigations revealed that several shipping companies were imposing unreasonable fees, prompting the government to enforce standardized pricing. These measures are expected to alleviate over 200 million yuan in annual costs for China's export enterprises, with the Port of Qingdao alone seeing a reduction of 16 million yuan each year. Such actions will improve market order and support sustained growth in foreign trade.

07/21/2025 Logistics
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DHL Introduces Fixed Monthly Fees for Ecommerce Sellers

DHL Introduces Fixed Monthly Fees for Ecommerce Sellers

Starting July 2025, DHL will implement a monthly fixed fee for e-commerce sellers to help reduce average package costs and optimize the logistics experience. The fee will range from €7.95 to €119.95, aiming to enhance sellers' shipping efficiency and drive business growth.

06/05/2025 Logistics
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Port Maintenance Fees Drive Up Global Shipping Costs

Port Maintenance Fees Drive Up Global Shipping Costs

The Port Maintenance Fee (HMF) is a charge imposed by U.S. Customs on ocean imports, calculated at 0.125% of the declared value of goods. This fee does not apply if goods are routed through Canada to the U.S. Businesses need to fully understand the implications of this fee and plan their shipping strategies effectively to reduce overall costs and enhance competitiveness.

08/05/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Container Freight Fees Crucial in Global Logistics Costs

Container Freight Fees Crucial in Global Logistics Costs

Container Freight Station (CFS) charges are crucial costs in international logistics for handling LCL shipments. These charges pertain to the consolidation of goods at the point of origin and the deconsolidation process at the destination. They are based on the volume of the cargo and have a direct impact on international shipping costs.

08/06/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Strategies to Reduce Merchandise Processing Fees for Businesses

Strategies to Reduce Merchandise Processing Fees for Businesses

The article provides an in-depth analysis of the definition, calculation methods, and impact of the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) on corporate import costs in the United States. It introduces Flexport's centralized MPF management solution, highlighting its potential to reduce expenses. Additionally, the article advises businesses to pay attention to future possible rate adjustments to optimize cost control.

08/06/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Importers Face Rising Container Demurrage Fees Key Strategies

Importers Face Rising Container Demurrage Fees Key Strategies

This article provides an in-depth analysis of container detention and demurrage charges, including their composition and calculation methods. It offers practical query tips and answers frequently asked questions, aiming to help cargo owners effectively avoid unnecessary expenses, improve logistics efficiency, and reduce operational costs. By planning ahead, handling matters promptly, and communicating effectively, the generation of detention and demurrage charges can be minimized to the greatest extent possible. This leads to significant cost savings and smoother supply chain operations.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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