International freight forwarding, as an economic activity, is entrusted by clients to provide transportation and related services for import and export goods. It encompasses various transportation modes to adapt to global trade development. Due to changes in the market economy, individuals and businesses increasingly rely on freight forwarders for professional handling of specific matters to facilitate trade.
In ocean freight export operations, the master data of the packing list, bill of lading, and customs documents must be consistent. The bill of lading rules require these three data points to match strictly, particularly at Shanghai Port, where even minor discrepancies can prevent boarding. Ensuring that the documents align is crucial for customs clearance and transportation.
China has recently revised the regulations governing international freight forwarding, clarifying shareholder structures to enhance market supervision. The new rules mandate that companies involved in import and export trade must have legal entities as major shareholders, achieving a controlling stake. This regulation takes effect immediately, bringing a new order and competitive advantages to the freight forwarding industry.
A commercial invoice is an essential document issued by the seller to the buyer, detailing information about the goods involved in the transaction. This document allows the seller to collect payment. It is widely used in international trade for purposes such as payment reference, customs documentation, and applying for export licenses, making it an indispensable part of trade transactions.
This article provides a detailed interpretation of the HS codes for computers such as laptops and desktops. According to the Customs Import and Export Tariff, computers are classified as automatic data processing equipment, mainly based on classification criteria including weight, composition, and system form. Laptops are typically classified under 8471309000, while standard desktop computers fall under 8471414000.
Customs declarations play a crucial role in the import and export of goods and customs supervision. When filling out the declaration, attention must be paid to details such as the country of departure code, mode of transport, port of loading, and the waybill number under specific conditions. Accurate completion aids customs management and ensures smooth clearance of goods.
This article details the nine key steps of export sea freight, including inquiry and quotation, order placement, booking, container loading, inspection and customs declaration, bill of lading (B/L) verification and confirmation, B/L issuance, reconciliation and payment settlement, and release of cargo. It aims to help shippers understand the sea freight process, reduce transportation costs, and improve efficiency.
The Port of New Orleans, located in the southern United States, is a commercial port at the downstream of the Mississippi River. With deep-water terminals and an extensive network of shipping routes, it has become a significant export center for grains and various commodities, handling over 160 million tons of cargo annually and connecting to more than 150 countries and regions worldwide.
Zamboanga Port is a significant international trade hub in southern Philippines with a rich history. The port facilities are continuously improving, featuring deep-water berths that serve as a major export center for products such as copra and timber. With an annual passenger volume exceeding 5.5 million, it connects Southeast Asia to global markets, and its potential for future development is highly anticipated.
Inspection and quarantine of containers are crucial in international trade, especially for food and frozen products. Pre-shipment cleaning, sanitation, and suitability inspections are required, and containers not needing pest control can receive an inspection report. The validity of export inspection is 21 days, and re-inspection is necessary if it expires. These steps ensure the safety and hygiene of the goods.
