This article provides a detailed overview of the complete process for sea freight container import business. It covers document preparation, exchange orders, customs declaration, inspection and quarantine, three inspections, port charges payment, cargo pickup, and container dispatch and handover. The aim is to help beginners quickly grasp the key operational points of import freight forwarding and trucking.
This article explores the key differences between booking spaces for general cargo and dangerous goods in ocean freight exports, highlighting the varying documentation requirements and port entry processes. General cargo requires a shipping order and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), while dangerous goods must provide a Hazardous Cargo Declaration and undergo hazardous goods declaration.
Although the trans-Pacific ocean freight container rates are on a downward trend, they remain approximately $1,000/FEU higher compared to the same period last year. The calm period after the Spring Festival has led to a price decline, and it is expected that as service models return to normal, contract rates will decrease.
The LSS (Low Sulfur Surcharge) was introduced in 2015 due to international environmental regulations mandating vessels to reduce emissions in specific areas. The increased cost of using low sulfur fuel has led shipping companies to implement this new fee. Different freight forwarders may quote LSS fees differently, so shippers should clarify this when requesting quotes. Additionally, the LSS surcharge is generally considered part of the ocean freight costs, with varying responsibilities for shippers depending on the terms of the contract.
This article explains the concepts of "Space Release" and "Container Release" in international freight forwarding. It clarifies the differences and connections between them in terms of definition, prerequisites, results, and subsequent operations. The aim is to help readers clearly understand the ocean freight process, avoid operational confusion, and ensure the smooth shipment of goods. It details the nuances involved in securing space on a vessel and obtaining the physical container, highlighting the importance of understanding these steps for efficient international shipping.
This article addresses common issues in freight forwarding practice, including non-vessel operating certificates, customs declaration cancellation, ocean bills of lading, and Shenzhen port charges. It emphasizes the timeliness of applying for certificates of origin and provides detailed explanations of the calculation methods for various fees. The aim is to offer practical reference for foreign trade practitioners.
Cross-border e-commerce sellers should be aware of the risks associated with choosing between ocean bills of lading and forwarder bills of lading. Ocean bills of lading, issued by shipping companies, offer a simpler cargo retrieval process and stronger proof of ownership, suitable for full container load (FCL) shipments. Forwarder bills of lading, issued by freight forwarders, are appropriate for less than container load (LCL) shipments and specific trade terms but carry the risk of destination port agent issues. Selecting the wrong bill of lading can lead to cargo detention and financial loss. Consulting with professional logistics advisors is recommended.
Escalating US-China trade tensions have led some international brands to suspend ocean freight from China to the US. The Port of Los Angeles is experiencing a surge in canceled sailings, posing difficult choices for businesses. While short-term freight volume data remains acceptable, a decline is anticipated in the second half of the year. The trade friction may trigger a reshaping of supply chains, requiring businesses to proactively address challenges and seize opportunities. Companies must adapt to the evolving landscape to maintain competitiveness.
This article provides a detailed overview of the ocean freight process for general cargo export from Shanghai Port, covering steps such as booking, releasing documents, customs declaration, container loading, port entry, and bill of lading confirmation. It emphasizes important considerations at each stage, including the required documentation for booking, the significance of cutoff times, and the timeliness of bill issuance.
Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods (Class 9), and their ocean export requires adherence to specific procedures, including the provision of a Dangerous Goods Packing Certificate (DGPC). If the manufacturer cannot provide this certificate, freight forwarding companies can offer solutions. Booking should be prepared 10 days in advance, along with submission of the shipping order, English version of the MSDS, and DGPC.
