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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Asian Shippers' Alliance annual meeting adopted an action plan to address rising ocean freight rates and opaque surcharges. The plan includes appeals to the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Trade Organization, advocating for simplified freight rates and reasonable surcharges. It also supports supply chain security measures and urges Asian countries to develop pro-competitive maritime regulations to protect shipper rights. The alliance aims to ensure fee transparency and fair treatment for shippers in the face of increasing costs and complex fee structures in the maritime industry.
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.
Cross-border full container ocean shipping port-to-door services offer convenience, but involve various hidden fees, including costs at the departure port, shipping fees, destination port charges, and last-mile trucking expenses. Sellers must be cautious of potential additional costs to avoid losing profits during the shipping process.
This article discusses various types of maritime bills of lading, including the bill of lading, freight bill, and shipowner's bill, focusing on the functions and characteristics of each type. Furthermore, it analyzes the importance of bills of lading in international cargo transportation and how proper management and utilization of these documents can ensure a smooth logistics process.
