CMA CGM Group announced that starting May 20, 2025, it will implement a peak season surcharge on the China-Kenya route. The surcharge will be $150 per TEU for the central and southern regions, and $200 per TEU for the northern region. This measure is aimed at addressing rising operating costs, prompting shippers to reasonably adjust their logistics costs and transportation plans.
The severe congestion at Lagos Port has resulted in over 4,000 containers being delayed, prompting industry calls for customs auctions. High clearance fees and dock charges are forcing importers to abandon their goods, creating a vicious cycle. The government urgently needs to implement effective measures to improve the port's condition to avoid economic losses and prevent goods from spoiling.
The current shipping market crisis isn't attributable to a single party, and capacity isn't the sole bottleneck. Historically, carriers have faced downturns. Supply-demand imbalances and port congestion are primary drivers. Collaboration is essential. Shippers should optimize loading, while governments and industry invest in infrastructure and technology. Together, we can build an efficient, stable, and sustainable maritime transport system.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of terminal handling charges and other hidden costs in international sea freight. It details the composition and influencing factors of various fees, including port charges, port congestion fees, customs clearance fees, and warehousing fees. The aim is to help cargo owners understand the complete picture of sea freight costs, effectively control expenses, avoid unnecessary expenditures, and gain a proactive advantage in international trade. By understanding these fees, shippers can better manage their logistics budget and negotiate favorable terms.
ContainerPort Group has opened an 8-acre logistics hub in Charleston, aiming to enhance port efficiency, improve the experience for truck drivers, and strengthen market competitiveness. This new facility will streamline container handling and drayage operations, contributing to a more efficient supply chain. By optimizing the flow of goods through the port, ContainerPort Group seeks to reduce congestion and improve overall logistics performance. The hub's strategic location and advanced infrastructure are expected to provide significant benefits to both shippers and carriers operating in the region.
This paper analyzes the key factors influencing sea freight costs from Tianjin Port to Malaysia, including cargo type, weight and volume, loading and unloading fees, fuel costs, and exchange rate fluctuations. It also explores the impact of shipping routes, vessel speed, weather conditions, and port congestion on shipping time. Furthermore, it provides information on major ports and sea freight inquiry channels, offering a reference for businesses to efficiently plan international trade transportation. This analysis helps businesses understand the complexities of sea freight and optimize their logistics strategies.
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.
Descartes' latest report reveals that US import volume has exceeded 2.4 million TEUs for four consecutive months, highlighting pressure on ocean freight logistics. China-US trade remains robust, but port congestion is worsening. The report analyzes the impact of seasonal factors and unforeseen events, noting a trend towards diversification of US import origins. To address these challenges, the US needs to optimize its ocean freight logistics system to ensure continued economic growth. This includes improving port efficiency, addressing labor shortages, and investing in infrastructure to handle the increased volume.
Inland Container Depots (ICDs) are crucial transit nodes in global logistics networks, providing storage, customs clearance, and other services for importers, exporters, and logistics service providers. The advantages of ICDs include alleviating port congestion and making efficient use of resources. Their operational processes encompass container arrival, registration, storage, customs clearance, and dispatch, with costs varying based on location and service specifics.
X-ray inspection, as a non-intrusive method used by customs, enhances logistics efficiency. During this process, containers are scanned with specialized equipment, and customs assesses the X-ray images to determine whether to release them or conduct further inspections. This typically takes 1-3 days, depending on port congestion. Cargo owners can optimize the customs clearance process through effective preparation and communication.
