This article discusses the current situation regarding customs return fees imposed by shipping companies in international shipping. The majority of shipping companies do not charge such fees, but some, like HPL and EMC, may impose additional charges without prior notice. Customers should promptly confirm during the return process to avoid escalating costs.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has recently undertaken a series of ship acquisitions to strengthen its position in the shipping market. The acquisitions include a container ship built in 2001 and a bulk carrier with a capacity of 8,236 TEU. MSC also acquired a 49% stake in the Messina Group, marking its entry as a minority shareholder. These moves reflect MSC's strong commitment to its shipping business while laying a foundation for future growth.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the role and functions of shipping agencies, highlighting their crucial role as the 'general manager' for shipping companies. It details the differences between shipping agents and freight forwarders, emphasizing the importance of shipping agencies in the shipping value chain. Furthermore, it offers practical advice for readers on selecting the right shipping agency to help improve shipping efficiency. This guide aims to clarify the distinctions and benefits of utilizing a competent shipping agency.
This article outlines the operational process of container selling, including information posting, resale, and contacting recycling stations. It also discusses whether shipping companies sell containers that have reached a certain age, recommending interested parties to contact shipping companies for transactions.
Container shipping market freight rates are plummeting, with HSBC predicting a potential bottoming out at 2019 levels by year-end. Shipping companies like Evergreen have already renegotiated freight rate terms with shippers. A combination of factors, including capacity recovery, weak demand, and geopolitical issues, poses challenges for container shipping companies. They need to actively adjust strategies to address market risks and ensure supply chain stability. The sharp decline highlights the volatility and complexities within the global shipping industry.
Port Klang announced a phased increase in container handling and storage fees starting in 2025, with a maximum rise of 243%. This policy has far-reaching effects on the global freight forwarding industry, squeezing profits for some companies and prompting more customers to turn to alternative ports. In response, freight forwarders are seeking strategies to cope with these changes, adjusting pricing mechanisms while also facing government bailouts.
At COP28, major shipping companies issued a joint statement calling for a halt to the construction of new fossil fuel vessels and urging the IMO to develop a regulatory framework for green fuels. The shipping industry's green transition faces multiple challenges, including technology, cost, and regulation. International organizations, governments, shipping companies, and consumers need to work together to accelerate decarbonization and achieve sustainable development.
In the first half of this year, 191 second-hand containerships were sold, with 100 purchased by shipping companies, notably MSC and CMA CGM. CMA CGM has recently acquired two more 1300 TEU vessels, reflecting the urgent need for flexible capacity among shipping companies.
Reveel's 2025 Smart Package Shipping Report reveals how over 150 companies have optimized their package shipping expenses through analytics and automation. The report provides insights into revenue tracking, transparency in overcharges, and SKU-level details, which aid companies in enhancing their cost control capabilities.
The quality of global container shipping services has sharply declined, with on-time performance dropping to 56%, posing significant challenges for shipping companies. Routes from Asia to the U.S. have shown particularly poor results, with record-low on-time rates leading to shipper dissatisfaction. The rise in trade volume due to global economic recovery has exacerbated capacity constraints and high shipping costs. The shortage of container equipment needs urgent attention, and shipping companies must improve transparency and service quality to alleviate pressure on customers.
