Ben Thompson
Highlights
- Experienced founders that have successfully founded International Trading Companies.
- Over 14+ years of Global Trade experience, buying and selling products all over the world.
- Developed innovative cloud software solutions to streamline global trade documentation for Small and Medium Businesses worldwide.
Created the Global Trade Newsletter, to inform and educate over 150K+ subscribers to help them succeed in global trade
About Ben Thompson
Ben is passionate about International Trade, Import/Export, International Shipping and connecting world markets. For the last 14 years Ben has specialized in importing and exporting goods around the world, and creating content and software solutions to help small and medium sized businesses to become successful in global trade.
After facing the many challenges of running their own trading company, in 2016 Ben Thompson and Brandon Boor founded IncoDocs, a new cloud based software tool to help importers and exporters to streamline their global trade documentation. In 2019 IncoDocs secured investment from global shipping line giant Maersk, as they shared their vision to digitize global supply chain processes. Since then Ben and Brandon have grown IncoDocs to provide solutions to companies in over 120 countries.
Additionally, the IncoDocs team continues to provide detailed industry articles, videos, podcasts, guides and tools to help companies thrive in global trade. The IncoDocs YouTube channel has gained over 20K+ subscribers, and had over 1 Million video views. The team are consistently providing useful content to help importers and exporters solve their problems along the supply chain.
Ben and Brandon also created the Global Trade Newsletter, which continues to provides news, resources and helpful content to over 150k+ subscribers.
The IncoDocs team are passionate about global trade and understand the complexities of the global supply chain and continue to create content and solutions to streamline the import export process and drive the future of global trade.
Posts by Ben Thompson
What is CIF (Cost Insurance and Freight) Incoterms?
Last updated on August 13, 2024 by Ben ThompsonCIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) simplifies international trade by clearly defining who covers shipping costs and basic insurance. Used mainly for sea transport, CIF reduces disputes by ensuring the seller handles shipping to the destination port, while the buyer assumes risk once goods are loaded.
Delivered at Place (DAP): Incoterms 2020 Explained
Last updated on August 9, 2024 by Ben ThompsonInternational trade can be complex, with various expectations and challenges. The ICC created Incoterms to clarify buyer and seller responsibilities. DAP (Delivered at Place) is one such term. Under DAP, the seller delivers goods to a specified location, and the buyer handles unloading and import duties. This simplifies risk and cost management in shipping.
Load Planning: Optimization to Reduce Transportation Costs
Last updated on August 7, 2024 by Ben ThompsonEffective load planning can make or break a logistics company. It’s not just about cutting costs but also about ensuring timely and efficient deliveries. In this article, we delve into the numerous benefits of load planning. You'll gain insights into the responsibilities of a load planner, uncover common issues with traditional methods, and discover practical…
Create and Download a Bill of Exchange Document Template for Export
Last updated on August 6, 2024 by Ben ThompsonA Bill of Exchange is a document that is used in global trade as a written order binding one party to pay a fixed sum of money to another party on demand or at a confirmed date.
Breakbulk Shipping Explained
Last updated on August 2, 2024 by Ben ThompsonBreakbulk shipping is ideal for oversized cargo that can't fit in standard containers. Items like machinery and large equipment are loaded individually onto a ship or barge. This method offers flexibility and access to smaller ports but requires careful handling and specialized vessels. Despite higher costs, breakbulk shipping effectively manages unique logistical challenges.
Intermodal vs Multimodal
Last updated on July 31, 2024 by Ben ThompsonWithin the freight and logistics industry, intermodal and multimodal terms are frequently used. Both play a crucial role in moving goods using various transportation modes like air, sea, and rail. However, they have distinct management and contractual structures. This article compares intermodal and multimodal transport, helping you choose the best method for your shipping needs.
The SOLAS VGM regulations explained
Last updated on July 29, 2024 by Ben ThompsonThe SOLAS VGM is a strict global regulation enforced by the International Marine Organization (IMO). The SOLAS regulations were updated to ensure that shipper’s correctly declare the total verified gross mass of shipping containers ready for export.
What is a Container Stowage Plan for Cargo Ships?
Last updated on July 27, 2024 by Ben ThompsonContainer stowage planning organizes and allocates space on cargo ships for containers. It ensures efficient loading, maintains balance, and enhances safety. Stowage plans are like blueprints, preventing instability, cargo loss, and delays. They boost operational efficiency, revenue, and safety for shipping companies and ports. Proper stowage is crucial for crew and cargo safety.
Differences Between Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Materials in Global Trade
Last updated on July 24, 2024 by Ben ThompsonImproper handling of Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Materials leads to safety risks in global trade every year. This article clarifies their differences, definitions, and key distinctions. Learn how to identify and handle each safely. Understanding these terms ensures smooth and compliant trade operations. Discover major disasters caused by mishandling these materials at the end.
Create and Download a CMR Consignment Note for International Road Transport
Last updated on July 22, 2024 by Ben ThompsonA CMR note is an International Consignment note that is the standard contract of carriage of goods document that is used when transporting goods Internationally via road. The CMR note can also be known as a CMR Waybill or International Consignment Note (ICN).
What is CIF (Cost Insurance and Freight) Incoterms?
Last updated on August 13, 2024 by Ben ThompsonCIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) simplifies international trade by clearly defining who covers shipping costs and basic insurance. Used mainly for sea transport, CIF reduces disputes by ensuring the seller handles shipping to the destination port, while the buyer assumes risk once goods are loaded. Read More »
Delivered at Place (DAP): Incoterms 2020 Explained
Last updated on August 9, 2024 by Ben ThompsonInternational trade can be complex, with various expectations and challenges. The ICC created Incoterms to clarify buyer and seller responsibilities. DAP (Delivered at Place) is one such term. Under DAP, the seller delivers goods to a specified location, and the buyer handles unloading and import duties. This simplifies risk and cost management in shipping. Read More »
Load Planning: Optimization to Reduce Transportation Costs
Last updated on August 7, 2024 by Ben ThompsonEffective load planning can make or break a logistics company. It’s not just about cutting costs but also about ensuring timely and efficient deliveries. In this article, we delve into the numerous benefits of load planning. You’ll gain insights into the responsibilities of a load planner, uncover common issues with traditional methods, and discover practical […] Read More »
Create and Download a Bill of Exchange Document Template for Export
Last updated on August 6, 2024 by Ben ThompsonA Bill of Exchange is a document that is used in global trade as a written order binding one party to pay a fixed sum of money to another party on demand or at a confirmed date. Read More »
Breakbulk Shipping Explained
Last updated on August 2, 2024 by Ben ThompsonBreakbulk shipping is ideal for oversized cargo that can't fit in standard containers. Items like machinery and large equipment are loaded individually onto a ship or barge. This method offers flexibility and access to smaller ports but requires careful handling and specialized vessels. Despite higher costs, breakbulk shipping effectively manages unique logistical challenges. Read More »
Intermodal vs Multimodal
Last updated on July 31, 2024 by Ben ThompsonWithin the freight and logistics industry, intermodal and multimodal terms are frequently used. Both play a crucial role in moving goods using various transportation modes like air, sea, and rail. However, they have distinct management and contractual structures. This article compares intermodal and multimodal transport, helping you choose the best method for your shipping needs. Read More »
The SOLAS VGM regulations explained
Last updated on July 29, 2024 by Ben ThompsonThe SOLAS VGM is a strict global regulation enforced by the International Marine Organization (IMO). The SOLAS regulations were updated to ensure that shipper’s correctly declare the total verified gross mass of shipping containers ready for export. Read More »
What is a Container Stowage Plan for Cargo Ships?
Last updated on July 27, 2024 by Ben ThompsonContainer stowage planning organizes and allocates space on cargo ships for containers. It ensures efficient loading, maintains balance, and enhances safety. Stowage plans are like blueprints, preventing instability, cargo loss, and delays. They boost operational efficiency, revenue, and safety for shipping companies and ports. Proper stowage is crucial for crew and cargo safety. Read More »
Differences Between Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Materials in Global Trade
Last updated on July 24, 2024 by Ben ThompsonImproper handling of Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Materials leads to safety risks in global trade every year. This article clarifies their differences, definitions, and key distinctions. Learn how to identify and handle each safely. Understanding these terms ensures smooth and compliant trade operations. Discover major disasters caused by mishandling these materials at the end. Read More »
Create and Download a CMR Consignment Note for International Road Transport
Last updated on July 22, 2024 by Ben ThompsonA CMR note is an International Consignment note that is the standard contract of carriage of goods document that is used when transporting goods Internationally via road. The CMR note can also be known as a CMR Waybill or International Consignment Note (ICN). Read More »