Shipping & Logistics

A General Rate Increase (GRI) is when shipping companies raise base rates due to rising costs like fuel and labor. It affects importers and exporters, making shipping more expensive. Businesses can reduce the impact by tracking GRI announcements, negotiating contracts, and adjusting shipment volumes. Read More »

The Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) is a voluntary program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that strengthens global supply chain security. Learn about its benefits, certification requirements, and how it compares with other global trade programs like AEO and PIP. Read More »

If you’re selling on Amazon FBA, mastering shipping is key. Learn to pick the right products, pack them correctly, and choose the best shipping options. This guide helps you streamline your process, cut costs, and avoid common mistakes. Read More »

Demurrage and detention fees can disrupt the supply chain and add extra costs. Demurrage happens when cargo sits too long at the port. Detention fees kick in when empty containers are returned late. Understanding these fees and planning ahead can help you avoid delays and keep costs down. Read More »

Discover the benefits of 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) in streamlining your business operations. Learn how outsourcing logistics tasks like inventory management, warehousing, and shipping to a 3PL provider can save costs, boost efficiency, and support business growth. Find out if a 3PL is the right solution for you! Read More »

If you’re an existing or new importer, exporter or trading company wanting to learn about an import export course online, download the Global Trade Guide. Read More »

Last mile delivery is the final step in getting goods to their destination. This could be a home, warehouse, or store. It is important for speed and customer satisfaction. Learn how last mile delivery works. Understand the challenges and how companies can make this process faster and more affordable. Read More »

Trade barriers are restrictions that governments place on international trade to protect domestic industries. They include tariffs, which are taxes on imports, and non-tariff measures like quotas and regulations. These barriers increase the cost of foreign goods, making them less competitive. While trade barriers help local businesses, they can lead to higher prices for consumers and reduce global trade. Read More »

Freight forwarders and customs brokers play distinct roles in international shipping. Freight forwarders manage logistics and transportation, while customs brokers focus on customs paperwork and compliance. Many freight forwarders also offer customs clearance services. Understanding these roles helps streamline shipping and avoid delays. Read More »

Chargeable weight plays a key role in how shipping costs are calculated. It’s the higher of two numbers: the actual weight or the space your shipment takes up (volumetric weight). This can lead to higher fees for large, lightweight items. Knowing how chargeable weight works helps you avoid surprises with shipping costs. Read More »