In Export Trade: Must the Bill of Lading Consignee Be the Contract Party?
In international trade, the consignee listed on a Bill of Lading (B/L) represents the actual recipient of the goods — the party entitled to take delivery at the destination port. The contract party, however, refers to the buyer who signs the sales contract with the exporter. So, must the consignee always be the same as […]
Standard Shipping Container Specifications and Capacity Guide
Shipping containers come in various standard sizes and configurations. Below is a detailed overview of the most commonly used container types, their dimensions, maximum payload, and internal capacity. 🚢 20ft General Purpose Container (20GP) External Dimensions: 5.89m × 2.35m × 2.39m (20ft × 8ft × 8ft6in) Internal Dimensions: 5.69m × 2.15m × 2.19m Typical Maximum […]
Manitoba Premier Urges Ottawa to Scrap 100% Tariff on Chinese EVs
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has called on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Carney to remove the 100% tariff imposed on electric vehicles imported from China, warning that the measure has triggered a damaging trade conflict and is severely affecting Western Canada’s economy. In his letter to the Prime Minister, Kinew stated that the tariff “has ignited […]
What is EIR in Freight Forwarding?
EIR, short for Equipment Interchange Receipt, refers to the Container Equipment Interchange Receipt. It serves as a certificate for the transfer of container equipment between the container user, the container transporter, and the container manager (or their agent) in container transportation. Core Functions Record Container Status: It documents the actual condition of the container during the […]
U.S.-China Trade Dynamics & U.S.-India Tariff Developments: Key Updates
On October 20, 2025 (Eastern Time), U.S. President Donald Trump made a series of statements on U.S.-China trade during a meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the White House. These statements covered tariff threats, trade agreements, and plans for a China visit. U.S.-China Tariffs to Surge to 155% Trump emphasized that if a […]
Intense Fee Dispute Erupts Between Chittagong Port and Shipping Companies
Recently, a fierce fee dispute broke out between Chittagong Port and shipping companies. In a bold move, Chittagong Port revoked the berthing licenses for two Maersk vessels and seven CMA CGM vessels, citing “violation of surcharge regulations.” This strong stance quickly became a focal point within the shipping industry, with the background being the chain […]
Five Key Deadlines in Freight Forwarding
In international shipping, mastering these five critical time points is essential to ensure your cargo is loaded smoothly and on schedule. Missing any of them could lead to delays, extra costs, or even missed sailings. 1. CY OPEN — Container Yard Opening Time This is the earliest time containers are allowed to enter the port […]
Container Types, Weight Limits, and Volumes
Shipping containers are the backbone of global trade, offering standardized, secure, and versatile solutions for transporting goods across the world. Understanding their types, capacities, and limitations is essential for efficient logistics planning. 🛠️ I. Common Types of Shipping Containers 1. Dry Container The most widely used type, ideal for general dry cargo such as clothing, […]
How to Read an Ocean Bill of Lading (B/L)
A bill of lading (B/L) is one of the most important documents in international shipping. It serves as a receipt for the goods, a document of title, and a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier. Understanding how to read it is essential for smooth logistics operations. Below is a breakdown of the […]
Understanding Pre-pickup, Pre-entry, and Container Drop-off in Shipping Logistics
In international container shipping, three key logistics terms — pre-pickup, pre-entry, and drop-off — often determine how smoothly your cargo moves from the factory to the vessel. Knowing what they mean and how they work can help you optimize scheduling, reduce costs, and avoid delays. 1. Pre-pickup: Securing the Container Before Cargo Is Ready What […]
