When Can a Customs Declaration Be Amended? Key Scenarios Explained

Once a customs declaration has been submitted, the information it contains cannot normally be changed. However, in certain circumstances, importers or exporters may apply to customs authorities to amend the declaration. These situations include: Changes in shipment or transport arrangements – for example, if goods are returned for export clearance or if the mode of […]

Mexico Proposes Up to 50% Tariffs on Chinese Imports Covering Nearly 1,400 Products

Breaking News: On September 9, the Mexican government submitted a new budget proposal that includes a sweeping tariff plan targeting imports from countries without free trade agreements with Mexico—most notably China and other Asian exporters. According to the proposal delivered to the Mexican Congress by President Claudia Sheinbaum, the government seeks approval to impose import […]

Differences Between Telex Release B/L and Seaway Bill

1. SWBL and Telex ReleaseSWBL (Seaway Bill) and Telex Release are often confused. Once the bill of lading is issued, the agent will scan and send it to you. You can forward the scanned copy to the customer for cargo release. For an original bill of lading, however, you must have the physical documents in […]

Common Container Abbreviations in International Shipping and Logistics

In international logistics and transportation, container abbreviations are widely used to simplify communication and documentation. Below are some of the most common container abbreviations and their meanings: 20GP / 40GP: Refers to 20-foot and 40-foot General Purpose containers. These are standard dry cargo containers, the most commonly used type for international sea freight. 20HC / […]

29 Common Surcharges in International Ocean Freight

General Rate Increase (GRI) – Mainly applied on South America and U.S. trade lanes. Charged by carriers to offset rising costs such as port and fuel expenses. Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) – Similar to peak holiday pricing (like the “Spring Festival travel rush”), applied during busy shipping seasons (April–November). Emergency Bunker Surcharge (EBS) – A […]

Fumigation in International Trade: Core Logic and Standard Procedures

In international trade, wooden packaging materials are the primary carriers for the cross-border spread of harmful organisms. According to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), invasive species spread by wooden packaging cause global economic losses of more than USD 100 billion annually. This article systematically analyzes the core logic and standardized fumigation process. 01. Why […]

Invoices or No Invoices: “Buy‑on‑Behalf” Declarations Still Backfire

The real question behind the question “Others still do buy‑on‑behalf—why can’t we?” “What if I have invoices? What if I don’t?” These sound simple, but they expose the core risk behind buy‑on‑behalf declarations. 1) Having an invoice is not a safety net Even with a legitimate invoice, buy‑on‑behalf breaks the chain: the named parties don’t match the real trade, and funds […]

Why Ro-Ro Container Ships Are Rarely Adopted in Global Container Transport

Ro-Ro container ships, also known as “roll-on/roll-off vessels,” are designed to load and unload semi-trailers, vehicles, and wheeled pallets directly via a hinged stern ramp connecting to the quay. This design eliminates the need for cranes, enabling efficient loading and unloading through tractors or chassis. These vessels typically adopt a multi-deck flat structure without transverse […]