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 […]
CBP Announces New Controlled Drayage Requirements for FCL Containers Selected for MET/AQI Inspections Starting August 25, 2025

On August 14, local time, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a notice to port operators and the trade community regarding new transportation control measures for containers selected for inspection. Key Changes: Mandatory Controlled Drayage for FCL InspectionsFor Full Container Load (FCL) shipments selected for inspection by the Merchandise Enforcement Team (MET) or Agriculture […]
The Export Declaration Details That Can Stop Your Shipment at the Border

If these fields are wrong, your goods may never reach the destination. Many buyers assume customs declaration is a routine checkbox. In today’s China–origin export environment, it isn’t. Customs, tax, banking and logistics data are increasingly cross-checked end-to-end. If a single field on your export declaration contradicts the commercial documents, the system can flag it […]
When Customs Flags Your Shipment: A Practical Risk Guide

Small issues can turn a smooth release into inspection and delay. Customs risk control is now rule‑based and data‑driven. Systems compare your goods – documents – payment – contract – logistics. If something breaks the chain, you get attention. Below are common triggers and what to do. I. Trade Background Triggers 1) Name/party mismatch What it […]
❓ What is “Buy-on-Behalf Declaration”?

In China’s export system, there’s a practice you may have heard of—or even used—called Buy-on-Behalf Declaration. It means: A seller without export rights borrows another company’s export license to declare the goods at customs. On the surface, everything seems fine. But here’s the catch: you may have no idea who’s really filing your export. 🧱 Why […]
What Is CBM? A Complete Guide to Cubic Meter Calculation in Shipping

What Is CBM in Shipping? CBM, short for Cubic Meter, is a standard unit of measurement used to calculate the volume of cargo in international logistics. It is essential for determining shipping costs, especially in air freight, sea freight, and international express delivery. Why Is CBM Important? Every mode of transport—whether by plane, ship, or […]