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 […]
Maersk Issues Two Critical Strike Alerts on October 8, 2025
1. Antwerp & Zeebrugge: Pilot Strike Severely Disrupts Port Operations A strike initiated by the Pilot Association began on October 5, 2025, in response to discontent over recent federal pension reforms.As a result, pilotage services in the affected regions are now strictly limited to standard office hours, from 08:00 to 17:00. During the strike, the […]
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 / […]
Understanding Shipping Schedules, Voyages, and Ocean Routes in Maritime Logistics
What Is a Shipping Schedule? A shipping schedule refers to a carrier’s planned arrangement for the deployment of vessels. It details: What type of ship is being used When the ship will depart and arrive The itinerary from the port of origin to the destination Shipping schedules can be categorized based on the type of […]
FCL vs LCL: Understanding Full Container Load and Less than Container Load Shipping
FCL (Full Container Load) FCL, or Full Container Load shipping, refers to a mode of transportation in which the entire container is designated for a single shipper. The carrier is responsible for transporting the sealed container from the port of origin to the destination, while the cargo owner is typically responsible for loading, counting, stowing, […]
Understanding Container Slots and Stowage on Container Ships
In the world of containerized shipping, the concept of “container slots” plays a crucial role in planning and executing cargo transportation—especially for LCL (Less-than-Container Load) shipments. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key elements involved. What Is a Container Slot? A container slot refers to the space allocated for a container during the consolidation process […]
Shipping Rate Surge Hits Europe and Mediterranean Routes – Carriers Announce Sharp Increases from June
The wave of freight rate hikes that began on the Trans-Pacific routes has now reached Europe and the Mediterranean. According to the latest updates from industry sources, several major shipping lines have officially announced significant rate increases for shipments from China to Europe and the Mediterranean, effective June 2025. These adjustments reflect a steep rise—up […]
