There is a very costly misconception regarding ocean container transit that may lead global heavy freight shippers to pay far more than needed, based on maximum truck weights allowed on US highways. Specifically, steamship lines promote the idea that container weights must be limited to 44,000 lbs. or less to stay within “legal” limits.
An Importer of Record (IOR) is the party to a transaction responsible for ensuring that imported goods meet the legal and regulatory requirements of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This is hugely important because non-compliance with customs regulations carries serious consequences, including legal liability, fees and even seizure of cargo or suspension of an import license.
We end each year by sharing our most popular posts by readership of the past year. Not surprisingly, each of 2024’s top blog articles answers a question. Read on to see what others found so interesting.
If you’re involved in international trade and shipping, you need to become familiar with the HS (Harmonized System) Code for your products. Let’s unpack shipping HS Codes (also known as HS codes or commodity codes) – what they are, how they work, and why they are important. We’ll also demystify HS Codes by addressing common questions that arise, and explain how an experienced customs broker can help you navigate the complexities.
Are you moving overseas, or planning an extended visit? Would you like to bring your car? International car shipping (or pickup truck, motorcycle, powerboat or any other motorized vehicle) isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t have to be expensive, as long as you know what you’re doing.
Here are some important things to keep in mind about how to ship a car abroad.
If you are a small or medium-sized business (SMB) who is buying from an overseas supplier, there's a good chance you're buying under either Free On Board (FOB) or Ex Works (EXW) terms of sale – the two most commonly used purchase terms in global trade. In this article, we'll explore the distinctions between EXW vs FOB and how they can positively or negatively impact how you manage logistics.
If you've ever imported something from abroad, you're familiar with the many regulations and requirements that govern the global movement of goods. One of these requirements is an Importer Security Filing, or ISF.
When it comes to shipping goods internationally, there’s a lot that can go wrong. And as waves of disruption continue to crash down on global supply chains, one of the most important things to consider is whether you need ocean cargo insurance coverage.
Lots of paperwork is required to send an international shipment. But one form that's not required may be the most important.
The export cargo shipping instructions form is exactly as the name implies. It's an exporter’s instructions to its freight forwarder on what is being shipped and how they want it shipped. You might also hear this document referred to as a shipper's letter of instruction or bill of lading instructions.
Hazmat cargo.
The phrase can conjure images of skull & crossbones stickers on steel drums with contents that can melt through just about anything. But when it comes to shipping, even some common items in your house are considered hazmat – like paint, perfume, deodorant, glue, and glass cleaners.
