International trade agreements have a significant impact on the European freight forwarding industry, shaping the landscape in which businesses operate. Navigating these agreements is important for freight forwarders as they influence trade flows, customs procedures, tariffs, and market access. The main important trade agreements with implications for IFA members are the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, European Free Trade Association Agreements, and European Union-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement. Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) CETA is a landmark trade agreement between the European Union and Canada, which aims to strengthen economic ties and enhance trade… Read more
Insurers are dealing with cargo claims on a regular basis, the main contributory cause being bad stowage. With millions of containers in global circulation, this can be a serious issue for carriers. While bad stowage is a major cause, there are plenty of other reasons for cargo claims. Reasons for Damage About 11 percent of containers get lost overboard, 14 percent of damages occur due to incorrect temperature, and 25 percent are physical. Also, 8 percent is a shortage and 9 percent is theft-related, respectively. Common reasons for damage include a poor condition or wrong choice of container,… Read more
