A vital passage for 30% of global container shipments, the Red Sea is currently experiencing an unparalleled crisis in shipping. The turmoil in the Middle East has resulted in assaults on ships which drastically cut down operations. The flow of vessels through the Bab El-Mandeb Strait and the key Suez Canal has been halved by […]
Navigating nighttime freight forwarding presents a unique set of challenges that go beyond those faced during daylight hours. IFA freight forwarders must contend with limited access to facilities, reduced visibility, and more complex weather conditions, all of which can affect their operations. Restricted Access Hours In many smaller and municipality-managed locations, freight forwarders face […]
Freight forwarders who are heavily engaged in humanitarian logistics often deal with challenges when delivering supplies to disaster-stricken zones. They must navigate damaged infrastructure, stringent customs regulations, and coordination difficulties with governments, NGOs, and local authorities. Damaged Infrastructure Infrastructure damage such as collapsed bridges, destroyed roads, or landslides can physically block routes and hinder […]
In the past few years, major shipowners have increasingly taken steps to consolidate the logistics industry. Following the pandemic period of 2020 – 2021, container rates escalated to $12,000, up from $2,000 for a 20-foot container on certain routes. This rise resulted in substantial profits for shipowners and enabled them to expand their business holdings. […]
International freight forwarding ensures that specialized cargo is delivered safely and efficiently to support various special events. These range from trade shows, academic conferences, and film productions to high-value auctions, musical festivals, and major sporting competitions. Exhibitions Tade shows, expos, and conferences require the transportation of varied cargo, including exhibit boots and stands, shelving […]
Navigating the challenges of poor road infrastructure presents hurdles for cargo transportation across various regions in Europe. Key issues include inadequate road signage, a scarcity of alternative routes, and the frequent absence of essential services, each contributing to increased risks and operational costs for freight forwarders. Poor Road Signage Inadequate road signage can pose […]
Handling hazardous materials at airports requires strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure public safety. These measures include using designated storage facilities, specially equipped transport vehicles, and handling equipment with safety features to mitigate risks associated with hazardous cargo. Designated Storage Facilities Airports use designated storage areas to safely store hazardous goods based […]
Small cargo ships improve the efficiency of sea freight in Europe. These vessels navigate alternative routes to avoid traffic and achieve predictable transit times, dock at smaller ports to bypass congestion and speed up cargo handling, and benefit from lower docking and handling fees. Alternative Routes Small cargo ships can choose alternative routes such […]
Shipping high-risk cargo in flood-prone areas demands specialized strategies to ensure safety. Three high-risk categories that require particular attention are electronics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, and livestock, each needing distinct protective measures. Electronics Electronics like smartphones, laptops, and televisions have circuits that direct electric signals along specific paths. When these devices are exposed to water, […]
Secondary airports offer unique advantages that can enhance air freight in Europe. These benefits, including competitive pricing, specialized cargo handling, shorter taxi times, and comprehensive security checks, directly impact cost-efficiency, speed, specialized service capabilities, and safety for freight forwarders. Competitive Pricing Smaller airports can offer lower landing, storage, and handling fees for several reasons. […]
Transporting forestry products involves navigating a variety of challenges to ensure the safety and integrity of goods. Effective transportation in Europe requires careful selection of vehicles, moisture and temperature control, pest and disease management, and strategic route planning to avoid physical obstacles. Types of Vehicles The choice of vehicles depends largely on the type […]
Coastal shipping routes face many challenges not encountered by deep-sea routes. The main challenges include weather conditions, frequent port calls, navigational hazards, limited night-time operations, and the constraints of using small-size ships. Weather Conditions Coastal shipping routes are more directly affected by land weather patterns compared to deep-sea or open ocean routes. Inland geographic […]
Cargo aircraft involved in air freight in Europe must adhere to stringent safety protocols to prevent accidents while in the air. These protocols include advanced containment systems, monitoring technologies, and fire suppression strategies designed to ensure the safe transport of dangerous goods. Cargo Containment Solutions Cargo aircraft carrying dangerous materials are typically equipped with […]
Security inspections support the safety and integrity of maritime operations. These checks focus on identifying threats such as tampering, unauthorized access, and stowaways. This ensures breaches are accurately attributed, and ground forwarders are not wrongfully implicated. Tampering During inspections, security teams inspect for signs of hampering, which can include discrepancies in cargo weights, irregularities […]
Refrigerated transport in Europe presents unique challenges in maintaining temperature control. The main difficulties include the short run times of refrigeration systems between stops and challenges with load distribution which can affect temperature management. Temperature Control Challenges with Frequent Stops Consistent temperature control can be a challenge over short distances due to frequent stops […]
Nighttime operations at airports bring a number of advantages for transporting cargo. These include better accommodation for large aircraft, improved weather conditions for aircraft performance, enhanced security measures, and optimal conditions for shipping temperature-sensitive items. Large Cargo Aircraft At night, airports can better accommodate large aircraft due to decreased passenger flight schedules. With fewer […]
Efficient sea freight in Europe is often hindered by severe weather conditions. Two of the most significant challenges are ice formations, which impede vessels, and dense fog, which impairs navigation and slows down port operations. Ice Formations In the Baltic Sea, winter often results in harsh conditions where portions of the sea are covered […]
Transporting goods to European islands presents logistical hurdles that impact the efficiency of transportation operations. Key challenges include limited port capacity for large ships, dependence on ferry services, volatile sea and weather conditions, and the geographic isolation of islands. Capacity Limitations for Large Ships European islands often have limited capacity to accommodate large cargo […]
Transporting hazardous materials presents unique challenges for European logistics providers that vary greatly depending on the environment. Key areas of concern include densely populated regions, areas prone to natural disasters, and regions with poor infrastructure, each presenting distinct risks for safe transport. Densely Populated Areas In densely populated areas, vehicles transporting hazardous goods […]
Drones face unique challenges when tasked with delivering small shipments to rural areas. Key issues include extended range, unpredictable weather conditions, and wildlife interference, each necessitating specific mitigation strategies to ensure efficient and safe operations. Extended Range In rural areas, the distances between delivery points can be extensive, far exceeding the usual flight capabilities […]
The evolution of packaging within the freight forwarding industry is marking significant strides towards sustainability and efficiency. Key innovations driving this change include sustainable packaging materials, high-performance barrier films, and collapsible and foldable packaging solutions. Sustainable Packaging Materials The shift towards sustainable packaging involves using materials that are either biodegradable, recyclable, or sourced from […]
European ports lead in adopting sustainable practices, spanning biodiversity conservation, renewable energy, and waste management. These efforts improve environmental health and bring predictability and cost benefits to the logistics sector. Biodiversity Conservation Today, ports are increasingly acknowledging the significance of biodiversity conservation in their operations. For instance, The Port of Antwerp, in partnership with […]
In logistics, air charter services play a multifaceted role, facilitating urgent deliveries, accessing distant locations, and managing oversized cargo. Their ability to meet diverse transportation needs makes them essential across various industries. Meeting Urgent Delivery Deadlines Air charter services stand out for their unmatched ability to speed up delivery times. Unlike traditional air freight […]
Implementing robust security measures onboard vessels not only protects cargo from piracy and unauthorized access but also bolsters the confidence of European logistics companies in the safety and reliability of shipping routes. These measures, including deployment of armed guards, installation of physical barriers, use of water cannons, and establishment of citadels, contribute to maintaining safe […]
The supply chain within the logistics sector faces significant challenges due to cybersecurity threats. These threats include exploiting GPS systems, conducting cyber espionage, and executing sabotage operations against goods in transit, all of which can lead to financial losses and damage to reputation. Exploiting GPS Systems Attackers can exploit GPS systems in a variety […]
Advancements in technology enhance the transportation and storage of perishable goods, which results in both increased freshness and improved safety. Innovations such as controlled atmosphere technology, blockchain tracking, hyperspectral imaging, and drone inspections contribute to more efficient shipping, longer shelf life, and reduced waste. Controlled Atmosphere Technology (CA) CA technology slows down the ripening […]
Advancements in container logistics have significantly enhanced the efficiency and security of sea freight in Europe. Integrating RFID technology, real-time alert systems, and energy-efficient technologies are reshaping how cargo is monitored, protected, and conserved during transit. RFID Technology Container tracking systems utilize RFID tags to enable real-time monitoring and information management of cargo. These […]
In the competitive landscape of aviation, pilots’ preference for passenger airlines over cargo operations is shaped by factors such as career development, training opportunities, and quality of life. This preference not only impacts the career trajectories of many pilots but also influences the operations of ground freight forwarders. Career Development The appeal of passenger […]
In the complex world of sea freight in Europe, carriers face constant challenges from disruptions. Embracing strategies like route and fleet diversification and forming strategic alliances enables them to navigate these uncertainties with agility and resilience. This, in turn, allows freight forwarders to maintain operational continuity, adapt to changing conditions, and meet clients’ needs with […]
Navigating the complexities of freight forwarding requires an understanding of how to strategically set prices to remain competitive while ensuring profitability. From cost-plus and value-based to tiered and subscription-based pricing, each strategy enables forwarders to align service offerings with market demands and customer expectations. Cost-Plus Pricing This is a straightforward strategy where a markup […]
Handling various types of cargo demands specialized knowledge and precise care in sea freight in Europe. Bulk, breakbulk, and liquid cargoes present unique challenges in preparation, safety measures, and loading techniques essential for safe and efficient sea transport. Bulk Cargo Bulk cargo, including commodities such as grain, coal, and minerals, requires special attention to […]
Transporting oversized cargo presents a diverse set of challenges that require comprehensive planning. These challenges encompass damage risk during transit, regulatory and compliance issues, pricing complications, and the need for customized logistics solutions. Damage during Transit The irregular size and weight of oversized cargo make it susceptible to damage during loading, unloading, and transit. […]
Railway transportation is undergoing a transformation thanks to a series of technological advancements that enhance efficiency and service quality. These breakthroughs, from dynamic scheduling and capacity management to specialized cargo services, are redefining the landscape of railway logistics and transport. Dynamic Scheduling Dynamic scheduling uses advanced data analytics and GPS tracking to continuously monitor […]
Sea freight in Europe, integral to maritime logistics, is important for global trade but also brings risks that impact crew safety. These challenges include navigating harsh weather conditions, managing crew mental health, ensuring medical preparedness, and addressing environmental hazards. Each of these factors not only impacts the safety of crews but also influences the decisions […]
Recent developments in rail infrastructure are reshaping freight forwarding across Europe. The expansion of high-speed rail networks, integration of the ERTMS, electrification of lines, improvements in regional services, and enhancements in freight corridors are collectively upgrading the transport infrastructure in the region. As these initiatives improve connections and efficiency, they provide freight forwarders with more […]
The holiday season is a critical time for freight forwarders as it presents a range of challenges. They contend with supply chain disruptions, heightened theft and loss risks, customs requirements, and the impact of winter weather on transportation. Supply Chain Disruptions The holiday period is notorious for supply chain disruptions. Increased traffic on major […]
Sea freight forwarding involves transporting a range of cargo types, each presenting unique challenges. Oversized items, perishable goods, and high-value items not only require specific handling but also specialized security approaches to ensure their safe and efficient transportation. Oversized Cargo One of the most challenging types of sea freight is oversized cargo, such as […]
Air freight forwarding is undergoing infrastructural transformations, with key developments such as the modernization of runways and taxiway systems, advanced air traffic control equipment, and automated cargo handling. These improvements enhance airport operations and result in a more efficient, secure, and rapid movement of goods. Modern Runway and Taxiway Systems A major infrastructural improvement […]
Air freight faces the constant threat of theft and tampering, especially during critical points like loading and unloading, storage at airport facilities, and during transit to and from airports. To address these vulnerabilities, port authorities implement a range of security measures, including CCTV systems, biometric access controls to secure areas, and security checkpoints for thorough […]
Securing road cargo involves a blend of sophisticated technology and expert strategies. Measures like enhanced locking systems, geofencing and advanced surveillance are key to protecting goods across diverse transit routes. Enhanced Locking Systems Enhanced locking systems stand as the first line of defense against theft. These systems include high-strength padlocks, electronic locking mechanisms, and […]
The air freight forwarding industry in Europe is undergoing a significant transformation thanks to a range of technological innovations. Each of these, from advanced cargo tracking with IoT to the automation of sorting and handling, introduces improvements that enhance efficiency, strengthen security, and promote sustainability in the sector. Advanced Cargo Tracking with IoT Integrating […]
Rail freight forwarding in the EU is not immune to the growing environmental and climatic challenges that threaten its operations and efficiency. As our world grapples with unpredictable weather patterns, the sector faces a series of threats, including extreme weather events, temperature fluctuations, infrastructure failures, and environmental degradation. Each of these has the potential to […]
Europe’s reliance on maritime routes for trade is undeniable, with 40% of the EU’s internal trade and 90% of its external trade going by sea. Disruptions in crucial channels, such as the Somali coast or the Strait of Malacca, can cause delays and increased costs and compromise the safety of crew, vessels, and their cargo. […]
The world of freight forwarding is undergoing rapid change with the introduction of innovative rail forwarding equipment. These advancements, from modern railcar design to more powerful engines, promise to increase storage capacity, speed up transit times, and enhance safety, among other benefits. With these innovations, freight forwarders stand at the threshold of a revolution that […]
Toll systems exert a significant influence on the logistics and road freight sector in Europe, often shaping the route selection, operational overheads, and even the vehicle choices of freight forwarders. Understanding these toll systems and their subsequent implications is essential for efficient freight operations. Time-Based Vignettes Time-based vignettes are stickers that vehicles display to […]
In Europe’s diverse landscape, some regions pose logistical challenges due to their unique geographical positioning. Air freight offers a solution for these regions, especially for hard-to-reach areas and landlocked countries. By understanding the importance of air transport in these contexts, European freight forwarders can develop more effective and reliable logistics strategies. Air Freight in […]
Europe’s air freight forwarding industry sees pronounced changes between its summer and winter seasons. These variations are driven by factors like consumer behaviors, tourism, and the particular commodities in demand during each period. Summer Demand: The Flourishing of Perishables During the warmer months of summer, spanning from June to August, Europe sees a […]
When freight forwarders undertake the task of transporting animals by air, they are handling more than just cargo. The process demands a deep understanding of species-specific needs, a commitment to animal welfare, and an awareness of logistics. Among the core challenges forwarders encounter in this sector are temperature and atmospheric pressure variations, prolonged confinement, noise […]
Ports play are essential for sea freight in Europe, a major hub for international imports and exports. But increasing congestion at these ports is becoming a pressing concern. Major contributors include the increasing size of modern vessels, labor disputes, and the complexities of customs and regulatory procedures. Evolution of Vessel Size and Port Readiness […]
Europe’s maritime trade has always depended on its ports. These ports are essential for the continent’s trade today, and many of them have histories that stretch back for centuries. Here is a closer look at five of the most important ones for the European logistics industry. Rotterdam: A Giant of the Seas Located in […]
Marked by intricate networks and bustling trade routes, the European freight forwarding landscape is a realm of both opportunities and challenges. While the industry giants seem to sail smoothly, small and medium-sized forwarders often find themselves navigating rougher waters. These firms predominantly grapple with three core challenges: a limited technological infrastructure, pronounced vulnerability to market […]
Freight congestion in Europe has long been a challenge, particularly in densely populated areas and around major transport hubs. This congestion results from various factors, including seasonal travel, the rapid growth of e-commerce, and urbanization. As urban centers continue to grow, the demand for goods increases and often overwhelms existing transport routes. The ripple effect […]
The future of logistics is already here, with freight forwarders leveraging innovative technology to enhance their operations. Drone delivery, once a concept of science fiction, is fast becoming a game-changer in the world of freight forwarding. This cutting-edge solution offers unparalleled speed with real-world efficiency, economic benefits, access to previously challenging locations, and an eco-friendly […]
Designed to maintain a product within a specified temperature range, cold chain freight forwarding is at the heart of many industries, from pharmaceuticals to fresh produce. As the demand for such logistics grows, challenges like maintaining temperature integrity, grappling with high operational costs, and addressing limited infrastructure in emerging markets have come to the forefront, […]
In logistics, warehouses serve as nodes in the supply chain where goods are received, stored, and distributed, facilitating the smooth operation of the European freight forwarders’ services. Additionally, these facilities help forwarders to consolidate shipments and provide value-added services such as packaging, labelling, and quality control. Depending on the specific needs and scale of operations, […]
The flourishing container shipping industry, integral to the European logistics network, has prompted an uptick in demand for new, expansive vessels. Forecasts for 2023 to 2025 suggest that the freshly minted fleet will comprise 27% of the total operational capacity. This investment in new vessels is primarily driven by anticipated future demand and the enhanced […]
Congestion presents a considerable challenge for today’s world, albeit an unavoidable one. The repercussions translate into extended journey durations for freight transporters, a dip in vehicle usage, and a reduction in fuel efficiency. The costs associated with running a fleet climb, market reach diminishes, freight charges increase, and the predictability of delivery and pick-up schedules […]
The current climate of the air freight industry may appear frail at first glance, yet optimism prevails among airlines, freight forwarders, and experts. While the situation seems bleak, they believe that it is unlikely to deteriorate any further. Indeed, in spite of recent downward trends and challenges, the industry’s outlook suggests an upcoming rise in […]
Reverse logistics – the process of managing the return of products from the end customers back to the seller, has become increasingly important for companies across Europe. The retail e-commerce industry continues to grow rapidly – according to Morgan Stanley’s forecast, the global e-commerce market is expected to expand from $3.3 trillion currently to $5.4 […]
Today’s supply chains are being impacted by multiple disruptions, but it’s not all negative. The advent of digital innovation is one example expected to enhance precision, nimbleness, cost-efficiency, and security in the logistics arena. Its adoption by an increasing number of businesses is reshaping the landscape of the sector. In 2022, the value of the […]
As globalization intensifies and supply chains evolve into complex networks, the freight forwarding industry is reinventing itself. Europe stands at the forefront of this revolution, leveraging multimodal transportation as a pivotal strategy. This dynamic approach integrates various transportation modes—road, rail, sea, and air and leverages their unique advantages. However, the impact of integrated transport in […]
The heartbeat of Europe’s economy, logistics, is experiencing a significant disturbance: a shortage of truck drivers. According to research published in 2022, Europe currently grapples with a shortfall of 380,000 truck drivers, accounting for roughly 10% of the total demand. This scarcity, primarily fueled by demographic shifts, the gender gap, image perceptions, and stringent regulations, […]
The backbone of effective supply chains, warehousing operations, often host various forms of waste. These wasteful practices, including excessive inventory, waiting time, inefficient transportation, and over-processing, pose operational challenges that directly impact the performance and efficiency of freight forwarders. The Consequences of Excessive Inventory In the warehousing context, excessive inventory involves overstocking goods beyond […]
Freight forwarding plays a key role in facilitating trade and ensuring the efficient movement of goods across borders. Within Europe, several factors influence the freight forwarding industry, including geographical location and infrastructure, regulatory framework and customs procedures, market competition, and environmental sustainability. Understanding these factors is crucial for strategic decision-making, compliance, enhanced efficiency, market expansion, […]
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 […]
Customs clearance can be a challenging and complex process for European freight forwarders, due to a number of reasons. From tariffs and duties and compliance requirements to documentation, there are many challenges to navigating and moving cargo across borders. Tariffs and Duties Customs clearance often entails the payment of taxes, duties, and tariffs, which […]
As the global economy becomes more complex, supply chain risk is on the rise. With globalization and the growing number of customers and suppliers, supply chains are longer and more intricate, making them vulnerable to a variety of security and logistics risks. These risks include cyber threats, economic instability, natural disasters, and political unrest, among […]
International shipping can be a complex process due to factors such as time zones, language barriers, and regulatory and customs compliance. This is especially true for businesses that are new to importing and exporting. One of the main decisions they should make is whether to work with a global or local logistics provider. While global […]
With multiple laws, regulations, and international trade agreements, the European logistics industry is highly regulated, meaning that certain certifications, insurance coverage, and shipping documents are required to move goods across borders. Compliance is key to avoiding reputational risks, delivery delays, and penalties. At the same time, compliance can help freight forwarders gain a competitive edge […]
The freight forwarding industry is faced with a number of logistics challenges, including cooperation with various stakeholders, customs clearance, and optimizing transportation routes, to name a few. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in implementing AI technologies to improve cost-effectiveness, safety, and efficiency and enhance the customer experience. European freight forwarders are […]
Moving goods across distances can be a complex process, with cargo often being shipped across international borders. The International Forwarding Association members make every effort to reduce risks, including damage and loss, but unexpected risks and accidents may occur. For this reason, it is important that logistics companies become familiar with the various types of […]
In an increasingly globalized, hyper-connected world, managing the flow of goods can be both challenging and complicated. Some common challenges that European logistics businesses face include supply chain disruptions, changing market conditions, environmental sustainability, and communication and collaboration with multiple parties. Supply Chain Disruptions Supply chain disruptions can occur for a number of reasons, […]
As the Earth’s population continues to grow and trade volumes increase, shipping companies are faced with pressure to adopt sustainability practices and minimize their environmental impact. European freight forwarders and IFA members, in particular, have an important role to play in a variety of initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability in their operations. Prominent examples are […]
Shipping cargo by plane can be an efficient, safe, and quick way to move goods but there are some risks to be aware of, including human error, extreme weather, turbulence, cargo fires, and shipping hazardous materials. In some cases, a combination of factors may influence outcomes, such as extreme weather, communication problems between the crew […]
Maritime fraud is common and can occur virtually everywhere, from warehouses and company offices to onboard commercial ships. The trafficking of illicit or unmanifested cargo involves the smuggling of prohibited articles by suppliers, stevedores, agents, surveyors, and even ship superintendents, senior deck officers, and engineers. Such smuggling of cargo exposes carriers to reputational, financial, and […]
Fires on board cargo and passenger’s vessels lead to damages and loss of lives each year. While safety is paid attention to during construction and design, the incidence of fires onboard ships has not improved. Why Incidents Occur The incidence of fires onboard container ships continues to grow, and the larger a vessel is, […]
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 […]
Carriers often choose to form shipping alliances to benefit from competitive prices and wider service coverage. Such alliances are cooperative agreements that seek to utilize fleet space in the most efficient way rather than operate their own fleets separately. How do Alliances work? The main areas of cooperation are problem-solving, scheduling, vessel assignment, and […]
There are some types of cargo that can present potential safety hazards and should be subject to risk assessment before shipping. Such items may contain mercury, gases under pressure, or hazardous chemicals that bear health and safety risks if they spill, break, drop, or come in contact with another substance. What Items Are Considered […]
If it is the first time you’re shipping from a European to an African country, there can be a level of uncertainty and unfamiliarity involved. Different countries have imposed different customs rules and regulations, with some challenges like strict regulatory regimes on imported goods. Technical Regulations A number of countries across Africa have imposed […]
Whether shipping for a small retailer, mid-sized business, or a multinational corporation, there are some specifics to learn about when exporting goods to Middle East markets. To help you get started, here are some regulations and paperwork required when shipping goods to your target markets. Import Regulations Most countries in the region require that […]
Antiques are among the most valuable items that customers ship, whether bought from specialized dealers, auction houses, or flea markets or passed down through generations. As they have а financial and sentimental value, leaving them behind or selling them is usually not an option. And whether shipping for individual customers, estate distributors, auction houses, or […]
The oversized cargo includes items that are non-standard and extra-large and cannot be transported in standard containers. It covers different types of cargo that vary in technical characteristics, weight, and dimensions, including construction and special equipment, agricultural machinery, and watercraft and aircraft. Agricultural Machinery Depending on the destination and type of machinery, agricultural equipment […]
Rail transport is commonly used to move heavy and bulky cargo across long distances. The main types of cargo that are transported by rail include consumer goods, special cargo, and electronics. The many advantages to using rail transport are safety, lower fuel consumption, capacity, and cost-effectiveness. Also, as rail freight allows for moving large shipments, […]
Ocean freight accounts for about 90 percent of global shipping, which makes it the main mode of transportation. It is also the preferred mode due to efficiency, cost-competitiveness, and heavy cargo capability. There is also a degree of flexibility in how freight rates are calculated. In some cases, rates cover shipping, stowage, and unloading at […]
If you are shipping air freight, there are different options to look into, including cargo and commercial airlines, onboard couriers, and expedited charters. They vary in terms of cost, risk of late arrival, and speed, and the choice depends on the type of cargo and your specific business objectives. Cargo Airlines Many of the […]
In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, sea freight in Europe faced a shortage of containers. Today we’re having the opposite problem: an excess of containers. In addition to declining rates, depots are either full or are quickly filling up, with some operating at 99 to 100 percent capacity. This trend is associated with a […]
A recent survey by Deloitte reveals that 59 percent of shipping companies are in the process of acquiring new core capabilities, while a similar share (60 percent) of carriers are looking to outsource their non-core capabilities. According to the study, these processes could complement each other, with shippers outsourcing support functions while building or expanding […]
When people think of warehouses, the image of a dark, cold, and dusty place usually comes to mind. Yet, today’s facilities are modern, clean, and full of light. They keep goods safe, meet urgent demand, and keep the economy moving. Here are 4 types of warehouses and the functions they serve. Cold Storage Cold […]
Regardless of the sector you operate in, delivering your products to clients safely, in good condition, and on time is key to your reputation and bottom line. Yet, with a range of equipment and modes to consider, choosing the best option is not always easy. From power-only, refrigerated, and dry vans to straight trucks and […]
Artificial intelligence can provide forwarders with an opportunity to enhance their decision-making capacity. Data transmitted by commercial vessels, for example, can be used for predictive guidance and performance monitoring, enabling businesses to forecast greenhouse gas emissions. This is a way to lower emission levels and ensure carbon transparency. Other implementations include automated processes, improved scheduling, […]
There is a significant decline in consumer demand, with logistics CEOs noting a 20 percent decrease in ocean freight orders for the last two months. The pullback is evident across a wide range of products, ranging from some types of apparel to industrial, housing, and machinery. The main reasons for the drop in orders are […]
If you are specializing in freight management and logistics, chances are you are faced with all kinds of expenses associated with storing and moving cargo, including fuel, warehousing, insurance, and labor costs. With inflation and ever-increasing prices, international freight forwarders are forced to optimize supply chain procedures to reduce costs. While improving your bottom line […]
Green corridors are routes that are exclusively used by ships running on alternative fuels. Recently, their feasibility has been widely debated by industry players. Most agree that green corridors can help de-carbonize the shipping industry but there are still some uncertainties about implementing them. But first comes first – what are green corridors and what […]
Logistics can be divided into a number of branches, each with its functions and specifics. The main branches are production, procurement, sales, and recovery logistics. These functional areas cover a wide range of activities such as packaging, transportation, inventory control, storage and distribution, materials handling, and order processing, to name a few. Production […]
There is nothing worse than inspecting your freight only to find concealed damage. It will not only incur significant financial losses but can hurt your reputation, customer relationships, and company growth. Knowing some of the common situations that cause freight damage is your best weapon so that you are able to properly inspect cargo upon […]
Ocean carriers are increasingly offering air cargo services as customers are looking for an intermodal logistics solution to ship freight around the globe. According to experts, it is more than just simplifying logistics but also about making it effective, efficient, and optimized. Some of the largest shipping companies have already added aircraft to their fleet […]
A shipper is a business that receives, oversees, and transports cargo on behalf of other businesses. The company can choose to ship goods by sea, rail, or road based on type of cargo, final destination, optimal route, and budget. The forwarder is also tasked with unloading and loading of cargo, inspecting quantity and quality, checking […]
The drive towards sustainability is transforming the shipping industry. Innovative business models, next-generation technology, and changing regulations will have a profound effect on both carriers and forwarders. Business as usual is no longer acceptable because societies and consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of sustainable practices. Today, consumers demand more transparency and new policies […]
The past couple of years have brought a lot of uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and volatility around the globe. Capacity management issues, along with attempts to hedge against freight rate decreases pushed prices up at a time when consumer demand skyrocketed mid-2020. Two and a half years into the Covid-19 pandemic, freight rates are slowly […]