Resources

What is General Rate Increase (GRI) in Shipping？ A General Rate Increase (GRI) refers to a standardized increase in shipping rates that applies across all shipments, regardless of the service level or type of cargo. This increase is typically announced in advance and is intended to offset rising operational costs such as fuel, labor, and […]

What is Landed Cost? Landed cost is the total price you pay to get products to the door, including shipping, taxes, and other fees.  Components of Landed Cost Landed cost is more than just the price you pay for the products themselves. It includes a variety of expenses that happen along the way from the

What Does THC Mean in Shipping？ Terminal Handling Charges (THC) are fees you often encounter when dealing with shipping, particularly at ports. These costs are linked to the necessary handling of goods, including aspects such as loading, unloading, and storage. When shipping goods, THCs are vital fees imposed by port authorities. These charges cover services such

In this article, Luckystar will explain the meaning of VGM in shipping, exploring its significance, the regulations surrounding it, and the methods used to determine it. Whether you’re a seasoned logistics professional or new to the shipping industry, understanding VGM is essential for ensuring compliance, preventing accidents, and maintaining the smooth flow of global trade.

Moving a single package across town is one thing, but orchestrating the movement of oversized cargo, specialized equipment, and intricate materials across continents for major projects is an entirely different ballgame.  This is where project logistics steps in, tackling logistical challenges that are often as big as the projects themselves.  Follow Luckystar to understand project

Incoterms, short for International Commercial Terms, are globally recognized rules created by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). They help standardize contracts in international trade. These terms define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers. They cover delivery, risks, and costs. You can think of them as a guide to what you and the other party

Understanding the ISPS Code is essential for anyone involved in international maritime operations, from ship owners and operators to port authorities. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of the ISPS Code, including its objectives, scope, and implementation requirements. We’ll discuss who needs to comply with the code, the respective roles and responsibilities

This article will clarify what USPPI means in trade, explore its specific responsibilities, and highlight the distinctions between USPPI and exporter, helping you navigate the complexities of exporting from the United States. What is USPPI? In 2000, the U.S. Census Bureau revised the Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) and substituted the term “exporter” with the new

Navigating the complexities of international shipping can be a daunting task for businesses and individuals alike. Whether you’re moving goods from Europe or China to the United States, understanding the costs and timelines involved is crucial for effective planning and budgeting.  We’ll delve into the varying costs associated with container shipping from key European and

When you think about the largest ports in the United States, a few names stand out. One of the most famous ports is the Port of Los Angeles. It’s the biggest container port in the U.S. Each year, millions of TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) pass through this port. Right next to it is the Port

What are Shipping Terms? Shipping terms are specific terms and conditions that define the responsibilities, risks, and costs associated with the transportation of goods from the seller to the buyer. These terms are crucial in international trade as they help prevent misunderstandings and disputes.  The most commonly referenced shipping terms are the Incoterms (International Commercial

What is the Harmonized System (HS) Code? The Harmonized System (HS) codes are a crucial element in international trade. These codes help classify products and ensure smooth customs processes across borders. An HS code typically consists of six digits. These numbers are standardized globally, making it easier for customs officers to identify and classify goods.

What is Blind Shipping Blind shipping is a logistics practice that hides the identity and address of either the shipper, receiver, or both during the shipping process.  It’s commonly used in e-commerce and dropshipping to protect business relationships and maintain competitive advantages. In a blind shipment, the shipping label and documentation only show the retailer’s

Sea freight is a critical component of global trade, enabling the transportation of large quantities of goods over vast distances. As you explore this method of transport, you will find that it involves a series of coordinated steps and processes to ensure cargo is moved efficiently from the point of origin to its final destination.

Unveiling MSDS When you’re involved in shipping, it’s essential to be familiar with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), also known as Safety Data Sheets (SDS) under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). MSDS meaning in shipping is a document that provides comprehensive information about the substances being shipped, including the

Overview of Standard Pallet Size Concept of Standard Pallet Sizes When it comes to handling and shipping goods, having a proper understanding of pallet sizes is essential. Standard pallet size is a widely accepted measurement that ensures uniformity across the industry. Standardization of pallet sizes plays a crucial role in the global shipping and logistics industry.

What is the Packing List for Shipment When it comes to international trade, a shipping packing list is a crucial document that provides important information about the shipment. A packing list is a detailed document that outlines the contents of a shipment, including how it is packed, the number of packages, the dimensions and weight

When it comes to international trade, choosing the correct shipping terms is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful transaction. Two of the most common shipping agreements used in global trade are Free on Board (FOB) and Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF). Both terms, part of the Incoterms established by the International Chamber of Commerce,

The China Certificate of Origin is a crucial document in international trade, as it certifies that the exported products are wholly obtained, produced, or manufactured within the borders of China. While it may appear as a simple piece of paper, the Certificate of Origin carries significant weight in the world of international trade, as it

Understanding the differences between FOB (Free on Board) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is crucial for businesses to make informed decisions in international trade and shipping. These two terms are part of Incoterms (International Commercial Terms), a set of rules that define the responsibilities of sellers and buyers for the delivery of goods under sales

In the world of shipping and logistics, the term Shipper Owned Container (SOC) refers to a container that is owned by the consignee, rather than the carrier. This approach to container shipping has recently gained popularity due to its various advantages to the shipper. With SOC, the shipper can maintain better control over the shipping

In product shipments and logistics, it’s crucial to understand the difference between net weight, which refers to the product’s weight excluding any packaging, and gross weight, the total weight including its packaging or container. This understanding is vital for accurate shipment management and compliance with transportation regulations. The concept of net and gross weight plays

Oversized cargo is frequently used in the shipping and logistics industry to describe shipments that exceed standard dimensions or weights. Such cargo can include large machinery, out-of-gauge equipment, or items that cannot fit within standard-sized shipping containers. Often times, shipping oversized cargo presents unique challenges, requiring specialized handling and transportation methods. Our company, Luckystar Logistics

As a business person with plans to make international shipments, you’ll have to familiarize yourself with the customs clearance process. Whenever you have to move goods from one country to another, they must pass through the customs clearance office for approval by a customs officer. For international shipments, all goods must go through customs clearance

Calculating chargeable weight is an essential aspect of air freight shipments, as it directly impacts the cost of transporting goods. The concept of chargeable weight involves determining whether the actual or volumetric weight is more significant, with the more considerable value used to calculate the shipping fees. You can efficiently manage your air freight costs

When transporting and storing goods, placing them on a solid surface, such as pallets made from different materials, is best. Some pallet types you might want to consider as a foundation during storage and transportation include plastic pallets, wooden pallets, and metal pallets. Ideally, pallets ought to be flat and horizontal to allow the stacking

Ocean freight is undoubtedly one of the most popular ways to ship goods internationally. One reason for this popularity is that sea freight is more cost-efficient, especially for bulky goods than other shipping options. Additionally, it’s safe and eco-friendly, and you can use shipping containers for road or rail transportation. However, when shipping goods by