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Israel: Transport Costs and Customs Duty – It’s On You

israel
Archives, Global Trade Daily, Imports/Exports

Israel: Transport Costs and Customs Duty – It’s On You

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In the past year, sea freight prices have risen sharply, an increase that has not been remembered for many years.

Thus, according to various publications, about a year ago, renting a container for sea transportation from China to Israel, costs about $2,000, and today, the same transportation costs about $15,000.

According to publications, the reasons for this significant increase are due to the COVID-19 crisis, global shortages of ships, declining competition in the field, and containers of contagious demand. In addition, there is a “Made of Israel” reason, due to the congestion at ports in Israel, there are ships that prefer not to dock in Israel, and the number of ships that can dock in Israel is even smaller[1].

Apart from the increase in transportation costs, which is expected to lead to a wave of price increases in the sale of products in Israel, there is another parameter that is slightly pushed to the margins. That is the increase in the value of goods for customs purposes, due to rising transportation prices. This increase in prices leads to further collection of customs duties, purchase tax, and import taxes, due to the increase in value.

As I will present in this review, in my opinion – Israeli law already allows the state to facilitate importers at this point – and similar other facilitations have been made in the past. All that is required is the flexibility and activation of goodwill on the part of the state when interpreting the law.

How is the value of the goods determined for customs and import taxes in the State of Israel?

Section 132 (a) of the Israeli Customs Ordinance [new version], stipulates that the value of the transaction is: “the price paid or to be paid for the goods, when sold for export to Israel … plus the expenses and amounts specified in section 133 …”.

Section 133 of the Ordinance, which refers to “assists” to the transaction price for customs purposes, enumerates a large number of examples, one of which, relevant to its case, relates to transportation costs, and subscribes to section 133 (a)(5)(a) of the Ordinance, which relates to:

“The following costs involved in bringing the goods to the port of import or place of import – (a) The cost of transporting the goods to the port of import or place of import, excluding such costs incurred due to special circumstances beyond the control of the importer and the Director determining not to include them in the transaction; This includes types of goods, types of transportation and other services”.

And subsection 133 (a)(5)(c) – “The cost of insurance“.

That is, if we try to compare this to the terms of sale of Incoterms, it seems that the State of Israel has determined that the customs duty will be levied on the value of CIF (cost, insurance & freight), i.e. the value of the goods including transport and insurance.

How is the value determined for customs, worldwide?

It should be noted that there is no uniform rule in this matter.

Most countries in the world are members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), and by virtue of their membership, have signed an international agreement on the valuation of goods for customs purposes[2].

The agreement sets out a number of rules regarding the way goods are valued for customs purposes, but it does not stipulate any binding rules regarding transportation.

There are countries where the value on which the customs duty is imposed is FOB (free on board), that is, without the sea transport, and there are countries where the value on which the customs duty is imposed is CIF, including the transport.

For comparison, in the United States, a different method is used than in the State of Israel, and in the United States, customs duties are imposed on the value without sea transportation. Thus, the corresponding section in American law to section 132 of the Customs Ordinance in Israel, which deals with the “transaction price”, states in US law that[3]:

“The transaction value of imported merchandise is the price actually paid or payable for the merchandise when sold for exportation to the United States ..”

As for transportation costs, American law goes on to state that the value to customs will not include them:

“(3) The transaction value of imported merchandise does not include any of the following if identified separately from the price actually paid or payable and from any cost or other item referred to in paragraph (1): (A) Any reasonable cost or charge that is incurred for—

 (ii) the transportation of the merchandise after such importation. “

Hence, it seems that in the US, an increase in freight rates does not increase the value of the goods for customs purposes.

In Israel, on the other hand, any increase in freight also embodies the increase in value to customs, and, accordingly, increases the customs burden imposed on the importer.

That is, if we assume for the purpose of the example, that a spare part for a car is subject to a purchase tax of about 20% of the value to customs, then any increase of $1,000 in transportation prices embodies an additional purchase tax of 200$ by the State of Israel. Since this is an indirect tax, it will, by its very nature, ultimately be passed on to the entire public, in the form of rising prices.

 How has the State of Israel dealt with such similar situations in the past?

Price increases in the field of transportation can be caused by a wide variety of reasons. Among other things, wars, closures, sanctions, strikes, and a host of other reasons may increase transportation prices.

In this regard, section 133 (a)(5) of the Customs Ordinance stipulates that in exceptional situations, the director of customs may not include in the value of customs certain transportation costs. The law calls them:

“such costs incurred due to special circumstances over which the importer has no control and the manager has determined that they should not be included in the value of the transaction”

These are, in fact, transportation costs that are a kind of “force majeure” that the importer did not have the ability to prevent.

It should be noted that the Customs Authority exercised this authority, and sometimes exempted transport costs, due to certain circumstances.

On April 24th, 2006, Customs ruled that transportation costs due to the Second Lebanon War would not be included in the customs entry:

“In accordance with my authority under section 133 (a) (5) (a) of the Customs Ordinance, I stipulate that war levies and additional transportation costs incurred by importers due to the security incidents in the north of the country, should not be included in the value of the transaction for the purpose of calculating the import taxes. It is clarified that these are additional transportation, unloading and loading costs listed in the cargo account that were caused due to the security incidents.”

On June 6th, 2008, the Customs ruled that the container demurrage fee beyond the agreed, will not be included in the customs entry:

“..The demurrage fee in the importing country, which is charged for the use of the container beyond the agreed period between the ship’s agent and the importer, will not be included for import taxes.”

On September 7th, 2008, Customs exempted certain transportation costs in respect of strikes from being included in the customs entry, stating:

“In accordance with my authority under section 133 (a) (5) (a) of the Customs Ordinance, I provide that additional transportation costs incurred by importers due to sanctions in the ports of Israel, will not be considered for the transaction value for the purpose of calculating import taxes. It is clarified that these are additional transportation, unloading and loading costs listed in the cargo account, which were caused due to the sanctions and the importer has no control over them. The importer must prove the existence of such additional costs.”

Can the state of Israel also help in the current situation?

According to the publications, the Israeli Chamber of Commerce recently appealed to the director of customs to exercise his authority, and set a type of ceiling on which customs would be imposed, even if in practice transport costs are currently more expensive, and this application was denied by customs[4].

Customs stated that this was a request to reduce the actual cost of transport – something that is not possible, noting that when it came to a request to reduce additions to the value of transport, such as vessels that declared “end of journey” in Cyprus and refrained from entering Israel due to the COVID-19 crisis. Customs further stated that it has not been proven that the increase in transportation prices is due to the COVID-19 or an unforeseen situation, therefore no reduction can be made under the exception in section 133 (a)(5) of the Customs Ordinance, and even claimed that if the State of Israel accepts the claim, this will be a breach of the International Agreement on the Valuation of Goods

**So the question is basically: can in the present case, transportation costs raised by tens or hundreds of percent, due to global COVID-19 crisis, shortage of ships, heavy loads in Israeli ports, shortage of containers, constitute “special circumstances beyond the importer’s control”?

** With all due respect, in my opinion, this point deserves further thought and discussion**

In my opinion, if the Second Lebanon War is an unforeseen event over which the importer has no control, as well as sanctions or strikes, then the interpretation of the law could be a little more flexible, and determined that a global COVID-19 crisis, shortage of ships, containers, To be considered as special circumstances over which the importer has no control.

In this regard, I would like to bring to the readers’ attention a ruling given in the Israeli court on another issue, but it was stated in it, in relation to the Corona crisis, that it is certainly an unexpected event[5]:

“It is hard to believe that the reasonable person could or should have expected the full far-reaching consequences of the Corona epidemic, including on the economy and commercial life, in Israel and around the world. We are dealing with an unparalleled epidemic which has no precedent in the last hundred years (at least since the Spanish Flu epidemic which caused many deaths around the world between the years 1918 – 1920)”.

** These right things, can and should be applied, in my opinion – also in the field of international trade and customs valuation.

Does anyone in the Customs Authority believe that the simple, lone importer, even if it is a wealthy business company, has any control over the changes in world freight rates? Could any importer have anticipated the corona crisis?

**In the end, if my opinion will be adopted, the legal solution is to relieve the importers of the customs duty imposed on the transport that has become more expensive – it already exists. The “invention of the wheel” is not required here.

Now only goodwill is required, and little flexibility in interpreting the law.

___________________________________________________________________

[1] https://www.ynet.co.il/economy/article/rJrNcwAcd

[2] Customs Valuation Agreement (Implementation of Article VII of the GATT) https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/publications_e/ai17_e/cusval_e.htm

[3] Tariff act of 1930, 19. U.S.C. §1401 a(b)(1),(3)

[4] https://www.chamber.org.il/foreigntrade/1109/1111/116962/

[5] Hdlt (Tel-Aviv) 26076-02-20 Adv. Israel Bachar vs. comfortability systems (2007) Ltd. (July 8th, 2020);

Cainiao
Archives, Global Trade Daily, Imports/Exports

Cainiao Smart Logistics Announces New Container Booking Service

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Cainiao Smart Logistics announced the launching of a new container booking service this week. Known as an extension of Alibaba Group, Cainiao’s booking service sets the bar higher for a quick turnaround in booking confirmations, maximizing cost savings, and access to a wider global network of ports and participating countries.

“In the face of the current global container shortage and surging shipping prices, Cainiao is committed to leveraging our technology and logistics ecosystem to provide a one-stop port-to-port shipping solution for exporters and importers,” says James Zhao, General Manager of Cainiao Global Supply Chain.

According to the information released, merchants can expect a booking confirmation just two business days following order placement. Considering the usual turnaround for booking can range from a week to a month, this significantly expedites the process for the industry. Both air and sea freight bookings will be available through the service along with competitive compensation in the event of booking delays and/or missing a departure date.

More than 200 ports in 50 countries are connected through the service including China ports in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Yiwu, and more. Additionally, those that utilize the new booking service can enjoy a significant price decrease on a cross-border port-to-port shipping fee, as Cainiao’s fee is reported to be up to 40 percent less than market rates, offsetting the market increase in shipping costs due to the container shortage.

According to the China Container Industry Association (CCIA), the increased turnaround time has some waiting up to 100 days versus 60 days for containers due to the capacity cuts in international markets, specifically in the U.S. and Europe. Pair this with the spike in freight costs, there’s no doubt this new booking service will serve as a reliable solution for the industry.

“By working closely with airlines and cargo companies, we aim to safeguard the entire cross border line haul network and instill greater stability into sea and air freight shipping,” Zhao concluded.

SCPA
Archives, Global Trade Daily, News

SCPA Completes 2020 with New December Record

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It should come as no surprise to learn that South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) managed to finish 2020 with record numbers, considering the year is notorious for the insurmountable disruption felt by the international and domestic trade arenas. SCPA proved once again that when it comes to breaking new records, there’s no time like the present – even in the middle of a pandemic.

“The pandemic created unprecedented challenges to supply chains around the world,” SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “I am immensely proud of our port employees and all those working in the maritime and logistics community for showing up every day during a pandemic to keep supply chains fluid. Their dedication ensures that food products, medical supplies, manufacturing parts and retail goods are efficiently delivered. We are grateful to them, and we look forward to a brighter 2021.”

The ports’ Wando Welch and North Charleston terminals saw an increase of 11.6 percent thanks to the 209,606 twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) handled in December. Cargo boxes of all sizes were also moved at record numbers. The port confirmed 116,685 pier containers in December (including the aforementioned cargo boxes) at an increase of 10.3 percent.

SCPA cited the vehicles as the most significant in terms of volume. A total of 21,228 vehicles were handled in December alone. This total set a new overall monthly record for the port and represents a whopping 29.2 percent increase.

The rail side of operations saw robust numbers throughout December as well with a  total of 16,463 rail moves recorded between Inland Port Greer (13,523) and Inland Port Dillon (2,940). Although Inland Port Dillon’s rail moves were confirmed to be down by 2.9 percent, Inland Port Greer saw an increase of 26 percent in rail moves compared to last year.

So far for FY2021, SCPA has handled more than 1.2 million TEUs, moved 135,747 vehicles across the docks at Columbus Street Terminal, and continued efforts for the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project and Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal.

3PLs
America's Leading 3PLs, Archives, Features, Global Trade Daily

GLOBAL TRADE’S TOP 3PLs OF 2020

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We’ve been saying it for years: The world is becoming an increasingly global place. We can get nearly anything on Earth in less than a few days, but someone has to get it to us. That’s where third-party logistics comes into play.

This year has thus far been a year unlike any other, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. With supply shortages and more people shopping from home out of safety concerns, we’ve relied heavily upon third-party logistics (3PLs) to bring us much-needed supplies. In fact, in an economy where many businesses are struggling to survive, many 3PLs are holding their own due to the coronavirus.

But it’s not enough to just be a 3PL—even during a pandemic. Logistics customers are demanding more from their 3PLs. In a world of Amazon Prime, they want their shipments to arrive faster, and for less money. They want to manage their inventory with the touch of a button, right from their smart device. They want personalized service that is tailored to their individual business needs, and to feel like even though they are one of many customers, they are important, no matter how big or small their account is.

The following 3PLs embody all of the characteristics mentioned above. From the smallest family-owned establishment to the largest global providers, these 50 companies work tirelessly to ensure the best customer experience possible, from start to finish.

A.N. Deringer

The largest, privately-held customs broker in North America, A.N. Deringer was founded in 1919 by Alfred Neel Deringer. For more than 100 years, the St. Albans, Vermont-based company has offered services ranging from customs brokerage to warehousing, distribution and customs compliance consulting. A.N. Deringer ranks fifth overall for the quantity of entries field, and has won the “Best Places to Work in Vermont” designation from 2017-2019.

Transamerica Express

The group-member-owned 3PL has more than 40 years of combined experience in the industry. With over 120,000 carriers under contract, Transamerica Express can offer customizable solutions to everyone from small businesses to larger, Fortune 500 companies. The rapidly growing concern was ranked highest in Inc.’s 500 “Nation’s Fastest-Growing Companies” list in 2019 and 2020.

Sunset Transportation

Founded in 1989 by Jim Williams, Sunset Transportation’s flexible business model serves mid-market businesses with a variety of logistics solutions. The company recently celebrated its 30th year by instating a new, cross-border Mexico/U.S. solutions program and upgrading to a new 45,000-square-foot headquarters. Sunset Transportation was ranked No. 8 on Inbound Logistics’ Top 10 3PL Providers list in 2019, their second time making the top ten.

ODW Logistics

Founded as Ohio Distribution Warehouse Corp. in 1971 by Bob Ness and John Berend, the company started out serving only the Ohio area. ODW Logistics has since expanded beyond the Buckeye State and across the nation, offering supply chain solutions for hundreds of companies of all sizes.

FW Logistics

FW Logistics began in 1949 as a food grade storage facility. Today, the 3PL offers a full range of logistics services, including warehousing, trucking, logistics and fulfillment. Specializing in everything from dry storage to hazmat storage, the company boasts 7 million square feet of warehousing strategically located throughout the United States.

R2 Logistics

R2 Logistics prides itself on offering real-time visibility and a full suite of logistics solutions. The company has no automated phones, and customers are easily put in contact with account executives and support staff. R2 Logistics uses cutting-edge logistics technology to streamline processes and has a strong network of preferred partners to help ensure customers are getting the services they need, when they need them.

Dependable Global Express (DGX)

DGX consists of five integrated divisions which work harmoniously as a single shipping resource. Offering customized freight solutions to their customers, DGX can handle every step of your 3PL journey in one convenient package. They use state-of-the-art software to present customers with comprehensive reporting and real-time shipment tracking.

Flat World Global Solutions

Founded in 2006, Flat World Global Solutions offers customizable, contract-free solutions to clients of all sizes. Their customer service and cutting-edge technology keep Flat World Global Solutions lean, allowing them to grow quickly and maintain a high client retention rate—even without contracts. Flat World Global Solutions earned the distinction of Vendor of the Year from a top-10 client, and they have won a St. Louis Post Dispatch “Top Places to Work” designation in both 2018 and 2019.

McLane Global

With facilities nationwide, Houston, Texas-based McLane Global has been offering food grade logistics and transportation for more than 120 years. Today, McLane Global provides full 3PL services from manufacturing through last-mile delivery. McLane Global does not believe in a one size fits all approach, and each customer receives services tailored to their individual needs.

MD Logistics

Focusing on the life-science pharmaceuticals and retail and consumer goods sectors, MD Logistics offers highly specialized service to customers under these umbrellas. Founded in 1996 by Dave Kiebach and Mark Sell, MD Logistics works with the customer to customize services to their unique needs. MD Logistics offers Foreign Trade Zone services within a cGMP temperature-controlled environment, as well as dedicated or shared call center services and inventory tracking services that are cutting edge.

Kenco Logistics

The largest, woman-owned logistics company in the U.S., Kenco Logistics was founded in 1950. Today, it is a fully integrated 3PL provider, with more than 200 clients, 90 distribution facilities, and 30 million square feet of space. Kenco Logistics prides itself on customer service, which despite its size remains as personalized as a small operation. Kenco Logistics is the winner of a General Mills Supplier Diversity Award, as well as a Top Woman-Owned Transportation Company Award by Women in Trucking.


FLS Transportation Services

Founded in 1987, FLS Transportation has grown from just a few employees to the largest freight brokerage firm in Canada. The company differentiates itself from the competition by offering 3x support. This ensures customers have one point of contract and three support teams backing them. They also boast a .001 percent claims rate, a testament to their rigorous employee training program. FLS Transportation Service offers a full suite of logistics management products that can be customized to meet their customers’ individual needs.

Choptank Transport, Inc.

A full-service 3PL, Preston, Maryland-based Choptank Transport, Inc. serves North American and many other locations around the world. Their cutting-edge transportation management system and award-winning training program ensure their clients receive the highest level of customer service. Choptank Transportation also prides itself on keeping current with freight laws, so that they can advise customers about the transportation of their cargo in record time.

Holman Logistics

Seattle, Washington-based Holman Logistics offers food-grade warehousing, paper product manufacturing logistics support and more. They work with such clients as Hills Pet Nutrition and Kimberly Clark, offering tailored solutions to clients of all sizes. Holman Logistics is the recipient of the 2018 Operational Excellence Award from General Electric, and Kimberly Clark’s 2014 Service Excellence Award.

Nolan Transportation Group

Founded in 2005, Nolan Transportation Group serves more than 7,000 North American customers, with over 30,000 independent transportation companies comprising their network. The company treats all of its clients as partners and works with them to achieve their goals. Their recent success stories include assisting Crate & Barrel with their domestic over-the-road supply chain, a project which earned them accolades from the retailer’s director of Global Transportation. Says Brad Voelpel of hiring Nolan Transportation Group: “I can stand here today saying it has been one of the best moves we have made within our domestic network. The NTG team’s entire focus is on customer service, providing visibility on every single move while ensuring we remain competitive in the marketplace.”

Romark Logistics

Founded in 1954, Romark Logistics serves many pharmaceutical, retail, food and beverage customers across the globe. Providing a full range of B2B and B2C options, Romark Logistics works with their customers to provide customized 3PL solutions at a competitive cost. Their tagline “Personalized Service … Always” is a guiding force behind the company’s operations, inspiring them to strive harder to ensure customer satisfaction in everything they do.

Transplace

Frisco, Texas-based Transplace is the largest managed transportation services provider in North America. Transplace prides itself at being at the forefront of TMS technology, utilizing their own proprietary cloud-based TMS system as well as AI and machine learning and predictive analytics to increase efficiency and ensure customer satisfaction. They work with their clients, not just at start up but throughout the entire relationship to constantly improve and streamline processes, saving the customer valuable time and money.

ALOM

A WBENC Certified Woman-Owned Business, ALOM has been providing third-party logistics for 23 years. Heavily focused on customer service, ALOM provides each client a dedicated account manager who oversees all aspects of their accounts, including inventory, BOM and logistics. ALOM has 19 locations around the world and is the winner of the 2020 MultiChannel Merchant Top 3PL Award as well as the 2019 SDCE Supply Chain Green Award.

Tucker Company Worldwide

Founded in 1961 by Jacob Tucker, the company believes what sets it apart is their people. With many clients having been with Tucker for one or two generations, it’s safe to say customers agree. The company adheres to strict operational and safety compliance standards, customizing their services to the unique needs of each customer. They also offer 100 percent visibility at all times, allowing modifications to their TMS that addresses those needs. Up next, Tucker Company Worldwide plans to debut a new, self-service customer portal to further enhance the customer experience, and the company regularly reviews client accounts upon request to ensure satisfaction.

Werner Enterprises

One of the five largest truckload carriers in the U.S., Werner Enterprises was founded in 1961 as a single truck operation. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, Werner has offices in Canada, Mexico, and China. The company provides services such as dedicated, intermodal, cross border, global services and customs solutions. The company has won numerous awards, including the 2020 Alliance Award from SMC³ and Logistics Management, Food Logistics Top Green Provider Award and Logistics Management’s 2020 Quest for Quality Award.

Knichel Logistics

A WBENC Certified Women’s Business Enterprise and Woman Owned Small Business, this family run company provides services such as intermodal, LTL, full truckload and other specialty services. They pride themselves on highly personalized customer service, providing each client a dedicated account representative and a web-based transportation management system that delivers customized reporting. A 20-year industry veteran, Knichel Logistics CEO Kristy Knichel is the Intermodal Logistics Conference chairperson and is seated on the Board of Directors of the Transportation Intermediaries Association, the premier organization for 3PL professionals in North America and abroad.

GEODIS

The global supply chain operator operates five lines of businesses around the world, including freight forwarding, supply chain optimization, distribution and express, road transport and contract logistics and transportation management. With operations in 67 countries and a worldwide network that spans 120 countries, GEODIS boasts over 41,000 employees around the world.

PLS Logistics Services

Home to the largest flatbed network in North America, PLS Logistics Services offers a full suite of transportation solutions for their clientele. Each client receives a dedicated account executive as their point of contact, and the company provides 24/7 support, transparent tracking options and custom TMS reporting. With both outsourced and managed transportation services, PLS Logistics Services allows clients the flexibility they need to run their supply chain properly.

Dachser USA Air & Sea Logistics Inc.

Dachser USA Air & Sea Logistics Inc. treats its customers as partners, offering customized solutions to suit the individual needs of each business. The U.S. arm of Kempten, Germany-based Dachser can connect with more than 400 locations in nearly 40 countries, making them a dominant presence in many of the major markets across the globe. The company’s own Dachser IT program provides industry-leading, in-house solutions for clients of all sizes.

Americold

Americold prides itself on being the only 3PL to offer automated picking in cold storage with multiple tenants. Their use of robots provides on-time, in-full accuracy 99.5 percent of the time, allowing for minimal contact and a pick cycle time of under two hours. Americold has their own proprietary inventory management system, i-3PL Supply Chain Control, which allows customers to manage their inventory from any smart device, from anywhere.

NFI Industries

One of the oldest and largest family owned 3PLs in North America, NFI offers a flat organizational structure that allows the company to work quickly and nimbly. Clients are assigned dedicated account management teams that provide personalized service and continuously look for ways to improve supply-chain efficiency, including the use of robotics and automation in their warehouses. A company that cares about sustainability, NFI Industries operates electric trucks and was one of the first providers to use Class 8 battery-electric Freightliner eCascadias. And NFI uses Kalmar Ottawa Electric T2E Terminal Tractors in its California distribution centers.

Pilot Freight Services

Founded in 1970, Pilot Freight Services credits its 50-year history with always putting the customer first. One of the International Air Transport Association’s “Top 25 Air Forwarders in the World,” Pilot’s domestic and international operations frequently work hand-in-hand to achieve customer solutions. The company is the recipient of numerous awards, including Logistics Management’s Quest for Quality and Top 50 U.S. & Global 3PL designations.

AP Moeller – Maersk

Founded in 1904 as Dampskibsselskabet Svendborg (The Steamship Company Svendborg), today the Danish company Maersk has a dedicated team of 80,000 employees and operates in 130 countries around the globe, including its U.S. headquarters in New Jersey. The integrated transport and logistics company also has a standalone energy division. Maersk offers businesses of all sizes customizable solutions, with services available on all major trade lanes, including air, land, rail and sea. Maersk recently added Eco Delivery, a service that uses biofuel to reduce carbon emissions.

UTXL

Serving North America, UTXL aims to be the “safest, most reliable and cost effective” 3PL provider. The company offers a full suite of services and has been a federally licensed broker for more than two decades. They have provided services for everyone from the smallest of small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. With a focus on “Safety, Service, Systems and Savings,” UTXL offers customers unparalleled customer service.

Phoenix Logistics

A 3PL supplier to government and Tier 1 prime customers, Phoenix Logistics has locations to serve both U.S. coasts located in Arizona and Florida. Phoenix Logistics offers customers real-time, cloud-based tracking for supply-chain management. They work tirelessly to overcome challenges and bring their customers vital delivery infrastructure such as IT, transportation, energy and medical.

C.H. Robinson

One of the world’s largest 3PLs, C.H. Robinson has $20 billion in freight under management and processes 18 million shipments each year. The company serves 119,000 customers and 78,000 contract carriers around the world. C.H. Robinson has its own innovation department, C.H. Robinson Labs, where the company is constantly developing and testing customer solutions to streamline processes that put the customer first.

ArcBest

With more than 13,000 employees, ArcBest offers services ranging from LTL via ABF Freight, ground expedite through Panther Premium Logistics, household moving via U-Pack, and vehicle repair under FleetNet America. The company’s main focus is always the customer, ranging from the smallest operations to the largest and most complicated supply chains. ArcBest was recently named the No. 2 employer in Arkansas by Forbes and Statista Inc.

Global Gateway Logistics

St. Louis, Missouri-based Global Gateway Logistics recently made headlines for delivering more than 2 million pieces of PPE to their local community with the help of global partners, in an effort to stop the spread of the COVID-19. Global Gateway Logistics offers services ranging from international air freight, international ocean, rail transport, ground transport, analysis consulting, hospitality logistics and customs consulting.

Axle Logistics

The Knoxville, Tennessee-based 3PL, which is among the fastest growing in the industry, provides safe, reliable, advanced logistics services for companies throughout North America. Axle Logistics’ freight brokerage and transportation management operations support shipper needs for truckload, less-than truckload (LTL) and intermodal as well as integrated warehousing and distribution services. The 3PL recently expanded its engagement with Trucker Tools, deploying its Smart Capacity predictive freight-matching software. The added services build upon its current use of Trucker Tools load tracking, which has helped Axle increase tracking compliance among truckload carriers from below 30 percent to 80 percent.

PITT OHIO

PITT OHIO, which prides itself on having one of the best safety ratings in the logistics industry, is the recipient of numerous safety awards, including the American Trucking Association’s President Trophy. The family owned company offers services including small package, truckload and LTL, which is the company’s legacy service. PITT OHIO works with their customers to create custom solutions to their logistics challenges, providing quality service every step of the way.

CaseStack

Founded in 1999, CaseStack offers collaborative supply chain management services for CPG’s retailer logistics programs and cloud-based supply management products. CaseStack’s platform works to combine LTL deliveries to reduce shipping costs and improve delivery performance, while their cloud-based program allows CPG companies to manage their accounts, improve forecasting and sourcing, and much more.

Ruan

Founded in 1932 by John Ruan, what started as a gravel hauling company in Des Moines, Iowa, now boasts more than 300 operations nationwide, with 6,000 team members and 10,000 trailers. Placing a high precedent on safety, Ruan was the first transportation company in the U.S. to develop a safety program, and it is their commitment to safety, performance, customer satisfaction, people, improvement and teamwork that drives the company to this day.

Echo Global Logistics

Echo Global Logistics was founded in 2005 with the goal of simplifying transportation management. Its user-friendly, proprietary technology enables vendors, partners and clients to operate more nimbly, adapting to changes with real-time visibility. The company’s expansive coverage allows your merchandise to get to its final destination when it’s needed—no matter the means.

Kane Is Able

Kane Is Able works with consumer goods manufacturers who sell through ecommerce, retailers and grocers to improve supply chain efficiency. The company’s employees work as an extension of your business, helping to ensure that you get the best service for your logistics dollar, round the clock. The company employs Lean and Kaizen methodologies to constantly improve performance, which translates to a better experience for their customers.

Hub Group

Founded by Joyce and Phil Yeager in a “one-room, windowless office,” Hub Group has grown from its modest beginnings to become an award-winning 3PL specializing in customizable multimodal solutions. Hub Group attributes its success to providing the services that its customers need at a fair price. They offer LTL, FTL, expedited, intermodal and international freight services with the goal of long-term growth.

WSI Logistics

WSI Logistics was founded in 1966 in Combined Locks, Wisconsin, with just 30,000 square feet of warehouse space. Today, the company has grown to become one of the largest privately held logistics companies in America, with a network that includes American Warehouse LLC, Warehouse Specialists LLC, Material Logistics & Services LLC (MLS), Fulfillment Specialists of America, Inc. (FSA), LLC & WSI Freight Solutions and 360data. WSI Logistics offers fulfillment, transportation, import/export, warehousing and distribution, contract services and 3PL.

Logistics Plus

One of the fastest growing privately owned logistics companies in the world, Logistics Plus has annual global sales of over $300 million, with 450 employees spanning 28 countries across the globe. Logistics Plus offers services ranging from LTL, freight forwarding, truckload, warehousing and fulfillment, global trade compliance, project cargo, import/export and customs brokerage. Despite their rapid growth, Logistics Plus is still small enough to meet their customers’ unique logistics needs but big enough to solve the most complex of logistics challenges.

Mallory Alexander International Logistics

Mallory Alexander International Logistics is a full-service logistics provider offering customers over 94 years of experience in the logistics industry. The company knows that it plays a vital role in the supply chain of their customers, and it strives to ensure the accuracy that will keep their clients’ businesses running smoothly. Mallory Alexander International Logistics also offers their own proprietary MyMallory Management Portal that allows users to customize their experience and get the information they need, when they need it.

Penske

One of the most recognized names in logistics, Penske offers a full suite of state-of-the-art solutions to get your cargo where it needs to go. Penske serves a wide range of industries, from automotive to chemical, consumer goods, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, electronics, industrial manufacturing, retail and more. With more than 35,000 employees around the world—and more than 300,000 vehicles—the company is poised to offer customers a wide array of solutions that will fit their individual business needs

Approved Freight Forwarders

Approved Freight Forwarders began its business serving Guam and is now one of the premier freight forwarders in the Pacific, connecting Hawaii, Guam and California to the rest of the world. Offering ocean, air and over-the-road transportation, Approved Freight Forwarders is the only freight forwarder with terminals on all four of the major Hawaiian Islands. Serving both individuals and business clientele, Approved Freight Forwarders has one of the lowest damage claims rates in the industry, thanks to the personalized attention they pay to each shipment.

Magnate Worldwide

One of the fastest growing companies in the logistics industry, supply chain management company Magnate Worldwide comprises wholly-owned subsidiaries that work tirelessly to offer premier logistics services, including global freight forwarding and expedited domestic transportation. With a high focus on customer service, Magnate Worldwide offers specialized services, specializing in time-sensitive, high-value shipments.

Kanban Logistics

North Carolina-based Kanban Logistics offers inbound logistics services for manufacturers, ecommerce and finished goods distribution. Kanban is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 quality standard by MCNA as well as the MCNA certificate of registration for AS9100D, the Federal Aviation Administration’s aerospace industry standard. Kanban also holds a superior rating by AIB International and is compliant with C-TPAT, an added security program. They are also a general purpose FTZ, enabling them to defer duties until products are shipped within the United States.

Burris Logistics

Pioneers in the cold chain logistics space, Burris Logistics began as a father-and-son tomato delivery operation in 1925 and has since grown to more than 2,000 employees. Burris Logistics puts a heavy focus on teamwork, with their ONEBURRIS initiative, which operates under the motto “team before self.” This guiding principle empowers the Burris Logistics team to not just work together, but to work together for betterment of their customers.

Neovia Logistics

Neovia Logistics works as a true partner to their customers, helping them grow their business. Neovia has more than 100 facilities in over 20 countries, spanning six continents. Working mainly with automotive, aerospace, technology and industrial customers, Neovia offers everything from warehouse management to inventory optimization, supply-chain technology and support, inbound logistics and much more.

Transportation Insight

Transportation Insight employs hundreds of highly trained logistics professionals across the United States. Specializing in unique supply chain solutions, the company deals with everything from domestic transportation to international logistics. Transportation Insight works with clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, help either find ways to cut costs and increase efficiency.

With these top 50 3PLs, you can rest assured your cargo is in good hands, affording you the peace of mind you need to get back to running your business the way it was meant to be run.

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Archives, Global Trade Daily, Top Cities

20 FOR 2020: THE TOP 20 CITIES FOR FREIGHT FORWARDERS

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Even domestic shipping can be complicated. That’s why freight forwarders exist—they handle much of the complex paperwork and hassle needed to move cargo across borders. For freight forwarders, some cities are definitely better than others.

To find out the best cities for freight forwarders, we asked Carlo De Atouguia, the chief operating officer of Western Overseas Corporation. For more than four decades, Western Overseas has provided freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing, distribution, cargo insurance, and e-commerce services to small and large companies across the globe.

Atouguia zeroed in on a common theme to come up with the top 20 cities for freight forwarders. “These cities are key because they are integral gateway cities for both ocean and air,” he explains. “I believe it is an advantage having representation in these cities because it allows you to develop a personal business relationship with the major players in all facets of the freight forwarding supply chain in that city. These business relationships are key when negotiating spot rates, late cut-offs, drayage and expedited handling on cargo arrival.

“The other key factor is the sheer number of carriers and cargo flights available in a particular city,” he continues. “The more options you have, the better you’re able to service your customers’ freight forwarding needs.”

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Air cargo and mail moving through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has been steadily climbing for the past few years, from more than 624,000 metric tons in 2015 to a little over 704,000 metric tons in 2018, according to Statista. Which is why it wasn’t a shock that Georgia’s $40.6 billion worth of exports in 2018 was the highest in that state’s history. In fact, exports in Georgia have grown by 71 percent over the last decade, according to U.S. Census data. It’s no wonder there are more than 20 freight forwarders in the Atlanta area.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

In the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore, 15 ship-to-shore gantry cranes move about 900,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) every year, according to 2018 figures from the U.S. Department of Transportation. It’s also one of the most diverse ports in the U.S., with the six public marine terminals handling autos, roll-on/roll-off, containers, forest products and project cargo. The 11 million tons of cargo that moved through the port this past year was a new record, and the nearly 2.9 million tons of cargo the port handled in between April and June of 2019 also set a new second quarter record.

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

The Port of Charleston is ranked ninth in the U.S. in terms of cargo value, according to the South Carolina Ports Authority. That translated into $72.7 billion worth of imports and exports in 2018. The port’s cranes handled 2.2 million TEUs that year. Thirteen of the world’s biggest container companies tie up there. While the port can already accommodate most post-Panamax vessels, efforts are under way to deepen the harbor from 45 to 52 feet. That’s why it wasn’t surprising when the port authority revealed in November 2019 that Charleston had doubled its cargo volume over the last decade.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is ranked sixth in the nation and seventh in the world in terms of the number of passengers and volume of cargo handled, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation. More than 60 freight forwarders, customs brokers and international service providers use CLT’s Air Cargo Center, which has 570,000 square feet of available space and 2.2 million square feet of aircraft ramp space. The CLT also links to the Norfolk Southern and CSX rail lines. It processed 128,000 tons of cargo in 2015.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

Since the 19th century, Chicago has been a railway and ocean hub for commerce. Even today, a quarter of all rail freight in the U.S. passes through the Chicago rail yards. (It’s also the only gateway in the U.S. where six of the seven major railroads can interchange traffic.) An amazing 30 percent of all consumers in North America live within a one-day truck ride from Chicago. But in terms of cargo value, the Windy City is the top international air gateway in the U.S., with about 2 million metric tons of cargo moving through O’Hare International Airport every year, all worth more than $200 billion, according to Chicago’s Department of Aviation.

CINCINNATI, OHIO

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), which provides non-stop service to 38 of the top 40 U.S. markets, moved 1.2 million tons of cargo in 2018 and is the eighth largest cargo airport in the U.S., according to the CVG airport authority. For the past three years, it’s been the fastest-growing cargo airport in the U.S. It’s also the location for one of DHL’s three “global super hubs,” from which it serves 220 nations. Amazon also has plans to build a $1.5 billion hub at CVG, which will support more than 100 Prime Air freighters.

DALLAS, TEXAS

Because many of the warehouses and distribution centers that stand between international suppliers of goods like China and retail outlets are located in Texas, Dallas is perfectly located to serve as a freight hub for the rest of the nation, according to a 2018 FreightWaves e-newsletter article. Indeed, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport considers itself “the nexus of Latin America-Asia transit freight.” More than 900,000 tons of cargo moved through the airport in fiscal year 2018. According to the DFW Airport Authority, 55 percent of it was domestic and 45 percent was international.

HOUSTON, TEXAS

The Port of Houston is one of the most heavily used water gateways in the country. According to the port authority, in 2017 it ranked first in the nation in terms of foreign waterborne tonnage (173 million short tons), second in total foreign and domestic waterborne tonnage (260 million short tons) and third in overall value of foreign cargo. It’s also the largest Gulf Coast container port, handling nearly 70 percent of all container traffic in that region. A little more than a million containers (imports and exports) moved through the port in 2001; today, that number stands at nearly 2.5 million.

LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Long Beach has one of the busiest seaports in the world. The Port of Long Beach says its 68 Post-Panamax gantry cranes move around 7.5 million TEUs every year, all valued at close to $200 billion. That translates into 82.3 million metric tons of cargo moved in/out on more than 2,000 vessel calls. It’s the second busiest port in the U.S., and the 21st busiest container cargo port in the world. All told, the port accounts for a third of loaded containers moving through all California ports. About 90 percent of the shipments moving through the port are part of trade with East Asia.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Let’s start with the fact that the Port of Los Angeles has been the top container port in the U.S. since 2000. In 2018, its 83 gantry cranes handled 9.5 million TEUs—the highest number ever moved by a port in the western hemisphere—making it one of the busiest ports in the world. Then there’s Los Angeles International Airport, the world’s fourth busiest, which handled nearly 2.5 million tons of cargo in 2018. According to Los Angeles World Airports, FedEx is the dominant airfreight carrier at LAX, carrying nearly 16 percent of the freight that moves through the airport.

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

Situated on the Ohio River, Louisville is well placed to handle all sorts of cargo traffic. In fact, Jefferson Riverport is one of the few inland ports in the U.S. that connects to three railroads: CSX, Norfolk Southern and Paducah & Louisville. The city is also, as the State of Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development is fond of pointing out, about a day’s truck drive away from 65 percent of the U.S. population. What’s more, Louisville International Airport is home to the UPS shipping hub—the world’s largest fully automated package-handling facility. One hundred thirty aircraft move through it each day, and it processes a remarkable 1.5 million packages daily.

MIAMI, FLORIDA

In 2018, Miami International Airport ranked fourth in the nation in terms of both total cargo and total freight, and No. 1 in international freight, according to the Miami-Dade Aviation Department. That year, 2.31 million tons of freight moved through the airport, nearly three percent higher than the previous year. At the same time, a thousand cargo ships docked at the Port of Miami—the East Coast’s closest deepwater container port to the Panama Canal—carrying 1.1 million TEUs worth around $27 billion. Nearly half the TEU imports to Miami came from Asia, while 70 percent of the exports went to Latin America, according to the Miami Port Authority.

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

Primarily due to FedEx, Memphis International Airport is the top international gateway in the U.S. by weight and the No. 2 cargo airport in the world. In 2016, 11.9 million short tons of cargo moved through the airport, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. FedEx accounts for a reported 99 percent of the cargo moving through Memphis International Airport, which carries out 450 combined arrivals and departures every day. Memphis is also home to the fifth largest inland port in the U.S., which is very close to the airport and lies at the juncture of major north-south and east-west interstate highways, as well as that of five major railroads.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

The only container port in Louisiana, the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) has six gantry cranes that can handle 840,000 TEUs a year. Containers make up about 60 percent of the cargo handled at the port, according to the Port NOLA authority. The port also ties into the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad, offering daily intermodal service to Memphis, Chicago, Toronto and Montreal. Regular container-on-barge service also connects the port to Memphis and Baton Rouge.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

The Port of New York and New Jersey handled 41.3 million metric tons of general cargo worth more than $188 billion in 2018, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Put another way, the port handled 52 percent of all the unloaded and loaded TEUs on the North Atlantic. Add this to the 1.4 million tons of cargo that moved through JFK International Airport in 2018, and you can see why New York City holds such importance in the world of freight.

NORFOLK, VIRGINIA

Situated two and a half hours from the open sea, the Port of Norfolk’s 22 Suez-class cranes moved 2.7 million TEUs in 2017, according to the port authority. It’s also so rail-friendly, with two class 1 railroads operating on-dock, that 37 percent of all cargo moving in and out of the port comes by rail—the largest percentage of any East Coast port. Norfolk International Airport also operates one of the most efficient cargo operations in Virginia, moving 30,000 tons of air cargo every year. FedEx, Mountain Air and UPS all use Norfolk International extensively.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

For Philadelphia, location is everything. The city is about a day’s drive from nearly half the nation’s population, as well as six of the eight largest U.S. markets. There are also 400 distribution centers located within Philadelphia’s immediate vicinity. PhilaPort can handle cargo carriers holding 12,200 TEUs. The CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads both serve the port. In 2016, Philadelphia International Airport handled about 427,000 tons of cargo, and is home to nearly 40 freight forwarders. The airport sits next to I-95, which runs from Maine to Florida, and is close to both the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the New Jersey Turnpike.

PORTLAND, OREGON

The Port of Portland, the largest in Oregon, handles about 11 million tons of cargo every year, according to the port authority. The port can move containers, autos, breakbulk and drybulk. There are on-dock rail connections throughout the port, and BNSF Railway ties the container terminal directly to Seattle/Tacoma. Portland International Airport, located 12 miles from downtown Portland, is centered in the Columbia River Industrial Corridor. Eight cargo carriers use PDX, including UPS, FedEx and DHL. There are 47 freight forwarders serving the Portland area.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

About 488,000 tons of cargo moved through San Francisco International Airport in 2018. Nine cargo carriers operate out of the airport, serving destinations all over the world. Additionally, the Port of San Francisco’s five deepwater berths can accommodate a wide variety of container and bulk carriers. In all, 1.4 million tons of cargo moved through the port in 2017, according to the San Francisco Port Authority.

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

The Port of Savannah bills itself as the largest single container terminal in North America, and it is the second-largest container exporter in the U.S. (13.3 million tons). Two class 1 railroads serve its nine deepwater berths, which operate 27 container cranes. In 2018, the port handled 4.4 million TEUs, a new record for the port. Its major satellite facilities include warehouses and distribution centers for Target, IKEA and Heineken USA. Savannah Hilton Head International Airport handled a further 8,600 tons of cargo during 2018.

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Archives, Global Trade Daily, News

DACHSER’s New LCL Service Offers Expanded Connections for Shippers

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Shippers seeking a consolidated access option along the route from Europe to Chile are now offered DACHSER’s latest weekly schedule of LCL services. This added service streamlines the process by collecting container shipments followed by consolidation at its Hamburg warehouse. Once consolidated, the items are shipped directly to San Antonio, Chile without interruption.

“Referring to ‘less than container load,’ our new LCL service is designed to meet the specific needs of our customers with smaller merchandise quantities. The service not only optimizes efficiencies and reduces costs, but the fixed weekly schedule improves the planning process,” said Guido Gries, Managing Director, DACHSER Americas.

“An effective LCL service comes down to timing—from the coordination of the grouping of goods and to the fixed container trips between ports. Our management of this timing allows our customers the benefit of improved planning and transit times as well as transparency of their shipments,” said Mr. Gries.

Markets including Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia are directly connected to the Chilean region thanks to this added service. DACHSER continues to showcase its dedication to expanding network capabilities while supporting the needs of its customers, particularly in a trying time for the supply chain and global logistics players.

“The service offers customers streamlined container coordination and management of all sea freight imports deployed on first-class carriers to Chile,” added Mr. Gries. “Thanks to our extensive European logistics network we can offer seamless visibility from the door of the supplier in Europe to the final destination.”

Additional service offerings include interlocked logistics solutions aimed to support road, air, and sea logistics through transportation and warehousing services as well as pre-carriage handling and transparent supplier tracking.

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Archives, Global Shippers 101, Global Trade Daily

Airfreight vs. Sea Freight – Which Works Better?

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Airfreight vs. sea freight has become a burning dilemma for all those in need of this type of services. While both solutions come with a set of advantages and disadvantages, the final choice one makes will depend on a variety of factors. We are willing to share our knowledge and findings with you so that you can make the best possible decision regarding your shipment in the given circumstances. 

Airfreight vs sea freight – the costs can be a decisive factor

Undeniably, the amount of financial means necessary to afford airfreight services is considerably higher than that of sea freight. Moreover, the appearance of the largest cargo aircraft in the world announces great changes and improvements in this field. The Antonov An-225 could cause a further rise of the airfreight costs, but it will also guarantee higher quality. On the other hand, sea freight is much more affordable and, consequently, the number one choice of a vast majority of clients. Opting for sea freight provides clients with acceptable service but at a significantly lower price.

Time matters greatly!

Most often, clients want their shipment delivered as soon as possible, which can cause problems for those offering sea freight services. Not seldom do customs issues or hold-ups at ports cause serious delays. However, we must admit that a giant step forward is evident in this field. Firstly, high-quality, modern ships are much faster now than it was the case in the past. Secondly, there are some canal upgrades that can eliminate tedious and tiring delays on some routes. Finally, sea freight forwarders can guarantee delivery times, which is vital for business owners when it comes to organization.

The type of cargo affects the final choice on airfreight vs. sea freight dilemma

The type of cargo is one of the most important factors influencing the choice in the airfreight vs. sea fright dilemma. In this case, we must admit that sea fright seems like a much better solution since it has no limitations you have to be aware of. One of the crucial pros of the maritime shipping is that you can ship even the bulkiest and extremely heavy goods. Conversely, airfreight is limited in this discipline. Before you opt for this type of goods transportation, it is advisable to make sure that the type of your cargo is acceptable. In addition, there is a very long list of the items which are prohibited and those listed as hazardous materials. Depending on your final destination, the rules and laws may differ. Yet, getting sufficient information on the subject must still be the first step in the process.

Safety of your cargo is the top priority

Understandably, the safety of cargo is always the top priority. It is important to emphasize that air cargo has to be dealt with the utmost attention and in accordance with the regulations which are very strict and clear. All the crucial elements, including handling and securing your cargo as well as the proper storage, are defined by airport regulations. This is a great benefit and a guarantee that the safety of your goods will be at the maximal level. On the other hand, we cannot say that sea freight is a bad alternative either. In this case, the goods are transported in containers, but the human factor is crucial. Proper packing strategies are essential in order to decrease any chances of potential damage during transport. If this is not conducted appropriately, the chances are some of your goods might get seriously damaged or even cause further problems on the ship.

Do not forget about the accessibility of your goods

If we analyze the accessibility of your goods as one of the criteria, airfreight is a more favorable option by all means. The procedures are clear, cargo is in smaller volumes and there are no unnecessary waitings to receive your goods. Using sea freight for your cargo often results in additional costs due to heavy congestions in seaports. If your goods are not delivered at the arranged time, you are required to pay for detention and demurrage costs, which may be a heavy burden on your budget. However, we must not forget to mention an advantage sea freight offers comparing to airfreight. The accessibility to markets is much higher in case of sea freight. The reason is very simple. When unloaded from ships, containers can move further inland by using the services of intermodal shippers. 

Eco-friendly practices 

Finally, let us not forget about the environment when choosing between airfreight vs sea freight. Applying eco-friendly practices is becoming increasingly important, so it does not surprise this is one of the factors shippers base their decision on. According to this particular criterion, sea freight is a more reasonable option since it has a significantly better carbon footprint. Quite the opposite, airplanes are serious polluters and require special attention and measures to reduce their carbon footprint to minimal values.

Final words on airfreight vs sea freight dilemma

The decisions and choices you make concerning airfreight vs sea freight dilemma will depend on miscellaneous factors. It is of key importance to weigh the pros and cons of each of these options and then make your decision final.  A serious effort is required to negotiate the best shipping terms and only then can you expect to ship your goods completely fuss-free.

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Susan Daniels is a passionate copywriter who loves exploring home improvement ideas and real estate market. Lately, she has gained considerable knowledge in the types of moving services and the qualities of respectable moving companies such as DA Moving NYC, for example. She enjoys giving advice on the best places to live and exciting places to visit. Traveling makes her happy as well as reading good books.

Archives, Global Trade Daily, News

Kuehne + Nagel’s Sea Explorer Platform Extension Streamlines Operations

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Kuehne + Nagel, a global leader in supply chain solutions, announced the expansion of its ocean freight platform Sea Explorer, a digitally rooted service network that bridges the gap between more than 1,200 international ports using its advanced algorithm. Expansion efforts will come in the form of adding capabilities with service connections and transshipments. It was reported that more than 63,000 port pairs and key inland locations across the globe are connected to weekly services or transshipment options.

“This extension takes Sea Explorer to the next level and complements Kuehne and Nagel’s intelligent sea freight offering; it is the smart platform for all liner services in container shipping,” says Otto Schacht, member of the Managing Board of Kuehne + Nagel International AG. “With powerful features, like comparing realistic lead times for direct services and an intuitive navigation, customers will be able to unlock new opportunities for their day-to-day operations.”

This marks the first time a platform provides full visibility on CO2 emissions across carrier and individual services, according to Schacht. “Also, in the light of the upcoming IMO 2020 regulations, this will enable shippers to contribute toward a green economy and sustainable global maritime transportation,” he adds. “Kuehne and Nagel leverages big data technology capabilities and information from the operational system to grant unique insights to sea transport options.”

Kuehne + Nagel’s innovative platform is a prime example of taking proactive measures to understanding market demands while tuning in to competitor strategies. These measures are critical to maintaining the competitive advantage while providing expert solutions.

Utilizing digitization–effectively and wisely–can determine how satisfied your customer base will be at the end of the day. Longevity serves as another benefit to digitization. No company wants to lose customers due to antiquated methods that create additional roadblocks. Digital solutions come with a priceless advantage: time savings.