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The Role of Air Freight Forwarders in Global Logistics

The Role of Air Freight Forwarders in Global Logistics

Air freight forwarders play an essential part in the complex dance of international trade. Prime Logistics stands out as a notable conductor among the major actors in this dynamic symphony of logistics. It coordinates the smooth transfer of products across borders via the extensive and effective field of air freight.

A dedication to prompt and dependable transportation is the cornerstone of any brand’s business operations. Prime Logistics’s speciality as an air freight forwarder is accelerating goods through the sky with unmatched efficiency and speed. The company is at the forefront of ensuring that goods arrive at their destination on time in the hectic world of international trade, where time is frequently of the essence.

Overview Of Air Freight Forwarding

The architect of international trade in aviation is an air freight forwarder. Because of its dedication to quality, Logistics ensures that every shipment is handled carefully and precisely. The organization simplifies the intricate process of moving goods by serving as a liaison between companies and airlines. Logistic companies use their experience to customize solutions to each client’s specific requirements, regardless of the package size or shipment.

Holistic Approach

In the shipping and freight forwarding industry, delivery speed is frequently the defining factor of success. Businesses can rely on Prime Logistics to guide their freight through the air, get over obstacles like distance, and reach their destination quickly. Prime Logistics’ air freight forwarding services act as a stimulant for companies trying to maintain their competitive edge in the worldwide marketplace.

Combining Air Freight with International Logistics

Prime Logistics has a comprehensive approach to international logistics, going beyond simple air freight forwarding. The organization mixes air freight with others, such as ocean freight forwarders and sea freight forwarders, effortlessly, understanding that different cargoes may require various modes of transportation. Prime Logistics can provide customers with a comprehensive shipping solution that ensures flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness because of this strategic integration.

Prime Logistics is a dependable resource for businesses navigating the intricacies of global trade, providing a suite of services that extend beyond traditional air freight forwarding. As a reliable partner in the worldwide supply chain, the organization can adjust with custom clearance and customize solutions according to the kind of goods, financial limits, and delivery schedules.

Bottomline

Air freight forwarders are essential in the constantly changing world of global logistics, and Prime Logistics is a prominent player in this field. It is raising the bar for air freight forwarding with its unrelenting drive to quality, seamless integration of services, and sensitivity to each client’s specific needs.

The pursuit of efficiency and agility in supply chains by enterprises has made collaborating with a reputable air freight forwarder a strategic need rather than only an option. So, if you have a business that is constantly supplying products, airways is the best option for you. The sky is more than simply a route in the world of Prime Logistics; it serves as a means for companies to expand into new markets worldwide.

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E-Commerce Boom: How Freight Forwarding is Adapting to Surging Online Orders

E-Commerce Boom: How Freight Forwarding is Adapting to Surging Online Orders

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, where consumers click to purchase from the comfort of their homes, the demand for efficient shipping and freight forwarding solutions has never been higher. As the e-commerce boom continues to reshape the retail landscape, freight forwarding plays a crucial role in meeting the challenges posed by surging online orders. This blog explores the dynamics of this transformation, highlighting the key areas of adaptation, such as shipping and freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and innovative freight forwarding solutions.

1. Shifting Dynamics in Shipping and Freight Forwarding:

The rapid growth of e-commerce has necessitated a paradigm shift in shipping and freight forwarding strategies. Traditional models are being reevaluated to accommodate the speed and flexibility demanded by online shoppers. Freight forwarders are adopting agile shipping solutions to ensure timely deliveries, exploring options like express shipping and efficient last-mile delivery services.

2. Customs Clearance Challenges in E-Commerce:

The surge in cross-border e-commerce transactions brings forth new customs clearance challenges. Freight forwarders are investing in technology and expertise to navigate the complexities of international regulations swiftly. Automated customs clearance processes and partnerships with global agencies are becoming essential for expediting shipments and ensuring a seamless flow of goods across borders.

3. Warehousing Innovations to Meet Demand:

E-commerce success hinges on the efficiency of warehousing operations. Freight forwarders are increasingly turning to advanced technologies, like automated storage systems and real-time inventory tracking, to enhance warehouse management. Strategically located distribution centers are also emerging as a solution to reduce shipping times and cater to the growing demand for quick deliveries.

4. Tailored Freight Forwarding Solutions:

As e-commerce introduces a diverse range of products, from small parcels to oversized items, freight forwarding solutions need to be flexible and scalable. Freight forwarders are customizing solutions to accommodate the unique shipping requirements of different industries. Specialized services for fragile items, temperature-sensitive products, and bulk cargo are becoming commonplace.

5. Technology Integration in Freight Forwarding:

Technology is at the forefront of the adaptation process in freight forwarding. Blockchain technology is being explored to enhance transparency and traceability in supply chains. Data analytics is used for route optimization, demand forecasting, and to provide real-time visibility into the movement of goods. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are assisting in predicting shipping patterns and optimizing freight forwarding processes.

6. Meeting Sustainability Goals:

With increased awareness of environmental issues, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable freight forwarding practices. E-commerce companies and freight forwarders are exploring eco-friendly packaging options, optimizing transportation routes to reduce emissions, and adopting green technologies to align with sustainability goals.

7. Collaboration for Success:

E-commerce’s exponential growth has fostered collaboration between online retailers, e-commerce platforms, and freight forwarders. Partnerships allow for streamlined communication, shared resources, and a more cohesive approach to meeting the dynamic demands of the digital marketplace.

In conclusion, the e-commerce boom is reshaping the landscape of freight forwarding. To adapt to the surging online orders, freight forwarders are embracing innovative solutions in shipping, customs clearance, warehousing, and technology integration. As the e-commerce industry continues to evolve, the synergy between e-commerce platforms and freight forwarders will be critical in ensuring that goods flow seamlessly from sellers to consumers, meeting the expectations of today’s digitally-driven marketplace.

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From Port to Port: Exploring Sea Freight Forwarding Services

From Port to Port: Exploring Sea Freight Forwarding Services

Moving things from one place to another is a challenging logistical movement in the complicated global trade and business sphere. In order to make sure that this process goes off without a hitch, effectively, and seamlessly – sea freight forwarding services are crucial. The world of maritime freight is massive – let’s read more about its significance, workings, and vital function in global shipping and freight forwarding.

  • The Functioning Of Sea Fright Forwarding

The most important link in the supply chain is sea freight forwarding. It entails managing and coordinating the movement of products from one port to another via the sea. A well-run sea freight forwarder service is essential for any company trying to import or export goods. These firms serve as middlemen between the shipper and the carrier, handling all paperwork, transportation plans, and customs clearance.

  • Adherence With Documentation And Customs

Dealing with other nation’s complicated customs laws and considerable documentation is one of the most challenging parts of international shipping. Experts in this area, sea freight forwarders, ensure that all required documents, including certificates of origin, bills of lading, and commercial invoices, are in order. They also assist in customs compliance, helping to navigate the often complex and ever-changing regulations.

  • Choosing The Right Carrier

Ocean freight forwarders have a vast network of contacts and information about various routes and carriers. This expertise allows them to help businesses choose the carrier that best fits their needs in terms of cost, transit time, and cargo requirements. They negotiate freight prices and arrangements on their client’s behalf to provide the most cost-effective and efficient oceanic cargo services and shipping options.

  • Transportation And Cargo Handling

When the cargo is ready to ship, ocean freight forwarders coordinate its pickup and delivery to the port. They handle oceanic cargo services consolidation, ensuring that goods from multiple suppliers are combined for shipping in an efficient manner. They also manage cargo insurance, which provides peace of mind during an unanticipated mishap during transit.

  • Tracking And Route Optimization

In marine freight forwarding, efficiency is everything. These services optimize shipment routes, lowering costs and reducing travel times. They also enable real-time cargo tracking and visibility, allowing shippers to check the movement of their products throughout the route. This openness is critical for firms to plan their operations efficiently.

  • Environmental Accountability

Unlike air freight forwarders, sea freight forwarders are increasingly taking initiatives to lessen the environmental effect of shipping in an era when sustainability is critical. They strive for more efficient routing, vessel selection, and enhanced cargo handling to reduce carbon emissions. They contribute to a better future for the business by embracing eco-friendly techniques.

Bottomline

The unsung heroes of international trade are sea freight forwarding services. They effortlessly connect shippers and carriers while negotiating the complexities of logistics, customs, and documentation. It is very different from air cargo logistics.

Look no further for a dependable partner to help you manage your worldwide shipping operations. Prime Logistics can help you expand your horizons while maintaining maximum efficiency and compliance. Choosing the appropriate marine freight forwarder may make or break your international shipping business. So, choose wisely!

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All about Cargo Insurance – Meaning, Types and Benefits

All about Cargo Insurance – Meaning, Types and Benefits

What is Cargo insurance?

When a load is in movement, it is susceptible to damage from unforeseen air, land, or sea accidents. If such a thing happens, the shipment will be damaged, and the burden placed on the carrier won’t be adequate to make up for the inconvenience caused.

In essence, cargo insurance is a risk reduction instrument that guards the company against monetary losses from damaged or destroyed goods. It is distinct from the obligation of carriers and offers coverage up to the maximum amount included. The occurrences included in the policy, such as car accidents, cargo forfeiture, damage from natural disasters, etc., are covered by the cargo’s insurance protection.

Types of Cargo Insurance

In general, there are two forms of cargo insurance.

  1. Land Cargo Insurance – Land cargo insurance covers goods transported on public roads, typically by truckers and other utilitarian transporters. This insurance provides coverage in case of an accident, theft, or other danger in shipping and freight forwarding. This sort of insurance covers the transportation of products inside the country’s borders.
  2. Marine Cargo Insurance – Marine cargo insurance protects your shipment’s passage on the water and air. This covers international shipping, in contrast to land insurance for freight. While the cargo is in the care of air transport or shipping, it is covered for damages incurred during loading or unloading, adverse weather conditions, and other pertinent risk factors.

Both renewable and fixed coverage are available for marine freight. If you are an irregular shipper, renewable insurance is preferable because it pertains to single journeys. For those who send shipments frequently, ongoing coverage will protect you for a certain amount of time, irrespective of how many shipments you send.

Benefits of Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance protects the company’s responsibility in the case of an unanticipated incident. For the protection of shipments, this insurance provides a percentage of the cargo’s worth as claim funds and additionally covers the carrier to the greatest degree feasible. Whether or not your products have been destroyed, cargo insurance lowers the financial loss.

Common advantages include:

  1. Coverage for all risks – The major losses or harm brought on by outside forces, like theft or damage from bad handling, is protected by cargo insurance.
  2. Comprehensive protection – This is the typical insurance coverage for marine shipments that protects the insurance company’s client from significant losses.
  3. Coverage from one warehouse to another – The protection against damage or theft that may occur while your merchandise is carried between different warehouses is implied by the name.
  4. Reassurance – You are reassured comprehending your cargo is protected after safeguarding your investment since it makes you feel at ease.

Conclusion

Insurance guarantees that a company’s profit creation remains roughly constant, even if shipments are damaged or lost. Owners must carefully select insurance coverage based on the type of their business and the items it sells. Prime Logistics Services is a trusted goods forwarding agent in the logistics sector. They efficiently manage everything from air freight logistics to customs clearance. Cargo insurance is a remarkable instrument for controlling liabilities since it includes high-reward insurance to split the costs of unforeseen losses.

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5 Ways to Protect and Pack Your Shipment in Bad Weather

5 Ways to Protect and Pack Your Shipment in Bad Weather

Bad weather can have significant challenges for your shipments considering shipping and freight forwarding. We cannot control bad weather or unforeseen events. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can damage goods and delay deliveries. You are required to ensure your cargo arrives at its destination safely and on time. Follow these five essential tips to protect and pack your shipment in adverse weather conditions.

  1. Choose the Right Packaging
    Choosing the suitable and right packaging materials is essential for safe shipping. Opt for sturdy and weather-resistant packaging options to safeguard your goods during transit. High-quality corrugated boxes, moisture-resistant wraps, and air-tight containers are essential in ensuring your shipment’s protection. The right packaging shields your products from rain and snow and minimizes the risk of damage during handling and
    customs clearance processes.
  2. Waterproof Your Shipments
    When facing rainy weather, taking extra measures to protect your packages from water damage is essential. Use waterproof seals and tapes to secure your packages effectively. Double-check the seams and corners of your packaging to prevent any potential leaks that might compromise the integrity of your shipment. Waterproofing your shipments ensures that your goods remain safe and dry even in heavy downpours or snowstorms.
  3. Insulate Temperature-Sensitive Goods
    Extreme temperatures can have adverse effects on perishable or temperature-sensitive items. If your shipment includes such goods, take proactive steps to insulate them appropriately. Consider using thermal insulation materials to maintain the required temperature range throughout transit. Doing so ensures that your products remain in optimal condition, even in severe weather conditions.
  4. Partner with Reliable Freight Forwarders
    Collaborating with a reputable and experienced freight forwarding company is crucial for successful shipping during adverse weather. Reliable freight forwarders possess the expertise to navigate unpredictable weather patterns. They offer emergency plans to address potential delays or disruptions due to bad weather. They can assist in choosing alternative shipping routes or transportation modes to ensure your shipments reach their destination on time and intact.
  5. Monitor Weather Updates
    In the ever-changing weather conditions, staying informed is essential. Monitor weather forecasts and updates along the route of your shipment. Real-time tracking and constant monitoring of weather conditions enable you to proactively address any potential delays or re-routing necessary to avoid severe weather conditions. Being well-informed allows you to make timely decisions to safeguard your cargo and make alternative arrangements if needed.

Conclusion

In the unpredictable world of shipping and freight forwarding, lousy weather can present challenges. You can safeguard your shipments and ensure smooth deliveries with the right approach. By choosing weather-resistant packaging, waterproofing your shipments, insulating temperature-sensitive goods, partnering with a reliable freight forwarder for customs clearance processes, and monitoring weather updates, you can protect your cargo from the elements and guarantee timely deliveries. Contact Prime Logistics today to safeguard your shipments in any weather and experience seamless and secure shipping solutions tailored to your needs. Our commitment is to provide you with seamless shipping solutions, ensuring you retain peace of mind throughout the shipping journey.

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From Port to Doorstep: Understanding the Options for Global Shipping

From Port to Doorstep: Understanding the Options for Global Shipping

Today, global shipping is important in moving goods from one country to another in this interconnected world. You might be someone ordering products online, or you own a business and want to expand your reach; you must understand the numerous options for global shipping. You will get insights into different processes of shipping in this article. 

Ocean Freight:

Oceanic cargo services are the most important part of global shipping. This is true for large shipments. Goods get transported in containers through cargo ships. There are several options for ocean freight like Less than Container Load (LCL) and Full container load (FCL) 

Air Freight:

An air freight forwarder is the option when there is a need for speed. Goods get transported by airplanes. It provides efficient handling and quick delivery times. Air Freight is beneficial when transporting perishable goods, time-sensitive materials, and high-value products. 

Rail Freight:

Rail freight offers an alternative mode of transportation for global shipping, especially for shipments involving continents with well-connected rail networks. It balances cost and transit time, offering faster delivery than ocean freight at a lower cost than air freight. Rail freight is particularly advantageous for landlocked countries or regions with extensive rail infrastructure.

Road Freight:

Road freight plays a crucial role in transporting goods within a country or region and is often used as part of the larger shipping process. It is highly flexible and allows for door-to-door delivery, making it an excellent choice for smaller shipments and last-mile logistics. Road freight is commonly used in conjunction with other shipping modes, such as transporting goods from a port to a distribution center.

Intermodal Shipping:

Intermodal shipping combines different modes of transportation, such as rail, road, and sea, to optimize the shipping process. This method allows for seamless movement of goods, reducing transit times and increasing efficiency. Intermodal shipping provides flexibility and cost savings, as it leverages the strengths of each mode while minimizing its limitations.

Customs Brokerage:

Navigating the complexities of customs regulations and documentation is a critical aspect of global shipping. Customs brokerage services help streamline customs clearance by ensuring compliance with import/export regulations, handling documentation, and facilitating communication with customs authorities. Engaging the services of a reliable customs broker can save time, prevent delays, and ensure the smooth passage of your goods through customs.

In conclusion, understanding your options for global shipping is essential to make informed decisions when moving goods from port to doorstep. Whether you choose ocean freight for cost-effective bulk shipments, air freight for speed and efficiency, rail freight for well-connected regions, road freight for local deliveries, or intermodal shipping for optimized logistics, each method has its advantages. Additionally, engaging a customs broker can simplify the customs clearance process, ensuring a smooth flow of goods across borders. By assessing your shipping needs and exploring these options, you can effectively manage your global shipping requirements and achieve timely delivery of your goods.

 

Shipping Container Dimensions

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The Ins and Outs of International Trade: Understanding Customs Clearance

The Ins and Outs of International Trade: Understanding Customs Clearance

Custom clearances can open up opportunities for businesses to exchange goods and services across borders, allowing the greater reach of goods and contributing to overall economic growth. But let’s face it: customs clearance can be a real headache. The maze of regulations and procedures can leave even seasoned traders scratching their heads. This article will delve into the essential aspects of customs clearance, shedding light on its significance and the key considerations for smooth trade operations.

Understanding Custom Methods

When we talk about customs clearance, we’re referring to the whole process that goods have to go through when they cross international borders. It involves a bunch of official procedures like paperwork, inspections, and paying up duties and taxes.

Let’s take a look at the key components of customs check:

Documentation: Accurate and complete documentation is vital for customs clearance. We need to ensure that our commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading or airway bills, certificates of origin, and any necessary permits or licenses are in order. These documents provide important information about the goods, their value, source, and intended use.

Tariffs and Duties: As importers, we must understand the applicable tariffs and duties. Customs duties are taxes imposed on imported goods by the customs authority of the importing country, and tariffs are the specific rates at which these duties are calculated. This understanding is crucial for the proper costing and pricing of goods during our international trade transactions.

Compliance with Regulations: To ensure smooth customs clearance, we must adhere to various regulations, including trade policies, import/export restrictions, and product-specific regulations. We need to be aware of any applicable trade agreements or preferential tariffs that may impact our import/export process.

Inspection and Valuation: Customs authorities may conduct physical inspections to verify the accuracy of our documentation and ensure compliance with regulations. They also determine the value of goods for the assessment of duties and taxes. Factors such as transaction value, customs valuation methods, and any additional charges or discounts are taken into consideration during this process.

Customs Brokers: We can simplify the customs clearance process by utilizing the services of a licensed customs broker. These professionals possess in-depth knowledge of import/export regulations, procedures, and documentation requirements. They assist in preparing and submitting the necessary paperwork, facilitating communication with customs authorities, and ensuring compliance.

Let’s explore the benefits of efficient customs clearance:

Reduced Delays: Smooth customs clearance helps minimize delays in the movement of goods, ensuring timely delivery and reducing supply chain disruptions.

Cost Savings: Proper customs clearance ensures accurate valuation, reducing the risk of overpayment or underpayment of duties and taxes. Additionally, avoiding penalties or fines for non-compliance contributes to cost savings.

Enhanced Compliance: Adhering to customs regulations builds trust and credibility with authorities, fostering better relationships and reducing the likelihood of future disruptions.

Navigating the intricacies of customs clearance is crucial for successful international trade operations. By partnering with experienced logistics providers, such as Prime Logistics, who specialize in air cargo logistics, we can further enhance efficiency and ensure seamless customs clearance for our businesses engaged in global trade.

 

You may also like to read 10 Logistics Challenges Ecommerce Businesses Face

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Tips for Overseas Machinery Shipping with Freight Forwarders

Tips for Overseas Machinery Shipping with Freight Forwarders

Shipping machinery overseas can be a daunting task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. It involves a lot of planning, coordination, and execution to ensure that the machinery arrives at its destination safely and on time. One of the most critical aspects of shipping machinery overseas is choosing the right shipping and freight forwarder. In this blog, we will provide tips on how to choose the right shipping and freight forwarder, and discuss the different shipping options available for shipping machinery overseas, including air freight services and sea freight solutions.

Tip 1: Choose a Reputable Shipping and Freight Forwarder

Choosing a reputable shipping and freight forwarder is critical when shipping machinery overseas. A good freight forwarder can help you navigate the complex regulations and paperwork involved in international shipping, as well as provide valuable advice on packaging, insurance, and customs clearance. Before choosing a freight forwarder, do your research and ask for references. Look for a company that has experience shipping machinery and has a good reputation in the industry.

Tip 2: Get the Right Packaging

Proper packaging is essential when shipping machinery overseas. Machinery must be securely packed to prevent damage during transportation. The packaging should also comply with the regulations of the destination country. Your freight forwarder can advise you on the best packaging materials and methods to use.

Tip 3: Choose the Right Shipping Method

There are two main shipping methods for shipping machinery overseas: air freight services and sea freight solutions. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on your specific needs.

Air Freight Services: Air freight services are faster and more expensive than sea freight solutions. They are ideal for shipping small, high-value machinery that needs to be transported quickly. Air freight services are also suitable for urgent shipments that cannot wait for the slower sea freight options. However, air freight services have weight and size restrictions, and they may not be suitable for large machinery.

Sea Freight Solutions: Sea freight solutions are slower and cheaper than air freight services, but they are suitable for shipping large and heavy machinery. Sea freight solutions include full container loads (FCL) and less than container loads (LCL). FCL is ideal for shipping large machinery as it provides a dedicated container. LCL is suitable for shipping small or medium-sized machinery that does not require a full container.

Tip 4: Ensure Proper Insurance Coverage

It is essential to have proper insurance coverage when shipping machinery overseas. Machinery is often expensive, and any damage during transportation can result in significant financial losses. Your freight forwarder can help you obtain insurance coverage that meets your specific needs.

Tip 5: Understand Customs Regulations

Each country has different customs regulations and procedures, and it is essential to understand these before shipping machinery overseas. Your freight forwarder can provide valuable advice on customs clearance and help you navigate the complex customs procedures. It is also essential to ensure that all necessary documents, such as export and import licenses, are in order.

Conclusion

Shipping machinery overseas requires careful planning, coordination, and execution. Choosing the right shipping and freight forwarder is critical to ensure that your machinery arrives at its destination safely and on time. It is essential to choose a reputable freight forwarder, get the right packaging, choose the right shipping method, ensure proper insurance coverage, and understand customs regulations. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful shipping experience for your machinery.

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Freight Forwarder Vs. NVOCC: What’s The Difference?

Freight Forwarder Vs. NVOCC: What’s The Difference?

When it comes to shipping goods internationally, several parties are involved in the process. Two of the most crucial players in this process are freight forwarders and non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs).

Freight Forwarders

A sea freight forwarder is a company that specializes in arranging and organizing the shipment of goods from one location to another. They act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers and are responsible for managing the logistics of the shipment. Sea Freight forwarders are experts in the transportation industry and have a wide range of knowledge about shipping regulations, customs clearance, and documentation requirements.

Freight Forwarders offer a range of services

Sea freight services arrange for the transportation of goods from the point of origin to the destination. They work with various carriers, including air, sea, and land, to find the best transportation options for their clients. Sea Freight forwarders are responsible for ensuring that all customs clearance requirements are met. They handle the necessary paperwork and documentation to ensure that the goods can pass through customs without any issues. Freight forwarders can arrange for cargo insurance to protect the goods during transit. Freight forwarders can arrange for the storage of goods at a warehouse or storage facility until they are ready to be shipped.

NVOCCs

A non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) is a company that provides transportation services without owning any vessels. NVOCCs do not have their ships but are responsible for booking cargo on behalf of their clients with ocean carriers. NVOCCs act as intermediaries between shippers and ocean carriers, much like freight forwarders.

NVOCCs offer a range of services

NVOCCs book cargo on behalf of their clients with ocean carriers. They negotiate rates and ensure that the cargo is transported safely and efficiently. NVOCCs consolidate small shipments from multiple clients into one container to reduce costs and increase efficiency. NVOCCs issue bills of lading to their clients, which serve as a contract between the shipper and the carrier. NVOCCs handle all the necessary documentation for the shipment, including customs clearance and other regulatory requirements.

Difference between Freight Forwarders and NVOCCs

While both freight forwarders and NVOCCs play a crucial role in the shipping industry, there are some key differences between them. The primary difference is that freight forwarders provide a broader range of services than NVOCCs. Freight forwarders handle all aspects of the transportation process, from booking cargo to arranging customs clearance and insurance. NVOCCs, on the other hand, specialize in booking cargo with ocean carriers and do not offer the same range of services as freight forwarders.

Another difference is that NVOCCs work exclusively with ocean carriers, while freight forwarders work with various carriers, including air and land. Freight forwarders have a more extensive network of carriers, allowing them to find the most efficient and cost-effective transportation options for their clients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both freight forwarders and NVOCCs play critical roles in the shipping industry. Freight forwarders offer a broader range of services, while NVOCCs specialize in booking cargo with ocean carriers.

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7 Challenges in supply chain integration in 2023

7 Challenges in supply chain integration in 2023

As a business owner, you must understand the importance of a smooth and good supply chain. Technology has advanced worldwide, with new challenges occurring in supply chain integration progressively, some of which are mentioned below:

Integration of air freight logistics and air cargo logistics

If you depend upon air freight for your business, you must ensure that your air freight and air cargo logistics are completely integrated. Air freight forwarders and air cargo logistics providers must work together efficiently so that your products are transported early and easily.

Coordination between oceanic cargo services and sea freight services

If your business relies on oceanic cargo and sea freight services, you have to ensure that both services work in coordination. It can be challenging as various sea freight services have separate operating processes, which may make it difficult to make them work together. You have to ensure that parties who work in the transportation field of the same product, work together.

Ensuring supply chain visibility

As you know, global supply chains have increased and become very complicated. It is challenging to track your products as they move through the supply chain. You have to ensure visibility in each step of the supply chain. It can be challenging to have visibility of products from their origin to their final destination.

Integration with e-commerce platforms

Most businesses have moved online; you must ensure that your supply chain integrates with e-commerce platforms. You should be able to take orders from e-commerce platforms and deliver them using your supply chain. It can be challenging to integrate with e-commerce platforms because various platforms may have some specific requirements.

Ensuring compliance with regulations

As you know, global supply chains have become very complicated, and it can take time to complete the required regulations and laws that apply to your products. For instance, various countries have rules and regulations regarding labelling and packaging. You must ensure that your system complies with all such applicable laws and regulations.

Dealing with disruptions

Disruptions can occur at any time in the supply chain, for example, due to natural disasters, political unrest, or other reasons. It would help if you had a strategy to deal with these disruptions, like having alternative transportation tracks. It can be challenging. It needs a deep study and understanding to continue the supply chain and handle potential risks.

Ensuring sustainability

The world has become more environmentally friendly. It would be best to keep your supply chain sustainable by reducing your carbon footprint using environmentally friendly packaging. Maintaining sustainability is a challenging task requiring some important changes in your current supply chain process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, supply chain integration is crucial for the success of any business. However, with the increasing challenges of technological advancements, preparing for the future is vital. From ensuring supply chain visibility to dealing with disruptions, businesses need to stay up-to-date and implement strategies to overcome these challenges. By doing so, they can stay ahead of the game and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

 

Warehousing Services

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Shipping Container Dimensions: A blog about measurements and weights of a shipping container

Shipping Container Dimensions: A blog about measurements and weights of a shipping container

There are a variety of container types in the market. Every container is made for different types of cargo. The appropriate containers keep the cargo safe and also save money. The shipping containers can be used for some applications. The transportation infrastructure in air cargo logistics is designed considering the container dimensions. Here are the common container types and sizes.

Standard Container

There are two standard sizes of the commonly available container type- 40ft containers and 30ft containers. The internal height is 7.9ft/2.39m & 7.9ft/2.39m, and the internal width is 7.9ft/ 2.4m & 7.8ft/2.35m for both types of containers.

Measurements 40ft 20ft
Internal length 39.5ft/12.03m 19.4ft/ 5.9m
Tare weight             8,268.8 lbs/ 3,750kg      5,071.5 lbs/ 2,300kg

 

High Cube Container

High cube containers are similar to standard containers in structure and come in two sizes- 45ft and 40ft for air freight logistics. The internal height of the 45ft HC containers is 2.70m / 8.10ft, and the 40ft HC containers are 2.70m / 8.10ft. The internal width is 2.35m / 7.8ft and 2.35m / 7.8ft, respectively.

Measurements 45ft HC 40ft HC
Internal length 13.55m/44.5ft 12.03m/39.5ft
Tare weight             4,800kg / 10,552 lbs    3,900kg / 8,598 lbs

 

Reefer Containers

These are refrigerators in the size of a container and are used to transport goods in air cargo logistics that are sensitive to temperature.

Measurements 40ft HC 40ft 20ft
Internal height 2.25m / 7.4ft 2.55m / 8.36ft 27m / 7.5ft
Internal width 2.28m / 7.5ft 2.29m / 7.5ft   2.29m / 7.5ft
Internal length 11.56 m/ 37.9ft 11.56m / 37.9ft 5.44m / 17.9ft
Tare weight               4,480kg / 9,880lbs        4,800kg / 10,584 lbs         3,080kg / 6,791.4 lbs

 

Double Door Container

These containers have doors on both ends and are very convenient for unloading and loading a container. They come in 40ft HC, 40ft, and 20 ft dimensions. Their internal lengths are 12.03m / 39.5ft and 5.9m / 19.4ft, and their internal widths are 2.34m / 7.8ft, 2.4m / 7.9ft, and 2.35m / 7.8ft, respectively.

Measurements 40ft HC 40ft 20ft
Internal height 2.69m / 8.9ft 2.39m / 7.9ft 2.39m / 7.9ft
Tare weight             5,200kg / 11,470lbs     3,750kg / 8,268.8 lbs 2,300kg / 5,071.5 lbs

 

Open-Top Container

The roof of the open-top containers is covered with sheets of tarpaulin instead of hardcover. They come in three sizes 40ft, 40ft HC and 20ft. Their internal lengths are 12.03m / 39.5ft, 12.03m / 39.5ft, and 5.89m / 19.4ft, and internal widths are 2.35m / 7.8ft, 2.4m / 7.9ft and 2.35m / 7.8ft, respectively.

Measurements 40ft HC 40ft 20ft
Internal height 2.70m / 8.10ft 2.34m / 7.8ft 2.39m / 7.9ft
Tare weight               4,250kg / 9,370lbs         3,980kg / 8,774 lbs         2,260kg / 5,982 lbs
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10 Logistics Challenges Ecommerce Businesses Face

10 Logistics Challenges Ecommerce Businesses Face

Ecommerce businesses have flourished in the past couple of years as the world was battling COVID-19, and it was essential to maintain social distancing. Most people stopped going out and turned to online shopping. Hence, it became crucial for ecommerce businesses to maintain an efficient logistic system to process and deliver orders on time. This has created various logistical challenges that must be overcome to meet the customers’ ever-increasing demands.

Here are the 10 logistics challenges faced by Ecommerce businesses

  1. Fulfillment of Orders – This is the most crucial part of ecommerce logistics as it directly links to the quality experience of a customer. If you want to maintain your company’s reputation, the key factor is to satisfy a customer.
  2. Ecommerce inventory management – Ecommerce businesses often need help managing their inventory as they can use money that could have been invested in other areas to increase productivity. It is recommended to hire a person who can analyze the variables so that the processing and delivery of orders take place on time.
  3. Utilization of space – Often, companies underestimate or overestimate the space needed to store the merchandise. This stops the logistic system and affects the time it takes to deliver products to their destination.
  4. Replace and return policy – To improve the experience of customers, the challenge to execute effective reverse logistics is faced by many cyber businesses. Replacing or returning an item adds to the extra cost; without a strategic plan, it can result in heavy loss.
  5. Cost of technology – The advancement of logistics technology has made it possible for items to be delivered internationally. However, only top-notch companies can afford advanced logistic services such as air cargo logistics or sea freight services to offer services out of the domestic domain. Therefore, if you are a start-up business person, you might need help operating on older systems.
  6. Limiting carbon footprints – Due to laws and regulations made by governments to avoid further damage to the environment, e-commerce businesses face this new logistic challenge to maintain their delivery efficiency while also trying to follow an environmentally-safe process to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  7. Reliable PartnerA reliable partner that offers ecommerce logistics takes a lot of work to find. But it is necessary if you want to expand your domain of services from the domestic to the international level.
  8. Shipping Costs – The competition in the market has increased since the pandemic. Many companies offer ‘free shipping’ to lure more customers. If you want to apply this service to your business, be calculative and find a strategy to impress your customers while making profits.
  9. International shipping – It is easier to handle domestic shipping than International shipping. Still, if you want to expand your business, you should be prepared to invest in logistics such as air cargo logistics or sea freight services to deliver your goods in bulk and on time.
  10. Order Tracking – To ensure the satisfaction of customers, most businesses provide the service of order tracking. However, it can be challenging as it requires you to maintain logistics accuracy while simultaneously fulfilling different orders.

 

Shipping and Freight Forwarding

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5 Signs It Might Be Time To Switch Freight Forwarders

5 Signs It Might Be Time To Switch Freight Forwarders

It might seem that it is needless to switch air freight forwarders if you have grown close to your current one. The most important part of a freight forwarder’s role is to have a positive working relationship with them. It might be the right thing for you to do for the success of your business.

It takes a long time for firms to build a solid rapport with the freight forwarding provider of their choice. It takes time to educate a freight forwarder about your company’s operations, business practices, and the level of service you want. Therefore, it is standard if you find it challenging to move to a new freight forwarding company or let go of your current one.

Role of Freight Forwarders

The company that ships the goods and the location where they will be used as a final destination are connected through freight forwarders. Although they don’t execute the shipments themselves, they offer various transit options, including air freight shipment, rail freight, sea/ocean freight, and road freight.

In order to negotiate the lowest price, freight forwarders leverage their established relationships with carriers and partners, including trucking firms, transoceanic lines, and experts in air transportation. Using established commercial routes with frequent departures or via charter, weighing several offers, and selecting the best route that optimizes speed, cost, and reliability while considering all the factors required for each case study are two options.

Five indicators that it’s time to switch freight forwarders:

  • Staff are difficult to contact
    It is crucial that a freight forwarder respond promptly and clearly when dealing with a time frame. Contact with a freight forwarder should be at a high level, regardless of whether there is an issue or worry or just a general inquiry about a future cargo. Due to the dedicated account managers at Telenet Global Logistics, their relationships with businesses and supply chains will be as strong as possible.
  • A rise in prices
    Dealing with a freight forwarder who only raises charges might be challenging for a business that is on a tight budget. Whether the rates are increased or decreased, they are delighted to provide their clients with the truth. By doing this, you’ll be able to save money without sacrificing the quality of the service.
  • The goods should be delivered on time unless they are consistently damaged
    It is crucial to switch freight forwarders when the products businesses send are regularly delayed or damaged due to sloppy handling. Changing freight forwarders may be the best option if this costs the company more money.
  • Upon request, pods are not available
    When the products are delivered to the destination, proof of delivery must be signed as part of the delivery process. Before paying for invoices, companies supplying the products will need a POD as verification. It is advantageous to get quotations from other companies if users continually ask your freight forwarder for PODs to save time and money.
  • Your business is booming
    Everyone desires to see their business expand. When a firm reaches a certain size, you may be shipping many items that your present freight forwarder will need help handling.

Need to look for a freight forwarding firm that can handle the volume of incoming goods or one that is larger. If a company just expanded its business market or product line, the local neighborhood forwarder might no longer be able to satisfy its needs as every forward is different. Some solely focus on air. Some are only domestic in nature. Others mainly work as truck traders. Make sure the whole range of services offered by a collaboration with a full-service logistics provider aligns with the aspirations for business expansion.

A “Good Time” to Change Freight Forwarders Exists?

Big business decisions are seldom simple or enjoyable, particularly when they affect a strong working relationship between a shipper and a sea freight forwarder in Mumbai.

Most shippers significantly rely on their freight forwarders to handle all tasks connected to their business’s overseas transportation; thus, the idea of ever switching freight forwarders seems like a bother.

In order to run a business, users still depend on imported and exported goods, whether startups ship once a month or Fortune 100 organizations ship 500 times a year. There is a need for dependability in shipping and logistics to satisfy the clients.

Conclusion

Prior to issues becoming insurmountable, it’s critical to notice the indicators that you may need to hire a new freight forwarder to handle this crucial aspect of your organization.

It may not seem simple to switch when you’ve been doing business with a company for a while, but they do most of the work, so it’s fairly seamless. The issues mentioned above, however, regularly appear out of nowhere in real life, and before anyone realizes it, the entire supply chain has entirely broken down. They work with newly created businesses and those that have been importing and exporting for some time. Making the supply chain visible, dependable, and smooth is how they demonstrate the Prime Logistics difference.

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National Logistics Policy will drive India’s Next Economic Growth Curve

National Logistics Policy will drive India’s Next Economic Growth Curve

The logistics sector expects the National Logistics Policy to address its problems, improve India’s trade competitiveness, and open up more investment opportunities. They believe that if properly carried out, the strategy can usher in a technologically equipped ecosystem with optimized resource utilization, enhanced connection, and last-mile delivery, increasing total productivity.

With an estimated $215 billion market value and a CAGR of 10.5%, the logistics sector is considered to be the backbone of the Indian economy. Also, the sector employs about 22 million people directly and indirectly. This industry faces many challenges, including a high order intensity ratio, an increased tax structure, and expensive supply chain issues.

Based on the logic of this argument, the larger the degree of economic activity, the greater the requirement for adequate transportation to ensure that items are delivered via international parcel services to their appropriate locations. As a result, there is a need for better transportation and logistics systems. This causes a rise in demand, and the multiplier effect begins to work, causing the GDP to increase. Greater demand indicates that a country’s available factors of production have been exceeded, at which point it begins to trade with other nations to obtain the limited resources it requires.

Transportation and competition

The National Logistics Policy’s goals are to increase India’s trade competitiveness, create more jobs, and make conducting business easier, all of which will help India establish itself as a logistics hub. By reducing procedures with technology and digitization, the implementation of the strategy would result in a paradigm shift in the logistics sector. This policy will assist in integrating the supply chain and illustrate inter-ministerial cooperation.

A state’s economy may have a competitive advantage over the economies of other countries thanks to transportation services and supporting infrastructure. The US rail freight sector is a prime example of a competitive advantage in transportation. Due to our low bridges, containers cannot be placed on trains in the UK. American trains don’t have any height limits or low bridges; thus, they can be stacked two containers high. As a result, they have a competitive advantage over nations with weak bridges. Compared to countries without railways, such as the majority of Africa and South America, the US enjoys a clear edge.

Excluding Transportation from GDP

It is impossible to anticipate continued growth in the GDP and transportation activity. There must be a marginal utility point at which a further development unit has no impact on GDP.

Other non-economic variables that will disconnect transportation activity from GDP development include pollution and traffic congestion. Nobody expects all land to be used for roads and other logistics infrastructure, and land usage might negatively impact the environment.

Last, since more efficient transportation is less expensive, GDP should increase faster than transportation due to increased productivity and economies of scale, showing that the relationship between transportation and GDP has been broken.

Demand- or supply-led?

Finally, they should decide whether the rise of transportation and logistics services is driven by demand or supply. Why is this essential? Logistics designers need to know whether the increase in transportation capacity is caused by growth that has been created, or if it is caused by other factors.

Supply-led

The growth that is sparked by these activities is supply-led. Government and private sector investments in transportation and logistics infrastructure will increase the ability to produce goods and services, increasing demand. Governments frequently take this action to boost economic growth: They invest in infrastructure. Increased transportation, logistics, and associated infrastructure facilitate economic development. Better transportation facilities enhance access to additional markets, and as the efficient vehicle is not expensive, it is also used more frequently. The local economy will be indirectly impacted by large-scale transportation infrastructure developments, as the multiplier effect supports the expansion of logistics companies.

Demand-led

Demand-driven growth could be more predictable. Demand for transportation is driven by investments in overall economic development or by consumers. Transportation services can only be economically viable if there is a demand for them, which is different from supply-led growth, which focuses on growing transportation and logistics capacity. Latent and disclosed demand are two possible sources of demand. Actual goods movement, or people’s desire to move more objects, serves as the foundation for revealed demand. Latent demand is the potential unmet demand that results from insufficient transportation infrastructure. If a retail park is created outside of a town, that is an example of latent demand; the demand is present after the project is built.

Conclusion

According to the stakeholders, the national logistics policy will introduce a new approach to the nation’s International courier services environment, increasing the efficiency of supply chains. The newly developed policy, according to logistics software providers, will enable a modal shift in logistics away from the current excessive on roads (over 60% share vs 25% internationally) and toward trains (30% share vs about 60% globally) and waterways, which currently make up 5% of the modal mix.

To sum up, NLP is a big step in the right direction, and the industry is already seeing more local and foreign money coming in. Moreover, the program would boost investment, promote innovation, and raise industrial competition.

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