Freight forwarders face a variety of surcharges as they navigate the complexities of transporting cargo. These charges, including congestion fees, seasonal charges, and security surcharges, are levied by carriers and terminal operators to cover additional costs for processing and transporting goods. Congestion Fees Congestion charges are imposed by carriers for additional costs they incur […]
The global freight forwarding sector has seen significant expansion in recent years and is forecasted to experience even greater growth in 2025. According to the International Monetary Fund, worldwide trade activity is expected to rise by 3.2% this year, supported by increasing consumer demand within developing economies, the rapid growth of e-commerce, and reduced geopolitical […]
Freight forwarders face several challenges in 2025 and beyond. These include oversupply in maritime shipping, lagging adoption of digital tools, and a growing driver shortage in Europe, all of which are putting pressure on the industry. Balancing Oversupply The forwarding sector is navigating a challenging scenario, with capacity expanding and freight demand dropping. The […]
Marked by intricate networks and bustling trade routes, the European freight forwarding landscape is a realm of both opportunities and challenges. While the industry giants seem to sail smoothly, small and medium-sized forwarders often find themselves navigating rougher waters. These firms predominantly grapple with three core challenges: a limited technological infrastructure, pronounced vulnerability to market […]
The flourishing container shipping industry, integral to the European logistics network, has prompted an uptick in demand for new, expansive vessels. Forecasts for 2023 to 2025 suggest that the freshly minted fleet will comprise 27% of the total operational capacity. This investment in new vessels is primarily driven by anticipated future demand and the enhanced […]
Congestion presents a considerable challenge for today’s world, albeit an unavoidable one. The repercussions translate into extended journey durations for freight transporters, a dip in vehicle usage, and a reduction in fuel efficiency. The costs associated with running a fleet climb, market reach diminishes, freight charges increase, and the predictability of delivery and pick-up schedules […]
Today’s supply chains are being impacted by multiple disruptions, but it’s not all negative. The advent of digital innovation is one example expected to enhance precision, nimbleness, cost-efficiency, and security in the logistics arena. Its adoption by an increasing number of businesses is reshaping the landscape of the sector. In 2022, the value of the […]
International trade agreements have a significant impact on the European freight forwarding industry, shaping the landscape in which businesses operate. Navigating these agreements is important for freight forwarders as they influence trade flows, customs procedures, tariffs, and market access. The main important trade agreements with implications for IFA members are the Comprehensive Economic and Trade […]
International shipping can be a complex process due to factors such as time zones, language barriers, and regulatory and customs compliance. This is especially true for businesses that are new to importing and exporting. One of the main decisions they should make is whether to work with a global or local logistics provider. While global […]
Insurers are dealing with cargo claims on a regular basis, the main contributory cause being bad stowage. With millions of containers in global circulation, this can be a serious issue for carriers. While bad stowage is a major cause, there are plenty of other reasons for cargo claims. Reasons for Damage About 11 percent […]
Whether shipping for a small retailer, mid-sized business, or a multinational corporation, there are some specifics to learn about when exporting goods to Middle East markets. To help you get started, here are some regulations and paperwork required when shipping goods to your target markets. Import Regulations Most countries in the region require that […]
Since the early days of the conflict, Ukraine’s ports have remained blocked due to Russian ships and mines. There are 80 ships currently stranded, some carrying cargo, others – empty, with crews having fled from Ukraine. The country’s biggest port, the port of Yuzhne has been idle for the last three months, with thousands of […]
Amidst the pandemic, experts predicted that some commodities were headed for a quick recovery, examples being fast-recovering goods such as minerals, gravel, stones, and agricultural products. Others are neutral or slow-recovering due to a mix of market forces. Fast-Recovering Commodities Goods that are faster to return include pharmaceutical products, animal feed, food and grocery items, […]
With global warming, supply chain networks face considerable risks due to climate disasters, severe weather, and the threat of future pandemics. When wildfires rage, ice covers the roadways, and high winds howl, many businesses are forced to shut down operations. Supply chains have to do the exact opposite and find alternative ways to ship commodities. […]
Plenty can go wrong when shipping perishables and trying to protect them against spoilage, staleness, humidity, and extreme temperatures. There are different packagings and packs to use when transporting perishable items, including cold packs, insulated food shippers, solid plastics, and foam brick. Types of Packaging Cold packs are a safe and simple solution to ship […]
The coronavirus pandemic hit vital industries across the globe and disrupted supply chains due to restrictions and stay-at-home orders. The pharmaceutical supply chain has also been affected by lockdowns and restrictions imposed in India and China where major pharmaceutical producers operate. Drop in Supply due to Over-Reliance Supply from pharmaceutical manufacturers in China has dropped […]
Shipping medical devices and equipment requires careful packing, crating, and unloading by following safety procedures as to avoid damage. European logistics companies often ship medical equipment for research and medical facilities, manufacturers, private practitioners, clinics, and hospitals. Types of Medical Equipment Hospitals and other healthcare facilities use different types of medical devices and equipment such […]
Freight forwarders often ship valuable items that require special handling. From pick-up to transportation and delivery, valuables are made extra secure through digital video recording systems, armored transportation, extra insurance coverage, and security professionals. Factors to Take into Account Different factors should be weighed in when shipping high-value goods, including current events, customs, legislation, geography, […]
Logistics providers face different challenges and operational and strategic risks due to factors such as instability, terrorism, conflicts, and economic downturns. Freight forwarders face logistics and transportation risks associated with increasing globalization, and it is important to develop and implement strategies to safeguard transports. Main Logistics Risks The main logistics risks that companies face include […]
Logistics services providers offer and use different modes of transportation to move goods, including rail, road, air, and sea transport. All modes have pros and cons in terms of safety, speed, reliability, cost, and risk of damages. Rail Transport Rail freight has benefits over other transportation options, one being that it is a cost-effective solution […]