How to assess the professionalism of a freight forwarding company?

When selecting a freight forwarder, it is essential to focus on evaluating three core competencies:Cross-border logistics network coverageandDocument Processing ComplianceandEmergency response timelinessIt is recommended to verify through the following methods:

• Please provide cases of the same category operated in the past 2 years.
• verifiedInternational freightFIATA (International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations) Certification
• Simulate emergency scenarios (such as customs seizure of goods) to test the solution.

II. The Sea in 2025Transportation expensesHow should it be calculated to be reasonable?

The current internationalThe MaritimeThe cost structure exhibits new characteristics:

• Basic fare (including fuelAdditional feesBAF accounts for approximately 55%.
• Destination port surcharges (including the newly introduced carbon tax CII in 2025) account for 18%.
• The floating range of the Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) has been expanded to 8-25%.

Recommended adoptionStep-by-step quotation comparison method: Request the agent to provide the all-inclusive FOB/CIF prices for 20GP/40HQ separately, and break down the specific amount of the Port Congestion Surcharge (PCS).

III. How to Avoid Customs Clearance Delays for Air Freight?

Based on our experience in handling over 300 air freight dispute cases, special attention should be paid to:

• The HS code declaration error must be controlled within 3%.
• Complete the aviation security declaration (ACAS) 72 hours in advance.
• Perishable goods must be accompanied by an IATA-certified temperature data logger.

The EU's new regulations in 2025 require that all air cargo must upload electronic certificates of origin (e-COO). It is recommended to choose an agent that supports blockchain notarization services.

IV. How to Control the Cargo Damage Rate in Railway Transport?

The China-Europe Railway Express requires the establishment of a triple protection system:

• Loading stage:
  • Use ISO-certified moisture-proof containers
  • The cargo is secured using the dynamic equilibrium fastening method.
• Transportation stage:
  • Request real-time temperature and humidity monitoring data sharing.
  • Secondary inspection at key transit points (such as Ma?aszewicze)

V. How to Optimize Costs in Cross-Border E-Commerce Logistics?

In response to the new trends in cross-border e-commerce for 2025, it is recommended to adoptHybrid logistics model:

• 70% regular goods: sea freight + overseas warehouse stock preparation
• 20% time-sensitive cargo: China-Europe trucking express (12-14 days)
• 10% emergency replenishment: Direct charter flights (a new model that reduces costs by 42%)

Pay attention to utilizing the tariff reduction policies under the RCEP agreement, and prioritize ASEAN transit hubs.

6. How to ensure compliance in the transportation of hazardous materials?

The transportation of hazardous materials must ensure the "three documents consistency":

• Shipper's Declaration Notice (SDN)
• Transportation Identification Report of Dangerous Goods
• UN Packaging Certification Documents

Starting from 2025, the IMDG CODE 41-25 edition introduces new restrictions on the transportation of Class 7.3 goods. It is recommended to confirm shipping schedules and space availability with agents at least three months in advance.

7. How to effectively gather evidence in freight disputes?

Proposal to establishEnd-to-End Evidence Chain Management System:

• Shipping Process: 360-degree Container Sealing Video Archiving
• Transportation process: GPS trajectory + container sensor data
• Signing process: Blockchain-based storage of electronic POD (Proof of Delivery) receipt.

Please pay special attention to the new burden of proof provisions under the Rotterdam Rules, which will take effect in 2025.

8. How should small and medium-sized enterprises choose agency services?

Recommended to adoptHierarchical Service Procurement Strategy:

• Monthly shipment volume <5 TEU: Choose platform-based agents (such as Flexport digital services).
• 5-20TEU: Regional Agent Customization Service
• >20TEU: Directly sign a major customer agreement with the shipping company.

Please ensure that the agent's liability limit is appropriate for the value of the goods.

9. What are the special requirements for transportation in emerging markets?

Three emerging markets to watch closely in 2025:

• Middle East region:
  • The mandatory implementation scope of Saudi SABER certification has been expanded.
  • The UAE requires the VAT TRN number to be included on invoices.
• Africa region:
  • Nigeria Launches New Electronic Customs Declaration System (e-Customs)
  • Kenya requires all food-related goods to provide a COI certificate.

10. How can green logistics achieve cost reduction and efficiency improvement?

For 2025, it is recommended to prioritize agents with the following qualifications:

• Obtain IMO Ship Energy Efficiency Certification (EEXI)
• Participate in the European Union Emissions Trading System (ETS)
• Provide carbon-neutral transportation solutions (with potential tariff savings of 7-12%)

The China-US express shipping route powered by LNG has achieved a 23% reduction in carbon emissions.