Modaltrans
logistics journal

In the spectrum of international trade agreements, Ex Works (EXW) represents the point of maximum responsibility for the buyer and minimum obligation for the seller. Under EXW, the buyer takes control of the shipment from the seller's doorstep, managing every logistical step that follows. While this offers unparalleled control over the supply chain, it also comes with significant risks and complexities. This guide breaks down the roles, pros, cons, and strategic use cases for EXW to help businesses make informed and effective shipping decisions.

The entire global economy is built upon a simple steel box, and the universal language of this economy is the TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit). This humble yet revolutionary unit of measurement is the standard for defining cargo capacity on ships, in ports, and across the entire supply chain. This blog explores the fascinating history of the TEU, explains how it's used to calculate capacity, and details its profound impact on global trade. Understanding the TEU is the first step to mastering the complexities of modern logistics.

Customs clearance ensures goods move legally and efficiently across borders. It involves preparing and submitting essential documentation, paying duties and taxes, and complying with regulations. This blog explains the step-by-step process, highlights common challenges such as delays and unexpected costs, and shares proven strategies to overcome them. By mastering customs clearance and leveraging expert tools or brokers, businesses can save time, reduce risks, and streamline global trade operations.

The Bill of Lading (BOL) and Packing Slip are essential in logistics but serve very different purposes. A BOL is a legally binding contract between shipper and carrier, acting as a receipt, proof of ownership, and document of title crucial for transportation and customs. In contrast, a Packing Slip is an internal inventory document that lists shipment contents, aiding order accuracy, customer satisfaction, and dispute resolution. Understanding their scope, purpose, and parties involved helps businesses streamline operations, reduce errors, and ensure compliance in global trade.

Importing goods from China to the US involves navigating multiple cost factors—freight method, weight, distance, duties, and hidden fees. Air freight offers speed but at a higher price, while ocean freight is more affordable for bulk shipments. This blog breaks down common costs, customs duties, and strategies to save money, such as consolidating shipments, working with freight forwarders, and negotiating carrier rates. With the right knowledge, businesses can balance cost and efficiency while keeping customers satisfied.

Landed cost is the total expense of getting products from a supplier to your warehouse, including shipping, duties, taxes, insurance, and handling fees. By calculating landed cost accurately, businesses can set the right prices, avoid profit loss from hidden charges, and compare suppliers fairly. This blog explains the landed cost formula, provides real examples, highlights the risks of ignoring hidden costs, reviews top calculator tools, and offers tips to reduce expenses for smarter business decisions.

The GB Safety & Security (ENS) declaration is a mandatory pre-arrival filing required for goods entering Great Britain. It helps customs authorities identify risks, ensure border security, and maintain smooth trade flows. This blog explains what ENS declarations are, who needs to submit them, submission deadlines, common challenges, and the risks of non-compliance. It also shows how digital solutions like Modaltrans simplify the process through automation, integration, and real-time monitoring.

The term “Linehaul Office” refers to a central logistics hub where shipments are sorted, consolidated, and dispatched to their next destination. When your package shows “Arrived at Linehaul Office,” it has reached a major checkpoint in the shipping process. This blog explains the role of a linehaul office, what happens when your shipment arrives, common causes of delays, and how you can track your package beyond this stage to ensure smooth delivery.