Drayage providers are specialized logistics companies that transport shipping containers over short distances, typically between ports, rail yards, and nearby warehouses or distribution centers. These companies play a critical role in the intermodal transportation system by bridging the gap between long-distance shipping methods and local delivery networks. A drayage provider’s primary function is to move…
Drayage brokers play a crucial role in the logistics and transportation industry, acting as intermediaries between shippers and drayage carriers. These specialized professionals facilitate the movement of containerized cargo over short distances, typically from ports or rail yards to warehouses or distribution centers. A drayage broker is a licensed and bonded entity that connects shippers…
A customs manifest hold is a crucial regulatory procedure in international trade and logistics. This process involves the temporary detention of imported goods by customs authorities for further inspection or documentation review. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) implements manifest holds to ensure compliance with import regulations, protect national security, and verify the accuracy…
What is a customs examination and why is it conducted? Customs examinations are critical procedures in international trade, serving as a safeguard for national security and economic interests. These inspections, carried out by customs authorities, involve the physical inspection of imported goods to ensure compliance with various regulations and laws. The primary purpose of customs…
A customs bonded area, also known as a bonded warehouse or customs warehouse, is a designated location where imported goods can be stored without payment of customs duties and taxes. These secure facilities operate under the supervision of customs authorities and provide a temporary haven for merchandise awaiting further distribution, processing, or re-exportation. Customs bonded…
What constitutes a shipment rejection? Shipment rejection occurs when a consignee refuses to accept a delivery, marking a critical juncture in the supply chain process. This refusal can stem from various factors, each carrying significant implications for both the shipper and the receiver. Damaged Goods One of the primary reasons for shipment rejection is the…
What is Big Data in Logistics? Big data in logistics refers to the massive volumes of structured and unstructured data generated across various touchpoints in the supply chain. This data encompasses information from diverse sources, including transportation management systems, warehouse management systems, GPS tracking devices, and customer interactions. The sheer volume, velocity, and variety of…
What is a customs inspection and why is it conducted? Customs inspections are critical procedures in international trade, serving as a safeguard for national security and economic interests. These examinations are carried out by customs authorities at ports of entry to verify the contents of imported goods, ensure compliance with trade regulations, and protect a…
API integration in logistics refers to the seamless connection of different software systems and applications used within the supply chain and transportation industry. This integration allows for real-time data exchange, automation of processes, and improved communication between various stakeholders in the logistics ecosystem. An Application Programming Interface (API) acts as a bridge between different software…
What is a customs warehouse? A customs warehouse serves as a secure storage facility for imported goods that have not yet cleared customs or paid import duties. These specialized warehouses operate under the supervision of customs authorities, allowing businesses to defer payment of taxes and duties until the goods are released for domestic consumption or…