International Freight Forwarding Services

Freight rates fluctuate due to factors such as supply and demand, fuel prices, port congestion,
geopolitical tensions, seasonal trends, and capacity management by shipping lines/airlines.
External events like global trade disruptions or weather conditions can also impact pricing.

• Book in advance to secure better rates
• Use FCL instead of LCL, if volume allows
• Optimise container space and packaging
• Work with multiple freight forwarders to compare quotes
• Plan shipments during off-peak seasons

Container shortages arise due to imbalances in global trade, disruptions from port congestion,
and extended turnaround times for containers. Sudden spikes in demand, like those seen
during the COVID-19 pandemic and most recently the red sea crisis resulting in vessels
diverting round Africa also contribute to shortages.

Conflicts, trade wars, sanctions, and piracy risks can disrupt shipping routes, cause delays, and
increase freight rates due to higher insurance and rerouting costs.

• Demurrage: Fees charged when cargo stays at the port linger than the free period allowed.
• Detention: Charges applied when a container is kept beyond the allowed free time outside
  the port before being returned.

Attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, particularly near the Suez Canal, have forced shipping lines to
reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks to transit times and increasing fuel costs. This
has caused higher shipping rates and supply chain delays.

Alternative options would be moving goods via air, which can be more expensive than moving
via ocean freight, however the transit times are a lot quicker on average 3 – 5 days. Another
alternative depending on country of origin would be moving goods by either rail or road; in
some instances you can even look at a SEA-AIR option to improve transit times.

• The IMO 2023 carbon intensity measures require ships to reduce emissions, leading to
  increased costs due to slower sailing speeds and investments in eco-friendly fuel.


• · The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) now applies to shipping, meaning carriers must
  pay for CO₂ emissions, likely increasing freight costs.

• Digitalisation: Increased adoption of digital platforms for booking, tracking, and managing
  shipments.
• Sustainability: Growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions through eco-friendly
  practices and alternative fuels.
• Nearshoring Companies are shifting supply chains closer to home to reduce risks and lead
  times.
• E-commerce Growth: Rising demand for faster and more efficient last-mile delivery solutions.
• Port Congestion: Ongoing challenges with port delays, especially in major hubs, due to high
  demand and labour shortages.

Incoterms define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international trade.
Some common ones include:

• EXW (Ex Works): Buyer handles all transport costs
• FOB (Free on Board): Seller covers costs until goods are loaded on the vessel
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Seller covers costs up to the destination port
• DAP (Delivered at Place):

Choosing the right Incoterm depends on your level of control over shipping costs
and risks.

Customs clearance is the process of getting goods approved for import or export.
It involves:

• Submitting required documents
• Paying duties and taxes
• Inspection by customs officials (if necessary)

A freight forwarder or customs broker can help navigate this process.