News & Insights
Industry news, guides, and best practices from the CargoLinked team.
Cargo Insurance Explained: Why Carrier Liability Is Never Enough
Carrier liability is capped by weight, not value, so it pays a fraction of most losses. Cargo insurance covers the gap, and it is cheaper than shippers expect.
How Freight Rates Are Calculated: Ocean, Air and Road Pricing Explained
Freight rates are not random. They follow specific pricing formulas. Understanding how ocean, air, and road freight rates are calculated gives you real leverage when negotiating.
Freight Surcharges Decoded: BAF, CAF, PSS and Every Fee on Your Invoice
Freight invoices are full of acronyms that can add 30-50% to your base rate. Here is what every abbreviation on your freight invoice actually means.
How to Get Accurate International Freight Quotes: A Shipper's Step-by-Step Guide
Getting like-for-like freight quotes is harder than it sounds. Here is exactly what information you need to provide, and what to check before comparing quotes from forwarders.
Shipping Dangerous Goods: IMDG Code and IATA Regulations Explained
Sea and air both descend from the UN Model Regulations, so the classes match. Almost everything after classification is stricter by air, sometimes prohibitively.
China-Europe Rail Freight: Is It Right for Your Supply Chain?
China-Europe rail freight offers a compelling middle ground between ocean and air. Here is everything you need to know about transit times, costs, routes, and cargo suitability.
How Air Freight Pricing Works: Chargeable Weight, CBM and Rate Structures
Air freight pricing is more complex than it looks. Understanding chargeable weight, volumetric weight, and rate structures prevents expensive surprises on your air freight invoices.
Ocean Freight Transit Times by Route: What to Realistically Expect
Ocean freight transit times vary dramatically by trade lane, carrier, and routing. Here are realistic transit time expectations for the world major shipping routes.
Import Documentation Checklist: Everything You Need for a Smooth Customs Clearance
Missing or incorrect import documents are the top cause of customs delays. Use this checklist to make sure every shipment is documented correctly first time.
HS Codes Explained: How to Find the Right Code for Your Cargo
HS codes determine your import duty rate in every country. Getting them wrong is costly. Learn how the Harmonised System works and how to find the right code for your products.
DDP vs DAP vs FOB: Understanding International Delivery Terms
DDP, DAP, and FOB are the three most commonly misunderstood Incoterms. Learn exactly what each one means, who pays what, and which is right for your trade.
Red Flags to Watch For When Vetting a Freight Forwarder
Freight forwarder fraud and incompetence cost shippers billions every year. Learn the warning signs that should make you walk away before signing anything.