UK Freight Logistics Forwarding Shipping News

Best products to Export from Thailand

2012-01-16T13:36:00.004Z

Thailand’s economy is very much export dependant, with over two-thirds of the country’s gross domestic product related to exports. So what are some of the products you might want to consider importing from Thailand if you are a business owner? As a freight company, what are the industries which might result in Freight moving opportunities?

Gemstones and Jewellery from Thailand
Over the past 20 years Thailand has become one of the gem and jewellery centres in the world. The country not only has a rich source of gemstones, but the country is also famous for the quality of the artisans who work with them and produce magnificent pieces of jewellery. The country is most well-known for its mining of sapphires and red rubies, both of which are sought after by collectors and jewellery experts. The export of precious stones has been made more attractive with the government waiving tax on any items that are exported from the country.

Silk from Thailand
Silk produced in Thailand is considered by many to be one of the finest fabrics in the world. The material is a unique product produced in the northeast region of the country, made from the cocoons of silkworms and bearing distinctive patterns and colours. In 2006 over £12 million of silk materials and products were exported from the country, mostly to the U.K. and America. Thai silk is up to 10 times more expensive than artificial silk material, and to protect the integrity and authenticity of Thai silk the government uses a coloured peacock emblem as guarantee. This peacock is on a scale of gold, meaning pure silk and hand production, to green, a silk blend with other fabrics and uses of dyes and other production methods.

Thai Ceramics
There is a long history of ceramics and pottery in Thailand, spanning thousands of years, and were an integral part of trade between the country and its neighbours, including China. Mostly based in the north of Thailand, the area is home to vast amounts of kaolinite and feldspar, the white clay and minerals used in the production of ceramics. Over the past decade the quality of the products designed and products have developed hugely, with increased investment and innovations. This has resulted in products being moved up the market, with prices increasing by over 200% when exported and placed onto the international market.

If you need help importing freight from Thailand, RSJ International are one company who provide intermodal freight options between Thailand and countries across Africa, Europe and worldwide. Interested in starting a business in Thailand?

India Packaging Show (Opportunities in India)

2012-01-04T18:02:00.005Z

The India Packaging Show, is held in the Hotel Crowne Plaza, New Delhi during early December each year and is a leading event on the international calendar. It is being held in association with the Automation Industries Association and the All India Food Processors Association, and is intended as platform for learning knowledge into the newest technology and capabilities in the food processing and packaging industry.

The venue itself is brand new and offers a modern location with a welcoming atmosphere in which to hold the event. It is also situated close to the exhibition centre, and a frequent shuttle service has been organised between the two venues to make it easy and quick to move between both of them.

There are a range of exhibitions and conferences aimed at giving an understanding the issues regarding the industry and an opportunity to exchange ideas. There will be eminent speakers from within the industry making presentations and initiating discussions and interactions from the audiences. There will be speakers from leading corporations regarding the business side of the industry as well as scientist and academics talking about the new developments and issues.

The show is intended for a variety of people from within the food packaging industry in India and from across the world, from businessmen and entrepreneurs to the raw material manufacturers and packaging technologists. There will also be benefits for people working in package design and end-users to attend and learn from the information being shared throughout the event.

Interested in International business opportunities? You might also be interested in:

How oil prices affect the freight industry.
Sendinf freight to Singapore in Asia.
Trade and business opportunities in South Korea, Asia.

Moving freight to and from Ibiza Spain

2011-12-19T14:00:00.005Z

There are a number of companies in the U.K. that transport freight and haulage to and from all over the Balearic Islands, including Ibiza. Companies have three primary ways to move freight to and from the island, by air in planes, on land in lorries and ferried across the sea, either from the mainland on the lorries or direct from a port in the U.K.

The port of Ibiza, which deals with the majority of the islands freight, is located in the south east of the island in the islands capital, Ibiza Town. The island is only eighty nautical miles from the mainland of Spain, with the closest of the main land ports being Valencia. There are routes to and from Barcelona, Valencia on the mainland as well as Palma in Mallorca.

Flying freight to Ibiza is a lot quicker than by ferry, however there are a lot more weight restrictions, so it is more limited in what can be flown. The freight flies into the main airport on the island before being put through customs. All major U.K. airports have a freight service that fly to Ibiza, with Heathrow and Gatwick being the busiest, however East Midlands and Newcastle are also busy.

The best way to find out about the cost of moving the articles is through direct quotes with freight companies themselves, all that is needed the majority of the time is the pick-up and drop off post code, as well as the weight of the cargo in kilograms and its size in centimetres. It is also important to specify the type of freight being moved as some companies will only deal with certain types of items. If in Ibiza on business, you might also be interested in Ibiza car hire opportunities. Need to send freight to Ibiza?

5 Freight books for those in the business

2011-12-05T14:57:00.005Z

With Christmas just around the corner, there are several books one can buy for a friend or loved one who works or is just interested in the freight industry. Reading books can also be a great way to brush up on theory and to stay up to date with the latest developments in the industry. Below are some of the best books to read for those in the freight industry.

Plunkett's Transportation, Supply Chain and Logistics Industry - This book by Almanac Plunkett is a concise manual telling you everything you need to know about these areas of the freight and cargo industry. Anybody who is involved in this industry, or indeed aspires to be involved, should really take the time to read this publication. The key aspects of the freight industry, such as planning and strategy, are covered in detail and in a manner in which everybody can relate to.

4th Party Cyber Logistics for Air Cargo - The main focus of this book is on the e business environment, and particularly the planning and forwarding aspects of it. This book provides an essential knowledge base in an area which touches most modern businesses, regardless of their nature.

Air Transportation Planning and Design - This is a text book used in many universities and colleges and is an interesting read for those involved in air transportation, planning and design.

Water Transportation Industry - The laws of water transportation are covered in this publication produced by the by the US Environment Protection Agency. It delves into areas such as the movement of goods via water, but also looks at the laws surrounding environment, pollution and compliance. There is also a good section about the control of pollution, an area which is vital for any company in an era when it is essential to demonstrate a willingness to be sustainable.

The Transportation Industry: Airlines, Trucking and Railroads - The threat of security and the deregulation of the freight and cargo industry are explored in some detail throughout this book by David G Smith. The book is designed to enlighten the reader on how to manage these threats and remain successful.

Interested in sending freight to Thailand if you are importer or an exporter of goods from Asia? Interested in Importing from Brazil?

Effects of oil prices on the freight industry

2011-11-17T16:00:00.003Z

Oil is one of the key practical features of freight, so any significant change in price can have a dramatic effect on the fortunes of freight companies. Below are some of the reasons why.

The most significant reason that oil prices affect the freight industry is that petrol prices will increase. In recent years the price of petrol in many parts of the world has risen beyond recognition, with some countries seeing as much as a 40% rise.

There are many side effects of this increase in petrol prices, including freight companies being forced to increase the price of their service so that they can stay afloat. The alternative is for the company to keep their prices at the same level but make cuts elsewhere in order to balance the books, and one of the most obvious casualties is the workforce. This is something that companies are keen to avoid as a reduced workforce generally results in a reduced quality of service and therefore a reduction in customer satisfaction.

With the earth’s oil resources becoming increasingly drained there is no doubt that the price of oil will continue to remain high as the years go on. Increasingly people will search alternatives to current methods of freight which will mean that existing freight companies will be forced to adapt or face extinction. A reality that freight industries may have to face is that an increase in fuel prices will ultimately result in an increase in product costs across the board, which in turn will result in fewer sales and therefore less of a demand for freight services. The cycle will then start again.

Moving oil or gas equipment?

Chinese business: Has the Chinese bubble popped

2011-11-03T15:42:00.002Z

Chinese business has for so long been the linchpin of international trade, but has this bubble well and truly burst or will China breeze through the international financial depression and retain its status as one of the world’s business superpowers?

Considering the scale of the international financial downturn it would be almost impossible for any country to not feel its affects, regardless of whether that country is the source of the problem. Therefore, the fact that the Chinese business empire may have seen a slight downturn in fortunes should not come as a surprise and should certainly not be used as a precursor for the countries future business prospects.

Whilst the global economy may temporarily reduce the scale of business in China and its international markets, there are certain aspects of Chinese business which finance cannot effect, with one such thing being the Chinese attitude. The work ethic in the China is almost second to none, as is demonstrated by the famous quote that the main business in China is business, a line which highlights the fact the Chinese people are very businesslike in their approach to everything....especially business. With an attitude as good as that of the Chinese population in general I see it as very unlikely that the business empire in the country will struggle for long.

Behind the USA China is the second largest economy in the world and is the largest exporter of goods in the world. The cost of labour and resources in China is still amongst the lowest in the developed world, whilst the quality of the end product is extremely high. This is a winning formula which will surely ensure the continued success of Chinese business.

You might also be interested in:

Learning also about Chinese business customs.
International freight to China - if you plan to import or export.

Trade opportunities in Vietnam: 5 Exhibitions for businesses

2011-10-24T12:16:00.003+01:00

Modern day Vietnam represents a sustainable business market for international investors, and below are some of the best exhibitions for business in the country.

Vietnam Expo - This is one of the key events designed at increasing the profile of Vietnam on a global scale by promoting the country’s many companies, products and services. This is a government run exhibition which encourages investment in the country by exposing overseas investors to the full range of markets. Having been going for over twenty years the show is well developed and well organised, ensuring that people return here year after year. There are a number of seminars, talks and forums in which the visitor can participate.

Vietnam Textile & Garment Industry Expo - There is a significant textile and garments industry in the country of Vietnam, and this exhibition brings together people from most of the key organisations in this field. The exhibition is held on a yearly basis and is a good opportunity for manufacturers to meet with buyers and representatives from companies from all over the world. One of the best features of the show is the opportunity to view the latest technology and machinery in the industry.

Outsource & Subcon Vietnam - Engineering, machine tools and metalworking is covered comprehensively at this yearly exhibition on Vietnam. The event has been running since 2005 and has developed a reputation as the best place for manufacturers to meet then manufacturing market in Vietnam, and to promote the country’s produce to overseas countries. There are in excess of 300 companies and organisations which exhibit at this large scale show, and visitor figures are on the raise with recent figures suggesting that around 8,000 people attended the last edition.

Food & Hotel Vietnam - This three day event is the only international food and drink exhibition to be held in Vietnam, and as such, it is highly regarded by all in the industry who make an effort to attend here annually. There is the opportunity for networking, promoting products to overseas markets and gaining inspiration from the hundreds of exhibitors on how to improve business and the way you use food within your hotel establishment.

VIIF - The Vietnam International Industrial Fair encourages the growth of business interaction between Vietnam and other countries around the world and the Vietnam economic culture. Industrial machinery is exhibited and visitors also have a chance to walk around the specific stands of visiting nations.

Beginners Guide to the PORT of Barcelona

2011-10-14T13:48:00.002+01:00

The port of Barcelona is part of one of the most attractive areas of the city aside from the historic centre. One of the best features of Barcelona is that it has so much to offer in terms of attractions, history and culture but also has glorious beaches and a fabulous port which is not only practical but great on the eye.

In terms of the practical aspect, the port of Barcelona is amongst the largest ports in the Catalonia area, making it of huge importance for incoming and outgoing freight, a responsibility it has managed for approximately 2000 years. Indeed, there are few ports in the whole of Europe which turnover more freight than this.

As well as freight, the port also has a busy passenger terminal which is popular with incoming cruise ships whose passengers relish the close proximity to the city centre, with the travel time being less than half an hour meaning that visitors to the area can enjoy a full day in the city before their ship departs. With regards to outgoing ships and ferries, there are regular trips by ferry to the Balearic Islands as well as to other destinations.

Aside from its primary purpose as being a port for ships, boats and ferries, the port also has a thriving commercial section which is home to a large shopping mall, a multi screen cinema and various night clubs and bars which are highly popular with the younger crowd in the area who enjoy a change from the inner city venues. Another major attraction at the port is the aquarium which is absolutely huge and is home to a vast range of fascinating species.

Interested in Business opportunities in Barcelona, Spain?

Trade Opportunities in Barcelona, Spain

2011-10-05T16:10:00.004+01:00

The global financial climate has been a volatile one for investor in recent years, but there are signs of recovery, and one of the best ways to capitalise on this is to invest in the biggest cities. Barcelona is one such city which has a large business empire and represents plenty of opportunities to invest in trade. Below are some of the trade opportunities in Barcelona.

Tourism - There is a massive tourist trade in Barcelona for many reasons, including the fact that it is is a city bustling with history and culture and that it boasts gorgeous beaches and nice weather. You could tap into this market by investing in property or tourist services. There are plenty of beach towns just outside of the city centre which have development potential.

Wine - The vineyards around Barcelona, especially in Penedès, are renowned for their high quality of produce. This area is the home of the world famous cava, and specialist wine shops can benefit from wines imported from this area. (More on Spain and wine).

Food - There is potential to invest in food opportunities at both ends here. There is a market for non-Spanish restaurants in Barcelona, whilst food products created in Barcelona are perfect for specialist food shops in other countries. There is a distinct style to Spanish food which is popular worldwide, especially if you can find a product which is not already heavily exported.

Clothing - The modern person enjoys the opportunity to create their own image, and the greater the choice then more they can do so. Importing Spanish style clothing can provide you with a niche market.

3 Products worth Importing from China

2011-09-27T16:42:00.005+01:00

Acquiring products from sources which either have superior manufacturing capability or lower production costs and selling them for a healthy profit is a basic principle of trade. Often it can be the case that this source may be a different country. Below are some of the products worth Importing from China.

Musical Instruments - The resources required to make a high quality of musical instrument can be expensive, as can the production costs of producing them in quantity. The production costs in China are considerably cheaper, and when you add this to the fact that China has an established reputation as an instrument manufacturer, this is a truly a credible investment market. Musical instruments of varying quality can be acquired with the prices fluctuating accordingly.

Mobile Phone accessories - The mobile phone industry is one which is sustainable and, if anything, will only increase in the future. With this growth in the mobile phone market will come an increase in the demand for mobile phone accessories. China has always been one of the market leaders when it comes to technology, so the high quality of product together with the reasonably low cost means that you can tap into this market and the exploit the demand elsewhere in the world.

Clothes - Clothes production in China can often be considerably cheaper due to the reduced labour cost as well as other factors. This means that there are considerable profit margins to be made, even once you discount the cost of shipping. There are various options with regards to which line of clothing you choose, with sporting goods being a particularly good choice. More on business in China. Learn more also about sending freight to China and the best options.

Guide to the Passenger Terminal Expo

2011-09-13T23:11:00.005+01:00

The passenger terminal plays such a significant part in a passenger’s experience for a whole range of modes of transport. In fact, the experience that the passenger has at a terminal can set the tone for the travel experience as a whole and can even determine whether a passenger chooses to pass through that terminal again. Therefore, the ability to stay up to date with the latest developments and issues surrounding the terminal field is key to the success of many institutions. One of the best ways to do this is to attend the Passenger Terminal Expo in Vienna, Austria.

Held at the Messe Wien Exhibition Centre, the Passenger Terminal Expo is a meeting point for the industry professionals in this field who, depending on their involvement with terminals, gather to share their expertise, expand their customer base and pick up new ideas on how to improve the ir own terminal. There is a great deal of psychology surrounding the layout of a passenger terminal in order to ensure that it not only meets (and maybe exceeds) the expectations of the passenger, but also that it maximises the terminal’s commercial potential. Visitors to the show can tap into this psychology as well and meet experts whom they can bring on board to optimise their terminal/s.

Aside from Key areas which are covered at the expo are security, management and technology. Representatives from around 85 countries attend the expo, which is a combination of exhibitions and conference activities, ranging from speeches and talks to interactive activities. The delegates range in position and importance, with government officials and leading authorities mixing with managers and their staff. More latest Freight events.

Transport options for long distance house moves

2011-09-02T12:11:00.002+01:00

Moving homes can be a stressful experience if you are travelling long distance within the same country. There are three main options for such a move, as listed below.

Use your car
One option is to use your car, fill it as much as you can and make a number of journeys to and from the new property. The advantages of this are that there are no rental costs for the vehicle, but the obvious disadvantages are the cost of petrol and the time implications. You should attempt to estimate how much petrol you may require for all trips and establish if it would be more economical to use a different option.

Hire a Vehicle
There is one obvious advantage to this option which is that you will be able to fit most, if not all, of your equipment into the vehicle which means that you will have to make significantly less journeys than if using a car. However, before committing, you should consider the cost of rental as well as the insurance and logistical issues. Also note that you must fill the criteria in order to rent a larger vehicle.

Use a Logisitics Company
There are established companies who make a living out of helping people to move properties, whether personal or professional. These companies are highly efficient and should in theory be able to complete the move much more efficiently. The key thing to consider with this option is the price, but sometimes convenience and security are well worth paying a little extra for.

Reasons to use Branded Boxes

2011-08-24T18:32:00.004+01:00

It has already been mentioned in a previous edition of this blog why it can be beneficial as a marketing tool to use branded boxes as opposed to plain boxes when dispatching packages for freight. There are also other reasons to use branded packaging, including that it portrays a professional company who take pride in the appearance of their product. Whether you agree or not, and whether you are consciously aware of it when it happens to you, branded packaging has a positive impact on the customer experience.

Customer experience is such an important aspect of retaining customer and acquiring new customer through word of mouth marketing that every effort should be made to ensure that the every customer enjoys every aspect and every stage of the product which they purchase. Branding on a package creates an enjoyable experience due to the fact that, as customers, we like to feel confident that we are investing our money in credible and trust worthy organisations.

If the first impression you get of a company is a well presented package then you will instantly feel confidence in that company. By the same token, if the first impression you have of a company is a shoddy package which is unlabelled and in poor condition it will make you question the professionalism of the organisation, something which could cause you to look elsewhere next time you are looking to make a purchase.

Business Opportunities in Kenya

2011-08-18T14:54:00.005+01:00

The economy in Africa is growing surprisingly fast and many of the richer countries in the world are beginning to invest in it. Below are some of the best business opportunities in Kenya.

Property in Kenya
The growing business trade in Kenya needs somewhere to live, and as the country continues to develop over the years this requirement will only increase. Property prices can be cheap in Kenya and there is every possibility that prices will inflate considerably, offering a significant mark up.

Tourism
Africa has always been a highly sought after destination as it has simply fantastic scenery and wildlife, and if companies take the time to invest in facilities for the area, and also in marketing and management, there could be real profits to be made. There should of course be an effort made to ensure that you do not damage the very nature that attracts people to the area in the first place.

Dairy
The Kenyan government is putting significant funds into developing this industry and is openly inviting investment from overseas. There is the opportunity to invest in dairy products themselves or the machinery which is used to create it. The dairy export industry should be of particular interest as government funding may be available.

Pharmeceuticals
One of the results of a middle class which is increasing in size is that the pharmaceutical industry is expanding. Better education means that people have more of an understanding of modern medicine, whilst increasing disposable incomes mean that people have more money to spend on it.

Learn also about:

Doing business in Finland including for sauna and timber trade.
Chances to do business in South Africa.
Trade opportunites in Brazil for thos of you searching for a new market.

Business Opportunities in the Movie Industry

2011-08-02T13:06:00.004+01:00

The movie industry is one of the most exciting, trendy and diverse industry in which to work. So many productions are made each year covering a whole range of genres that those with the correct resources and will to work hard can find a way to succeed in the industry. Below are some of the business opportunities in the movie industry.

Film festivals
A film festival is a great money spinner, so if you have access to a well sized piece of land and have funds to access all of the key facilities you could really make a go of it, especially if you try to break into a country or area which does not have an established festival. You should start out small scale and attempt to obtain publicity, and as the years go by you can expand the size and, if all goes well, spin some real money.

Agencies
Modern actors earn a great deal of money, but a significant proportion of it goes to their agent/s. If you are a well turned out individual who can hold themselves well, are indeed you know people who are, you could start up an agency as a small venture and gradually build up your client base.

Camera work
As a self employed cameraman you can gain work on different productions around the world, meaning that you can travel whilst indulging in your hobby. The benefit of this is that you are your own boss and can pick your jobs, but the downside is that there may be plenty of competition.

Looking for business opportunities? You might also be interested in:

Business opportunities in Cuba for the future.
Business and investment opportunities in China for those of you lookig to get involved with what might become the worlds number 1 economy in the future.

Guide to the Transec World Expo

2011-07-27T13:01:00.004+01:00

With the threat of terrorism on public transport remaining high all around the world, the issue of securing all modes of transport from this threat is of great importance and this expo held at Olympia in London is one of the key events on the calendar in this respect.

The key aim of the Transec World Expo is to bring together all involved in the security of public transport and discuss the current issues, with regards to what the current threats are, how they have evolved and how they may evolve in the future as well as looking at what the possible solutions are to these issues.

This is achieved through a number of conferences and workshops which are designed to encourage interaction amongst delegates and visitors, as well as through exhibition stands which showcase the latest in anti terrorism technology from the key people in the industry who relish the opportunity to reach an appropriate audience including border police, customs and high level representatives from the public transport industry. Each year there are approximately 50 exhibition stands at the show which makes this show deserving of its status as the flagship show for transport security in Europe.

From an exhibitor viewpoint this is a great opportunity to access the target market from around the world, to acquire some strong leads, to enhance their brand awareness and to launch new products, whilst for the visitor there are few better opportunities to view such a comprehensive range of products and to attend such high quality conferences, speeches and workshops, all of which are free to attend.

Best way to invest in Silver as an investment

2011-07-19T11:44:00.005+01:00

Along with gold, silver is one of the most desirable elements. There are a number of reasons for this, with the main two being its attractive appearance and its perceived expense. There is plenty of scope for people to invest in the silver industry and make a substantial return. Below are just some of the ways you could invest in silver.

Jewellery
This is perhaps the most obvious way to invest in silver as it is what the majority of people instantly associate with silver when prompted. There is the option to invest in buying and selling or to purchase a particular quality of silver which will rise in value and put it away view a view to selling it in future.

Silver plating
This is a fashionable and reasonably recent phenomenon in which people gold plate items such as phones or i-pods as a way of increasing the value of that item and showcasing their wealth.

Mining
For anyone with significant capital to invest this could quite possibly be the most lucrative way to invest in silver. If you can discover gold in any significant volume you will have struck gold, so to say.

Coins
There are various sources from which you can purchase silver coins which are not in common circulation and are almost guaranteed to rise in value over the years. The rarer the coin is the better the investment, and if you have time to invest in searching for historic coins you could sell them for large sums.

Thinking long term, you might also be interested in investment in Cuba as another way to diversify.

Courses to Study to get into the Freight and Shipping Industry

2011-07-01T20:03:00.004+01:00

As is the case in any industry, taking courses is a great way to either break into, or accelerate one’s progress within, the freight and shipping industry. Below are some of the courses which are available in this respect.

Customs Procedures Course - Take this course to become familiar with the process and procedures related to customs in the UK, both inbound and outbound. This is an important aspect of freight and shipping and an understanding is key for all involved.

Shipping and freight rates course - cost of shipping and freight has a significant impact upon one’s activity within the industry and therefore and understanding of these issues will stand one in good stead to progress within the industry. This course will look at, amongst other things, what affects the rates and how to calculate what is due.

Export Starter Course - This course looks at many of the different aspects of export including paperwork, taxes, VAT, the completion of airway forms, letters of credit and insurance amongst many other things. With many people working in export not having formal qualifications, obtaining such a qualification would help you to stand out from the crowd.

Import Procedures Course - The import of freight can be a complicated process if you are not familiar with the stages through which you will be required to follow. This course will help to familiarise you with these stages by covering many of the relevant issues such as the customs clearance process, duty and VAT calculations and customs warehousing amongst many others.

Find more ideas for freight courses which are worth studying to get into the industry. Learning about freight technologies can be one vital area to study to get into the industry.

Guide to doing business in Finland

2011-06-20T14:14:00.003+01:00

Finland represents an attractive option when looking for new markets, or when choosing which of your markets you should retain. Below are some of the issue you should keep in mind when doing business in and with Finland to help you fit into and be conscious of the Finnish culture. It is important to consider that if you were to accidentally stray from any of these cultural guidelines it is not likely to have a major impact on your business relationship, but in difficult markets where minor detail will make the difference, the more you can stick to these guidelines the better.

Confirm Meetings in Advance - It is standard etiquette in Finland to confirm any meetings which have been organised in writing in advance.

Appearance - You should make an effort to get the balance right between being smart and being overdressed. Similarly, do not cross your arms and definitely do not talk with your hands in your pocket.

Shaking Hands - When you meet or greet people you should make an effort to shake the hands of any women present first, whilst maintaining a firm grip regardless of the sex. It is also common to address one by their title and surname unless prompted otherwise.

Preparation - As with all countries, good preparation is essential. People in Finland will expect your presentations and communications to be fluent and well oiled. Failure in this department could be disastrous for your credibility.

True Finnish Culture - Going into a sauna and also drinking a lot are two traits that are common in Finland. Sauna is a word from the Finnish language and more than 50% of Finnish homes have a sauna. If invited into a sauna after a business meeting and offered the chance to socialise, it is worth accepting. Much like in Chinese business culture, many business deals are sealed once a company's decision makers have gained respect and trust in you, in events which are not directly part of the meeting.

If you are moving freight to/from Finland, you can find further information online.

Drop Shipping as a way of doing business

2011-06-13T14:07:00.003+01:00

Drop shipping is a reasonably modern method of conducting business which has particularly flourished in the age of the Internet. The main concept of drop shipping is that the retailer of a product or products does not keep their stock to hand and instead orders it to be sent directly to the customer by the manufacturer or wholesaler as and when that product is ordered.

The reasons that drop shipping is so popular include that it makes the logistics of running the company a lot easier. For example, if you do not keep your stock in the same place that you run your business you can work from a much smaller place, one which has minimal resources and requires very little manual input, saving on labour, rent and bills. Other advantages include the ability to work from anywhere if you conduct your business entirely online, and allow for more time to spend on other aspects of the business such as marketing and sales.

There are certain disadvantages of drop shipping, with the main one being that you do not have any influence on the packaging and presentation of their products on a day-to-day basis, although many companies will offset this by agreeing a service level agreement with their suppliers to ensure, as much as possible, that this aspect of their service remains consistent.

Certain customers can also be dubious of buying products that they cannot view before purchase, although if you have an established product and/or an established reputation, this is not so much of an issue.

3 Transport Events worth considering

2011-06-02T14:48:00.003+01:00

One of the best ways to stay involved with latest developments in the transport industry, to advertise your products and services and to make important links is to attend one of the many events which take place each year. Below is a brief guide to some of them.

International Vehicle Crime Conference – Manchester
Vehicle crime is something which affects people from all walks of life, but the effects are perhaps felt most by those who rely on transport for their livelihood. This conference at Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester is a great opportunity to find out about the latest technologies which can offset or reduce the impact of vehicle crime. This is a two day event which features speakers from around the world.

The International Rail Forum – Madrid
There are many benefits to attending this international event. Not only is it the ideal way to stay up to date with the latest news and developments in the railway sector, it is also an opportunity to meet people from around the world and discover what systems and procedures they adopt. There is the opportunity to view latest products and also to display yours.

European Transport Conference – Glasgow
This is the showcase event for The Association for European Transport (AET), which is probably the most important organisation for transport professionals in Europe. At this event representatives from around 35 countries convene to participate in interactive sessions and conferences which are designed to promote networking and provide a platform on which people can share and discuss current issues and ways to move forward.

Reasons to Use Branded Boxes

2011-05-16T15:23:00.003+01:00

Have you ever wondered why companies bother to brand their boxes when sending their goods out as freight? Surely, once you open the package you will find out who the package is from and, also, isn’t it the quality of the product which is inside the box which really matters. Wouldn’t it be cheaper for companies to save money and use plain boxes as opposed to paying the extra to have their logo all over it?

This may seem like an obvious way of cost cutting, but as any good marketer will tell you, having a logo on your box is one of the best ways to increase product knowledge and product awareness.

Think about the process that a package will go trough: someone will pick the package up, it will go to a sorting centre, be packed onto a lorry, perhaps go to another sorting centre and finally be dispatched for delivery. Depending on how far the package is travelling and the method of freight being used, it could also go through a number of checks. All of these stages represent an opportunity to expose your brand to different people who may not otherwise be aware of it.

Subconsciously, we have more trust in brands that we recognise, so the more you can your brand out there the more people will recognise and trust it. There are a number of other benefits to using branded packaging so look out for further articles.

You might also by the way, be interested in the latest article on 5 Tips on Packaging Freight for some useful ideas on preparing freight. A quick shameless mention also for our friends at the Fine Arts Centre who have just gone online.

Some Key Events in the History of Air Freight

2011-05-09T16:43:00.000+01:00

Air freight has revolutionised the freight industry and removed some of the biggest barriers in worldwide trade. Below are some of the key events in the history of the airplane which helped to shape air freight as the multi million pound industry that it is today.

The Wright Brothers - These American inventors were the first people on earth to make a plane fly in the air and be able to control it. The plane may have only stayed in the air for a few seconds but it was a monumental development for mankind. This occurred in 1903, and the evolution of the airplane after this date was rapid. In 1905 Wilbur Wright flew 24 miles without stopping.

The Golden age of Flying - Between the years of 1918 to 1939, there were significant developments in the field of aviation, to the extent that by the end of this period planes were able to be fully controlled and fly smoothly under the guidance of one or more people. A significant moment was the first transatlantic commercial flight in 1929. During the Second World War planes went into mass production and were used to carry weaponry and soldiers to and from different locations, a sign of the versatile nature in which planes could be used.

Post War Commercial Flights - Once the Second World War had finished and the initial depression had subsided, commercial flights took off and became a popular method of travel for those who could afford it.

The Different Methods of Mailing Freight

2011-05-03T18:09:00.000+01:00

When choosing to send items through the post there are a number of different methods which you can use, regardless of whether your post is personal or commercial. Below are some of options available for those mailing items commercially.

Standard post - This is probably the cheapest method of mail available. For an amount of money, which varies depending on the size of the package, you can mail an item to anywhere within the same country or abroad. This is a good option for low value items.

Recorded post - By sending your item recorded you will be able to track the progress of that item and also insure it, with the degree of insurance depending on the amount you are prepared to pay. Using this method the recipient is generally required to sign as proof of receipt.

Guaranteed Delivery - This is the best method to use if you wish for an item to arrive by a specific time. This is the best option if your item needs to be at its destination the next day, although it can be slightly pricey on occasions.

Courier - This is the option which offers the most options as there are generally a number of companies from which you can choose. Using this option you will recruit a door to door service and a more personal touch.

Private Delivery - The best way to guarantee that you item is delivered as expected and in the timescale required is to deliver it yourself. If you make a significant number of deliveries you could purchase a van and maybe even hire a driver. There is likely to be considerable associated cost.

5 Countries to consider for future Business

2011-04-26T14:32:00.005+01:00

One of the keys to being a successful business is to constantly look for new opportunities and new markets. There are plenty of countries around the world which have strong or up and coming economies which represent a genuine opportunity for businesses from external countries to come in and take a market share. Below are some of the countries you could consider.

India - Whilst having some areas which are desperately poor, there are also areas of India which are prosperous and home to people with reasonable to large disposable incomes. Certain areas of Mumbai as well as Gujarat can be included on this list.

Brazil - Brazil has one of the largest populations in the world, and despite the poor areas which give the country a bad reputation, over half of the population are considered middle class. The modern cities and good infrastructure are conducive to successful business. Learn more about getting to Brazil for business.

China - China has the largest population in the world and one of the fastest growing economies. There is also the potential to take advantage of the cheaper labour and materials to cut the costs when expanding your business.

Russia - The Russian economy is living proof that all is not gloom and doom in the world as the moment as it has demonstrated continued growth in recent times. The increasingly westernised culture represents a genuine opportunity for one to exploit.

Canada - Generally, people looking for business opportunities in the this part of the world look to the USA, but as people who do business in Canada will tell you, Canada is often a much more profitable environment.

The Pros and Cons of Road Freight

2011-04-20T17:51:00.001+01:00

Freight is a huge which is essential to the world’s economy as it helps to transport goods from one place to another thus facilitating the commercial culture to which we have become so accustomed. There are a number of different methods of transport involved in freight, each of which has advantages as well as disadvantages. Below are some pros and cons of using road freight:

PRO - Freedom of access to more areas - Using road you are reasonably unlimited as to where you can travel. Using other means of transport such as train or plane one is restricted to the existing lines and stations.

CON - It is slower than other freight methods - Travelling by road can often be considerably slower than rail travel due to restrictions caused by traffic and speed limits.

PRO - Personal touch - One of the best features of road freight is the ability to transport goods directly from door to door. A lorry, van or car can pull up directly outside the delivery destination and take the goods directly inside.

CON - Restricted by sea - Road freight is restricted to areas on land only whereas plane freight can access land and countries around the world.

PRO - Ease of access - Road travel is available 24 hours a day and is less susceptible to external factors intervening and causing delays.

PRO – The ability to change route at short notice - Travelling by roads allows freight companies to be more flexible as it is easy for the driver turn around or detour, whereas other modes of transport are restricted in this respect.

The Importance of Product Packaging

2011-04-12T18:57:00.002+01:00

When choosing which product to purchase, how much does the packaging of a product influence your decision? Whether consciously or subconsciously, the quality of packaging has a significant impact on our perceptions of a product and whether or not we buy it. There are a number of reasons for this, including those listed below:

It is the packaging that we see when choosing the product - Often, when we are browsing through products in a shop they are stacked on the shelf in their packaging. Those which have more appealing packaging will attract our attention.

Experience - When we see a product we begin to form impressions of it immediately. If the product is badly packaged the customer will automatically form negative connotations with the product. Similarly, if the product has good packaging it will have the opposite effect and can even camouflage a sub-standard product.

Perception of the company - If a product has low standard or unimaginative packaging it can subconsciously leave us doubting the quality of the product within. This is especially the case if the packaging is in bad condition.

Branding - Aside from the product itself, the packaging is the best way in which to develop a brand. It is the part of the product which we can adapt as we like without having a direct effect on its functionality. Branding has such a huge impact on perceptions that often a product that is being sold for X pounds by one company can be sold for X + £10 just by another company who have developed a strong brand image which suggests a higher standard product.

Message - Packaging is a useful tool for delivering a message. This message can be anything and can either be implied or spelled out. This is useful to help your product stand out from the competition.

Some key events in the History of Train Freight

2011-04-05T18:33:00.003+01:00

We are so used to seeing freight trains hurtling along the nations railway lines that it is difficult to imagine a time when they did not exist. Train freight has had such a massive impact on the countries business, culture and economy due to the ability it creates to transport goods from one end of the country to the other in just a few hours. This allows companies to become more efficient in their sales process and thus increase their profitability. This is a result of delivering products to customers much quicker and from gaining access to a wider market. Below are some of the key events in the history of the freight train:

Pre Railway Days - Horses and donkeys would power carts of goods over short to middle distances. It was rare for goods to be carried over long distances. This is still in evidence in some countries.

The Development of Railway Lines - The emergence and growth of the railway in the 19th century saw a significant change in the speed and manner in which goods could be transferred.

The Introduction of Goods Stations - Manufacturing towns and cities have developed over hundreds and even thousands of years, meaning that they were around way before the railways. When the railway emerged as a freight option “goods stations” evolved which would unload goods from horses/cattle and transfer them onto a train.

Trains Which Could Carry Cars - To address the issue of transporting goods between rail and road, trains were developed which could accommodate cars and lorries, thus allowing the vehicle to travel on the train.

5 Ports to use when Importing Freight into England

2011-03-21T13:02:00.004Z

It is often an attractive option for English based businesses to import goods from abroad. This is due to the cost of production in the UK compared to the rest of the world. Despite the emergence of air freight over recent times, there are still plenty of ports around England which have a regular stream of freight boats both in and out. Below is a guide to some of the biggest ports in England to help you find the most suitable one for you:

Port of Liverpool - Liverpool has a long history as a docks town, and although it is not as prominent in the city as it once was, the port is still highly active and provides the ideal dropping point for those based in the North West. The Port of Liverpoool is a good base for freight from the Mersey area and for parts of the North West.

Port of Felixstowe - Felixstowe is an ideal location for those who live in East Anglia. It has good transport links and has regular shipments from Europe and around the world. Particularly useful for imports from Holland.

Grimsby Port - Recent statistics suggest that this is the largest freight port in the UK and is ideal for those businesses based in the North East.

Folkestone - Folkestone is one of the largest freight ports in the UK. Its location on the south east tip of the country and its close proximity to London makes it perfect for those in the capital who need a convenient port in which to receive goods.

Southampton Port - This is the largest freight port on the south coast and according to recent figures, the fourth largest Freight port in the UK. Ideally located for deliveries from Southern Europe or the USA.

Choosing a Reliable Freight Company for Commercial Goods Companies

2011-03-14T16:42:00.001Z

Whether you are starting up a new company or looking to improve the services of an existing company, it is essential that you take into account all aspects of the process which sees your product reach the customer. One of the most important aspects of this journey is the window which opens when your finished product leaves the factory and heads out on its final journey. All of the care and hard work that goes into creating the perfect product can be undone if the goods arrive in bad condition.

The packaging is one of the most important aspects of the product and can have a huge impact on the customer’s perception of that product. Poor quality or damaged packaging may imply to the customer that the organisation are lax, which would deduct from that company’s credibility and could even result in the customer opting for what they perceive to be a better quality product.

Once it has been appreciated that the standard to which packaging is retained will have a huge influence on the marketability of a product, a company should take time to choose a reputable company who have an established record of safely transporting merchandise. Often it can be worthwhile paying a bit more for this service as ultimately, if you opt for a cheaper company, you may end up paying the price in lost sales or the replacement of packaging. The worst case scenario is that the freight company could be so negligent that the goods themselves could be damaged at a considerable cost.

Doing Business in and with Brazil – a Growing Economy

2011-03-09T16:17:00.004Z

Business culture can alter significantly in each country. If you intend on conducting businesses in or with a new country it is important to research the business culture of that country. Below are some tips to help you adjust to the business culture of Brazil.

English language is not always widely spoken - It is often taken for granted that everybody will speak English. Do not make this mistake and make the effort to find out if the person/people you are meeting have any specific requirements.
Email culture is not as prominent as in the UK - In the UK we conduct a lot of our communications via email. Whilst Brazil is a modern country which uses a large amount of technology it is more common for people to communicate in via phone or in person, so make sure you follow up your email.

Be passionate and enthusiastic as opposed to negative - The Brazilians are extremely passionate and they appreciate this character trait in people that they do business with. If you become impatient or angry you may well offend, so be careful not to cross that line.

Retain eye contact and do not be surprised by vivacious physical gestures - The ability to retain eye contact is important in Brazilian culture so be sure to be confident in this respect.

Consider the different sense of humour - In the UK we like to attempt to incorporate humour into all situations, and although the Brazilian people appreciate a personable character, they generally prefer to keep their business meetings serious. So it’s often best to save the jokes for outside of the meeting room.

You can find more Brazil trade information through BrazilTradeNet. You can also find accommodation in Rio Brazil online through the Rio trave portal.

Moving to Australia

2011-03-02T14:54:00.002Z

It has long been a norm that UK residents emigrate to Australia in search of better weather and a generally better quality of life. The process of this emigration can be difficult, not only because of the logistical issues related to moving all of your belongings, but also due to the visa and paperwork regulations which must be adhered to. Below is some useful information about moving to Australia.

Visa - Obtaining permanent residence in Australia is much more difficult than it used to be. The skills that you have and the general qualities which you have will be considered. It may well be the case that you and your spouse are required to apply for residence individually.

Property - The property market in Australia can in many places be more geared towards the rental market as opposed to the outright purchase market. You may well find yourself having to rent when you first arrive in the country, although this will differ with every area.

Shipping Belongings - There are a few options available to you when shipping your belongings to Australia. The quickest way is to have your belongings flown out, although there is a large price to pay for this. You may wish to consider having you belongings shipped out by sea as, although it may take considerably longer, it will cut the costs significantly which will be important as you settle into your new life.

Working in Australia - As with all countries, Australia has felt the impact of the shift in the financial climate. It is not as easy to find work in Australia as it once was, with Australian nationals gaining preferred when filling jobs. It goes without saying that you will be much more likely to find work if you are skilled.

3 Logistics Exhibitions for people in the Freight industry

2011-02-21T14:32:00.004Z

Logistics is one of the largest and most important industries internationally. The capability for the majority of business to function would be removed without efficient and reliable logistics. As would be expected from such a large scale industry, there are a number of exhibitions related to logistics in the freight industry. Below are just some:

Postech, New Dehli - During this show, the issues related to the movement of post will be addressed. This will include looking at the new technologies which are available to increase efficiency with regards to moving post. Generally, the show attracts around 400 delegates.

SITL Europe, Paris - This is the ultimate show for those who work in the freight industry and are concerned with logistics. The exhibition showcases all of the latest innovations in respect to logistics in the freight industry, including those related to procurement, the supply chain and distribution. There are also a number of conferences and events during the exhibition, including industry awards.

Transrussia, Moscow - This is one of the leading freight logistics shows in the world, and is certainly the largest in this part of the world. Traditionally the exhibition is a meeting point for industry specialists from all of the leading transport industries. This makes it the ideal place to not only learn about all of the new initiatives in relation to the industry, but also a great chance to network and acquire new business opportunities. Learn more about Transrussia.

Freight Exhibitions Upcoming: PARKEX International 2011

2011-02-14T17:09:00.003Z

Held at one of the UK’s premier exhibition venues, the NEC in Birmingham, the Parkex is the largest exhibition dedicated to parking anywhere in Europe. With the number of cars on the road increasing each year, one of the most obvious issues is that of parking and how to accommodate all of the extra vehicles. The Parkex is dedicated to the world of parking and is the best way to explore the issue of parking management.

With over 450 companies exhibiting at the show, which is organised by the British Parking association, it is the best way to meet all of the key figures in the industry under one roof. The exhibitors cover all aspects of parking, from building new car parks to car park refurbishments, on and off street parking, signage, lighting and the training of staff. One of the best features, however, is the opportunity to view all of the latest parking related technology, including payment and monitoring systems.

The Parkex is free to enter and, as an added benefit, those who attend can also use their passes to attend the 36 seminars which will run over the course of the event. There is the opportunity for those attending the event to speak or present at the seminars by contacting the relevant team in advance.

In the interest of maximising networking opportunities there are a number of bars and catering facilities around the event. This provides the opportunity for guest to mingle with each other, exchange ideas and create new relationships.

Tips for moving Perishable Freight and Cargo

2011-02-07T13:38:00.003Z

A great deal of effort and care goes in to the production of all products. Presentation and product quality are considered amongst the most important features of all goods, and for this reason it is essential to ensure that goods arrive with the customer in perfect condition.

The most difficult aspect of the operation to ensure the condition of the goods is kept once the product has left the hands of the manufacturer, as the manufacturer will no longer be in control of how it is managed. With freight accounting for a significant amount of this time, it is important that steps are put in place to ensure that minimal or no damage occurs. Here are some tips to ensure this:

Use a recognised company - Ensure that the company you use has an established reputation for its treatment of freight and cargo goods.

Use suitable packaging - Packing should be weatherproof and be strong enough to survive freight.

Use suitable protection - Consider the nature of your product and choose a material which will protect your product from the conditions that it will be subjected to during freight.

Package in manageable loads - The more products or boxes that you stack in one load, the more chance there is of significant damage. Package your goods in small loads so that only a few products are affected if that batch is harmed.

Make a note of condition of goods - Make it part of procedure to inspect the state of goods before and after freight so that you can identify where damage is occurring.

Acquire insurance - This will protect your finances against any damages that may occur, although the exact terms will depend on your contract with the insurance agency.

Learn more about Perishable frieght and also a quick shameless plug for our friends who have started the Barcelona local airports site :)

MacroPak Show 2011 - Join us!

2011-01-24T13:23:00.004Z

What is the MacroPak Show? - The MacroPak show has been the premier packaging show in Europe for a number of years and attracts many thousands of visitors each year. It is a culmination of all of the leading figures and manufacturers in the packaging world. This includes those concerned with labelling, packaging, coding and materials. It represents an opportunity for anyone who works in the packaging industry to gain an up-to-date insight into the recent changes and policies. Packaging impacts on a large number of industries and this show represents a good opportunity to meet and network with people in these industries.

A large range of technology will be on display at the MacroPak show, giving the visitor the opportunity to gain a better understanding of how the industry works or perhaps to enhance the current portfolio of machinery within their company.

Who goes to the MacroPak show? - The MakroPac show is attended by a wide range of people who are either directly involved with the packaging industry or who are affected by it. This includes people from industries such as food and drink, tobacco, agriculture, fishery, metal products, electrical, rubber and plastic. As each company is affected differently by packaging, each company sends representatives from different levels within their organisations.

Where is the MacroPak show? - The MacroPak show is hosted in Utrecht, Holland. Utrecht is located about an hour south of Amsterdam and therefore has good transport links with UK and the rest of Europe. You can fly Schiphol Airport or into Rotterdam.

When is the MacroPak show? The MacroPak show runs from October 2011.

What are the Features of the MacroPak show?

One of the main features of the show is the large number of exhibition stands, each containing a different product related to the packaging industry.
A demonstration of the different internal transport modes available.
Information relating to the labelling and printing of packaging.
Packaging design techniques and approaches.
An insight into the graphic equipment suitable for use in the packaging trade.
Health and safety and the products, procedures and policies related to it are a key feature of the show. There is a section of the show dedicated to it as it is recognised in the industry that health and safety plays a significant part due to the large machinery used amongst other things.

Freight and Cargo Technology Developments

2011-01-17T12:38:00.004Z

Freight and cargo is a fundamental aspect of the international economy. Without it, there would be no way, on an international basis, of moving the parts needed to produce goods and no way of delivering the finished goods to their customers. As with all modern services, there is a constant evolution in the technologies used during the processes of freight and cargo. This is for the purpose of reducing freight risk, improving the efficiency of freight and most importantly, reducing the costs associated with freight. Below are some of the recent or pending technological developments in this field:

Pneumatic brakes - These will be applied to freight trains with the effect of allowing the driver to have better control over the train. This will reduce accidents which will be to the benefit of the goods manufacturers as well as to citizens. They have also been proven to reduce fuel consumption, reducing the cost of freight.

Screening technology - Improvements in screening technology will increase the security of cargo movement. The new technology is able to detect nuclear or radiological technology in the cargo, making it less likely that a terrorist plot can be carried out using cargo.

Tracking systems - These are constantly evolving and make it easier for customers and businesses to track their items.

Telecommunication Technology - Advances in telecommunication technology promises to reduce congestion for all different types of freight as it will improve the way in which information is exchanged between the private and public sectors. This will have a direct effect on the efficiency of the companies using freight. Learn more about Freight Technology developments.

Benefits of Air Freight over Sea Freight

2011-01-06T00:12:00.002Z

Freight is a significant aspect for any company who imports or exports either products essential for the production of their own product, or their product itself. There are a number freight options available, with two of them being air and Sea. Below are some of the benefits of using air freight as opposed to sea freight.

Time scale - The nature of air travel and the fact that airplanes move considerably faster than ships means that goods can be delivered much quicker by air than they can by sea. For example, an average Boeing airline will travel at around 500mph. If you only have small time margins to work with then this will be a major advantage to you.

Access - An obvious disadvantage for sea freight is that it is restricted to arriving at ports. Air freight, meanwhile, has the advantage of having access to a large number of major airports based in various locations inland. This adds to the efficiency of air freight.

Regularity - The speed of air travel, together with the infrastructure related to it, dictates that planes can be turned around much more quickly than ships. The result of this is that there are much more planes departing and arriving on a daily basis than ships.

Tracking systems - As a general rule, air freight companies are able to provide a much more accurate method of tracking shipments than sea freight companies. This will enable you to plan more accurately and be more in control of your operations.

Sending Freight from UK to Spain (Part 2)

2010-12-27T16:54:00.003Z

It is important that you use a freight agency familiar with the logistics of transporting goods into Spain in order to ensure that your goods pass through customs without hassle. Spain has a well regulated system when it comes to freight and it is important to have all your paperwork in order for your consignment to be transported from origin to destination without any problems.

You can also use air freight to get your goods into Spain, especially if you are transporting fragile goods or perishables. The country has many airports, many of which are host to cargo flights from the UK. Although air freight from the UK to Spain is considered to be expensive, it can work out to be the most economic mode of transport if you are transporting perishables in small volumes.

When transporting goods from the UK to Spain it is important to ensure that you comply with all the country’s rules and regulations in regards to shipping hazardous materials, firearms, artefacts and chemical substances. You may require a special license if you are transporting goods beyond a certain weight limit so it is important to be well aware of the all the stipulated requirements and have the proper documents to back it up. If you are transporting goods to some of the more underdeveloped regions in Spain, you may be required to have your documents in the Spanish language.

If you are heading to Spain, make sure to visit our friends who are now offering Kite Surfing in Barcelona, Spain for tourists and corporate groups. You can also find more info on Spain travel online.

Sending Freight from UK to Spain (Part 1)

2010-12-20T16:47:00.003Z

If you are planning on transporting freight from the United Kingdom to Spain, there are several factors that you will need to consider before you undertake such a venture. Sea freight is one of the most common methods of sending goods to Spain and most exporters will be able to find many freight companies in the UK capable of handling shipments to Barcelona, Valencia, Santander, A Coruna, Gijon and other shipping ports in the region.

Exporters moving goods from the UK who want to cut down on costs can opt to send their shipments to Santander, A Coruna or Gijon and then use intermodal freight transport to get their goods to the required destinations.

The UK has several reputed freight agencies that can help you arrange to have your goods transported by road into Spain after they have reached the destination port. Furthermore, many of these agencies have branch offices in Spain and it would be advisable to use one company for the whole process, unless you have local contacts in Spain who can help you with your shipment.

5 Benefits of using a Freight forwarder

2010-12-13T13:09:00.003Z

Individuals and companies involved in trade will find it easier to employ a freight forwarder to handle the logistics of the shipment and get your goods to your destination in the shortest time and by the best means of transport possible. If you are considering whether to employ a third party agency to handle your freight, here are five reasons why you should use a freight forwarder.

1. Transporting freight requires a lot of planning and organisation on the part of the exporter or importer. A freight forwarding service will save you time, money and labour as it is a third party that will take care of all your needs right from packaging to documentation to the actual transport.

2. If you are sending goods to an international destination and do not know much about the regulations, licenses and taxes of that particular region, using a freight forwarder from that region or one that provides services to that destination will solve this problem for you. The freight forwarder will handle your documentation and ensure that your goods reach your destination.

3. Freight forwarders do not deal with a singular service and offer a multitude of freight related services to exporters and importers. These agencies have connections with different carriers and can transport good via air, land and sea. They are capable of suggesting the best routes to take when transporting goods and will be able to give you quotes for using different means of transport.

4. Many freight forwarders are part of associations and networks and as a result have a lot of connections that can help you transport your goods for a reasonable price. Also, the large number of freight forwarding agencies available has made the market competitive and exporters are able to get everything organised by one agency for an extremely good cost.

5. Using a freight forwarder will help you get your goods through customs with ease and in the shortest amount of time possible as these agencies have a lot of connections.

How to send Air Freight to Las Vegas

2010-12-01T11:11:00.003Z

With its numerous hotels, production shows, resorts and businesses, Las Vegas is a major hub for air freight with the city's airport, Vegas McCarran International Airport handling large amounts of cargo as well as tourists eager to try their hand at the casino's tables. The airport deals with so much air freight that in recent years, McCarran has had to spend $29 million on a new air cargo facility. The two floor building is used in freight and mailing operations and has brought profits of $3.6 million to the city.

Sending freight to Las Vegas can be done easily with all major international airlines and couriers, as well as domestic carriers, offering a number of options. Companies such as SouthWest Air Cargo routinely fly in and out of the city, so unless your freight is of a hazardous nature, it is easy enough to send anything you want to America's Playground.

Due to the sheer number of flights and air carriers, there is one important thing to remember when sending cargo to any major city – tracking. It does not matter the cost of the air freight, but it is prudent to make sure there are ways of tracking its journey as well as its delivery. After all, you want your cargo to go to Las Vegas, instead of Denver.

Once you have selected your carrier, it is simply a matter of cost and time before your package arrives in Las Vegas. Of course, overnight is going to be more expensive. If you need more advice on freight to Las Vegas and are UK based, a company such as RSJ International can give further advice and pricing.

Trade Opportunities with Cuba

2010-11-24T12:32:00.003Z

For decades during the Cold War, trade with Cuba was heavily restricted, but today many countries enjoy trade links with the Caribbean island allowing them to enjoy the best products and goods that Cuban culture has to offer.

No matter what industry your company works in, Cuba has something to offer. The island is mineral rich with heavy deposits of ores and metals such as iron, copper, gold and cobalt. As such, Cuba has attracted a number of construction and mining firms as well as those in the IT and engineering industries that can benefits from its resources.

Tourism is another market where Cuba has blossomed with the island and popular destination for both backpackers and honeymooners. For years, the island was a bit of a mystery and as such, there is great interest in the island, as well as its culture. Such interest has seen Cuba have the highest rate of tourism growth over the past decade out of all the countries in the Caribbean. As a result, real estate has also made a strong foothold on the island with health spas and hotels catering to the tourist population.

If you are looking to do business in the Caribbean or on Cuba, then you will find plenty of opportunities there as well as a country that is rapidly becoming a leader business hub in the region. You also get to enjoy Cuba's finest product, and arguably their most famous resource – the Cuban cigar! Want to send freight to Cuba?

Port of Barcelona Guide

2010-11-17T11:53:00.006Z

The Port of Barcelona famously underwent an extensive renovation in 1992 when the city hosted the Olympic Games and today, it is a district that is beloved by locals and tourists alike. What was once an abandoned wasteland is now a vibrant community, with business and leisure facilities as well as tourist attractions.

All along the port area, you can not only enjoy beaches and water sports, but also cultural attractions such as the Catalonia History Museum, the city Aquarium and even local sculptures, such as that of a large bronze whale designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry. The aquarium, in particular, is one of Barcelona's most popular attractions with its large collection of marine life, including sharks, all housed in its unique transparent building.

The heart of the Olympic Port is, of course, the marina which is home to the city's collection of yachts and sail boats. During the summer, the port comes alive as the affluent un-moor their vessels to sail them up and down the Catalan Coast.

Due to the large number of attractions, the Olympic Port area has a host of hotels, including the impressive Mapfre and Arts Hotels, as well as restaurants and bars that visitors use on their way to and from the Icaria and Barceloneta beaches.

The Mapfre and Barcelona Arts Hotels were built as part of the Olympic Village in 1992, but are now a 5-star hotel and office building. Their skyscraper design makes them easily identifiable landmarks in the Port area for tourists. If you are visiting Barcelona and want also to get some Barcelona FC football tickets then it is highly recommended as a good experience in the city. If you flying over for business, Barcelona International airport is your best option.

Doing business Dutch style

2010-11-08T16:51:00.002Z

The Netherlands has long been a home to international businesses thanks to its numerous political organisations and legal institutes. Today, with Rotterdam as one of Europe's busiest seaports and Amsterdam becoming a global trade hub, countries from all over the world are setting up branches in The Netherlands. Schiphol Airport also accounts for a massive amoutn of air cargo coming into the European mainland.

So what is the best way to do business in The Netherlands? Like other countries around the world, business culture in Holland is unique to that particular country, but there are characteristics that can be adopted for producing successful business relationships with Dutch companies. Dutch business relationships are based predominately on cultural values and traditions that are specific to the region. It is therefore important to know what these are if you are to successfully do business there.

Firstly, the Dutch business community is extremely close, with many top level executives knowing one another, having done business in the past. It is therefore important to set up meetings through a third party, a contact or a company that your potential client might have worked with in the past. This is beneficial for both you and the client as it builds up trust and confidence in each other.

The Dutch also have strong family values and therefore do not like working during their personal time. It is very important that any business meetings or work be done during business hours so late nights and working weekends are often frowned upon. Also, June to August is the prime time for family vacations, so don't try and book meetings during this time.

Guide to the Port of Miami

2010-11-01T16:04:00.004Z

If you are on a cruise in the Caribbean, it is almost guaranteed that you will visit the Port of Miami, which has the facilities to cater for the world's largest passenger vessels. The port is one of the largest in the world and has been dubbed the country's 'Cruise Capital'.

The port is extremely popular with tourists, and not just those that pass through on the way to Mexico and the Bahamas, but for those visiting the city and who wish to see the largest cruise liners in the world. The port has the world's largest year-round fleet with the harbour housing 18 large cruise ships, that are owned by firms such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, all of which have their global headquarters in Miami.

The port, which is also the eighth largest in the country, has state-of-the-art passenger facilities to cater for the affluent tourists visiting the city, including some of the finest hotels and restaurants in the region. The region needs such first-class amenities, as the port is the gateway to the US for over three million people per year.

As well as viewing the large cruise ships, including the $800 million behemoth Freedom of the Seas, visitors can also take in the Bayside Marketplace which provides shopping and dining opportunities for tourists. The port is also close to the Art Deco District, which showcases the city's old town, as well as Miami's Seaquarium and Parrot Jungle Island.

If you do visit, then Miami car rental can be your best bet for flexibility in the city. Public transportation is not the best and driving is really the best way to get around.

Sending freight from Plymouth, Devon

2010-10-25T13:33:00.005+01:00

When it comes to transporting freight in-land and overseas, Devon is one of the UK's most experienced counties, thanks in part to Plymouth, one of the country's largest shipping ports. Plymouth, and its host of freight companies, have experience in not only transporting cargo across the Channel, but via land and air and as far afield as Asia. Companies such as RSJ International Freight are renown for being more than capable in transporting clients' cargo all around the world, from their headquarters in the South-West.
Plymouth has been one of the UK's largest ports for centuries and as such, any cargo sent from there is handled by companies that not only have experience in dispatching cargo, but in tracking it and managing the relevant documentation. The assorted freight companies also have the facilities to send bulk cargo as well as specialised items to the other side of the planet as fast and as efficiently as possible.

As well as overseas shipping, Plymouth also has storage facilities and freight haulage services to cater for clients moving cargo in-land on holding it for a unspecified time. Due to the multiple services and prices that freight services in the region offer, there are online auction marketplaces like Uship, that allow for clients to list their freight, the services they need and let the area's freight companies offer a bid for their custom. This can often be the best way of finding the cheapest deal when it comes to transporting goods in and out of Plymouth.

Need information on flights to Plymouth in case you need to get down to Devon for business?

Travelling in a Freight Ship liner

2010-10-19T01:21:00.003+01:00

After travelling in a freight ship for the first time from New Zealand to Australia, I realised that I had tapped into a new (for me anyway) and exciting way of “cruising.” Freight ships are the world’s economic answer to luxury liners; middle class earners and frequent voyagers looking to cross the ocean to get to their destination and wanting to enjoy the journey should opt to travel by a freight ship or liner.

One of the best reasons for travelling via freight ship or cargo ship is that the costs are lesser. You may end up missing out on the swimming pool, the lounge chairs and indoor tennis court, but are sure to reach your destination just the same and with a heavier wallet. Today, freight ship travel has moved far beyond the days of rough vessels where you would have had to tough it out with a group of unwashed sailors eating meals out of tin cans. Freight ships are well equipped with cabins and several facilities including a cook and a medic on board.

When travelling by a freight ship you will also miss out on the crowds as these ships do not carry more than forty or so passengers, in addition to the crew. However, you are sure to have a more intimate experience travelling in smaller group than in large ship filled with hundreds of people. I have also found it exciting to travel by freight ship, since you can take along a lot more luggage than a normal cruise ship would allow.

One of the things that people often wonder about when confronted with freight travel is “what to do for fun” aboard such a vessel. Activities often include card games, barbecues, dinners, lunches and a lot of “get-togethers” where passengers and crew sit together to share a meal or a drink, while some of the more interesting characters among the crew trade stories.

The only glitch with freight travel is that the dates and deadlines are not fixed and are prone to variations. If you have a flexible schedule you will not have a problem with this option of transport.

5 Reasons to use a Freight Broker for Sending Freight (Part 2)

2010-10-11T15:45:00.002+01:00

3. Freight brokers will help you choose the best transport mode – Depending on the kind of consignment that is to be shipped, the freight broker will advise clients on the best mode of transport to take. Clients will be advised whether to stick with one carrier or switch between carriers so that the consignment reaches safely and in the most cost effective manner.

4. Freight brokers help in cutting costs – When directly approaching a shipping company a new exporter may not know how to pick the cheapest and most viable transport option for a consignment. By using a freight broker, you will be able to make this decision based on the in-depth knowledge of your broker who may also be privy to some exclusive deals.

5. Freight brokers will help advise you on storage and maintenance – When shipping larger goods like industrial machinery and equipment, exporters will have to arrange for them to be stored for a while before they can be shipped to their destination. This equipment will also have to be put into a warehouse for a while at the destination town or city before reaching the end user. Freight Brokers will have the contacts necessary to ensure the safe storage of the goods and will be able to advise you on the cheapest mode of storage.

5 Reasons to use a Freight Broker for Sending Freight

2010-10-01T15:40:00.005+01:00

A freight broker is a person who acts as a middle man between the transport service provider and the customer. Freight brokers do not actually provide the carriage or the shipping, but instead they provide essential services that will help the shipper identify the best freight company. A freight broker’s job is very similar to that of a freight forwarder, except that a freight broker will not take possession of the goods at any point in time. Here are five reasons why you should choose to employ a freight broker for sending freight.

1. Freight brokers help you to identify the right freight company – Sometimes shippers will not know the best freighting company for their needs and will require someone with a better understanding of the industry to guide them. This is where the freight broker will be able to guide the customer. They will also be able to advise customers on the best route to take and whether to switch companies mid way.

2. Freight brokers help you with documentation – Exporters interested in Freight Logistics will find that there are many documents and forms to be filled in and duly submitted before an item or a consignment can be shipped. This is especially true with overseas consignments, where details like immigration and customs clearance must be taken care of before the goods can reach their destination. The freight broker has a lot of experience in this field and will help you complete all the documentation required accurately.

Freight Trends - Where's hot and where's not

2010-09-22T15:17:00.005+01:00

From month to month and year to year, we see enquiries change in terms of the trends and where the contacts come in from. And in recent years there has definitely be a change in the locations which have become popular.

1. China - Perhaps unsupringly, China has risen to become a key location for freight. Consumer spending in China has increased at a dramatic rate and as yet, the ecomony of China seems to show no signs of stallling. This has been reflected in the freight enquiries both for imports and exports.

2. Australia - Perhaps also reflective of the ecomonic situation, Australia has suffered less than some other countries and the higher than average rate of enquiries in this year for us from Australia are a sign perhaps.

3. Middle East - The Middle East as a whole is an area where business enquiries have been brisk from. What the reason for this is I am not 100% sure.

Where's hot and what places will be big next for Freight? Coming soon.

Buying Fishing Tackle from abroad

2010-09-16T12:39:00.004+01:00

It is always interesting working in the freight industry in that products and enquiries we get are so wide ranging and diverse. Apart from enquiries about moving animals such as horses and requests for moving boating equipment for competitions, fishing tackle and equipment has been a popular request of late.

I have just added a couple of articles online now and these are:

Buying fishing tackle from Asia - for an introduction into the options for buying fishing products from Asia.
Importing fishing tackle from China & Korea - For a look specifically at China and Korea.

Without yet being any kind of expert of fishing tackle, it seems to be a trend recently and one can only assume that the prices for these products are very competitive in Asia, hence the demand in recent months. Feel free to email us or blog comment with your take on this.

Philippines business & freight opportinuties (Part 2)

2010-09-10T13:23:00.004+01:00

For instance if your business deals with transporting perishables, then you will need to hire a freighting agency with the proper vehicles, containers and packaging equipment to handle this. With business freight, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a freight logistics company as they will be familiar with the various legal issues and documentation that is required to send freight to and from the Philippines. They will also have a fair understanding of the cargo and the kind of care that is needed to ensure that it is transported safely and in the most cost effective manner.

Once the freight agent has been chosen, he/she will be able to provide advice on the options available to you for transporting the business cargo. The biggest decision is the kind of transport that you choose. Since there are many ports in the Philippines, sea transport is generally recommended, although freight by air and road is also possible. After this, decide on the best transport route for the consignment, the kind of packaging and maintenance that is required and freight insurance, if necessary.

Depending on the urgency of the consignment, the type of goods being shipped, the country of origin and the destination of the cargo, it is possible to come up with the most cost effective solution for one’s needs. Many agents recommend multimodal transport and even using more than one freight agency to handle this if it proves to be the cheaper option.

Also interested in trade with Cuba and flights to Cuba?

Sending Freight to/from Philippines for business (Part 1)

2010-09-03T16:12:00.002+01:00

In the past few years, many foreign investors, traders and businesspeople have shown a great deal of interest in doing business in the Philippines. As a result of this, the Philippines’ trade and freight logistics industry has gained importance, creating a lucrative market for businesses looking to import and export goods into the region. Here is a guide on the topic, providing you with tips on transporting goods to and from the Philippines for business.

Newcomers to trading and doing business in the Philippines will first require an understanding of the country’s laws and taxes governing the sending of freight to and from the region. If the goods you are transporting are acceptable import/export items, you will be able to obtain the relevant documentation from the country’s authorities as long as your documentation is in order.

When sending freight to the Philippines, consider whether the freight consignment requires special equipment, packaging or containers. It is advisable to establish good business relations with a local freight agent capable of handling the type of cargo you are transporting.

History of the Freight Industry (Part 2)

2010-08-25T18:32:00.002+01:00

People got the idea of using airplanes to carry freight only in 1910 and the pages of air freight history reveal that a bolt of silk was the first item to be moved from Dayton to Columbus in Ohio by airplane. A decade later, an airplane was used to move a converted bomber. Although the airplane had trouble with a frozen radiator, it did not stop people from toying with the idea of air freight.

Commercial air freight, however, came into existence only after the First World War. Today, the air freight industry makes use of the latest in transport technology to cater to customer needs.

The industry has now grown into a massive industry which has seen computerised systems completely change the industry. Monitoring systems, planning systems and tracking systems for example now mean that so many aspects of the industry have changed.

History of the Freight Industry (Part 1)

2010-08-16T19:33:00.002+01:00

Today, freight, also known as cargo, is a term used to indicate goods or products transported for commercial purposes via ship, train, aircraft or truck. However, before the advent of automobiles, railroads and airplanes, freight was usually moved via horse-drawn carriages and boats. Some of the earliest modes of freight transport were canals.

Eventually, the first railroads were built in the US by private enterprises to connect major cities to the rivers. Before the beginning of the twentieth century, trains were predominantly used to move freight across land since they could move incredibly fast and were cost efficient. Today, freight railroads carry 42 percent of US freight, employ millions of people and contribute billions of dollars to the economy of the nation.

Trucks became a part of the freight industry only during the second half of the twentieth century when the military made extensive use of trucks during the First World War. Today, there are more than 26 million trucks on American highways, moving more than 10 billion short tons of freight.

The Manufacturing Industry in China (Part 2)

2010-08-10T20:23:00.002+01:00

The quotation must then be scanned to see if the agreement is suitable to your company. You will then be able to choose the manufacturer that is best suited to your needs.
Most manufacturers in China are open to what is called a sample production. This is a small trial run of the actual production and is crucial for goods that require some amount of sophistication in the production. Sometimes, there are a number of test runs that the manufacturer must make before the product reaches acceptable levels.

Manufacturers in China will require a feasible timeline for production. This is usually agreed upon once the actual manufacturing begins. Generally, most manufacturers will expect a 30% down payment before the manufacturing begins. Once the products are manufactured, the outsourcing company will be required to pay the remaining 70%. While this is the general norm, most manufacturers are willing to negotiate.

The Manufacturing Industry in China (Part 1)

2010-08-05T15:37:00.003+01:00

The secret of China’s efficient and cost effective manufacturing industry is the availability of cheap labour in the country.

When deciding to manufacture a product in China, the first thing that you will need to do is to search for a local supplier that is best suited to your needs. This involves gathering information and contacts, which can be achieved by using your business contacts, visiting various business forums and general networking. It is then important to establish a business relationship with the supplier and figure out how they manufacture goods for export purposes and how long they have been in the business. You will also need to verify their business reputation which can be done by checking with other manufacturers of similar goods to see if they have used the suppliers you are considering. It is also important to get an initial quotation from each of them.

(Part 2 coming next week)

Investment Opportunities In China (Part 2)

2010-07-26T15:26:00.003+01:00

At this time, China is the largest producer in the world of rice. Apart from this, their agricultural output for peanuts, tobacco, wheat, corn, cotton and soybeans are among the largest in the world. The country’s economy was once primarily agrarian and as a result there are a lot of opportunities for investors in the field of agriculture.

Another suitable area for investment involves exporting of raw materials and industrial development as the country produces a number of mineral and industrial products such as tungsten, cotton cloth, crude oil, antimony, cotton yarn and coal. Although China is still developing in terms of mineral production, the region has sophisticated facilities and engineering plants capable of a good output should investors choose to back these industries.

One of the country’s biggest assets is their manufacturing industry and this area offers plenty of scope to investors as well. Since labour is fairly cheap in China, the region is able to produce large quantities for lower costs thus presenting several opportunities for foreign investors eager to set up a manufacturing plant in China.

Investment Opportunities In China

2010-07-15T13:49:00.004+01:00

At present, global industry trends indicate that the Chinese market is set to become the second largest economy in the world thus presenting excellent opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs from all over the world. The country’s GDP in 2007 was well over US$7 trillion in terms of purchasing power and in the same year, it had a nominal GDP of US$4.2 trillion as its exchange rate which put its economy in third place after Japan and the US.

Investors should consider the Chinese economy as a good business market as the country recorded the fastest economic growth in terms of GDP in the past 25 years, with its GDP growth rate being consistently over 10%. The per capita income of the country has also grown by over 8% every year for the past 30 years and its export and import volume was noted to have increased by over 30% in the year 2007.

Possibly the most important move by the Chinese government to attract foreign investors is their “Four Modernizations” policy. With this policy, the government has paid special attention to industry, agriculture, science and technology and defence. This move has made it possible for China to contribute over 12% to the world economic output and has also opened up a number of important investment opportunities for the discerning investor in these areas. Learn more about Business opportunities in China.

Doing Business in and To/From Brazil (Part 2)

2010-07-07T16:18:00.004+01:00

Brazil has very strict polices when it comes to exporting artefacts and contraband substances and it is necessary that you equip yourself with the required licenses to avoid complications.

Other factors that you will also have to take care of include taxes and customs documentation as it is important to pay the correct duties based on the kind of freight you are transporting. The tax in Brazil is fairly high but as the overhead and labour is known to be inexpensive, you should be able to make a good profit. If you are not skilled in speaking the local language, it is advisable to hire the services of a good translator who has some background or work experience in the freight industry to help you through the documentation and license process.

Brazil also has over 60 different airports that can be used to transport cargo via air both to and from the country. If you are keen on using air transport or need to send your freight as soon as possible then, air freight is the best mode to use. You can also keep track of the airports closest to your destination and ship the goods directly from there to cut down on your transport costs.

Doing Business in and To/From Brazil (Part 1)

2010-06-29T15:03:00.005+01:00

Brazil is known to have one of the most lucrative freight markets in South America on account of its incredible facilities for cargo transport. If you are planning to start a business in Brazil, here are some tips to help you establish a successful import and export venture in the country.

Sending your freight by ship both to and from Brazil is by far the best means of transporting cargo from one country to another as the region has several notable ports. This country has a very well organised export and import industry and new business owners will not have to wait long to become successful in Brazil as the region’s laws and trade procedures have been designed to make such relations easy, especially in regards to export. The region also has several storage areas for large containers and many freight forwarding companies to help you get started with your freight business.

Once you have established operations in the country, it is advisable to affiliate yourself with the Agency for Promoting Exports and Investments (Apex-Brazil). Entrepreneurs and business owners will also find it relatively simple to register property in the country. However, it is necessary to have a thorough knowledge about the country’s registration procedures, customs requirements and export and import rules. Find out about Rio business events and trade fairs for promoting your business in Brazil and South America.

Also interested in Business with China?

Freight Updates Online: Events, News and Types

2010-06-21T15:07:00.003+01:00

Business seems to be picking up very slowly but surely although many of us who are based in the UK will be watching the Budget tomorrow to see what affects the new cost cuts might have on the and European freight industry. In the meantime, just to fill you in on the latest content added online regards Freight Event, News and Types of Freight:

Events Update: InnoTrans International Exhibition for Transportation Engineering - One of the top events in Germany each year for transportation.

Events Update: In Asia, the Korea Railways and Logistics Exhibition is a great event for those of you involved with doing business in Asia.

New Freight Article update: Guide to South Korea and Business Opportunities for those looking for more opportunities in South Korea. More about Seoul Korea.

New Article: Beginners guide to Freight Insurance for those of you quite new to the industry and looking to learn more.

Olympics 2012 Opportunities: Freight opportunities for the 2012 London Olympics.

Freight Technology thoughts

2010-06-14T18:23:00.002+01:00

Working in the freight and shipping industry, I am always keeping an eye of freight technology developments and this is something which can only benefit the industry.

In the last year there have been some interesting developments and many of those creations have focused on software. Software is one area which is being continually developed and used: Software in the form of computer programs which maximise road time, turnover times, load factors and traffic management and port systems for example.

Certainly the BAE system to create an anti-pirates warning system is one of the more interesting and quite advanced technologies being worked on. Some other interesting Freight technology related developments have included:

Pneumatic brakes for freight trains
Automatic identification technology
Traffic Congestion Management System

Know of any more developments which benefit the Freight Forwarding and shipping market. Let us know! Learn also about Freight Trends in the iundustry.

Logistics and Types of Freight

2010-06-10T14:20:00.004+01:00

We often get quite involved with a number of Trade Shows and Exhibitions and it is amazing the variety of products that need to be moved. Items of all shapes and sizes and these mean a whole load of different logistical considerations.

Some of the biggest and quite interesting items from a logistical point of view which I personally have been involved with include:

An oil rig and equipment
A yacht
A whole set-up for a trade exhibition
A industrial size crane

Working in the freight industry is both fun and challenging I find. You just never know what type of freight you'll be asked to move next! I'd be fascinated to hear what the most unusual type of freight you have had to send is? Or the most unusual types of freight you have sent. Send your blog comments!

Malaysia Trade and freight (Part 2)

2010-06-03T15:54:00.003+01:00

Since factory equipment and machines used for industries are not manufactured in Malaysia, such items have to be transported into the country. Coupled with the rise in the number of factories and other industries in Malaysia, all of which require equipment, the demand for heavy equipment has risen to create a great market for industrial equipment freight in Malaysia.

This equipment can be shipped to Malaysia either by ship, road or air, depending on the urgency of the demand. Multimodal transport is recommended for consignments of industrial machinery and equipment, especially if the goods are not required immediately. Since industrial machinery tends to be bulky, special equipment is needed for their transport. Additionally, this kind of cargo requires extra documentation and space for maintenance and repair once it reaches Malaysia.

Much of the export from Malaysia is in the form of food, which is perishable, and so requires special treatment when transporting. Other supplies like medical goods and meats also require refrigeration during transport to and from Malaysia. Since it is possible to transport this kind of freight in smaller containers, it is less expensive than the transport of heavy machinery. Importing goods into Malaysia typically attracts a customs fee and it is a good idea to be informed on all the taxes and documentation required before entering into the import-export business with Malaysia.

Guide To Sending Freight To/From Malaysia For Business

2010-05-24T22:19:00.002+01:00

Malaysia’s proximity to Singapore, the diversity of the population and the availability of ports has created a large demand for freight transport to and from the country. If you are considering sending and receiving business related freight to or from Malaysia, here is a guide to help you establish your business in this country.

When sending freight to Malaysia for business purposes, it is important that you are in possession of all the documentation and licenses required by Malaysian laws. You will also be required to follow the country’s code of items permitted to be imported and exported.

The main difference between freight that is sent for business and freight for personal items is that the quantity of goods being shipped is larger in business consignments. Business freight to Malaysia is usually divided into equipment shipments and cargo for trade purposes; the country sees different types of goods imported and exported for business purposes such as perishables like food and beverages, equipments and heavy machinery and raw materials for industries.

Malaysia has one of the most lucrative economies for trade and commerce in South East Asia and boasts several freight companies and export and import businesses involved in international trade.

(Part 2 coming next week) - You can also learn more about Freight to Malaysia online.

..more Freight related Exhibitions to consider

2010-05-17T20:17:00.003+01:00

Following on from the last blog, another 2 Freight Exhibitions worth consdering if you are involved in the Freight Industry. These are events I have attended myself in the past and which I found to be very good for networking.

Air freight Asia – Held in Hong Kong on an annual basis and attended by companies from different countries all over the world, the Air freight Asia exhibition is reputed to be one of the leading trade and cargo events on the freight calendar. The event is hosted by Reed Exhibitions and takes place at the AsiaWorld-Expo located in the Hong Kong’s International Airport. The event focuses on air transport and is scheduled to take place in the month of September. The Air freight Asia exhibition usually goes on for two or more days and is held along with a conference attended by important delegates from the industry.

TransComp NITL Exhibition – This exhibition has been in existence for over 20 years and has come to be known as one of the best multimodal freight transportation events in the world. The event is attended by companies from various sectors and includes rail carriers, shipping agents, intermodal marketing companies, machinery manufacturers, freight forwarders and terminal authorities. The event is held at the Anaheim Convention Center and is attended by thousands of visitors and features world renowned exhibitors in the freight industry.

Freight Related Exhibitions worth Attending

2010-05-10T17:14:00.003+01:00

Industry professionals and business owners from the freight sector looking to attend an international freight exhibition where they can promote their products and services or launch a new venture can consider attending a number of world renown events. These events are known to be highly effective marketing platforms and see thousands of exhibitors and potential buyers among their attendees on an annual basis.

TransRussia – This event is one of the largest freight exhibitions in the world and takes place annually in Moscow. It functions as a forum for industry professionals and exhibitors to promote their companies and products to an audience of potential clients.

This exhibition is known to have more than 450 exhibitors and about 28,000 attendees at each event. TransRussia is an international event and is attended by people from over 33 countries who are looking to enter the Russian market or improve their current standing in the market.

Private port companies, freight agents, forwarders, key decision makers and terminal operators all attend this event which allows them to establish a presence in Russia, CIS and the Baltic area. The event is organised by the ITE Group at the Expocentre at Krasnaya Presnya and is very popular with exhibitors, 99% of whom return to the exhibition the next year on account of the success of the event. You can learn more from TransRussia online.

The BRIC countries and the shift of trade from West to East (Part 2)

2010-05-04T23:14:00.002+01:00

Since the Cold War, through the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century, Western nations like United States have held strong positions in terms of the global economy, after it beat the USSR in its development of industries. The recent growth in power of the BRIC countries has changed this uni-polar model of the global economy and experts predict that the shift of trade to these countries will cause China to soon become the world’s largest economy, overtaking the US in the next decade or so.

In the past, most of the trade and freight companies had sought to establish bases mainly in western countries, with emphasis being placed on US and European regions. This trend is seeing a drastic change, especially with the emergence of China as a global power and manufacturing industry giant.

Trends also suggest that India and the US will be competing for the second spot, while the other two BRIC countries will ensure that the current European powers will play less of a role in the global economy. These predictions are based on current trends in the economy where BRIC nations have taken great strides to ensure that a lot of trade has been diverted to them. China has also overtaken Germany to become the largest exporter of goods in the world and other BRIC nations are also recording expansions in exports and imports.

The BRIC countries and the shift of trade from West to East (Part 1)

2010-04-26T19:21:00.004+01:00

The gradual decline of the US economy and the recent financial crisis has led to the development of other economic powers all over the world and the most notable growth has been reported amongst the BRIC countries: Brazil, Russia, India and China. The burgeoning economies of these countries and the development of their manufacturing industries and information technology sectors indicate trends of strong economic growth in the years to come, with the balance of economic power migrating from the West to the East.

However, unlike most new markets, these countries are also redefining themselves socially and culturally and are aiming for a resurgence of economic power and it would seem that the BRIC countries are reclaiming their ancient position of dominance in Trade.

The shift of wealth and power from the West to the East is a historic step that will create waves in the global economy and forever change the way that people see investment and economics. Scholars predict that the global economy as we see it today will be almost unrecognisable by the year 2050. Emerging powers like the BRIC countries will ensure that the political, investment and economic landscape of the world will be completely changed.

(Part 2 coming next)

New Freight articles online

2010-04-19T14:59:00.002+01:00

A quick blog this time just to let you know about some articles which are now online:

A Guide to Moving Live Freight - some interesting information about moving freight which is live.
A Guide to Moving to Thailand - for those of you looking to escape to warmer pastures.
A Beginner's Guide to Freight Insurance - for information about finding the best freight insurance.
A Guide to the UK Import and Export Business - for some basic information on business in the UK.

Volcanic Ash closes down Air Space and Cargo movement

2010-04-15T14:14:00.004+01:00

It is incredibly the way in which air traffic and air cargo has been affected in the last few months. First we had unusually high levels of snow falls with records from 20 years beaten. There were several days of disruptions to UK airports. Then we had several strikes i.e. with British Airways. This did not affect Air Freight but did affect the normal traveller and business executive.

And now we have volcanic eruptions in Iceland resulting in a huge massive cloud of ash spreading across Europe and at the time of writing, British air space is totally closed down, bar emergency service flights. This surely is one of the more unusual reasons for disruptions to Air Freight?

What will happen next to affect air traffic and freight? One thing which certainly will affect us in air as we are flying is the plan by Ryanair to charge to use the toilets in flight. Life is getting stranger by the year.

The good news -from Freight companies I talk to often, everyone seems to be seeing a slow but gradual return to normality for business. Once the UK elections are over and a party eventual are settled in, more confidence should then return in business.

Why China will be important in the future for the Freight Industry (Part 2)

2010-04-07T20:22:00.002+01:00

These companies have now begun to set up branches within China to ensure that freighting operations run smoothly. As a result of this migration, there are many opportunities for freight carriers in China.

Another reason why China has become an emerging hub in the freight industry is its proximity to other important countries in Asia like India, Korea and Japan.

Future trends indicate that China will overtake many other countries in terms of trade and freight forwarding, making it a very important country for trading agencies to concentrate on. At present, the infrastructure available for freight forwarders is of an average standard, especially in rural China, however this trend is also changing quickly, with various government initiatives introducing new rail lines and roadways to facilitate the better transport of goods across the country.

Current economic trends in China’s freight industry seem to indicate that the future of freight and cargo transport lies in this region. The emerging economy, strong labour force, inexpensive manufacturing process and large export potential has also resulted in the development of many other industries, such as the transport industry, which is vital to the success of trade.

Why China will be important in the future for the Freight Industry (Part 1)

2010-04-01T13:23:00.002+01:00

China, a country known as “the workshop of the world”, has seen an increase in its spending power and only requires a few changes in policies from its government to set it on its way to becoming the future for the Freight Industry.

In the past decade, China has proven itself to be a powerful emerging economy and economic scholars estimate that by the year 2027, China will overtake the US as the top global economy. This is largely due to the increase in trade to China, with the country being one of the biggest manufacturing countries in the world. Currently, China is ranked number one, ahead of Germany, in terms of global exports. Its large manufacturing sectors and poor consumption rates within the country allows China to grow in leaps and bounds and build a market that will push it to establishing a notable global economy.

This increase in trade with China and the great improvement of its manufacturing industry has ensured that there is a lot of demand for cargo and other goods to be transported to and from China. Currently, the main imports of the country are raw materials, while finished goods are the biggest exported items. This movement of freight has ensured that China is one of the most popular destinations for many cargo companies to China.

Learning about BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China)

2010-03-24T16:18:00.003Z

I am not sure how many of you have heard of term such as PIGS and BRIC? I have only recently began to really get to know a lot more about these terms and the more I learn the more fascinating it is - especially from a business point of view.

PIGS (Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Spain) are referred to as the PIGS and are grouped together because of the way in which they are all in Europe and suffering quite a lot from the recession and recent economic woes.

It is the BRICs though that fascinate me. The BRIC countries as they are known are Brazil, Russia, India and China. China in the last year has already seen great growth and Brazil has also just had an excellent year and if forecast to be strong for many years to come. Russia although looks good despite the volatility political. India is always destined to see significant growth in the coming decade.

From a business point if view focusing on the BRIC countries might not be the worst idea ever and even with some hiccups in the Chinese economy (there will be a blip along the way in their growth) the BRICs are expected by 2030 to really have overtaken Europe and the U.S as the economic powers. I'll be watching.

The Manufacturing Industry in China (continued)

2010-03-15T21:04:00.003Z

Once you have gathered a list of reliable local manufacturers and suppliers capable of meeting your needs, you will need to decide on one, this can be done by negotiating prices and benefits. It is also a good idea to emphasize your needs and find out if they truly understand the requirements. The quotation must then be scanned to see if the agreement is suitable to your company. You will then be able to choose the manufacturer that is best suited to your needs.

Most manufacturers in China are open to what is called a sample production. This is a small trial run of the actual production and is crucial for goods that require some amount of sophistication in the production. Sometimes, there are a number of test runs that the manufacturer must make before the product reaches acceptable levels.

Manufacturers in China will require a feasible timeline for production. This is usually agreed upon once the actual manufacturing begins. Generally, most manufacturers will expect a 30% down payment before the manufacturing begins. Once the products are manufactured, the outsourcing company will be required to pay the remaining 70%. While this is the general norm, most manufacturers are willing to negotiate.

The Manufacturing Industry in China

2010-03-08T17:12:00.004Z

China’s economy is largely based on its extensive manufacturing industry, where they have the facilities and labour resources to manufacture anything from rubber bands and plastic containers to clothing to industrial equipment at a fraction of the cost of manufacturing the same goods in any other country. And as a result of this industry, the Chinese economy is growing in leaps and bounds. There are however, some tips that one must keep in mind when outsourcing products to the Chinese manufacturing industry.

The secret of China’s efficient and cost effective manufacturing industry is the availability of cheap labour in the country. When deciding to manufacture a product in China, the first thing that you will need to do is to search for a local supplier that is best suited to your needs. This involves gathering information and contacts, which can be achieved by using your business contacts, visiting various business forums and general networking.

It is then important to establish a business relationship with the supplier and figure out how they manufacture goods for export purposes and how long they have been in the business. You will also need to verify their business reputation which can be done by checking with other manufacturers of similar goods to see if they have used the suppliers you are considering. It is also important to get an initial quotation from each of them.

You can learn more about Chinese Business online and find out about Freight to China from RSJ Freight.

UK Business, Exchange rates, Elections and FTSE

2010-03-02T20:33:00.004Z

I have been following the economic news a lot in the last few months and year and the more I learn the more confusing it seems. Pound Sterling seems to have dropped steeply in the last week against the dollar and confidence in the sterling currency seems to be low. A combination of:

Indecision with the country with no clear likely winner in the upcoming general election - hence most likely a divided government.
Add onto that the fact that no plan as yet has been created to clear the sovereign debt within the UK.
Add onto that the general lack of confidence in the neighbouring Euro countries with the problems in Greece, Portugal, Spain and Ireland.

Yet - the FTSE this week goes back up almost to 5500 points and today several companies announced excellent results and some announced huge profits. It is hard to know in which direction we are going.

As a business owner it seems the best way is to focus on not taking too many chances and just keeping a tight ship and getting through 2010. 2011 looks as though it will be the year when things really start to improve. Your thoughts? Send us your comments!!!

Quick note: New article on Freight agents now live!

Business and Trade in the Philippines (Part 2)

2010-02-22T15:03:00.002Z

Before starting a trade or business in the Philippines, it is critical to look into the legal system in the country in regards to the laws that govern import and export and new businesses. You should have a thorough understanding of the documentation required to set up a new business, licenses necessary, customs laws and other rules that govern trade and investors from outside the Philippines. It is also a good idea to garner local contacts with a sound business sense who will be able to help you secure licenses and papers that apply to your particular business or trade.

Foreign investors and those looking to establish a good trade relationship with the Philippines must also understand the taxation system. Since the country levies different taxes on a large portion of goods and services, businessmen and tradesmen who want to conduct business in the Philippines could end up paying hefty taxes unnecessarily if they do not have a proper understanding of these laws.

An easy way to avoid this is to find a tax accountant who is familiar with the tax and trade customs system in the country in regards to your specific business sector, to provide you with valuable information on legal documentation and tax concerns.

Business and Trade in the Philippines (Part 1)

2010-02-16T18:31:00.003Z

The Philippines has gradually become a hub for trade and commerce, attracting businesspeople, investors, traders and entrepreneurs from all over the world with its many untapped business and trade opportunities. Here is a brief guide to doing business in the country.

If you are looking to do business or conduct trade in the Philippines, it is necessary to be aware of the country’s policies toward international trade and the standard procedures for setting up a business in this country. One of the biggest problems faced by entrepreneurs and traders doing business here for the first time is that they are unsure of what kinds of trade will flourish in the country.

Therefore it is important to study the region’s economy and the success of its various trade sectors. Some of the more popular business ideas for people looking to set up a business in the country include the food and beverage industry, airport development, forest goods and IT.

In addition to these sectors, there are other important industries that are also setting up shop in the Philippines; these include logistics, transport, health care and banking. Establishing a business or import-export set up in one of these sectors will provide you with a good market niche in the country. (Part 2 next week)

Guide To Doing Business In Indonesia (Part 2)

2010-02-08T18:18:00.004Z

Also, industries like public shipping and harbours, aviation, power generation for public use and telecommunications are further controlled by the Indonesian government, which permits a 95% stake for foreigners.

The country allows direct foreign investment, which is governed by two specific laws. According to the law, any foreign investor is required to form a limited company called a Foreign Investment Company or a PMA. The Investment Coordinating Board deals with cases involving foreign investors, documentation and licenses for investment. These licenses are valid for a period of 30 years from the time the company begins production.

For larger corporations that would like to open an office branch within Indonesia, there is a separate set of rules, but these companies are also governed by the Investment Coordinating Board, BKPM. Any company opening a branch in Indonesia is first required to obtain a license from the BKPM before commencing any business in the country.

It is advisable to get involved into all the details of the business and to use a good translator, if you do not know the language, in order to ensure that all your instructions are understood and carried out. Once you have decided on a business and secured local contacts and stakeholders accordingly, it will be fairly easy to do business in this country. If you do not plan on staying in the region to oversee business, it will be important that you appoint a trusted manager or supervisor in your place.

Guide To Doing Business In Indonesia (Part 1)

2010-02-03T19:59:00.005Z

The market for foreign investors in Indonesia has greatly expanded in the past few years, providing this region with a thriving economy and a lucrative business arena. Here is a brief guide to doing business in Indonesia.

There are a number of factors that must be kept in mind when beginning business interactions with Indonesia and these include the legal system in the country, the tax systems, investment structures and procedures for exchange, trade and local finance. In addition to this, there is also the issue of deciding on a suitable business that will flourish in Indonesia and then establishing it by hiring locals and using your contacts in the region to manage it.

Before doing business in Indonesia it is necessary to research the country’s market and laws to pinpoint the available sectors in which you can start a new venture. In general, investors and entrepreneurs from foreign countries are allowed to start businesses in Indonesia without having any local support; however, there are a few business sectors that the government does not allow foreigners to undertake without having any local stakeholders. The business sectors that fall under governmental regulation include drinking water, mass media, electric power transmission, distribution or production, harbours, railway lines and atomic reactors. If you are looking to start a business in any of these fields, you will require special documentation and local stakeholders. (Part 2 - Continued in next post)

Sauna and Spa Freight

2010-01-26T01:25:00.001Z

Most Freight Forwarders will probably have experienced a real wide variety of products that they've had to ship to other countries of move domestically. Over the years the items we can get asked to ship get stranger and stranger and now if asked to transport an oil rig to the Middle East or to ship containers of sand to Egypt, we are no longer surprised.

One batch of products which are bulky and quite common as freight in recent years have been portable saunas and spas. A lot of companies in China are exporting saunas these days and when sent in batches, it is not uncommon to have to move a full container of saunas to Europe and to other parts of Asia or to North America.

Nothing is that different from normal. Careful packing and storage, properly planned paperwork and tracking and all is in order. There isn't much you cannot send by freight! You can learn all about Freight Types online and also about Saunas and Spa.

New Freight articles online

2010-01-19T16:47:00.002Z

Several new articles online connected Freight and these include:

Guide to Exporting and Importing products into the UK - for some general information on the UK and the export business.
Freight and Shipping to Singapore - in case you are interested in the Asian market for business.
A Beginners guide to Land Freight - learn about what is involved with land freight.

Also - the latest new freight pages online include information about Freight rates to Hong Kong and the Trans Middle East exhibition in Bahrain.

Freight and the Harmonized System (HS)

2010-01-12T21:06:00.004Z

Some of the most commonly asked questions about freight sometimes include the issue of the Harmonized System (HS), and its interpretation. The Harmonized System (HS), an internationally accepted classification protocol, is used by customs officials for charging duty and other mandatory levies and also for controlling import quantities.

Exporters need to be aware of the HS number of their product to determine the applicable tariff rates, ascertain whether the product qualifies for a preferential tariff rate and also understand whether any quota restriction is applicable to the product in the exporting or importing country.

Traders often need information regarding common export documents. While these can vary from country to country and across product lines, most countries insist on some basic documentation like airway bill, bill of lading, commercial invoice, export packing list, shipper’s export declaration and a certificate of origin to process the freight. A certificate of origin is critical, especially when it comes to exporting to countries covered by free trade agreements.
Commonly used terms in freight parlance include Merchandise Passport and Incoterms.

A Merchandise Passport or an ATA Carnet enables the temporary entry of products into foreign countries without the payment of duties and taxes or payment of a security deposit. Incoterms are a set of 13 commonly used shipping and trade terms published and periodically updated by the International Chamber of Commerce. Traders across the globe can understand shipping terms and mutual obligations and responsibilities because of the inherent standardization.

Some common Incoterms are EXW (Ex-Works), FAS (Free Alongside Ship), CIF (Cost Insurance Freight) and DDU (Delivered Duty Paid). These terms can help determine which party bears the responsibility for bearing costs like freight, duty and other customs charges. The terms of sale also stipulate whether the exporter will need to get his goods insured.

2010 and the Freight Industry

2010-01-05T18:22:00.003Z

With the FTSE 100 (UK stock market) rising to a 15 month high in the last few days, it seems as though a lot of people are becoming more optimistic and see 2009 as being over and symbolic of the recession. Consumer confidence seems to be returning and decent Xmas sales for several retailers is a sign one hopes of a definite improvement in the economy.

Things got off to a stutter though for Freight Forwarders with record snow falls in a number of countries in the last few days. South Korea has seen the biggest snow falls on record there, and China similarly has seen massive amounts of the white stuff. The UK and mainland Europe has also suffered and the UK is expected to see heavy snow falls in the next 24 hours.

To keep up to date with the latest weather, the BBC weather website is worth checking if you are yourself also travelling. In terms of freight, you could potentially see a days delay. Check with your freight forwarder.

A Happy Freight Christmas..and good 2010

2009-12-21T17:38:00.004Z

Well, this is the last blog post for 2009 and let me take this chance to wish you all a very good Christmas and hopeful 2010. I am sure we will see the UK draw officially out of recession in early 2010 and even if slow growth, we'll see things pick up.

2010 should be a fascinating year and that includes for the Freight, Logistics and Transport sectors. Thank you for you following us in 2009 and I look forward to writing lots more blogs throughout 2010. Let us now also if you want any specific areas covered to do with the sector.

A quick shameless plug for my wife's new site. If you need an Italian translator or Southampton SEO Training just folow the preceeding links.

Freight in Wales - Newport & Cardiff Freight

2009-12-07T20:04:00.002Z

Cardiff and Newport both have the need for Freight Logistics and Shipping and Newport itself has the docks and traditionally coal and iron have been major exports from the South Wales area.

Manufacturing and industry in Wales has declined a certain amount in the last 20 years but there is still the need for exports and imports and a few Wales freight companies are here and able to provide a good service.

Cardiff has its own airport but the amount of air freight in and out of Cardiff airport is limited with only relatively small airplanes using the airport. The use of Inter-Modal freight is common with the use of road or rail and then air freight for very large shipments.

Inter-modal freight is likely to become even more popular in the future and improvements in Europe and on the UK mainland with rail links helps to push inter-modal freight movement forward. With even better rail freight the need for inter-modal might no longer be required (inter-modal for newbies mans the use of more than one form of freight movement used to send something. You might need a combination of rail and air to get something from A to B).

Freight Trade Shows and Exhibitions

2009-12-01T15:15:00.003Z

There are some excellent Trade Shows and Exhibitions for people involved in the Freight and Logistics industry and they offer some excellent networking opportunities.

These Trade shows take place in various countries and the ones in Asia (including China and Korea) really create a great opportunity to build contacts in a situation where cultural understandings are limited because you are under one joint roof and with translators there and in an International atmosphere.

Some Excellent shows include:

Logistics Management Forum, Luxembourg - Great for networking and creating Logistics business contacts. February 2010 for the next event.

Thailand International Logistics Fair - a big show and one which attracts a real international audience. I find this show is excellent for generating business contacts.

Annual Transport Logistic China - if you want to get into the Chinese business area then this is a real opportunity for logistics and transport professionals and companies.

Higher Freight Rates for Xmas period

2009-11-16T16:58:00.003Z

One thing to consider in the coming month is whether or not you really need to send a package or parcel. Avoiding sending packages and parcels over the Christmas season potentially could save you money compared to if you waited until January or February.

With a difficult year due to the recession, several of the big small parcel and package players and trying to utilise the Christmas season to push up rates to try and bring in some more money. The service companies such as DHL and FedEx provide is certainly good and if you have to send a package over Xmas time then of course you should. If you can wait until January then you might save though.

A fascinating article in the The Times today to do with Shipping companies pushing up freight rates for Xmas explains more. Do not forget, if you want Freight Rates online for large shipments.

Freight and Logistic courses update

2009-11-09T23:02:00.003Z

We highlighted the Logistics and Supply Chain Management course at Cranfield University a few months ago. This time to highlights another Freight and Logistics course, we look at a course which takes place at Kingston University, London.

International Supply Chain and Logistics Management MA - A long course title for sure and a course which is an excellent option for those of you looking to study to Masters level and to build on your work experience and knowledge in the Freight, Logistics and International business field.

This is a 1 year full time Masters course and the next starting date is September 2010. This might seem a long way away but maybe of you may be looking to plan for 2010 as we reach towards the new year and this is the time to apply.

The 8 Modules you would study include:

International Logistics
Operations Management
and Supply Chain Management

You can learn more direct from the Logistics Management MA course details online.

Freight news and the recession

2009-10-26T16:53:00.005Z

Most of us thought that the recession would officially be over in the UK last week but the latest Office for National Statistics stats showed that we had another quarter of negative growth. The benefits for the Freight Industry would have been renewed confidence in the industry and on the high streets: Moving out of a recession might well have given industry a burst of help.

We now head into the Christmas spending season with the UK still officially in recession and this is something many of business leaders were hoping would have officially ended last week. Overall though, there are extremely positive signs that when results are given in another 3 months time at the end of January, the UK surely will be out of recession.

The share values companies involved with production, manufacturing and metals still seems to be strong and holding solid after a stock market which rose on average 40% in the last quarter.

2010 overall should become a much more positive one business wise. We cannot stay in recession for ever!

Airline Baggage charges

2009-10-21T20:24:00.005+01:00

Although not really to do with freight or cargo, I felt like still writing a quick blog about the incredible changes that are occurring within the airlines industry for excess baggage costs. Working in the freight industry and as someone who attends a lot of exhibitions and conferences, I travel a lot and I am finding it unbelievable the charges that will billed.

Some UK airlines for example plan to charge up to £70 for a second bag. BA are also planning to start charging for choosing a seat! The thing I have always liked a lot about British Airways is the fact that they had (up until now) avoided the type of service which budget airlines offer. Now BA seem intent on joining in.

Most of the UK airlines are planning to try and push people towards only having one hold luggage. Ryanair though seem intent on pushing us to have carry on luggage only. One EXTREMELY good item to ensure you take on EVERY trip is a set of travel scales and the "No More Excess" travel scales for £10 on amazon.co.uk are excellent.

Guest Post by Peter Beacher of NYC.

Signs that Air Freight is picking up

2009-10-10T16:55:00.003+01:00

Air Freight Traffic - Quite widely reported in the media in the last few days, there are now clear signs that the Air Freight industry is at last picking up once again. Even though the volumes of air freight are dropping, the good news is the rate at which it has been dropping and slowed down significantly and signs are (fingers crossed) that the figures will very soon start to increase again. Some detailed information about the Air Freight stats with Reuters.

New Freight articles online - Some new freight related articles are now online and some choice titles for you:

EU Road Transport package accepted

2009-09-29T14:38:00.003+01:00

Anything which helps us all in the Freight and Shipping industry in the UK has to be a good thing and a positive initiative recently has been the EU Road Transport Package.

European Ministers have accepted the new EU Road Transport Package and this means that the introduction of a number of new rules. For UK drivers one of the key initiatives is the plan for a European wide cabotage and licensing for freight vehicles. This should make it much fairer in UK drivers and mean that drivers from other European countries will have to work by the same set of rules.

The European Parliament site details the package in more detail and the area of particular interest to those of us in the freight industry can be seen under the heading Harmonisation of conditions for road transport operators. Let us know your thoughts with your comments on this blog and how it could help the Freight industry.

Cuba Business and Freight: Country Spotlight

2009-09-22T16:37:00.003+01:00

Starting the 1st of a number of posts on different countries around the world and about business, freight forwarding and shipping starts below with Cuba.

Cuba Business - The thing about Cuba is not that it is necessarily a big location for freight forwarding at this time. The key is in the potential for the future and being strategically placed ready for if and when trade barriers do break down.

Things have progressed even if slowly in recent months. Obama announced some changes to how money can be sent to relatives in Cuba and also relaxed some restrictions for family flying to and from Cuba. In terms of trade though, the key element seems to be the age and health of Fidel Castro. Beyond Castro, Cuba potentially could completely open up and trade barriers drop with USA.

Strategically, Cuba is located nicely between North America, the Caribbean and Central and South America and could be a very handy location to be involved with. It might be worth being prepared strategically as a business for business with Cuba for the future. You can learn more about Cuban business and trade. Cuban News updates are also avalable online.

Brought to you by Bristol Freight.

Anti Pirates Technology - Freight News

2009-09-14T17:52:00.003+01:00

Freight News update - British Aerospace (BAE) last week submitted a press release confirming that they are developing a product which could very well significantly help the Sea and Ocean Freight industry.

BAE are developing a sophisticated electronic anti pirates warning system. Any of you who watched the Ross Kemp Sky TV series on Pirates will be aware of the massive issue for sea freight which goes through areas including the horn of Africa. Ships have had no time in the past to be aware of pirate attacks, with the captain only aware once it is already too late.

The new BAE system which is being developed sounds quite amazing in that it will take technology it has previously used for military products and which can spot erratic movements on the horizon (and out of normal eyesight), visual id capability and much more. You can read in detail about the Anti pirates sea freight system BAE are creating via their own press release.

Moving Perishables Freight

2009-09-07T17:33:00.005+01:00

We have to move a wide variety of Freight types all the time and types of freight can for example include Oil Equipment, Boating products and Food items.

Perishables are the type though which need most attention. These products which include food certainly mean more work and care is needed but can still be transported and send as freight efficiently. There are several considerations worth making when moving perishables such as food and medical products and some thoughts and consideration are below:

Packaging and packing. Wrapping and sealing the products in the right way becomes even more vital with perishables.

Ensure you use the right type of containers. If you send the products by air for example then consider the temperatures at which the perishables will need to be protected for.

Timing - Because of the lifetime that perishables have. The difference in time between sea freight and air freight might be significant. This will need to be balanced though against the issues with air freight.

Legalities - Be clear about the import and export regulations for the countries involved. A good freight company will be able though to help you with all of these factors.

You can learn more about moving Perishable freight online.

Freight and Transport Exhibitions

2009-08-31T15:29:00.004+01:00

There are a number of excellent Exhibitions and Trade Fairs which take place every year and I try and go to 3 or 4 every year to keep in touch with the industry movements, new technology and see what everyone is up to. Below 3 of my favourites:

1. Transport Logistic - Held in Munich, Germany, this exhibition is a very popular 4 day event which usually takes place in May bi-annually. A great event for networking within the Transport and Logistics industry. The next show takes place May 2011.

2. Thailand International Logistics Fair - if you have the budget and chance, then combining a few days in Bangkok with business is not a bad way to do things. This is a great fair for making contacts and keeping up-to-date with the Asian market. Interested in Freight from Thailand?

3. International Materials Handling Exhibition (IMHX) I have actually found very useful for networking in the past. This UK show takes place normally every November in Birmingham's NEC exhibition centre.