Freight & logistics guides
Comprehensive, evergreen resources for shippers — from Incoterms and customs to ocean freight and pricing. Part of the CargoLinked Help Center.
How Freight Rates Are Calculated: Ocean, Air and Road Pricing Explained
Freight rates are not random — they follow specific pricing formulas. Understanding how ocean, air, and road freight rates are calculated gives you real leverage when negotiating.
Freight Surcharges Decoded: BAF, CAF, PSS and Every Fee on Your Invoice
Freight invoices are full of acronyms that can add 30-50% to your base rate. Here is what every abbreviation on your freight invoice actually means.
Cargo Insurance Explained: Why Basic Carrier Liability Is Never Enough
Most shippers do not realise how little protection carrier liability actually provides. Here is what cargo insurance covers, what it costs, and why you almost certainly need it.
How to Get Accurate International Freight Quotes: A Shipper's Step-by-Step Guide
Getting like-for-like freight quotes is harder than it sounds. Here is exactly what information you need to provide, and what to check before comparing quotes from forwarders.
10 Proven Ways to Cut Your International Shipping Costs in 2026
Ten actionable, proven strategies that businesses of all sizes use to reduce international freight costs without compromising delivery reliability or service quality.
FCL vs LCL Shipping: Which Container Option Is Right for Your Cargo?
FCL and LCL are the two main ocean freight options. Understanding the trade-offs between them can save you significant money and prevent frustrating delays.
How Air Freight Pricing Works: Chargeable Weight, CBM and Rate Structures
Air freight pricing is more complex than it looks. Understanding chargeable weight, volumetric weight, and rate structures prevents expensive surprises on your air freight invoices.
Ocean Freight Transit Times by Route: What to Realistically Expect
Ocean freight transit times vary dramatically by trade lane, carrier, and routing. Here are realistic transit time expectations for the world major shipping routes.
China-Europe Rail Freight: Is It Right for Your Supply Chain?
China-Europe rail freight offers a compelling middle ground between ocean and air. Here is everything you need to know about transit times, costs, routes, and cargo suitability.
Shipping Dangerous Goods: IMDG Code and IATA Regulations Explained
Shipping dangerous goods by sea or air requires strict compliance with IMDG and IATA regulations. Here is what shippers need to know before booking dangerous goods freight.
How Customs Clearance Works: Step-by-Step Process for Importers
A complete walkthrough of the customs clearance process from document preparation to cargo release, so you know exactly what happens to your shipment at the border.
HS Codes Explained: How to Find the Right Code for Your Cargo
HS codes determine your import duty rate in every country. Getting them wrong is costly. Learn how the Harmonised System works and how to find the right code for your products.
Incoterms 2020 Explained: Which One Should Your Business Use?
Incoterms define who pays for what in international trade. Choosing the wrong one can cost you thousands. Here is a plain-English guide to all 11 Incoterms 2020.
Import Documentation Checklist: Everything You Need for a Smooth Customs Clearance
Missing or incorrect import documents are the number one cause of customs delays. Use this complete checklist to make sure every shipment is documented correctly.
DDP vs DAP vs FOB: Understanding International Delivery Terms
DDP, DAP, and FOB are the three most commonly misunderstood Incoterms. Learn exactly what each one means, who pays what, and which is right for your trade.
What Is a Freight Forwarder? Roles, Services and How They Work
A freight forwarder organises international cargo shipments on behalf of shippers. Learn exactly what they do, what services they provide, and when you need one.
Freight Forwarder vs Shipping Agent: Key Differences Explained
Freight forwarders and shipping agents both play roles in international logistics, but serve very different masters. Learn when you need each one.
How to Choose a Freight Forwarder: 10 Questions Every Shipper Should Ask
Choosing the wrong freight forwarder can cost you far more than a better rate would save. Use these 10 questions to identify the right partner for your shipments.
NVOCC vs Freight Forwarder: What Is the Difference?
NVOCCs and freight forwarders both move cargo internationally, but they operate under different legal frameworks. Learn which is best for your shipping needs.
Red Flags to Watch For When Vetting a Freight Forwarder
Freight forwarder fraud and incompetence cost shippers billions every year. Learn the warning signs that should make you walk away before signing anything.
How to Reduce International Freight Costs: The Complete Shipper's Playbook
Proven strategies to cut your international shipping costs without sacrificing reliability — rate structures, surcharges, consolidation, and smarter procurement.
Ocean Freight vs Air Freight: Complete Shipping Mode Comparison Guide
Compare ocean freight, air freight, road, and rail shipping. Understand costs, transit times, and which mode is right for your cargo and budget.
Customs Clearance and Trade Compliance: The Complete Shipper's Guide
Master customs clearance, HS codes, incoterms, import documentation, and trade compliance — everything you need for smooth international shipments.
The Complete Guide to International Freight Forwarding (2026)
Everything shippers need to know about international freight forwarding — how it works, what forwarders do, costs, documents, and how to choose the right partner.