When should I use an express courier vs standard air or ocean?
Use express courier for small, urgent shipments that meet parcel size/weight limits and require door-to-door in 1–3 days. Use air or ocean freight for larger, heavier, or bulk commercial cargo.
Port-to-port vs door-to-door?
Port-to-port covers main carriage only. Door-to-door includes pickup, main carriage, customs, and final delivery. Choose based on your capability to manage origin/destination legs.
Demurrage and detention and how to avoid them?
Demurrage: fees for containers sitting too long inside a terminal. Detention: fees for keeping a container or chassis beyond free time outside the terminal. Avoid by pre-clearing customs, booking drayage early, and scheduling dock times.
Payment methods for freight services?
Commonly credit card, ACH, wire, or on account with approved credit. For international forwarders, payment may be due before cargo release.
What is expedited freight?
Time-critical service using priority handling, direct routes, team drivers, or air. Higher cost, shorter transit.