Category: Supply Chain

Sydney strike threat removed

The ongoing congestion and industrial action at Sydney port, which caused schedule disruption to many carriers and prompted Maersk to stop acceptance of all bookings for the port, has been withdrawn. The move to withdraw industrial action at Sydney port, will bring relief to shippers and shipp... Read more

Fears that Felixstowe congestion may spread

High vessel volumes, spikes in container throughput and diminished operational capability due to COVID safe-working is creating high yard density at the port, resulting in terminal-wide congestion which means vessels are unable to complete empty loading or have diverted to other ports, not loadin... Read more

Metro’s supply chain excellence recognised

Publisher and Events organiser, Akabo Media, is one of the most influential voices in supply chain, freight and logistics. Its annual Supply Chain Excellence awards uniquely feature clients and service providers, to emphasise the value and innovation delivered across the sector. Despite the ch... Read more

Container shortages in China

Port operations have been severely diminished and inland distribution massively disrupted by the coronavirus, lockdowns and safe-working practices, which delay the unloading of containers and repositioning of equipment back to China. As European importers struggle to return empty containers to... Read more

The perfect storm threatening container haulage

The perfect storm threatening container haulage  There is not an industry sector that has not been impacted to some extent by the COVID-19 pandemic. Even those deemed ‘essential’ have had to battle unprecedented economic and operational challenges, but few have felt the impact quite a... Read more

40% of firms find better post-COVID suppliers

In a recent survey, reported by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), 41% of firms said that they have found “new and better” suppliers to work with as a direct result of coronavirus. The survey also found that 57% found the outbreak an “incentive” to ma... Read more

The joined up supply chain

The supply chain is a complex system of interrelated parts which need to be monitored continuously to avoid problems and keep it running effectively. True supply chain visibility requires the ability to see the whole supply chain at all times in order to solve problems as they arise, as incomp... Read more

Shipping lines set to increase Asia–Europe contract rates

As the container shipping lines continue to control capacity tightly, announcing a new series of blanked sailings in October on the Asia - Europe trade, they are preparing for their annual contract negotiations with the largest shippers on the critical route, with many anticipating higher long te... Read more

How Britain’s EU exit affects ‘rest of the world’ international trade

Brexit means more than renouncing the trade deals of our 27 European counterparts. It’s also about losing the 41 EU-third country trade agreements in 72 separate countries. As we plummet towards the end of the Brexit transition period, the focus has been on securing a trade deal with the EU ... Read more

General Global freight market update

The current market conditions are a real mixed bag dependent on trade lane, mode of transport and region. Whilst some areas of global trade are experiencing extreme congestion, other areas are operating as normal for this time of year. Below is an overview of the current situation. Sea Freight... Read more

Import broker essential documents – Power of Attorney

This essential piece of documentation is required to demonstrate to Customs (under legal provisions) that authority is granted to act in your name and on your behalf. A ‘Power of Attorney’ (POA) - also known as a ‘Letter of Empowerment’ - refers to the authorisation required to be give... Read more

Post-Brexit timeline of import border controls for trade in EU goods

As the end of the Brexit transition period looms large, it is crucial to consider what will happen to border controls for EU trade from 1st of January 2021. As we reside in turbulent times, it must be brought to light that this articles content is not absolute, and is subject to change as time... Read more