The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by China in 2013, has become one of the most ambitious infrastructure and connectivity programs in modern history. It spans over 140 countries, with investments in roads, railways, ports, and economic zones aimed at boosting global trade. While it’s often framed in geopolitical terms, the real story, especially…
The rise of Mexico as the U.S.’s top trade partner: What forwarders need to know
In 2024, Mexico officially became the United States’ top trading partner, surpassing China for the first time in decades. This isn’t just a data point but a signal of deep shifts in global trade, manufacturing strategies, and logistics networks. For freight forwarders in the USA, it’s a moment of both challenge and opportunity. Understanding what’s…
Rising logistics hubs in Southeast Asia: How Vietnam and Malaysia are redrawing the map
For years, Singapore has been the uncontested kingpin of maritime trade in Southeast Asia. But look a little closer, and you’ll see a shift underway. Vietnam and Malaysia are now investing heavily in port infrastructure, trade facilitation, and regional connectivity. As shipping routes evolve and demand grows, new logistics hubs in Southeast Asia are emerging…
How the logistics industry can reduce carbon emissions with short sea shipping
The logistics sector is under pressure to clean up its act. Road freight is fast and flexible, but it comes at a cost, rising fuel bills, congested highways, and a heavy carbon footprint. For freight forwarders trying to balance efficiency with environmental responsibility, the old ways aren’t cutting it anymore. That’s where short sea shipping…
Port congestion in Europe 2025: What freight forwarders need to know
The congestion in European ports in 2025 has reached a critical level, disrupting trade routes across the continent and creating ripple effects far beyond the region. Major ports in Northern Europe such as Bremerhaven, Antwerp, Hamburg, and Rotterdam, are experiencing severe delays, with average berth waiting times increasing between 37% and 77% in just a…
Top air freight hubs in Asia: What inforwarders need to know about Hong Kong, Incheon, and Narita
Asia sits at the heart of global air cargo. With world-class infrastructure and nonstop trade flows, the region drives the movement of high-value, time-sensitive goods across continents. If you’re a freight forwarder aiming to stay relevant and profitable, you need to understand which Asian hubs matter most and why. In this post, we break down…
From pandas to Picassos: The weirdest jobs in freight forwarding
Let’s be honest, when most people think of freight forwarders, they picture containers of electronics, textile shipments, or pallets of auto parts moving efficiently across the globe. What they don’t picture is a panda on a diplomatic mission, a priceless Picasso in a temperature-controlled crate, or a Formula 1 race car flying business class. But…
What makes a reliable independent freight forwarder in the age of automation
Freight forwarding isn’t what it used to be. Not long ago, the strength of a forwarder was measured in phone calls, personal relationships, and the ability to juggle documents, customs rules, and client expectations across time zones. Today, the industry is changing fast. Automated quoting platforms, AI-powered route optimization, paperless customs clearance, and real-time cargo…
Top container shipping companies 2025: What freight forwarders need to know
The global shipping industry has seen sweeping changes in recent years, shaped by mergers, digital transformation, shifting trade lanes, and geopolitical turbulence. As we step into 2025, freight forwarders must stay informed about the top container shipping companies driving international logistics. Knowing who the market leaders are and how they operate is essential for forwarders…
Why Freight Forwarders Need Freight Rate Management Software to Stay Competitive
Picture a rate-negotiation marathon in 2010: endless email threads, version-conflicted spreadsheets, and last-minute calls to carriers who were already clocking out for the weekend. Fast-forward to 2025, and the competitive field has shifted dramatically. Customers expect “Amazon-speed” quotation cycles, while carriers adjust pricing in near real time. In this new reality, digital tools for freight…