The Importer's Notebook
Practical guides on duty, freight, VAT and unit economics — no fluff.
Shipping
35 articles
Understanding Bill of Lading: The Most Important Shipping Document
The bill of lading is the key document in international shipping. Here's what it contains, why it matters, and what to check before your shipment sails.
How to Choose a Freight Forwarder: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Your freight forwarder can make or break your import experience. Here are the seven questions that separate great forwarders from risky ones.
Understanding Incoterms: FOB, CIF, EXW and What They Mean for Your Costs
Incoterms determine who pays for shipping, insurance, and customs. Understanding them is essential for accurate cost calculations and supplier negotiations.
How to Calculate Chargeable Weight for Air Freight
Air freight carriers charge based on whichever is higher: actual weight or volumetric weight. Here's how to calculate chargeable weight and reduce your shipping costs.
How to Read and Compare Freight Quotes Like a Pro
Freight quotes are confusing by design — dozens of line items, acronyms, and surcharges. Here's how to decode them and compare quotes accurately.
Understanding CBM: How Cubic Metres Affect Your Shipping Costs
CBM (cubic metres) is the measurement that determines your sea freight costs. Learn how to calculate it, optimise it, and understand how it affects your landed cost.
How to Read a Bill of Lading: Every Field Explained
The Bill of Lading is the most important document in sea freight. Here's what every field means and why getting it right matters for customs clearance.
Air Freight vs Sea Freight: Cost Comparison for UK Importers
When should you ship by air and when by sea? A detailed cost and time comparison to help UK importers choose the right shipping method.
Sustainable Importing: How to Reduce Your Supply Chain's Carbon Footprint
Consumers and regulators increasingly care about sustainability. Here's how importers can reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing profitability.
What Do FOB, CIF, EXW and DDP Mean? Incoterms Explained for Importers
Incoterms define who pays for shipping, insurance, and customs. Learn what FOB, CIF, EXW, DDP and the other Incoterms mean and how they affect your landed cost.
Should I Buy FOB or CIF? How Your Incoterm Choice Affects Total Import Cost
FOB vs CIF which is better? Compare how each Incoterm affects your landed cost, insurance, and customs duty with worked examples and a practical decision framework.
How to Calculate Shipping Costs for Imports: Ocean, Air, and Rail Compared
Learn how to calculate shipping costs for imports. Compare ocean, air, and rail freight pricing with 2026 rates for China-UK routes and per-unit cost formulas.
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