The Importer's Notebook
Practical guides on duty, freight, VAT and unit economics — no fluff.
Shipping
35 articles
How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost in 2026? 20ft, 40ft and 40ft HC Rates
How much does a shipping container cost in 2026? Current 20ft and 40ft rates by route, container specs, and practical tips to reduce your freight costs.
FCL vs LCL Shipping: Which Is Cheaper for Your Import Volume?
FCL vs LCL cost comparison: calculate the break-even point for your shipment volume and choose the cheaper ocean freight option for your import business.
Freight Forwarders vs Customs Brokers: Who Does What?
Many importers confuse freight forwarders and customs brokers. Understand the distinct roles each plays in getting your goods from factory to warehouse.
Shipping Delays and Supply Chain Disruptions: How to Protect Your Business
Supply chain disruptions are inevitable. Learn proactive strategies to minimise the impact of shipping delays on your import business and sales.
Sea Freight Shipping Times: How Long Does It Take by Route?
Knowing how long sea freight takes on each major trade route helps you plan inventory, manage cash flow, and avoid stockouts. Here are the typical transit times.
Insurance for Importers: Protecting Your Investment in Transit
Cargo insurance costs just 0.3-0.5% of goods value but protects against total loss. Understand the types of coverage and when you need them.
FOB vs CIF: Which Incoterm Should You Choose?
FOB and CIF are the two most common Incoterms in international trade. Understanding the difference can save you thousands on every shipment.
Container Utilisation: How to Stop Paying for Air
Most importers waste 15-30% of their container space without realising it. Here's how to pack smarter, reduce freight costs, and make every cubic metre earn its keep.
Incoterms Decoded: How Shipping Terms Affect Your Bottom Line
FOB, CIF, EXW, DDP — they sound like alphabet soup, but these terms decide who pays for what, and getting them wrong costs real money.
Supplier Management: How to Build a Supply Chain That Doesn't Let You Down
The cheapest supplier isn't always the most profitable one. Here's how to evaluate, manage, and get the best out of your overseas suppliers.
Why Understanding Landed Cost Is the Key to Import Profitability
Most importers focus on the supplier price tag, but the real cost of goods doesn't end at the factory gate. Learn why landed cost analysis is the single most important discipline for building a profitable import business.
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