Fernando Jimenez

A status awarded to traders within the UK who demonstrate that they achieve high standards of supply chain security and / or compliance in customs matters. AEO status is a part of an international “Trusted Trader” programme, designed to increase global supply chain security. Companies who achieve AEO status can benefit from simpler and less rigorous customs controls, access to customs procedures, and lower requirements to provide financial guarantees.

Generally, when delivering goods to ships on the high seas, the country of destination corresponds to the nationality of the ship. In order to create your export declaration in compliance with customs regulations, you will need to find out the flag this ship operates under after all. To determine the nationality of a ship search for special websites that provides this info for you and might be very helpful for you. These websites also offer you more details about individual ships as well as real-time tracking.

Intermodal – is the movement of cargo from origin to destination by several modes of transport where each of these modes have a different transport provider or entity responsible, each with its own independent contract.. Multiple carriers contracted to fulfill a single journey.

Multimodal – is the movement of cargo from origin to destination by several modes of transport where each of these modes have a different transport provider or entity responsible, but under a single contract. A Single carrier contracted to fulfill a single journey.

There are various weights used in shipping on a day to day basis. I will explain some of the most common below: Net Weight – (when referring to a cargo) is the total weight of just the raw cargo (say for example – Peppadews)

Gross Weight – (when referring to a cargo) is the total weight of the raw cargo (example – Peppadews) + the weight of bottles or cans that it is packed in.. If the bottles and cans are further packed into cartons which are placed on a pallet, then the weight of the peppadews + bottles + cartons + pallets = gross weight.

Net Weight – (when referring to a container) is the total weight (gross as above) of the cargo after it has been packed into a container – but excluding the tare weight of the container. Gross Weight – (when referring to a container) is the total weight of the cargo + the tare weight of the container. Payload – is the maximum cargo weight that a container can carry and excludes the tare weight of the container.. Containers have CSC plates that reflect the payload that the container is allowed to carry.

Deadweight (DWT) – refers to the weight that a ship can safely carry – this includes the weight of the cargo on board the ship, the crew, stores, fuel, water, ballast etc.. If the total weight exceeds the DWT certified by the ship builder, then the ship could be in danger of sinking or damage.

Gross Tonnage (GT) – refers to a ships overall internal volume including crew accommodation, machinery, navigation equipment etc .

Net Tonnage (NT) – refers to a ships GT minus the the space used up by the crew accommodation, machinery, navigation equipment etc – basically the space that is available for the carriage of passengers and cargo.

The Customs Brokers and Forwarders Council of Australia Inc. (CBFCA) is Australia’s leading peak national body. It represents members interests in international trade logistics and supply chain management service provision.

The International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) also has a member directory that you can use.
Exporters should also remember to investigate any applicable taxes and fees payable in overseas markets, such as quarantine inspection fees, GST/VAT and import tariffs.