The environment, however, had been deteriorating for months. The escalation between Israel and Iran in June 2025 served as a significant precedent, with military actions and retaliations raising regional alert levels, especially for critical infrastructure and transit corridors.

February 28, 2026, marks the beginning of this new phase: the USA and Israel initiated hostilities with a coordinated strike against targets in Iran, and the Iranian response had an immediate impact on commercial traffic. Maritime security sources (JMIC via UKMTO) reported missile and drone attacks against merchant vessels in the Gulf and the approaches to Hormuz, elevating the regional risk level to CRITICAL.

From this point forward, the focus is no longer on the geopolitical outcome, but on what happens to supply chains when such a vital artery becomes unstable. We will focus on these consequences and the most plausible short-term scenarios in the following sections.

Closure of the Strait of Hormuz: What to Expect?

The escalation in Hormuz is already having a measurable effect on logistics fundamentals: energy costs, bunker prices, operational risk, and tonnage availability. Reuters notes that approximately one-fifth of the world’s daily oil consumption passes through the Strait; this is why the market immediately prices in any security downturn.

Regarding the closure, two levels currently coexist. Iran has announced a blockade and threatened the use of force against vessels attempting to transit. While maritime security operations centers (JMIC via UKMTO) have not confirmed a formally recognized closure, they describe an environment where attacks on commercial units have already occurred and where the regional risk is classified as CRITICAL. MARAD, for its part, recommends avoiding the area whenever possible.

For container shipping managers, the reality is that the route becomes unstable even without a total blockade. We are entering a regime where ETAs lose reliability as conservative decision-making increases: waiting periods, rescheduling, port rotation changes, speed reductions, or postponed transits. This immediately impacts schedule reliability and shifts operations from standard planning to exception management.

Fuel is the second variable moving rapidly. If the risk remains elevated, the risk premium is reflected in energy and bunker prices, eventually trickling down into freight rates via fuel adjustments and extraordinary security surcharges. While the effect is most direct on routes connected to the Gulf, the pressure on bunker prices tends to propagate further, as it affects operating costs across a wide range of services.

Finally, there is the issue of capacity. In high-risk areas, commercially available capacity no longer aligns with nominal capacity: some services are scaled back, certain bookings are restricted, and space availability becomes more selective. At that point, prices react as the market always does when effective supply tightens.

Airspace Restrictions and Hub Fragmentation

The first logistical consequence of the conflict was the fragmentation of airspace into a sequence of short-notice closures and restrictions, with immediate effects on flight frequencies, routing, and cargo capacity. On February 28, EASA issued a Conflict Zone Information Bulletin for the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, which was later extended on March 2 until March 6, designating the area as high-risk for flight operations.

The market impact was seen in the suspension and cancellation of connections to various hubs in the Gulf and the Levant, with partial resumptions being continuously recalibrated based on the security situation. Reuters has documented decisions by multiple international carriers to halt or reduce operations.

For international logistics, the bottleneck is effectively usable capacity: as belly capacity and frequencies are reduced, cargo space contracts and concentrates on alternative corridors that are longer and more saturated, putting pressure on spot rates and confirmation reliability. The impact on container shipping is indirect but operational: a portion of urgent cargo shifts back to sea freight, while reduced air connectivity complicates exception management, particularly for critical spare parts and components. Should this disruption persist, it is reasonable to expect higher costs for urgent shipments and less stable delivery windows for supply chains that utilize the Gulf as a hub or transit corridor.

Booking Embargoes and Supply Chain Contraction

In the Gulf, the impact is already visible in carrier policies. Maersk has suspended the acceptance of reefers and certain categories of special or dangerous cargo to and from several countries in the area, directing customers toward alternative solutions where available. Hapag-Lloyd has suspended reefer bookings to and from the Upper Gulf, Arabian Gulf, and Persian Gulf, signaling possible operational repercussions on vessel movements and regional port activities.

These measures reduce effectively usable supply and increase cargo selectivity, particularly for goods with higher operational complexity. Reuters reported that a significant portion of the container fleet is slowed down or held up in the Hormuz area, and some carriers have suspended direct bookings to the Middle East, risking backlogs and delays at connecting ports.

For shippers, the immediate effect is increased instability regarding confirmations and ETAs. Rolled cargo becomes more likely, and shipments are frequently pushed to subsequent departures. Beyond freight rates, risk-related components are rapidly being introduced. Hapag-Lloyd has announced a War Risk Surcharge applied to cargo to, from, or transiting through the Gulf area. In this phase, service continuity is what matters most, utilizing sustainable routing and lead times realigned to current operating conditions.

Insurance Markets and Underwriting in Conflict Zones

In an area classified as high-risk, service continuity depends first and foremost on insurability. If war risk coverage is canceled or renegotiated under prohibitive conditions, the route remains theoretically navigable but becomes commercially fragile. Currently, the difference between operating and halting often depends on premiums, deductibles, coverage limits, and requirements imposed by shipowners, charterers, and financiers.

In recent days, several insurers have issued notices of cancellation for war risk coverage in the region. Gard issued a notice of cancellation, and Skuld published a similar communication, taking effect after the standard notice window indicated in their respective circulars. Reuters has linked this move to a spike in insurance premiums and a further slowdown in operations, particularly in the Gulf.

Operationally, cancellation does not mean an absolute absence of coverage. It means a reopening of negotiations on short notice, resulting in more expensive and selective conditions. Simultaneously, the relevance of the contractual framework grows, as many transport and chartering structures include deviation or cancellation clauses when a route is deemed unsafe. Gard, in its analysis of the contractual and insurance implications of the conflict, highlights how the evolution of coverage impacts operational decisions and liability management.

For container shipping, the effects on costs and capacity are immediate. Costs rise due to the insurance component and tend to be reflected in surcharges or more rigid pricing terms. Capacity becomes less elastic as part of the supply is reallocated or operates under constraints that reduce commercial flexibility, leading to greater variability in ETAs and delivery windows.

The situation remains highly volatile. The IMO urges maximum caution and, where possible, recommends avoiding transit in the region until conditions improve. In this context, effective management relies on frequent updates regarding available coverage and carrier policies, alongside planning that incorporates realistic margins for both time and cost.

At CTI, we daily monitor carrier operational updates, maritime security center directives, and signals from the insurance market. If you have shipments in progress or planned for corridors connected to the Gulf, we encourage you to contact us for a precise assessment of the impact on timing and costs, and to define a shipping strategy consistent with the evolving risk.

L'articolo Iran Conflict and Hormuz Blockade: Global Logistics Impacts proviene da CTI SRL.

Where we stand and what truly changes

To begin with, it is worth clarifying that the agreement follows a lengthy process: negotiations began in 2007, were subsequently suspended, and resumed in 2022, leading to the political conclusion reached in January 2026.

As for what will concretely change, EU institutions refer to a very broad liberalisation. In essence, India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on a substantial share of European exports; on the EU side, market access for Indian products will become easier across a large number of tariff lines. The European Commission also highlights the expected economic impact: the agreement is projected to significantly boost EU goods exports to India by 2032 and generate annual tariff savings of approximately €4 billion.

Tariffs, services and rules: the agreement’s key levers

Historically high tariffs on many product categories have made India a “promising yet demanding” market for numerous European companies. The FTA addresses precisely these obstacles through tariff reductions, streamlined procedures, and a more stable framework for exporting. For instance, the Commission’s Q&A document refers to substantial cuts for sectors such as machinery, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, as well as a marked tariff reduction path for automobiles, including tariff-rate quotas.

In addition, there is a services chapter of considerable value for companies operating within international supply chains: more predictable access to the Indian market in areas such as financial and maritime services, with commitments described as “ambitious” by the Commission.

There is also a topic that is often underestimated until goods are actually shipped: rules of origin. These determine when a product can benefit from preferential tariff treatment. In other words, simply routing goods through India or the EU is not sufficient; substantial transformation and proper documentation are required, precisely to prevent circumvention through triangular trade.

What does the EU import from India?

Official figures are instructive: in 2024, the EU imported goods from India worth approximately €71.3 billion, reflecting growth compared to the previous year.

In terms of composition, the most significant categories include machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, metals and semi-finished products, mineral products, and textiles.

What does the EU export instead?

Conversely, in 2024 the EU exported approximately €48.8 billion worth of goods to India.

The main categories are consistent with Europe’s industrial specialisation: machinery and equipment, transport equipment, and chemical products. This underscores a practical point: the agreement is not merely about “more trade”, but about trade that is often technology-intensive, where customs clearance times, certifications and logistical reliability make a decisive difference.

Impacts on international logistics and container shipping

What does this mean in practical terms for those moving goods? If tariffs decline and procedures become simpler, trade flows are likely to increase, placing additional pressure on ports, feeder services, inland terminals and warehouses, particularly along Asia–Europe routes. At the same time, three operational aspects become even more critical: accurate customs classification, management of preferential origin, and meticulous document planning, since access to FTA benefits depends precisely on these elements.

Another key factor is predictability. A “modern” agreement seeks to reduce the grey areas created by divergent interpretations, additional requests and variable timelines. For companies shipping containers on a regular basis, this often translates into fewer unexpected delays and improved arrival planning—especially when production windows or just-in-time deliveries are involved.

Sustainability, labour and compliance

The FTA also includes commitments on trade and sustainable development: environment, climate, labour rights and enforcement mechanisms. It is important to remember that these chapters are not merely symbolic; over time, they can influence traceability requirements and controls throughout the value chain.

Moreover, for many European companies, compliance is already a daily reality involving declarations, audits and supply chain standards. The agreement may facilitate increased sales, but it does not replace the need for robust oversight of documentation and processes.

How to prepare for the EU–India agreement: practical advice

First and foremost, it is advisable to map products and routes: which customs codes, which Incoterms, which facilities and which processing stages affect origin. It is also worth noting that India and the EU already maintain significant volumes: in 2024, bilateral trade in goods reached approximately €120 billion. The agreement therefore builds on a concrete foundation, not on an abstract promise.

Finally, turning the FTA into a competitive advantage requires strong logistical coordination: port selection, transit times, buffer stocks and, above all, structured customs management without improvisation. If you would like to understand how the EU–India agreement may impact your shipments, costs, timelines and documentation, do not hesitate to contact CTI. We can help you interpret the new landscape and develop a tailored operational strategy, supporting you step by step—from customs consultancy through to container shipment planning.

L'articolo EU–India Free Trade Agreement: what It provides and why it matters for international trade proviene da CTI SRL.

In this article, we analyse these developments from an operational perspective, with a practical focus for professionals working daily in the supply chain.

What does the 2026 Budget Law provide for?

With specific reference to logistics, the 2026 Budget Law (Law No. 199 of 30 December 2025) outlines a package of measures affecting road freight transport, integrated logistics and related infrastructure. The stated objective is twofold: on the one hand, to rebalance certain fiscal mechanisms; on the other, to stimulate investment and innovation. As is often the case, however, new opportunities are accompanied by additional costs and constraints. As a result, companies are once again required to reassess both their operational and financial strategies.

Fuel excise duties and operating costs

The most sensitive issue for the sector remains fuel excise duties. The alignment between petrol and diesel sets the rate at €672.90 per 1,000 litres for both products, implying an increase of approximately 4.05 euro cents per litre on diesel. Including 22% VAT, the actual increase exceeds 4.9 euro cents per litre.

In practical terms, this means that diesel loses the historic tax advantage it has enjoyed for years and becomes significantly more expensive for operators running diesel fleets. For road haulage companies — particularly those involved in container pre-haulage and post-haulage — the impact is immediate: per-kilometre costs rise, margins are squeezed, and the sustainability of long-term contracts comes under pressure.

At the same time, the measure is part of a broader environmental strategy aimed at phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies. This once again highlights how the green transition is also being driven through fiscal policy, with direct consequences for the supply chain.

How do ZES and ZLS work under the 2026 Budget Law?

On the investment side, the law confirms and strengthens incentives for Special Economic Zones (ZES) and Simplified Logistics Zones (ZLS). These instruments serve both fiscal and strategic purposes. ZES and ZLS effectively act as levers to reshape Italy’s logistics geography, supporting the development of inland ports, intermodal platforms and freight consolidation hubs.

In particular, the related tax credit enables companies to plan investments in logistics real estate, automated facilities and container-handling infrastructure. This shows that, at least in this area, industrial policy is attempting to support a long-term vision. However, real effectiveness will depend on the ability to connect these sites to rail and port networks, preventing them from becoming isolated projects with limited operational value.

In addition, incentives for capital goods linked to digitalisation and Industry 4.0 systems offer a concrete opportunity to modernise warehouses, terminals and distribution centres. This is not merely about tax savings, but about a necessary step towards a more transparent, traceable and integrated supply chain.

Infrastructure and digital systems

With regard to the digitalisation of transport and logistics systems, the law allocates dedicated funding to RAM S.p.A., a key player in the policies of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. This is a less visible, yet highly strategic aspect. RAM is involved in projects related to intermodality, the National Logistics Platform and incentives for combined transport.

Through these investments, the digital backbone connecting ports, inland terminals, rail networks and logistics operators is strengthened. In other words, this is not just about software platforms, but about building the nervous system of the Italian supply chain. Without such digital integration, even the best physical infrastructure risks operating below its full potential.

A budget balancing costs and opportunities

Overall, the 2026 Budget Law paints a picture of mixed signals. On the one hand, higher diesel excise duties significantly increase supply chain costs. On the other, incentives for investment, digitalisation and logistics settlements open up attractive opportunities for companies able to plan with a medium- to long-term perspective.

While this is not a landmark reform, the cumulative effect of these measures will substantially influence how Italian logistics can compete in international markets.

It should also be noted that the 2026 Budget Law addresses other transport-related areas, such as taxation on low-value international shipments, organisational measures for maritime and rail services, and specific interventions on infrastructure and network safety. Although relevant from a regulatory and administrative standpoint, these provisions have a more limited direct impact on containerised supply chains. For this reason, our analysis has focused on the elements with the most immediate effects on costs, investment and competitiveness.

Ultimately, the real challenge for companies is not merely to comply with the new rules, but to turn them into strategic levers. Understanding where to invest, how to manage costs and which opportunities to seize becomes essential to remain competitive.

If you would like to explore how these provisions apply to your specific business context and receive tailored advice, do not hesitate to contact CTI. Our team of experts is available to support you in interpreting the legislation and designing customised operational solutions.

L'articolo Italy’s 2026 Budget Law: practical impacts on transport and logistics proviene da CTI SRL.

Infatti, secondo l’Osservatorio Contract Logistics “Gino Marchet” del Politecnico di Milano, a fronte di circa 4,6 milioni di ricerche di candidati effettuate dalle imprese, oltre 800mila posizioni legate alla logistica sono rimaste scoperte. Il 40% delle figure richieste è considerato di “difficile reperibilità”, contro il 27% di tre anni fa. Un salto che segnala uno shortage ormai strutturale e non più legato a fasi congiunturali.

Inoltre, va fatto notare che questo fenomeno si inserisce in un quadro nazionale già critico: i bollettini del Sistema informativo Excelsior di Unioncamere indicano che quasi una assunzione su due prevista dalle imprese italiane è oggi difficile da coprire, con percentuali particolarmente elevate proprio nei servizi di trasporto e magazzinaggio.

Le figure più introvabili

Le associazioni di categoria parlano apertamente di “emergenza autisti”. Secondo le stime di Confetra, in Italia mancano oltre 22mila conducenti di camion, mentre altre rilevazioni confermano un fabbisogno strutturale superiore ai 20mila posti vacanti nell’autotrasporto. Il problema non riguarda solo la lunga percorrenza: sono difficili da reperire anche magazzinieri specializzati, addetti alla consegna e operatori dell’ultimo miglio, figure decisive per garantire tempi di consegna rapidi e servizi affidabili ai clienti.

In aggiunta, anche il trasporto ferroviario merci soffre di una significativa carenza di personale. Confetra stima che nei prossimi tre anni serviranno circa 3mila nuovi macchinisti, pari a un quinto dell’attuale forza lavoro del comparto. L’Osservatorio Logistica e Trasporti di ANSI segnala inoltre che, complessivamente, mancano all’appello oltre 60mila lavoratori rispetto alle esigenze delle imprese, con i maggiori squilibri concentrati su magazzino, movimentazione interna e trasporto. 

Le cause dello shortage

Le cause di questa carenza sono molteplici. I report di settore, per l’appunto, sottolineano da un lato la trasformazione digitale della supply chain, che richiede competenze sempre più avanzate in ambito IT, analisi dei dati e automazione, e dall’altro un’offerta formativa che fatica a tenere il passo, soprattutto sugli indirizzi tecnici e STEM. A questo si aggiungono il ricambio generazionale incompleto, i costi elevati per ottenere patenti e abilitazioni professionali e una percezione del lavoro nella logistica come “faticoso” e poco attrattivo per i più giovani, soprattutto a causa della grande mobilità che spesso comporta questo settore. 

Come fronteggiare questo problema?

Lo shortage di personale non è più un tema circoscritto alle risorse umane, ma una sfida che impatta direttamente sulla continuità operativa e sulla capacità delle aziende di rispondere alle richieste del mercato. In un contesto così dinamico, non esistono soluzioni uniche o immediate: ogni impresa è chiamata a trovare un equilibrio tra competenze disponibili, organizzazione interna e sostenibilità dei costi.

Sempre più spesso la differenza la fanno la capacità di adattamento, la valorizzazione dell’esperienza maturata sul campo e la costruzione di rapporti di lavoro stabili e affidabili. Investire sulle persone, migliorare i processi e rendere il settore più attrattivo resta una priorità, ma richiede tempo, visione e un approccio concreto, calibrato sulla realtà di ciascuna azienda.

Come si muove CTI in questo contesto?

Vi proponiamo ora una breve intervista in cui il nostro team spiega le dinamiche dell’attuale contesto logistico italiano dal punto di vista di CTI.

1. Anche CTI soffre per via dello shortage di personale? Quali strategie adotta l’azienda per fronteggiare questo problema?

Sì, come molte aziende del settore anche CTI si confronta quotidianamente con la difficoltà di reperire personale qualificato, soprattutto in ambiti operativi e logistici. Non si tratta solo di una questione numerica, ma di trovare persone con competenze adeguate, affidabili e capaci di gestire la complessità del lavoro. La nostra risposta, più che basarsi su soluzioni strutturate o standardizzate, è stata finora molto pragmatica: puntiamo sulla continuità, sulla fidelizzazione delle persone e su un’organizzazione flessibile, cercando di valorizzare l’esperienza interna e di costruire rapporti di lavoro stabili. In un contesto così complesso, riteniamo che la qualità delle persone e la capacità di adattarsi contino più di qualsiasi formula preconfezionata.

2. In che modo la carenza di personale incide sull’organizzazione operativa delle aziende?

La carenza di personale ha un impatto diretto sull’organizzazione del lavoro e sulla pianificazione delle attività. Le aziende sono chiamate a gestire risorse limitate garantendo al tempo stesso continuità, flessibilità e qualità del servizio. Questo richiede una maggiore attenzione ai processi interni e una capacità di adattamento costante alle condizioni operative.

3. Quali sono, secondo la vostra esperienza, i principali problemi del settore della logistica in questi ultimi anni?

Negli ultimi anni il settore della logistica è diventato sempre più complesso e imprevedibile. Alla carenza di personale si sono aggiunti fattori come l’aumento dei costi, le difficoltà legate alle catene di approvvigionamento, una burocrazia spesso onerosa e clienti sempre più esigenti in termini di tempi, flessibilità e affidabilità del servizio.

In questo scenario, le aziende si trovano a dover gestire un equilibrio delicato tra efficienza operativa e sostenibilità, spesso con margini di manovra ridotti. La vera sfida oggi non è solo crescere, ma riuscire a mantenere stabilità e qualità del servizio in un contesto in continua evoluzione.

4. Quanto conta oggi l’esperienza rispetto alla formazione nel settore della logistica?

Nel settore della logistica l’esperienza sul campo resta un elemento determinante. Molte competenze si acquisiscono solo attraverso il lavoro quotidiano, la gestione degli imprevisti e la conoscenza diretta dei processi. La formazione è importante, ma senza un percorso pratico e di affiancamento diventa difficile colmare il divario tra teoria e operatività.

5. Ormai l’anno è quasi concluso: quali sono le vostre previsioni (e speranze) per il 2026 e gli anni a seguire?

Guardando al futuro, l’auspicio è quello di una maggiore stabilità, sia dal punto di vista del mercato sia della disponibilità di competenze. Il settore logistico resterà centrale per l’economia italiana e per l’export, ma sarà sempre più importante affrontare la crescita in modo sostenibile e consapevole. Per CTI i prossimi anni saranno soprattutto anni di consolidamento. In una fase in cui il contesto resta complesso e incerto, riteniamo fondamentale lavorare con realismo, attenzione e responsabilità. La priorità sarà continuare a garantire affidabilità e qualità del servizio, adattandoci progressivamente alle evoluzioni del mercato.

L'articolo Staff shortage: one of the main problems in Italian logistics proviene da CTI SRL.

On top of that, from 1 June 2025 some chapters of the new EU–Chile Advanced Framework Agreement (AFA) – the broader political and cooperation “umbrella” that sits alongside the ITA – entered into provisional application. This widens the scope to sustainability, digital, energy and institutional cooperation. In other words, we’re not just talking about tariffs any more; we’re talking about the whole ecosystem underpinning a modern supply chain.

Let’s take a closer look at the different areas covered by these new agreements.

Tariffs scrapped and new opportunities in services

The headline change? Tariffs have been reduced to zero on 99.9% of EU exports to Chile (with sugar as the only exception). The European Commission also estimates a potential increase of around €4.5 billion in EU exports in the medium term under the new conditions. So if you sell machinery, chemicals or transport equipment – the product categories where the EU is strongest in Chile – your cost breakdown can already improve, even with everything else unchanged.

And it’s not just about goods. The ITA makes it easier to provide services in Chile (including telecommunications, maritime transport and financial services), while the AFA, once fully in force, will further consolidate these channels. For logistics operators, that translates into more scope for door-to-door integration, easier procurement and better operating margins on transport, handling and downstream services.

Preferential origin: goodbye EUR.1, hello REX and self-certification

To benefit from preferences, the EUR.1 movement certificate is no longer used. Preferential treatment is now obtained through:

• a statement on origin made by a REX-registered exporter (for EU exporters, for consignments over €6,000);
  
• the importer’s knowledge;
  
• a statement for multiple consignments of identical products (valid for a maximum of 12 months).
  

While this change may feel like a bit of a hassle at first, it can actually lead to several simplifications, such as less paperwork and better digital traceability.

Note: it is important to pay close attention to the document codes in the customs declaration (SAD/DAU): U123 (statement on origin), U124 (statement for multiple shipments) and U125 (importer’s knowledge).

Critical raw materials and strategic value chains

Chile is one of the world’s main suppliers of lithium and a key player in copper. The ITA aims to make flows of raw materials and semi-finished products more efficient and sustainable, with commitments on environmental and labour standards. For anyone planning European sourcing, this is crucial: around 80% of the lithium imported into the EU comes from Chile, a critical input for batteries and therefore for automotive, storage and renewables. Likewise, stable access to copper and copper products underpins the electrification of grids.

The AFA and the new cooperation framework

Until the AFA is ratified by all EU Member States, the “dual track” with the ITA will remain. However, from 1 June 2025 nine chapters are being applied on a provisional basis. These cover general objectives and principles, political dialogue, socio-economic cooperation and – importantly for logistics and trade – several pieces that shape the broader context in which they operate: climate, green energy, digitalisation and security. In the meantime, the ITA remains the sole reference for tariffs, origin and commercial market access.

Operational implications for logistics

First of all, a reminder: EU operators must be REX-registered in order to issue statements on origin for consignments above €6,000.

Beyond that, it’s worth updating:

• your internal procedures for collecting origin evidence (supplier declarations, bills of materials, component traceability);
  
• your document templates (including the prescribed wording of the statement on origin);
  
• your TMS/WMS workflows so they can manage multiple-shipment declarations valid for up to 12 months and avoid preference requests that are “uncovered” or outside the allowed time window.
  

Then there’s planning. Thanks to simpler documentation and the removal of tariffs on almost all lines, it is easier to build competitive door-to-door offers on reefer routes (fresh fruit), steel and copper, wine and food, machinery and plant engineering. On top of this, forecasts of EU export growth to Chile will help consolidate volumes and capacity on maritime services, reducing the risk of additional surcharges in peak season.

Sectors to watch

In the agri-food sector, the package strengthens protection for several geographical indications and eases barriers. This is useful for those exporting ingredients and dairy from Italy and for those importing wines and fruit and vegetable products from Chile. Especially for reefer cargo, more linear processes and clearer compliance rules reduce the risk of idle time and cargo damage. The same applies to machinery and components – the core of Italian exports. Duty-free access and self-certification have an immediate impact on landed costs.

In short, fewer hiccups at clearance and greater predictability widen the room for manoeuvre when renegotiating Incoterms and logistics SLAs.

To sum up: the provisional application of the AFA does not change the customs procedures already set by the ITA, but it does deepen cooperation on sustainability, digitalisation and procurement. At EU level, objectives on critical raw materials and the energy transition are closely intertwined with the partnership with Chile. As the battery and renewables value chain grows, the Italy–Chile logistics corridor will need to handle more frequent and more tightly regulated flows, including from an ESG perspective.

If you’d like to explore these topics in more detail, or if you need support with any aspect of your international trade, CTI offers targeted consultancy to assist you at every stage of your shipments. Get in touch with us via the contact form!

L'articolo Italy–Chile: what the new EU agreements mean for international logistics proviene da CTI SRL.

Nevertheless, in the world of international trade, Incoterms acronyms often present a technical and linguistic challenge. For those working in logistics or managing international sales, becoming familiar with these terms is absolutely essential. Among all of them, we will focus in particular on CIF and clarify what it is, starting from the current context and moving on to understand when and why it makes sense to choose this specific term.

Incoterms 2025: any updates?

Those expecting major changes in the 2025 Incoterms may end up disappointed. The latest official edition remains the one published by the International Chamber of Commerce in 2020, which is still fully valid. Historically, revisions occur approximately every ten years, so the next structural update is expected around 2030.

However, the context in which these rules are applied is constantly evolving—and that’s not a detail to overlook.

In recent years, several factors have emerged that deserve attention. Changes in customs duties, national regulatory restrictions, and evolving insurance conditions make a more informed application of Incoterms necessary. For example, some countries legally require that insurance be taken out exclusively with local providers, or they prohibit customs clearance by foreign entities. As a result, even if the official text hasn’t changed, the way these Incoterms are applied is shifting—sometimes significantly.

In other words, it’s not the document that’s evolving, but the environment in which it is used. And for those working in logistics, this can make the difference between a smooth shipment and an unpleasant delay.

How many Incoterms are there in 2025?

This, too, remains quite stable. The Incoterms currently in force are eleven, as laid out in the 2020 version. The most important distinction to keep in mind concerns the mode of transport. Some Incoterms, such as CIF or FOB, are reserved exclusively for sea or inland waterway transport. Others, like DDP or DAP, are designed for any mode of transport, including multimodal shipping—that is, transport involving a combination of road, rail, air, or container freight.

It’s worth noting that in the 2020 version, the Incoterm DAT was replaced by DPU, which stands for “Delivered at Place Unloaded.” This is not a minor change: under DPU, the seller is responsible for arranging not only the transport but also the unloading of the goods.

A quick note: in any commercial contract, it is essential to explicitly state the version of the Incoterm being used. It’s not enough to write, for example, “CIF Rotterdam”—you must also specify “Incoterms® 2020” to avoid misunderstandings, especially in the event of a legal dispute. Overlooking this detail can have far more serious consequences than one might expect.

What is CIF? What is it used for?

CIF, which stands for “Cost, Insurance and Freight,” is a term designed for maritime shipments. It does not apply to land, air, or multimodal transport. The logic behind it is fairly simple: the seller is responsible for arranging and paying for transport to the port of destination, and for taking out insurance on the goods. However—and this is where the most common misunderstanding lies—the risk associated with the goods does not remain with the seller until they arrive at the final port. On the contrary, risk transfers to the buyer at the exact moment the goods are loaded onto the ship at the port of departure.

This means that even if the seller pays for transport and insurance, any damage or loss occurring after the goods are loaded onto the ship is still the buyer’s responsibility. The insurance, in fact, provides only minimum coverage—it’s meant to limit losses, not eliminate them entirely.

CIF can therefore be a useful option in several cases. For instance, when the seller has a strong negotiating position with shipping carriers and can secure better rates. Or when the buyer, even though they accept the transfer of risk, prefers not to deal with logistics up to the port of arrival. In some markets, this term is almost a standard—especially in the trade of raw materials or non-perishable goods.

The difference between CIF, DAP and DDP

At first glance, CIF, DAP, and DDP may seem like similar terms: after all, in all three cases, the seller handles part or all of the shipment. But on closer inspection, the differences are significant.

With CIF, as we’ve seen, the seller’s obligation ends at the port of destination, and the risk transfers to the buyer as soon as the goods are loaded onto the vessel. Under DAP, the seller must deliver the goods to the agreed location, ready for unloading. They are not responsible for unloading, but they must get the goods to the buyer’s “doorstep,” so to speak.

DDP goes even further. The seller not only handles transport to the final destination but also takes care of all customs formalities and costs. They pay duties, VAT, and manage clearance. For the buyer, this is the most convenient arrangement possible—they receive the goods “turnkey,” without needing to handle anything.

However, this also makes DDP the most burdensome term for the seller, and not always feasible. In some countries, for example, foreign entities are not legally allowed to perform customs clearance. In such cases, using DDP could create significant legal complications.

CIF, therefore, occupies a middle ground: the seller does a lot, but not everything, and the buyer still needs to be ready to manage the steps following the ship’s arrival.

Which Incoterm should you choose in 2025?

The answer is simple: there is no single “best” Incoterm. The right choice depends entirely on the context—type of goods, shipping routes, customs restrictions, insurance coverage, and each party’s operational capabilities. Every term distributes risk, responsibility, and cost differently along the supply chain, and should be viewed as a strategic tool—not just a contractual formula.

You need to ask yourself how much control you want over the operational flow, what level of visibility you need on the shipment, and whether you have the resources to handle local procedures. It’s also essential that the Incoterm aligns with the rest of the contract: payment terms, documentation, insurance requirements, international regulations. Let’s not forget that Incoterms do not define transfer of ownership, nor do they cover all tax or customs aspects. They must be chosen carefully, and supported by a coherent contractual structure.

Looking ahead, topics like shipment digitalization, regulatory compliance, and sustainability will push more and more companies to opt for Incoterms that allow greater control, but also smoother management. So, if you want to determine the most suitable delivery term for your needs, get in touch with CTI: we can support you in making the most effective choice for any market, product, or logistical condition.

L'articolo Incoterms made simple: CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) proviene da CTI SRL.

So let’s start with what directly affects our customers.

The new conditions

From 8 September, CTI will apply the new rules specifically on waiting times at loading and unloading. These provide that:
the free-time allowance will be 90 minutes for each operation;
beyond that threshold, compensation of €100 for every hour or fraction of an hour will be due;
payment liability is joint and several between the shipper and the loader.
the compensation will be adjusted annually according to the ISTAT FOI index.

The same rules apply, for the road legs, even when transport is in combined rail/truck mode.

These conditions stem directly from the legislation in force and are not at our discretion. Any excess costs will in fact be passed on to us by the carriers and, in turn, we will be forced to pass them on to our customers.

In this article, in addition to providing a broader overview of the decree’s contents, we will offer some advice on how to mitigate the economic impact of this legislation, while reiterating our availability for clarifications and tailored consulting.

The regulatory framework

Waiting times and compensation

Article 4 of Decree-Law 73/2025 rewrote Article 6-bis of Legislative Decree 286/2005: as anticipated in the previous paragraph, it now provides for a shorter free-time allowance for each operation; compensation of €100/hour (also for fractions) beyond the allowance; joint and several liability between shipper and loader; automatic adjustment of the compensation using the FOI index. The conversion law clarified that waiting times also include periods due to inactivity by the shipper, loader or consignee. In addition, compensation is due even if the time limits specified in the contract are exceeded, where this is evidenced by the documentation. Proof of arrival may be drawn from the company GPS or from the second-generation smart tachograph.

As for the adjustment, the index used is the consumer price index for blue- and white-collar households as defined by ISTAT and published monthly. In other words, the €100 amount is updated year by year in line with the FOI trend.

Payment terms and oversight

The 60-day payment framework for road transport contracts remains in place; in addition, paragraph 15-bis has been added to Article 83-bis of Decree-Law 112/2008: if failure to comply with deadlines also meets the conditions for “abuse of economic dependence”, the AGCM may intervene with formal warnings and sanctions. This makes administrative oversight of payment flows more stringent.

Other measures in the decree useful for international logistics

CIGAL dashboard 

The conversion established, within the Ministry of Labour, CIGAL (Information Dashboard for the management of private procurement contracts in the logistics sector). Objective: to provide interested parties with information for verifying tax, social-security and labour compliance of contractors; enforcement bodies will populate a section dedicated to sanctions; Unioncamere will handle development and technical management. A ministerial decree will define its criteria and technical rules.

Ports and state property

Regarding maritime state-property concession fees, when the ISTAT index of wholesale market values is not available, the rules refer to the producer price index for industrial products; clarifications are also introduced on the Port Master Plan to ensure consistent application.

Exceptional transports

AINOP is integrated as the national reference infrastructure for planning and monitoring corridors for exceptional transports, with interoperability toward GIS, tracking systems and permitting platforms.

Motorway concessions

The law intervenes in the regime, referencing the ART tariff system and setting out procedural measures for updating the PEFs and the concession agreements.

How to prepare with CTI to minimize waits and charges

First and foremost, it is advisable to recalibrate loading/unloading windows and formalize specific SLAs on bay assignment times and site access times, also specifying how they will be measured (gate-in/gate-out timestamps, POD, GPS/tachograph data). For example, for shipments with volumes concentrated in a few hours, it is appropriate to adopt a slot-booking system with priorities and no-show rules.

Similarly, in intermodal flows it is necessary to synchronize rail-terminal slots with the first/last mile by road so as not to exceed the allowance on the road legs.

On the administrative side, it is useful to realign accounting and payment-schedule processes in light of the new paragraph 15-bis and possible AGCM action, to prevent disputes along the supply chain.

CTI remains available for any clarification and to evaluate, together, solutions to cushion the effect of these changes.

L'articolo Infrastructure Decree 2025: what changes for those shipping with CTI? proviene da CTI SRL.

For those managing logistics and shipments via container and air freight, these shifts represent more than mere regulatory changes; they offer a critical opportunity for financial recovery while simultaneously requiring immediate alignment with a new tariff regime.

The Supreme Court Ruling of February 20, 2026, on the Cancellation of IEEPA Duties

The date marking the beginning of this new phase is February 20, 2026. In a decision that caught many observers by surprise, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the duties imposed in April 2025 lacked legal authorization. The core of the dispute centered on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, commonly abbreviated as IEEPA. The justices held that this statute does not grant the President the authority to impose broad-based tariffs without specific Congressional approval.

This ruling effectively invalidated all measures that had burdened imports over the past several months. Consequently, the government ceased the collection of IEEPA-based duties effective February 24, 2026. Many enterprises that had faced increased costs can now look with relief at a barrier that has officially fallen, although managing past administrative entries still requires a final bureaucratic effort to be fully resolved.

Refund Policies and Procedures

The recovery of duties paid is not an automatic process, and the Importer of Record must take specific proactive steps. The fundamental first step involves accessing the ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) portal to extract a report of all shipments filed between April 2025 and February 2026. It is necessary to isolate the specific tariff lines related to IEEPA duties and verify the status of every individual “Entry,” as the subsequent strategy will depend entirely on this verification.

For shipments that entered the United States in recent months but have not yet reached final liquidation, the most efficient path is filing a Post Summary Correction. This electronic amendment allows for the correction of entry data before the customs process is legally finalized. Conversely, if a shipment is already in “liquidated” status, the law provides a strict window of only 180 days from the date of liquidation to file a formal Protest via CBP Form 19. This document must explicitly cite the Supreme Court ruling and request a recalculation of duties, including the refund of overpayments and applicable interest.

A significant technological update involves the CAPE (Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries) system, which Customs and Border Protection is making operational in these weeks. This new portal will allow brokers to upload CSV files containing extensive shipment lists to request bulk refunds in a single transaction. Finally, it is important to note that as of February 6, 2026, the U.S. government no longer issues paper checks. To receive funds, every company must complete registration in the ACH (Automated Clearing House) program to facilitate the direct electronic transfer of funds into their bank account.

New 15% US Tariffs for 2026 and the Application of Section 122

While proceeding with recovery efforts for the past, it is necessary to account for a new measure the administration has introduced to balance the effects of the court ruling. To quickly address the regulatory vacuum, the White House has invoked Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. This law allows for the imposition of temporary tariffs when there is a need to protect the national balance of payments from excessive imbalances.

Effective February 24, 2026, a new 15% global duty has come into force, applying to most goods imported into American ports. This measure has a maximum validity of 150 days and represents the chosen instrument to maintain fiscal pressure pending new legislative provisions. As this rests on a different legal basis than the IEEPA, this new levy is unaffected by the Supreme Court decision and must be accurately included in landed cost calculations. For logistics firms, this means that cost planning must remain flexible, as the July 2026 expiration could lead to a further change in rates or new Congressional decisions.

Tracking the evolution of US tariffs in a tumultuous 2025

Over the course of 2025, as is widely known, US customs tariffs have profoundly reshaped global trade relations with Canada, Mexico, China, and Europe, putting supply chains and export strategies under serious strain.

In a previous article, we examined the US–China trade war. Here, we focus on the global evolution of tariffs, with a particular emphasis on the European Union, its response measures, the effects on specific sectors and Italian exports, and the latest round of negotiations between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and President Donald Trump.

Let’s begin on 1 February 2025. On this date, President Trump signed executive orders imposing 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico (with Canadian energy taxed at 10%) and 10% on Chinese imports, citing links to the opioid crisis as justification. 

After a brief suspension period, tariffs were reinstated on 4 March: China’s rate rose to 20%, while Canada and Mexico remained at 25%. On 2 April—now referred to as “Liberation Day”—a system of “reciprocal tariffs” came into force, ranging from 10% to 50% and covering approximately 180 countries, with the EU set at 20% and China at 34%. At the same time, tariffs of up to 50% were imposed on steel and aluminium, with all exemptions removed.

This escalation created widespread uncertainty, prompting many businesses to reassess suppliers and logistics routes in search of alternatives.

The European Union’s countermeasures to the US tariffs introduced in february 2025

In response, the European Union promptly prepared retaliatory tariffs worth around €21 billion on US goods, ranging from 10% to 25% and targeting items such as jeans, motorbikes, orange juice, and machinery. However, in an effort to encourage dialogue, Brussels suspended these measures until 14 July, and again until 7 August 2025. 

At the same time, as we’ll explore in more detail below, the EU made a political offer to the US: a “zero-for-zero” agreement on industrial goods such as cars, pharmaceuticals, and machinery, along with a willingness to renegotiate tariffs if the US adopted a similar stance.

These strategic moves helped the EU avoid an uncontrollable escalation and kept negotiation channels open.

US–EU tariff: what is the new 15% “all-inclusive” tariff and which products it covers

As mentioned earlier, on 27 July in Turnberry, Scotland, Trump and von der Leyen reached a political agreement: a 15% “all-inclusive” US import tariff, effective from 1 August 2025, covering the majority of European goods. This new framework replaces the earlier threat of a 30% tariff, although steel and aluminium remain taxed at 50%. Brussels is currently negotiating the possible replacement of these duties with a quota-based system. In addition, a “zero-for-zero” clause was introduced, exempting key strategic products such as aircraft, generic pharmaceuticals, semiconductor chips, certain critical raw materials, and selected chemicals.

Subsequently, the administration issued a formal order delaying the implementation of the agreement to 7 August.

Impact of US–EU tariffs on the wine sector

One of the hardest-hit sectors is wine. Exports to the US are now subject to a 15% tariff, with estimated losses of around €317 million in the first year. This figure could rise to over €460 million if the euro-to-dollar exchange rate moves unfavourably.

The measure deals a significant blow to the competitiveness of Italian wine, which is already under pressure from the wider geopolitical environment.

Meanwhile, tariffs on european cars will remain at 2.5%

The 15% agreement does not alter the overall US tariff on European cars, which remains at 27.5% (2.5% MFN + 25% Section 232), as automobiles are excluded from the “all-inclusive” deal.

In practice, US customs duties on cars remain high, leaving the sector particularly exposed.

Impact of the 15% tariff on italian exports

Beyond wine, the 15% tariff could cost Italian exports up to €22 billion across sectors such as fashion, pharmaceuticals, and agri-food, unless further specific exemptions can be secured.

This situation demands a strategic rethinking of global value chains, pricing models, logistics, and market diversification.

Von der Leyen and the zero-for-zero tariffs on strategic products

Ursula von der Leyen placed reciprocal “zero-for-zero” exemptions at the heart of the transatlantic deal: a political commitment to maintaining zero tariffs on aircraft and components, generic pharmaceuticals, technological chips, and critical raw materials. This approach aims to protect vulnerable strategic industries and ensure technological continuity across both markets, while also creating opportunities for regulatory alignment.

In conclusion, the 2025 US tariffs disrupted long-standing trade relations. Yet the 15% “all-inclusive” agreement, while limited in scope, has brought greater stability compared to earlier threats. The EU’s countermeasures and its preference for diplomatic negotiation helped avoid irreversible escalation. It is essential for Italian companies to fully understand the new tariff regime in order to safeguard exports and supply chains.

CTI remains available to provide hands-on support: with our expertise, we can help businesses reorganise logistics routes, mitigate tariff impacts, and identify applicable exemptions in this new global landscape.

Contact us for tailored advice.

L'articolo US tariffs: impact on international trade (2026 Update) proviene da CTI SRL.

Let’s begin with a look at the most recent developments. Enjoy the read!

US–China tariffs: latest updates on US duties on chinese imports

To begin with some context: the United States imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports on 4 February 2025, followed by a sharp increase to 20% on 4 March, citing concerns linked to the opioid crisis. Then, on 11 April, the administration introduced a “reciprocal” rate of 34%, which, by 12 April, effectively reached as high as 145% on certain categories of Chinese goods. In retaliation, China levied tariffs of up to 125% on US products.

To ease tensions, a deal was negotiated on 12 May 2025, reducing US tariffs on Chinese goods to 30% and Chinese tariffs on American goods to 10%, with the arrangement set to remain in effect until 12 August 2025.

More recently, on 29 July 2025, US and Chinese officials held talks in Stockholm, agreeing in principle to pursue an extension of the tariff truce beyond the mid-August deadline. However, the final decision now lies in the hands of President Trump.

How high are China’s tariffs on US goods?

Now let’s turn to China’s retaliatory tariffs against the United States. In response to Washington’s moves, Beijing imposed additional duties that escalated rapidly – rising from 34% in early April to as much as 125% by 12 April 2025. These were later scaled back to 10% under the terms of the May agreement, which remains in effect until 12 August 2025 as part of the tariff truce.

This sequence of events highlights just how fast-moving and mutually punitive these measures have been, with tangible repercussions across sensitive sectors such as agriculture, strategic raw materials, and technology.

What is the “De Minimis” exemption in the US and what’s changed?

One of the most impactful recent shifts in global trade dynamics has been the reduction—and eventual full suspension—of the US “de minimis” exemption. Previously, shipments valued at under $800 could enter the United States without duties or formal customs procedures, thanks to Section 321 of the 1930 Tariff Act. This provision fuelled the rise of platforms like Shein and Temu, which were able to ship low-cost goods directly to American consumers with no added charges.

However, from 2 May 2025, the US administration scrapped the exemption for parcels arriving from China and Hong Kong. Initially, these packages were hit with a 120% tariff or a flat fee of $100; this was later reduced to 54% from 14 May 2025.

Then, on 30 July 2025, a new executive order extended the suspension globally, effective from 29 August 2025. For a six-month period, all international mail parcels will face flat fees between $80 and $200, after which country-specific ad valorem duties will be introduced. The move has already triggered a 35% drop in mail traffic from China and a 4–5% dip in shares of FedEx and UPS.

How much do the United States and China trade with each other?

Now let’s take a look at some compelling figures that help paint a clearer picture of the situation.

In 2024, total trade in goods between the US and China exceeded $580 billion: around $438 billion in US imports from China and $143 billion in US exports to China, resulting in a significant trade deficit of $295 billion. This imbalance has remained largely unchanged through the early months of 2025, despite shifting tariffs.

This deficit highlights the US’s heavy reliance on foreign sectors such as electronics, textiles, and components. Meanwhile, China has continued to focus on exporting raw materials and advanced technology to the US. The tariff tensions have already led many Chinese companies to reroute exports through Southeast Asia, with shipments via Vietnam up 30% and via Indonesia up 25%, in an effort to sidestep direct duties.

Who depends more on whom, China or the US?

When it comes to mutual dependence, it’s clear that the United States imports far more from China ($438 billion) than it exports in return ($143 billion), leaving Washington more vulnerable to disruptions in Chinese supply chains.

On the other hand, China remains exposed to punitive US measures. Rising tariffs have limited Beijing’s access to the American market. In response, the Chinese government has introduced financial support schemes, tax incentives, free trade zones, and export-promotion initiatives to soften the blow on its exporters; nevertheless, these punitive measures still represent a significant problem for the Chinese economy.

In short, the relationship is distinctly asymmetrical: the US benefits from low-cost consumer goods but suffers from a persistent trade deficit. China, while enjoying a surplus, faces growing barriers that restrict its access to US buyers. This dynamic creates mutual pressure—but with differing consequences for each country’s trade strategy.

In conclusion, the measures introduced in 2025—from the tariff escalations to the global suspension of the de minimis regime—are reshaping international trade at a breakneck pace. The US–China trade gap highlights America’s deep reliance on Chinese imports, while Beijing seeks to offset the impact through alternative markets and domestic reforms.

By understanding these changes, globally active companies can plan more effectively. We encourage you to get in touch with CTI for tailored guidance on how to adapt your supply chain to this fast-evolving landscape and minimise both operational and tariff-related risks.

L'articolo US–China trade war: what’s happening and how it’s affecting global trade proviene da CTI SRL.

This is why understanding the underlying dynamics that cause these disruptions—and implementing concrete, effective solutions—is essential. In this article, we provide an analysis of these phenomena, in the hope that it will prove useful for those aiming to avoid such complications.

What are port operations?

To understand how a maritime bottleneck forms, it’s important to start with the daily sequence of port operations:

• Berthing and unberthing: The ship arrives, is moored, and container lifting begins.
  
• Yard operations: Containers are handled using cranes, reach stackers, forklifts, internal transport systems (such as terminal tractors), and coordinated through the TOS (Terminal Operating System).
  
• Cargo transit by road or rail: Containers are loaded onto trucks or trains and removed from the terminal.
  
• Customs clearance and inspections.
  

If any of these stages slows down, the entire flow is affected. For example, slow gate systems or manual bureaucratic procedures can cause truck bottlenecks, triggering a domino effect on yard storage and space availability. The TOS plays a critical role in managing the flow. Modern systems, powered by IoT, 5G, and predictive algorithms, optimize container stacking and resource allocation, reducing queues and wait times. In contrast, outdated or inefficient TOS solutions lead to delays that compromise operational fluidity.

What are port terminals?

In essence, port terminals are the physical and operational hubs where transshipment occurs, i.e., the transfer of cargo between vessels and land or rail transport. The main types include:

• Container terminals: Exclusively handle containerized cargo.
  
• Multipurpose terminals: Manage both general cargo and containers.
  
• Bulk/liquid terminals: Dedicated to commodities like grain, oil, minerals, and similar.
  

The TOS also manages gate scheduling, regulating truck inflows and outflows to reduce congestion. In highly digitalized ports, pre-registration and automatic vehicle recognition systems accelerate transit times. Conversely, outdated or poorly integrated systems significantly reduce efficiency.

How port congestion happens

Congestion arises when port infrastructure and services cannot meet demand. This may result from seasonal trade surges or from structural weaknesses, such as outdated facilities. Key causes include:

1. Unexpected traffic spikes, such as those seen before Lunar New Year.
   
2. Limited capacity, including shortages of berths, yard space, vehicles, or railcars.
   
3. Labor shortages, due to strikes or chronic understaffing.
   
4. Technological inefficiencies, such as obsolete TOS platforms.
   
5. External disruption, like extreme weather or geopolitical tensions, (for example, rerouting to avoid the Red Sea has caused congestion in Singapore and Rotterdam, while the increase in transpacific routes has overwhelmed major hubs.)

The resulting congestion can take three main forms: vessel congestion, where numerous ships are forced to wait at anchorage due to a lack of available berths; yard congestion, where container yards reach full capacity, making it difficult to organize and move cargo efficiently; and gate congestion, characterized by long lines of trucks queuing to access terminal gates. These types of congestion are not isolated phenomena, they tend to reinforce one another. A backlog of ships can lead to yard overflow, which in turn slows down gate operations, creating a chain reaction that becomes a self-perpetuating cycle.

The effects of port congestion

When ports become overcrowded, delays ripple through entire supply chains. In major ports like Los Angeles, Chittagong, or Durban, ships can wait an average of three to four days—sometimes longer. The consequences include increased demurrage charges and disrupted delivery schedules.

The environmental toll is also significant: idling ships and trucks burn fuel unnecessarily, raising emissions.

Industrially, congestion leads to production delays, missed deadlines, and the need for higher safety stock levels—driving up overall logistics costs.

Strategies to prevent and manage congestion

1. Infrastructure development
   
   Expanding berths and automating operations (e.g., cranes, AI-driven TOS, digital twins) increases throughput capacity.
   
2. Dynamic planning and forecasting
   
   Predictive analytics and AI improve vessel scheduling and prevent terminal overload.
   
3. Route diversification and use of alternative ports
   
   Rerouting to less congested terminals—such as shifting from Antwerp to Rotterdam—can ease pressure on major hubs.
   
4. Labor optimization
   
   Flexible contracts, cross-terminal staffing, and targeted recruitment reduce labor-related bottlenecks.
   
5. Digitization of customs procedures
   
   Replacing manual processes with EDI and digital systems streamlines clearance.
   
6. Real-time visibility
   
   Platforms like GoComet provide live dashboards tracking arrivals, queue lengths, and terminal occupancy.
   
7. Stakeholder coordination
   
   Collaboration between shipping lines, terminal operators, port authorities, TOS vendors, and traffic managers ensures synchronized operations.
   

In short, port congestion is not inevitable. It results from a combination of operational and structural challenges, many of which are manageable with foresight and coordination.

Ultimately, only a truly integrated approach—uniting port operators, logistics providers, and authorities, can deliver sustainable solutions.

If you’re interested in learning how CTI can help implement tailored anti-congestion solutions for your supply chain, don’t hesitate to contact us for a dedicated consultation.

L'articolo Port congestion: how it happens and how to prevent it proviene da CTI SRL.

In particular, in this article, we will explore the characteristics of these policies, their costs, and the differences between the various forms of protection.

So, if you want to ship with peace of mind, keep reading: the answers you are looking for are here!

Carrier liability insurance: the main things to know

When a company entrusts the shipment of its goods to a carrier, the latter assumes a very specific responsibility: ensuring that the cargo arrives at its destination in perfect condition. However, road transport is subject to multiple risks, such as accidents, theft, or damage due to unforeseen events. Consequently, the law requires the carrier to take out a specific insurance policy, known as carrier liability insurance.

This policy represents a security guarantee for the transported goods and adequate protection for both the carrier and its customers. In other words, its main function is to cover any damages that may occur during transport. But what are its main features? Let’s examine them in detail.

What is carrier liability cnsurance?

Carrier liability insurance is a mandatory civil liability policy for carriers transporting goods on behalf of third parties. Specifically, its purpose is to protect the carrier from potential compensation claims in case the goods suffer damage, loss, or other issues during transit.

What does carrier liability insurance cover?

Carrier liability insurance generally covers:

• Damage or loss of transported goods
• Theft during transit
• Accidents or extraordinary events (for example, fires, rollovers, etc.)
• Delivery delays, although these must be caused by events covered by the policy

However, there may be limitations or exclusions depending on the insurance company and contractual conditions.

What are the carrier’s obligations in transport?

The carrier is responsible for ensuring that the goods entrusted to them are transported safely and delivered to the recipient within the agreed timeframe. Additionally, they must strictly follow the instructions provided by the sender, ensuring that all procedures are respected. For example, one of the fundamental obligations includes the proper management of transport documentation, such as the waybill, which certifies the shipment details.

How much does carrier liability insurance cost?

The cost of carrier liability insurance can vary based on several factors. For example, these include the type of goods transported, their value, the distance traveled, and the level of coverage chosen. In general, the insurance premium can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros per year, depending on the specific needs of the transport company.

How much does carrier liability insurance reimburse?

The maximum amount reimbursable under carrier liability insurance is regulated by current legislation. In domestic transport, the compensation is usually around 1 euro per kilogram of gross weight of the lost or damaged goods. Similarly, for international transport, the limits set by the CMR Convention apply.

What is the difference between carrier liability insurance and “per account” insurance?

The difference between carrier liability insurance and “per account” insurance lies in their purpose. Instead of covering the full value of the goods, carrier liability insurance, which is mandatory for transporters, only covers the carrier’s civil liability concerning the transported goods.

On the other hand, “per account” insurance is taken out directly by the owner of the goods and provides broader protection, covering the total value of the cargo without the limitations imposed by carrier liability insurance.

The CMR convention for international road transport

In international road freight transport, besides carrier liability insurance, it is equally important to consider the CMR Convention. This is an international treaty that regulates the transportation of goods between different countries and establishes the carrier’s responsibilities in case of damage or loss of goods. In other words, this convention aims to standardize regulations at an international level, providing a clear legal framework for both carriers and cargo owners.

In particular, the CMR Convention defines various aspects of transport, including the required documentation and the procedures for handling disputes. Understanding its rules is essential for those working in the industry, as it provides important legal guarantees and protections in case of issues during shipment.

What are the rules of the CMR convention?

The CMR Convention establishes that a CMR waybill must be issued for every international road transport. This essential document certifies the transport conditions of the goods. Additionally, it regulates the carrier’s liability limits and specifies the circumstances under which the carrier can be held responsible for any damage to the goods.

For instance, in cases of loss or damage to the goods during transport, the carrier may be required to compensate for the damage, but only within the limits set by the convention. For this reason, it is crucial to understand the specific conditions established by this treaty.

How is a CMR waybill issued?

The CMR waybill is a transport document issued in three copies, which must be signed by the sender, the carrier, and the recipient. It must also contain detailed information about the transport, including:

• Sender’s and recipient’s details
• Description of the goods
• Weight and volume of the cargo
• Date and place of departure and arrival

Therefore, its correct completion is essential to ensure shipment traceability and protect all parties involved.

Who issues it?

The preparation of the CMR document is primarily the responsibility of the sender, although it is often completed with the assistance of the freight forwarder and the carrier. In fact, it is a crucial document, as it certifies the agreement between the parties involved in the shipment and serves as a guarantee for both the sender and the recipient.

When is it not required?

The CMR waybill is not required for domestic transport or when transport takes place entirely within a single country without crossing borders. In such cases, national transport documents are used, which still provide shipment traceability.

However, it is always important to check current regulations, as some countries may require specific documents even for domestic transport.

What is CMR insurance?

CMR insurance is a specific policy for international road transport, covering the carrier’s liability for the transported goods. With this policy, it is possible to obtain compensation in case of loss or damage to the goods, within the limits set by the CMR Convention.

Therefore, it is an essential protection for those operating in the road transport sector and seeking to reduce the risks associated with this activity.

What does it cover?

CMR insurance covers:

• Damage or loss of goods during international transport
• Carrier’s liability within the limits of the CMR Convention
• Legal costs for disputes related to transport

However, certain exclusions may apply, such as force majeure events or shipper negligence. For this reason, it is essential to carefully review the policy terms before purchasing it.

Finally, understanding regulations and insurance policies in international transport is essential to protect goods and ensure efficient risk management in logistics.

The CARGO insurance policy: a must-have for total peace of mind

In the context of international transport, companies face multiple risks that can compromise the safety of their goods. For this reason, in addition to the coverage provided by carrier liability insurance and the CMR Convention, there is an insurance solution that offers even broader protection: Cargo insurance.

Specifically, this type of insurance is designed to ensure full compensation in the event of damage, theft, or other unforeseen events that may compromise the goods during transit. Thanks to its flexibility, it is considered one of the most reliable and versatile types of coverage. Consequently, Cargo insurance has now become a must-have for all businesses looking to engage in international trade with greater peace of mind.

Why should a company consider “Cargo” insurance for its shipments?

Goods in transit are exposed to numerous risks, such as physical damage, theft, or loss, which can result in significant financial losses. Although logistics service providers implement measures to ensure shipment security, unpredictable factors can still compromise the integrity of the goods.

Furthermore, the lack of transparency in the risk assessment models used by providers makes it difficult for companies to estimate the effectiveness of existing protective measures. As a result, Cargo insurance serves as an effective solution, providing financial coverage for any adverse events that may occur during transport.

What are the features of “Cargo” insurance for freight transport?

Cargo insurance is a policy that covers losses and damages to transported goods, regardless of the mode of transport used—whether by land, sea, or air.

Additionally, this coverage extends to a wide range of risks, including accidents, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events that could compromise the integrity of the goods. To be more specific, the policy can be customized based on the company’s specific needs, taking into account the nature of the transported goods, the routes taken, and other relevant factors.

In conclusion, relying on experienced consultants, such as CTI, helps businesses identify the most suitable coverage and manage international transport risks more effectively.

So don’t hesitate to contact us for a personalized consultation!

L'articolo Insurance of goods in international transport proviene da CTI SRL.

If shipping goods abroad were always simple, no company would face delays, endless documentation, or unexpected taxes. But reality is quite different.

In this guide, we will analyze the strictest customs in the world, providing advice on how to best manage customs clearance procedures and identifying countries with the most efficient regulations.

Which Are the Strictest Customs in the World?

Customs regulations vary significantly from country to country: while some nations have streamlined and transparent procedures, others impose rigorous controls, detailed documentation, and high customs costs.

Below, we highlight the main difficulties companies may encounter when shipping goods to each of these countries.

Brazil

Brazil is known for having one of the most complex customs systems in the world. The customs clearance procedures are characterized by high bureaucracy, detailed inspections, and particularly high import taxes.

To overcome these obstacles, it is necessary to have a local customs broker assist with operations. The required documentation is very specific and includes detailed commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and product identification codes. Additionally, every shipment must be pre-declared to avoid delays and issues with customs authorities.

India

Similar to Brazil, India also imposes strict rules, particularly regarding the necessary import documentation. In addition to the commercial invoice, a certificate of origin is required, and in many cases, the KYC (Know Your Customer) form. Furthermore, both the sender and the recipient must provide passport copies and a Power of Attorney for the customs broker to complete the procedure.

Another critical aspect is the variability of regulations depending on the port of entry, which can lead to unpredictable delays. To facilitate the process, it is advisable to plan ahead and carefully verify all required documents.

United Kingdom

After Brexit, the United Kingdom introduced new customs regulations, making the import and export process more complex than before. In addition to standard documents, obtaining an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for customs clearance.

South Africa

South Africa’s customs procedures are characterized by long processing times and a complex bureaucratic system. While the required documentation is similar to that of other countries, the approval process can be unpredictable.

To avoid delays and additional costs, it is advisable to work with a local customs broker who understands the South African customs system and can facilitate clearance.

Guatemala

Shipping goods to Guatemala can be complicated due to stringent customs regulations. Extensive documentation is required, including detailed invoices and certificates of origin, as well as strict pre-declaration procedures.

Companies operating with Guatemala must ensure that all documentation is well-organized and collaborate with a local broker to avoid issues with customs authorities.

Philippines

The Philippines is known for having a particularly complex customs system, with high tariffs and strict regulations. The entire clearance process can be lengthy, costly, and full of bureaucratic hurdles.

To simplify the process, it is crucial to prepare all required documents in advance, including detailed commercial invoices and certificates of origin.

Turkey

In Turkey, the customs clearance process can be unpredictable and often influenced by sudden regulatory changes. Customs authorities may impose specific restrictions on certain products and require additional documentation.

Indonesia

Another country that imposes strict import restrictions and requires thorough documentation checks is Indonesia. The customs clearance process can be lengthy, especially if the shipment is not accompanied by all necessary documents.

To avoid complications, it is essential to collaborate with an experienced customs broker who can ensure compliance with local regulations and facilitate the passage of goods.

Mexico

Mexico presents unique customs challenges, especially for those importing textiles or large quantities of products. The country imposes strict restrictions on imported goods’ volumes and applies high duties on merchandise from China.

To avoid issues, many companies choose to ship non-textile products, such as technology, which are not subject to the same restrictions. Additionally, for B2C shipments, Mexico imposes a maximum limit of nine items per shipment, complicating operations for companies selling directly to consumers.

How to Handle Customs Clearance in the Most Complex Customs?

Navigating the strictest customs regulations can be challenging, but with the right preparation, it is possible to reduce the risk of delays and complications. Now that we have seen which customs are the most severe, let’s look at how to handle them most effectively.

First of all, it is essential to know in detail the regulations of the destination country. Customs laws change frequently, so it is useful to monitor updates and adjust accordingly.

Additionally, one of the main causes of delays is incomplete or incorrect documentation. Small errors in documents can lead to customs holds and additional costs. Therefore, every commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and declaration must be completed with maximum accuracy.

Finally, collaborating with local customs brokers and international logistics experts can make a difference. These professionals know the procedures in detail and can facilitate the entire process, avoiding unforeseen problems.

Which Countries Have the Best Customs and Customs Procedures?

While some customs are known for their rigidity, some countries stand out for their streamlined and efficient procedures, facilitating international trade.

Among the best are Hong Kong and Singapore, which boast clear, digitized procedures free of excessive bureaucracy, making them two of the world’s leading trade hubs.

The United Arab Emirates has also established itself as a model of efficiency thanks to significant investments in logistics infrastructure and digitized customs systems that simplify foreign trade.

In Europe, Finland, Netherlands, Luxembourg and Ireland stand out, where bureaucratic procedures are minimized and customs clearance times are among the fastest in the world. For example, in Finland, the entire export process takes less than 36 hours, while in Ireland, it is reduced to just 24 hours.

New Zealand and Georgia also excel in customs efficiency due to simplified regulations and advanced infrastructure that facilitate international trade.

Finally, Qatar has invested in digitizing processes, creating a fast and transparent system that makes it an important logistics hub in the Gulf region.

Having an efficient customs system is a strategic advantage for any country, as it promotes global trade and reduces costs for businesses. However, not all nations offer the same level of ease in customs clearance, which is where the most unexpected risks for companies arise.

The Main Unexpected Customs Risks

Beyond the rigidity of regulations, there are unforeseen risks that can negatively impact a company’s customs operations. Let’s see the most common ones and how to avoid them.

One of the main risks concerns dual-use products, which may be subject to restrictions if intended for military use. Declaration errors can lead to penalties or goods being seized. Another common issue is intellectual property violations, with counterfeit goods being confiscated, which cannot be detected by simple X-ray scans.

Incorrect tariff classification is another significant risk: a wrong customs code can result in lost tax benefits or higher-than-expected duties.

Moreover, problems can arise due to poor internal communication: if a company changes suppliers or transportation methods and fails to update customs declarations, it may face retroactive penalties. Additionally, sanitary and phytosanitary regulations can block the import of food products if the country of origin does not meet the required standards.

Finally, with the increase in post-clearance audits, companies may face customs inspections years after importation, risking fines and additional duties.

In conclusion, customs procedures can either be a resource or an obstacle to international trade, depending on the country and a company’s preparation. Understanding regulations, proper document management, and an effective compliance strategy are essential elements to minimize risks and ensure smooth operations.

In short, relying on industry experts is not just advisable but strategically essential. CTI offers specialized consulting to support companies in managing logistics and customs regulations.

If you want to ensure seamless shipments and minimize risks, contact our team for a personalized consultation!

L'articolo Guide to the World’s Strictest and Most Stringent Customs proviene da CTI SRL.

What does multimodal transport mean?

Multimodal transport refers to the coordinated use of two or more different modes of transport, such as road, rail, sea, or air, within a single transport contract. In other words, goods are moved from the point of origin to the final destination through different modes, but under the management of a single logistics operator, known as the Multimodal Transport Operator (MTO). This approach simplifies logistics management, as the customer interacts with a single point of contact responsible for the entire process, from planning to delivery.

A distinctive aspect of multimodal transport is the issuance of a single transport document, often referred to as the Multimodal Bill of Lading, which covers the entire shipment route. This unified document facilitates administrative and customs procedures, reducing the bureaucratic complexity associated with managing separate documents for each transport mode used.

How does multimodal transport work?

The operation of multimodal transport involves detailed planning and efficient coordination among the different transport modes involved. The process begins with an assessment of the characteristics of the goods, customer requirements, and route specifics. Subsequently, the Multimodal Transport Operator develops an optimized logistics plan that combines the most appropriate transport modes to ensure reduced transit times and competitive costs.

For example, a shipment might begin with road transport from the sender’s location to a railway terminal, continue by rail to a seaport, be loaded onto a ship for overseas transport, and finally be delivered to the final recipient via another road transport segment. Throughout this process, the MTO monitors and manages each phase, ensuring a smooth transition between different modes and resolving any logistical issues that arise.

Multimodal and intermodal transport: key differences

Although the terms “multimodal” and “intermodal” are often used interchangeably, there are key differences between the two concepts. In intermodal transport, goods remain within the same loading unit, such as a standardized container, for the entire duration of the journey, without ever being unloaded or reloaded. This method reduces the risk of damage and increases efficiency in transfer operations.

Conversely, multimodal transport allows goods to be transferred between different loading units or transport means. This provides greater flexibility in selecting shipping modes but may require additional handling operations that could affect delivery times and overall costs.

Who fills out the multimodal document required for multimodal transport?

The multimodal document is an essential element for ensuring the proper management of multimodal shipments. Its completion is the responsibility of the Multimodal Transport Operator, who oversees the entire logistics process.

Who signs the multimodal document?

The multimodal document is signed by the Multimodal Transport Operator and, in some cases, by the carriers involved in the different transport phases. This ensures that each phase of the shipment is covered by a single transport contract, simplifying administrative management and reducing the risks associated with the responsibility for goods during transit.

Dangerous goods: completing the multimodal dangerous goods declaration

When transporting dangerous goods, documentation must comply with specific regulations to ensure the safety of the entire logistics chain. The Multimodal Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) is essential for declaring the nature of the hazardous goods transported and the related precautions to be taken.

What does DGD (Declaration for Dangerous Goods) mean?

The DGD (Declaration for Dangerous Goods) is a mandatory document that certifies the shipment’s compliance with international regulations on the transport of hazardous goods. This document must be accurately completed, including details on the type of goods, hazard classes, safety measures, and packaging material information.

Advantages of multimodal transport

The adoption of multimodal transport offers numerous advantages to companies operating in international trade:

• Greater operational efficiency: The combination of different transport modes allows for optimized delivery times and reduced delays.
• Cost reduction: By selecting the most economical transport options and centrally managing logistics, it is possible to lower overall shipping costs.
• Increased flexibility: Multimodal transport allows adaptation to specific shipping needs, using the most suitable modes for each segment.
• Environmental sustainability: The combined use of more eco-friendly transport means, such as rail or maritime transport, helps reduce the environmental impact of logistics operations.

In conclusion, multimodal transport represents a strategic solution for companies looking to optimize their supply chain, improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. Adopting this approach enables businesses to address modern logistics challenges with greater flexibility and competitiveness.

If you want to discover how multimodal transport can improve your logistics operations and contribute to your company’s success, contact us today. Our team of experts is ready to provide you with personalized consulting to develop tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.

L'articolo Multimodal transport: increased efficiency, cost reduction, and flexibility in shipments proviene da CTI SRL.

Main risks in international shipping

One of the most common obstacles in global shipping concerns incomplete or incorrect documentation. Each country has specific regulations, and the absence of a necessary form or an incorrect customs code can result in significant delays and financial penalties. In other words, a simple oversight in goods classification can inflate import costs or even block the shipment at customs for days or weeks.

Another critical factor is inadequate packaging. Goods must be protected not only from shocks and vibrations during transport but also from atmospheric agents. Insufficient packaging can lead to damaged goods and, consequently, returns, claims, and additional costs for product replacement.

Unexpected delays are another frequent problem in international shipping. The causes can be multiple: adverse weather conditions, port strikes, maritime traffic congestion, or technical issues with carriers. Even meticulous planning may not be enough to prevent such unforeseen events, but risk management strategies can help mitigate their impact.

Finally, companies often face hidden costs and unexpected surcharges. These can include unexpected customs duties, surcharges for shipping to remote areas, extended storage fees, and additional charges due to sudden fuel price fluctuations. Without careful planning, these costs can heavily impact a company’s profitability.

Hidden costs: where can unexpected expenses hide?

One of the most common unexpected costs in international shipping is demurrage and detention charges. When a container is not picked up or returned within the stipulated time, the terminal owner may apply daily fees for its prolonged use. This frequently occurs due to documentation delays or customs clearance issues.

Another hidden cost relates to customs inspections and examinations. Authorities may randomly select shipments for thorough checks, which can range from simple document reviews to more complex physical inspections. These operations not only extend transit times but can also generate additional costs for handling goods and extra days of storage at terminals.

Some logistics operators and freight forwarders also face sudden tariff increases. Shipping companies, for instance, regularly apply the General Rate Increase (GRI), a mechanism that allows them to raise transport rates based on market conditions. These increases can be particularly burdensome for businesses that do not carefully plan their shipping budgets.

What does logistics cost optimization mean?

Logistics cost optimization does not simply mean cutting expenses but rather finding the right balance between efficiency and savings. Indiscriminately reducing costs can lead to service issues, delays, and damaged goods. On the contrary, well-planned optimization allows companies to gain a competitive advantage by improving operational management and eliminating unnecessary expenses.

One of the most effective tools for optimizing logistics costs is the smart use of technology. Advanced shipment management software and data analytics can help companies forecast costs, track shipments in real time, and optimize transport routes. Additionally, integrating automation systems in warehouses reduces handling times and minimizes human errors.

How to optimize transportation costs in international shipping?

A first step to reducing transportation costs is carefully selecting logistics service providers. The lowest price is not always the best choice: relying on reliable and transparent operators can significantly reduce risks and unexpected costs.

Another effective strategy is shipment consolidation. Instead of shipping partial loads multiple times a month, grouping multiple orders into a single shipment allows companies to reduce transportation costs and additional expenses.

Finally, proper supply chain planning can make a difference. Accurately forecasting demand and avoiding urgent shipments reduces the need for expedited shipping, which often entails much higher costs compared to standard transportation.

What are the main logistics KPIs?

For efficient logistics management, it is essential to constantly monitor certain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These metrics enable companies to assess the effectiveness of their operations, identify inefficiencies, and improve the supply chain.

• Average transit time: Measures the average duration of a shipment from the point of origin to the final destination. Reducing this value improves delivery reliability and reduces management costs.
• On-time delivery rate: Indicates the percentage of shipments delivered within the expected timeframe. A high on-time delivery rate is crucial for ensuring customer satisfaction and enhancing company reputation.
• Cost per unit shipped: Calculates the average cost incurred to ship a unit of product. Regular analysis of this KPI helps identify opportunities for optimization and cost reduction in logistics.
• Damage and return rate: Measures the percentage of damaged or returned products relative to total shipments. A high value may indicate issues in packaging, transportation, or goods handling.
• Inventory turnover: Represents the number of times a company renews its inventory within a given period. A high turnover suggests efficient stock management, while a low turnover may indicate excess inventory or sales difficulties.

In addition to these main KPIs, many companies also monitor indicators such as supply chain lead time, cargo capacity utilization rate, and customer satisfaction level. The adoption of digital tools and management software allows for the collection of precise data, improved logistics planning, and more effective strategic decision-making.

Turning risks into opportunities

In conclusion, it can be said that international shipping is full of challenges, but it is equally true that with the right strategy, these challenges can be transformed into a competitive advantage. A strategic approach to logistics not only minimizes unforeseen events but also ensures more reliable delivery times, greater customer satisfaction, and better cost control. Moreover, constantly monitoring KPIs and implementing innovative solutions allows businesses to tackle global trade challenges with greater confidence and competitiveness.

But that’s not all: partnering with an experienced provider like CTI means reducing risks, optimizing costs, and improving supply chain efficiency. With a team of specialists and customized solutions, CTI helps companies manage logistical complexities with confidence and precision.

Do not let logistical uncertainties slow down your business. Rely on CTI for safer, more efficient, and optimized international logistics. Contact us today to discover how we can support your company in achieving its goals..

L'articolo Risks and unexpected costs in international shipping: examples and useful tips proviene da CTI SRL.

What is Just in Time logistics?

Just in Time (JIT) logistics is a system based on a simple yet highly effective principle: receiving raw materials, components, or finished products exactly when needed, without accumulating excess stock. Developed in Japan in the 1970s by Toyota, this approach has revolutionized production and logistics, making them leaner and more efficient.

The fundamental goal is to eliminate unnecessary stockpiling, minimizing waste and reducing the capital tied up in inventory. In other words, companies can shift their focus from managing large inventories to aligning production and distribution with actual market demand. For JIT to be effective, the entire supply chain must be perfectly synchronized, with suppliers ensuring timely and precise deliveries.

Why is Just in Time logistics important?

Implementing a JIT system can significantly improve a company’s operations, especially in fast-moving and competitive industries. One of its key benefits is the reduction of storage costs: without large stockpiles, companies save on storage space and inventory management expenses, leading to substantial financial savings.

Additionally, JIT enhances operational efficiency by streamlining processes, preventing delays, and optimizing production and distribution timelines. Companies adopting JIT also experience better quality control—materials and components arrive precisely when needed, allowing defects or issues to be identified and resolved immediately, reducing waste.

Another crucial advantage is flexibility. Companies can adapt quickly to market fluctuations, producing only what is required and avoiding overproduction or shortages.

However, despite its many benefits, JIT requires strong supplier collaboration. Any delays or supply chain disruptions can have an immediate impact on production. To mitigate risks, many companies diversify their suppliers or establish contingency plans to handle potential disruptions.

Key concepts of Just in Time

Several fundamental principles underpin JIT’s success:

• Pull production: Instead of producing large volumes in anticipation of demand, production is initiated based on actual orders received.
• Waste reduction: The goal is to eliminate inefficiencies, avoiding overproduction, excessive inventory, and downtime.
• Supply chain synchronization: Every element of the logistics chain, from suppliers to transportation to distribution, must be perfectly coordinated to maintain a smooth and uninterrupted flow.
• Continuous improvement (Kaizen): JIT is a dynamic system that relies on ongoing process optimization to enhance efficiency.

To illustrate, think of JIT as a precisely synchronized clock—each gear represents a component of the supply chain, and the entire system functions efficiently only when all parts work in harmony.

Similarities and differences with on-demand logistics

Just in Time is often compared to on-demand logistics, as both aim to optimize supply chain efficiency and minimize stock levels. However, their differences are more significant than they may initially appear.

JIT relies on meticulous planning, ensuring that each step in the supply chain is carefully synchronized so that materials and products arrive precisely when needed. This approach minimizes inventory and enhances operational efficiency but requires strong coordination and a reliable network of suppliers.

On-demand logistics, by contrast, is far more flexible and responsive. It is designed to accommodate sudden demand fluctuations without relying on rigid planning. Technologies such as predictive analytics and artificial intelligence play a crucial role in adjusting supply to real-time demand.

While JIT achieves efficiency through careful planning and coordination, on-demand logistics prioritizes adaptability and responsiveness. Choosing between the two depends on a company’s specific needs: JIT is ideal for structured and consistent production cycles, whereas on-demand logistics suits industries with unpredictable demand patterns.

Just in Time as a competitive advantage

Successfully implementing JIT can provide a significant competitive advantage, especially in today’s fast-paced global market. Reducing inventory minimizes fixed costs, improves product quality, and enhances a company’s ability to respond swiftly to market needs. However, ensuring a smooth JIT operation requires a well-structured and reliable supply chain to prevent disruptions that could compromise production.

Partnering with experienced logistics providers and trustworthy supply chain collaborators is essential for maintaining a seamless JIT system. Effective shipment management, continuous monitoring of transport flows, and the ability to swiftly address potential challenges are critical to the strategy’s success.

If you are looking to implement a reliable and efficient JIT model for your business, having industry professionals who understand complex logistics operations is vital. 

Contact us for personalized guidance and discover how we can help you streamline your shipments and optimize your supply chain.

L'articolo JIT transport: Just in Time in business logistics proviene da CTI SRL.

What does Italy export to Africa?

Italy has established significant trade relations with several African countries. In 2024, trade between Italy and Africa reached 60 billion euros, with Italian exports amounting to 21 billion euros. Notably, the main exported products include industrial machinery, electrical equipment, chemical products, and vehicles. This demonstrates that these goods meet the infrastructure and industrial development needs of many African countries. Moreover, there is a growing demand for Italian products in the fashion and design furniture sectors, thanks to the reputation of Made in Italy. Morocco, Tunisia, and South Africa are the most promising markets. Let’s take a closer look.

What to export to Morocco? 

Morocco is a growing market for Italian exports. The most promising sectors include machinery and equipment for the manufacturing and agricultural industries, chemical products such as fertilizers and textile industry items, as well as processed and high-quality food products. Additionally, Morocco serves as a key logistics platform for exports to Sub-Saharan Africa, making it a strategic partner for Italian businesses.

How does customs work in Morocco?

Furthermore, Morocco has implemented customs procedures to facilitate international trade. Since 2003, the country has pursued a policy of modernization and trade facilitation, introducing measures such as the Automated Customs Networked System, operational since January 2009, which has increased the digitalization rate of customs procedures to over 90%. However, it is essential for Italian companies to be familiar with specific customs regulations and bilateral agreements in place to optimize import-export operations.

What to export to Tunisia?

Similarly, Tunisia offers various opportunities for Italian exports, particularly in machinery and equipment for the textile and agri-food industries, chemical and pharmaceutical products, as well as automotive components, given the growth of the local industry. In fact, the Tunisian government has promoted policies to attract foreign investments, making the country a competitive hub for manufacturing production.

What is required to export to Tunisia? 

To export to Tunisia, Italian companies must obtain the necessary authorizations depending on the type of product, understand local regulations, especially those related to quality and safety standards, and prepare the required documentation, including commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and transport documents. Additionally, relying on local consultants can help streamline bureaucratic procedures.

What does Tunisia export?

Tunisia primarily exports textiles and clothing, agricultural products such as olive oil and dates, and electronic components, particularly for the automotive industry. Furthermore, the country’s increasing specialization in the mechanical and aerospace sectors presents new collaboration opportunities for Italian businesses.

What does South Africa import?

Not only North Africa but also South Africa, with its diversified economy, primarily imports machinery and equipment for the mining and manufacturing industries, chemical products including pharmaceuticals, and vehicles with automotive components to support its local industry. Italy also exports luxury goods such as food and wine products and clothing, which are gaining popularity among the growing South African middle class.

What does South Africa export?

South Africa mainly exports minerals and precious metals such as gold, platinum, and diamonds, agricultural products including fruit and wine, and vehicles with automotive components due to a strong domestic industry. Italy also imports timber and chemical products for industrial production.

Now, let’s look at some examples from Southeast Asia: what does Thailand export?

Similarly, Thailand is a major player in international trade, with diversified exports that include electronic products such as integrated circuits and components, automobiles and related parts, agricultural products like rice, sugar, and natural rubber, as well as seafood such as shrimp and canned tuna. Moreover, the country has developed a competitive manufacturing sector that attracts foreign investments.

How much does Thai customs cost?

Customs tariffs in Thailand vary depending on the type of imported goods. Consumer and luxury goods may be subject to high duties, while equipment and machinery for production can benefit from reduced or zero duties, especially if not produced locally. Additionally, with the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), many tariffs have been gradually eliminated, facilitating trade within the ASEAN region.

What does Vietnam export?

Vietnam has seen significant export growth in recent years. The main exported products include textiles and clothing, footwear, electronic products such as mobile phones and components, as well as agricultural products like coffee, rice, and seafood. This highlights how the country is establishing itself as a production hub for the technology sector, attracting investments from various multinational companies.

In conclusion, Africa and Southeast Asia offer extensive opportunities for Italian companies looking to expand their international presence. Economic diversification, infrastructure investments, and trade liberalization policies are making these markets increasingly accessible. However, understanding local regulations, customs procedures, and market dynamics is crucial to maximizing success in import-export operations. Therefore, investing in a well-structured strategy and building relationships with local partners can make the difference in achieving commercial success in these growing markets.

If you want to seize these opportunities and grow your business internationally, our team of experts is ready to assist you. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and discover how to successfully expand your business in emerging markets!

L'articolo Import and export opportunities in emerging markets: focus on Africa and Southeast Asia proviene da CTI SRL.

Key pillars of sustainable logistics

Understanding sustainability in logistics requires a closer look at its fundamental components:

Eco-friendly transportation

Using low-emission vehicles, such as electric and hydrogen-powered trucks, along with route optimization, significantly reduces the carbon footprint. Additionally, digitalization in logistics enhances consumption monitoring and boosts environmental performance. Alternative fuels like biogas and biodiesel further support the green transition. The deployment of autonomous vehicle fleets and drone delivery systems represents a cutting-edge approach to more efficient and eco-conscious transportation.

Likewise, many companies are implementing urban car-sharing models to decrease the number of vehicles on the road, effectively lowering overall emissions. In short, every innovation in this sector contributes to reducing environmental impact.

Sustainable packaging

Adopting recyclable materials and eco-friendly packaging is crucial for minimizing waste and enhancing supply chain sustainability. Many businesses are now investing in biodegradable or reusable packaging solutions to limit environmental harm. Additionally, reducing plastic usage and integrating reuse systems positively impact waste management. Advancements in packaging technology also help optimize transport space and reduce the number of trips required.

While many companies have already made progress, there is still significant room for improvement. Investing in research and development to create high-performance sustainable materials could revolutionize the industry.

Green warehouses

Logistics facilities are transitioning toward sustainability through solar power, LED lighting, and automation technologies that minimize energy waste. Advanced warehouse management systems optimize storage space and reduce costs, while robotics and autonomous vehicles further improve efficiency and energy consumption. Smart climate control systems and sensor technology also contribute to lower energy use and better preservation of sensitive goods.

Cutting-edge technologies

Integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics enhances operational efficiency and minimizes environmental impact. Blockchain-based traceability solutions ensure transparency and sustainability across the supply chain. The Internet of Things (IoT) enables real-time shipment tracking, optimizing logistics processes. Additionally, 3D printing in specific supply chain phases can reduce transport dependency, significantly lowering the environmental footprint.

While these technologies provide substantial benefits, they require upfront investment. However, companies that invest in innovation today position themselves for long-term competitive advantages.

Benefits of green logistics

Embracing green logistics practices provides a wide range of advantages:

• Lower operational costs: Optimized routes and improved energy efficiency lead to significant savings in transportation and warehouse management.
• Regulatory compliance: Companies prioritizing sustainability are better prepared to meet increasingly strict environmental regulations.
• Enhanced brand reputation: Eco-friendly practices strengthen corporate image and encourage customer loyalty.
• Improved efficiency: Advanced technologies and optimized management strategies streamline supply chain operations.
• Increased appeal to investors and partners: Businesses committed to sustainability attract more opportunities in response to growing demand for green solutions.
• Reduced environmental impact: Cutting greenhouse gas emissions and pollution in logistics contributes to a healthier planet and better quality of life.

The future of sustainable logistics

With stricter regulations and heightened environmental awareness, sustainable logistics is set to become a fundamental industry pillar. The shift toward circular economy models and stronger collaboration between businesses and institutions will be essential in creating a more sustainable and competitive supply chain.

One of the biggest challenges ahead will be expanding reverse logistics strategies, which focus on recovering and recycling end-of-life products. These initiatives will further reduce waste and pave the way for new business models centered on sustainability. Additionally, reducing CO₂ emissions will remain a key priority, driving investments in emerging technologies like hyperloop transportation and low-impact synthetic fuels.

In summary, sustainable logistics is not just an obligation—it’s an opportunity for businesses to stand out in an evolving market. If you’re ready to explore customized solutions for your company, contact us today for more information!

L'articolo Sustainable logistics: the future of shipping and green supply chain management proviene da CTI SRL.

In this article, we delve into the key points of the reform, analyzing its practical implications and how to adapt to the changes.

Key points of the customs reform 2025

Regulatory simplification and sanctions system

One of the most notable changes concerns the simplification of customs regulations. The previous 400 provisions have been reduced to just 122 articles, a significant reduction that makes the legislative framework leaner and more comprehensible. This initiative aims to eliminate regulatory redundancies and provide companies with a clear and accessible reference, reducing time and costs related to administrative management.

Additionally, a major highlight is the update to customs sanctions, which now distinguish more clearly between administrative and criminal offenses. For instance, the crime of smuggling has been divided into two main categories: false declarations, which occur when provided information is incomplete or inaccurate, and failure to declare, when goods are not declared at all. Penalties have also been redefined to be more proportionate to the severity of the violation, ensuring greater fairness in sanctioning processes.

This change aims to facilitate compliance for companies, reducing the risk of interpretative errors and potential penalties.

Digitalization of customs procedures

Digitalization is a cornerstone of the customs reform, designed to revolutionize the management of trade flows. As of January 21, 2025, the NCTS Phase 5 system has come into effect, eliminating the use of paper forms in favor of digital customs declarations. This ensures not only greater operational efficiency but also more precise control over transaction data. The update aims to expedite customs transit operations, reduce errors, and enhance security, enabling a more transparent and automated management of trade flows.

Additionally, new digital procedures were implemented for exports starting in December 2024, improving export efficiency and cutting bureaucratic delays.

New combined nomenclature TARIC 2025

Effective January 1, 2025, the new TARIC has updated the Combined Nomenclature by adding specific categories for products such as fish and seafood, tomatoes, mineral oils, and wooden panels. This update reflects the evolution of international markets and provides a more detailed classification system to improve the application of customs duties and trade measures.

As a result, companies must pay close attention to these updates to ensure the correct classification of goods and the proper application of customs tariffs.

Preferential origin rules of the PEM convention

Another key aspect of the reform concerns the new preferential origin rules introduced by the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) Convention, which became effective on January 1, 2025. These rules mark a significant step forward in making trade between the 23 contracting countries more flexible and inclusive, enhancing the competitiveness of European and Mediterranean companies in global markets. Specifically, they offer greater flexibility to economic operators by increasing the tolerance thresholds to 15% and expanding the duty-drawback, allowing for broader recovery of customs duties.

These changes promote trade with the 23 contracting countries of the PEM Convention, creating new opportunities for Italian businesses.

VAT among border duties

As of October 4, 2024, import VAT has been formally included among customs duties, except in cases where goods are released for consumption in another EU Member State. This adjustment simplifies fiscal operations and aims to ensure greater uniformity and transparency in international trade relations.

How to adapt to the new regulations

To prepare for the changes introduced by the 2025 Customs Reform, companies must focus on several key actions. IT systems need to be updated to ensure compatibility with the new NCTS Phase 5 system, enabling the digitization and optimization of customs declarations. At the same time, staff training is essential to ensure a full understanding of the new operational procedures and the proper handling of goods according to TARIC classification.

For this reason, collaborating with reliable partners like CTI can help manage regulatory complexities and align internal procedures with the new compliance rules.

Why the reform matters for the logistics sector

The 2025 Customs Reform is not just a regulatory update; it is a genuine opportunity to enhance the competitiveness of the Italian logistics sector. Thanks to simplification and digitalization, companies will be able to reduce operating costs, improve delivery times, and increase transparency and traceability of operations. The NCTS Phase 5 system, for example, enables continuous monitoring of goods, improving security and reducing errors during transit. Additionally, the TARIC update provides a clear and detailed reference for goods classification, helping to avoid disputes or delays caused by regulatory discrepancies. This increased logistical efficiency translates into a competitive advantage for Italian companies in the global market.

In conclusion, the 2025 Customs Reform represents a turning point for international trade, offering innovative tools to address the challenges of globalization. For companies, promptly adapting to these changes is essential to remain competitive and seize new opportunities offered by the global market.

Contact us today for tailored support and solutions to meet your logistical and customs needs.

L'articolo Customs reform 2025: all the updates and changes for companies proviene da CTI SRL.

In particular, one of the most significant updates is the inclusion of sodium-ion batteries as a new category of dangerous goods. The new dedicated UN numbers include:

•  UN 3551: Sodium-ion batteries.
•  UN 3552: Sodium-ion batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment.
•  UN 3558: Vehicles powered by sodium-ion batteries.

This change highlights the commitment to adapting the regulation to technological innovations while ensuring safety. According to UNECE, other significant changes include the elimination of special provision 653 and the introduction of specific rules for asbestos-containing waste, which now require safer packaging for transport.

What is the ADR regulation, and when does it apply?

The ADR regulation, short for “Agreement concerning the international carriage of Dangerous goods by Road,” is a set of rules established to ensure that the transport of such goods occurs under maximum safety conditions. First signed in 1957 and subject to biennial revisions, it applies to all signatory countries, covering both international and national transport.

In short, this regulation applies whenever substances classified as hazardous to health, the environment, or safety are transported. The obligations concern both carriers and companies that produce, ship, or receive these goods. Although the regulation primarily focuses on road transport, it is coordinated with other regulations concerning maritime and air transport.

What are the products under ADR?

The ADR regulation classifies dangerous goods based on their nature and the type of risk they pose. These categories include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, solids prone to spontaneous combustion, and many others. For instance, flammable liquids include gasoline, alcohol, and solvents, while regulated gases include LPG and oxygen. The 2025 update has added 11 new UN numbers, further expanding the regulation’s coverage to adapt to new substances identified as hazardous.

Another significant update concerns lithium batteries, for which a charge level not exceeding 30% during transport has been recommended. While not mandatory in 2025, this measure could become binding from 2026. Additionally, the new rules introduced for sodium-ion batteries demonstrate the intention to include emerging technologies in the regulation.

When is ADR not required? How many kg can be transported without ADR?

The regulation provides some exemptions depending on the type of substance transported, the quantity, and the type of packaging. For example, small quantity transports can be exempted from full ADR obligations, provided that each package complies with specific limits defined in the regulation. In other words, for limited quantities or certain categories of goods, it is not necessary to apply all the prescribed safety measures.

In terms of quantity, up to 333 kg or liters of certain materials can be transported without applying all the rules. This demonstrates that the regulation is designed to balance safety and operational practicality.

What is needed to transport ADR?

The transport of dangerous goods requires a series of documents, permits, and specific skills. Among the main requirements are the ADR license for drivers, transport documentation with UN numbers and class codes, and a vehicle approval certificate. Moreover, vehicles must be equipped with mandatory tools such as fire extinguishers, orange panels, and emergency kits.

Similarly, companies that regularly handle dangerous goods must employ an ADR consultant, a mandatory figure to ensure compliance with regulations and safety in operations. This highlights the importance of a professional and organized approach to managing such transports.

What does ADR packaging mean?

ADR packaging is designed to safely contain dangerous goods during transport. It must comply with strict international standards and pass tests for resistance to shocks, leaks, and pressures. For example, the materials used, such as plastic or metal, must be certified according to UN standards and ensure airtight closure to prevent leaks.

Additionally, each package must bear clear labeling with the UN number, hazard class, and risk symbols. This system ensures complete traceability and allows all operators to quickly identify the characteristics of the goods.

In conclusion, the ADR 2025 regulation represents a significant step forward for the safe transport of dangerous goods. With new rules and updates, such as those concerning sodium-ion batteries and provisions for asbestos-containing waste, the logistics sector can face current challenges with more effective tools and procedures.

If you need further details or support for your ADR shipments, do not hesitate to contact us. Partnering with CTI means relying on an experienced freight forwarder who skillfully navigates the numerous regulations governing this sector. We are ready to provide you with comprehensive assistance for your logistics needs!

L'articolo News on the ADR 2025 regulation for the transport of dangerous goods. proviene da CTI SRL.

By consolidating multiple shipments into a single container bound for one or more shared destinations, LCL shipping offers significant advantages for both sea freight and land transport. For sea freight, containers are shared among different shippers, while in land transport, commonly referred to as groupage, loads are combined to maximize efficiency.

In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of LCL shipping, compare it to FCL shipping (Full Container Load), and explore land transport options like LTL shipping (Less than Truck Load) and FTL shipping (Full Truck Load). Understanding these shipping methods will help you determine the best option for your needs. Let’s start by focusing on LCL shipping and how it differs from FCL shipping.

When and why to choose LCL shipping

LCL shipping is ideal in several scenarios:

• Small volumes: If the goods you need to ship don’t justify booking a full container, LCL offers an economical and efficient solution.
• Cost savings: By sharing container space with other shipments, you only pay for the space your cargo occupies, reducing overall costs.
• Flexibility: LCL shipping provides more flexible scheduling, allowing you to ship goods even if you don’t have a full load.

However, it’s worth noting that LCL shipping may involve longer transit times due to the consolidation and deconsolidation process. Additionally, sharing a container with other shipments could increase the risk of damage, making high-quality packaging essential.

What’s the difference between LCL and FCL shipping?

The primary distinction between LCL and FCL lies in how the container is used:

• LCL shipping (less than container load): Your goods are combined with shipments from other customers in a single container. This approach is cost-effective for smaller volumes but may result in longer transit times and a higher risk of damage due to shared space.
• FCL shipping (full container load): The container is dedicated entirely to a single shipment. This ensures faster delivery times, greater security, and is ideal for large or high-value loads.

Choosing between LCL shipping and FCL shipping depends largely on your shipment volume and your needs for security and timing. For example, companies shipping perishable or sensitive goods often prefer FCL for greater control and faster delivery. Conversely, industries such as fashion accessories or industrial supplies often find LCL shipping to be a more strategic and cost-effective choice.

Another key consideration is customs clearance. FCL shipments typically involve simpler procedures since the entire container belongs to a single customer. In contrast, LCL shipments require managing documentation for multiple shipments within the shared container.

How much does LCL shipping cost?

Cost is a major factor when selecting the right logistics solution. The price of LCL shipping depends on factors such as weight, volume, destination and distance. Freight rates are calculated based on either actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is greater. Long-distance routes or remote destinations typically incur higher costs, as do special services like custom packaging or hazardous materials handling.

Many logistics providers offer tailored packages, including discounts for regular shipments or combined services like transportation and warehousing. Such options can provide significant advantages for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain.

FTL and LTL shipping by Land: efficient road transport solutions

When it comes to land transport, the two main options are FTL shipping (Full Truck Load) and LTL shipping (Less than Truck Load). These methods determine the level of truck space used for a shipment.

What is LTL shipping?

LTL shipping refers to transporting goods that don’t fill an entire truck. Similar to LCL shipping for sea freight, LTL shipping is perfect for small shipments and offers significant cost savings by sharing truck space with other shippers.

LTL shipping is especially effective for regional or national deliveries, where flexibility is key to ensuring reliable and timely shipments. With advancements in technology like GPS tracking and digital platforms, businesses can now monitor their shipments in real-time, enhancing transparency and customer satisfaction.

What is FTL shipping?

On the other hand, FTL shipping involves dedicating an entire truck to a single shipment. This method is ideal for large volumes, sensitive goods, or urgent deliveries, as it ensures faster transit times and reduces the risk of damage.

FTL shipping is often preferred by industries like food and pharmaceuticals, where maintaining product integrity and meeting tight deadlines are critical. Additionally, FTL shipping allows for greater control over transport conditions, such as temperature regulation or specialized handling requirements.

Groupage transport vs. LCL and LTL shipping

Groupage transport is a general term for combining smaller loads to maximize vehicle efficiency. LCL shipping and LTL shipping are specific methods within groupage transport, tailored to sea and land freight respectively. This distinction is crucial for selecting the right service based on factors like cost, speed, and security.

Working with an experienced logistics partner can make all the difference when managing LCL shipments, FCL shipments, FTL transport, or LTL transport. Expert providers ensure seamless support, tailored solutions, and efficient handling of all your shipping needs. Contact us today for a personalized quote or to learn more about our transport services.

L'articolo What does LCL shipping by land and sea mean? proviene da CTI SRL.

How to ship goods to Russia? 

Successfully exporting goods to Russia requires meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of customs regulations. To get started, it’s essential to partner with a reliable logistics provider experienced in the Russian market. Key considerations include:

• Customs procedures: Russia imposes specific duties and requires compliance certificates for many products. For instance, the Customs Union Declaration of Conformity (TS) is mandatory for items like mineral fertilizers and household chemicals. These certifications confirm that your products meet local market standards.
• Transportation methods: Goods can be shipped by road, sea, or air, each with its own advantages and challenges. Road freight is ideal for full loads, offering flexibility, while air freight is suitable for urgent or high-value shipments. Sea freight, on the other hand, is a cost-effective choice for large volumes but requires longer transit times.
• Packaging and documentation: Durable packaging is essential to protect your goods during transit. Equally important is the preparation of accurate documentation, including detailed commercial invoices, packing lists, and the specific certificates required by Russian customs. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can lead to significant delays.

Working with experienced freight forwarders simplifies logistical and bureaucratic complexities, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.

Which goods are restricted for export to Russia?

Export restrictions to Russia have increased, especially in response to international sanctions. Prohibited or regulated items include:

• Advanced technology products: High-tech items like quantum computers, advanced semiconductors, electronic components, and software are banned to curb technological advancements in strategic Russian industries.
• Dual-use goods: Items with both civilian and military applications, such as drones, drone software, and encryption devices, are heavily regulated to prevent misuse in military contexts.
• Luxury agro-food products: High-value food items like caviar, truffles, and premium alcoholic beverages are subject to restrictions, especially if they exceed specific economic thresholds.
• Luxury goods: The EU has imposed bans on exporting luxury items to Russia, including high-end cars, watches, and jewelry, targeting the country’s economic and political elites.
• Industrial equipment and energy technologies: Export restrictions also apply to equipment and technologies used in defense, security, and energy industries, aiming to weaken critical sectors of the Russian economy.

To ensure compliance with these regulations and avoid legal complications or customs delays, it is essential to rely on knowledgeable shipping partners who stay up-to-date with international trade rules.

What can you export to Russia? 

Despite challenges, Russia remains a vast and diverse market for several industries. While geopolitical conditions have impacted exports, certain product categories continue to see strong demand:

Exporting food products

Italian food products, such as pasta, preserves, and cheeses, remain highly sought after in Russia. To access this market, exporters must comply with stringent certification standards, including specific conformity tests for many food items.

Exporting wine 

Italian wine continues to enjoy strong demand due to its exceptional quality. Successful wine exports to Russia require complete and accurate documentation, including certificates of origin and chemical analyses. Premium wines, however, are subject to stricter regulatory scrutiny.

Exporting olive oil to Russia

Italian olive oil is highly popular in Russia. Exporters must ensure that labels are translated into Russian and that all products comply with updated customs regulations. Certifications of organic quality may also be required for specific product lines.

Exporting furniture

Italian furniture and design remain highly valued in Russia. Given current import-export restrictions, companies should explore local distribution channels or establish strategic partnerships to overcome potential logistical and legal barriers.

Shipping goods to Russia from Italy 

What is the current relationship between Italy and Russia?

While geopolitical tensions have impacted trade between Italy and Russia, their commercial relationship remains significant for certain industries. Historically, Italy has been one of Russia’s main European trading partners, although sanctions have restricted some activities.

What does Italy export to Russia?

Key exports from Italy to Russia include:

Agro-food products and beverages: Select Italian food products continue to have a presence in the Russian market, provided they meet current regulations.

Machinery and industrial equipment: This sector remains subject to strict controls to ensure compliance with international sanctions.

Fashion and accessories: While luxury goods face significant restrictions, certain items remain in demand.

Furniture and design products: Exports in this sector are also regulated to ensure alignment with trade sanctions.

What documents are required to export to Russia?

Essential paperwork for exporting goods to Russia

To export goods to Russia, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

• Commercial invoice: This must be detailed and compliant with international standards.
• Packing list: Includes an accurate description of the goods being shipped.
• Compliance certifications: Mandatory for many products, particularly those in the technology and industrial sectors.
• Customs documentation: Required to declare goods and calculate duties.
• Sanitary and phytosanitary certificates: Essential for food products.

In conclusion, exporting to Russia offers numerous opportunities but also presents challenges due to its complex regulations and dynamic trade landscape. Collaborating with industry experts and reliable partners ensures a smoother process, enabling businesses to navigate bureaucracy efficiently and stay compliant with evolving regulations.

For tailored support and expert advice on your international shipments, don’t hesitate to contact us.

L'articolo Export Russia: everything you need to know to export to russia today proviene da CTI SRL.

Starting from the basics: what is import VAT?

Import VAT is a tax applied to goods entering the customs territory of Italy from non-EU countries. It is calculated based on the value of the imported goods, transportation costs, and any applicable customs duties. The purpose of this tax is to ensure fair fiscal treatment between domestically produced goods and imports, preventing market distortions that could disadvantage local businesses.

Understanding the rules surrounding import VAT is essential to avoid penalties and maintain competitiveness. Moreover, proper management of this tax directly impacts your company’s cash flow.

Customs payment of VAT on imports

Import VAT is paid at the time of customs clearance, when goods are officially registered for entry into the national territory. The importer must submit a customs declaration and pay the calculated VAT. Alternatively, the reverse charge mechanism allows for deferred VAT payment during the periodic VAT return, improving cash flow and reducing immediate financial impact.

The reverse charge mechanism: a strategic advantage

The reverse charge mechanism is particularly beneficial for businesses handling large import volumes. This system allows companies to record VAT as both a payable and a receivable simultaneously, avoiding an immediate cash outflow. As a result, many businesses find it advantageous to integrate this system into their processes. However, eligibility for the reverse charge mechanism requires meeting specific criteria and maintaining detailed documentation.

Necessary steps for managing import VAT

To properly manage import VAT, follow these steps:

1. Register as a VAT-registered entity with the Revenue Agency.
2. Identify the TARIC code to determine applicable rates and regulations.
3. Complete the customs declaration using the Single Administrative Document (SAD).
4. Pay the VAT due at the time of customs clearance or via the reverse charge mechanism.
5. Retain all tax documentation for future audits.

Organization and precision are essential in every step to avoid issues.

How to determine the VAT taxable base for imports?

Another essential point to clarify, in order to illustrate the topic in sufficient detail, is the determination of the taxable base. In the calculation of import VAT, the taxable base includes the value of the goods declared at customs, the CIF costs—that is, transportation costs from the moment the goods leave the supplier’s warehouse until they reach the customs point in Italy, including any paid insurance—and, finally, any customs duties, which are calculated on the CIF costs added to the value of the goods.

For example, when importing machinery valued at €10,000, with CIF costs of €500 and customs duties of 5%, the taxable base will be:

(€10,000 + €500) + 5% = €11,025.

This total becomes the basis for calculating import VAT. A common mistake is failing to include all additional costs, such as insurance, in the calculation. Importers must pay close attention to every detail to avoid discrepancies.

It’s also essential to accurately classify the goods from a commodity perspective, ensuring the correct application of tariffs, taxes, and determining if licenses or import restrictions apply.

Accurately determining the taxable base is essential to avoid disputes with customs authorities. Errors can lead to penalties and delays in the clearance process, disrupting the entire supply chain. For this reason, many companies invest in customs consultants to minimize risks and hidden costs.

How to reduce the impact of import VAT

Here are some strategies to optimize import VAT management:

1. Use VAT warehousing: Postpone VAT payment until the goods are sold, improving cash flow.
2. Leverage reverse charge: Record VAT directly in your periodic VAT return to streamline financial management.
3. Plan with customs experts: Identify opportunities to minimize costs and risks while ensuring compliance.
4. Take advantage of tax exemptions: Utilize special regimes or reduced VAT rates where applicable.
5. Implement technology solutions: Use tax management software to automate calculations and simplify procedures.

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these common errors to prevent penalties and delays:

• Incorrect data in customs declarations: Always provide accurate and complete information.
• Miscalculating the taxable base: Ensure all relevant costs, such as transportation and insurance, are included.
• Missing deadlines: Plan ahead to meet all tax and customs deadlines.

Digital tools and management software can significantly simplify import VAT processes. From automated form completion to verifying calculations, adopting advanced technology reduces the risk of errors and enhances overall efficiency. In today’s globalized market, these tools have become indispensable.

Managing VAT on imports requires regulatory knowledge and careful planning. Understanding how to calculate the taxable base, choosing the best payment strategies, and complying with tax obligations will allow you to optimize costs and improve the efficiency of your international trade operations.

For more information or a personalized consultation, feel free to contact us!

L'articolo Import VAT: everything you need to know proviene da CTI SRL.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at how SEZs work, exploring their advantages, the opportunities they offer to companies, and successful global examples. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges associated with this economic model and future prospects, providing businesses with a clear guide on how to best leverage these zones.

Ready? Let’s get started!

What Does Special Economic Zone Mean?

Special Economic Zones are geographically defined areas where favorable tax and administrative regulations are applied to encourage productive and commercial activities. The main goal is to stimulate investment, improve exports, and promote industrial development.

In practice, an SEZ is an area that offers particularly advantageous conditions to businesses, such as reduced tax burdens, simplified bureaucratic regulations, and easier access to foreign markets. Often located near strategic ports and intermodal hubs, these zones are designed to facilitate international trade and encourage local industrialization.

Globally, SEZs have proven to be an effective tool for attracting foreign capital and enhancing a country’s competitiveness. Thanks to their ability to lower entry barriers for investors, they serve as a key driver of economic growth, especially in less developed regions.

What Are the SEZs in Italy for 2024-2025?

As of January 1, 2024, Italy has introduced the Single SEZ for the South, merging the previously existing SEZs into a single structure. This reform covers eight regions: Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia, Sicily, and Sardinia.

The decision to unify the existing SEZs stems from the need to simplify and make access to incentives and support tools more efficient for businesses. In the past, the fragmented management of SEZs made it difficult for companies to navigate different regulations and complex procedures. With the new Single SEZ, the entire system has been centralized to attract larger investments and ensure greater consistency in the application of incentives.

The sectors involved range from logistics to manufacturing, agribusiness, and raw material processing. This means that, as in other emerging economies, both large corporations and SMEs can find interesting opportunities within SEZs, especially those focused on exports.

What Are the Benefits of SEZs?

Special Economic Zones offer several significant advantages to businesses that choose to invest within them. One of the main benefits involves tax incentives, allowing companies to obtain tax credits of up to 100% on investments made. This incentive is designed to stimulate the growth of productive and industrial activities, providing a concrete advantage to those who establish themselves in an SEZ.

In addition to tax benefits, SEZs also guarantee bureaucratic simplifications, a crucial aspect for businesses that often face long and complex administrative procedures. In other words, the ability to access streamlined procedures and reduced authorization times enables companies to start and manage their operations more efficiently.

Another key advantage is the exemption from customs duties for goods intended for processing and subsequent export. This benefit allows businesses to significantly reduce operational costs and increase their competitiveness in international markets. Furthermore, SEZs often enjoy a strategic location, with advanced logistics infrastructures such as ports, airports, and rail hubs that facilitate the transport and distribution of goods.

However, certain criteria must be met to access these benefits. Specifically, only investment projects with a total cost of at least 200,000 euros are eligible for incentives. This requirement ensures that resources are allocated to economically and industrially relevant initiatives. Additionally, the maximum eligible investment is capped at 100 million euros per project, a limit designed to maintain control over the distribution of incentives and ensure a fair use of available resources.

SEZs are not just an opportunity for large corporations but also for small and medium-sized enterprises looking to expand and compete globally. Thanks to the combination of tax incentives, bureaucratic simplifications, and strategic infrastructure, these zones offer an appealing option for those aiming to reduce production costs and increase operational efficiency.

Who Can Benefit from SEZs?

SEZs are accessible to all businesses, regardless of their size. However, to benefit from the incentives, companies must meet certain fundamental requirements. First, businesses must maintain operations within the zone for at least five years and present a detailed investment plan. This ensures that the incentives are used for solid and long-term projects.

Additionally, companies in liquidation or dissolution are not eligible for the benefits. Some industries, such as the steel industry, energy production, and financial sector, are excluded from the incentives in compliance with European state aid regulations.

Examples of Successful Special Economic Zones Worldwide

SEZs have been successfully implemented in many parts of the world, proving their effectiveness in fostering economic growth.

Shenzhen, China

In the 1980s, Shenzhen was a small fishing village. The establishment of the SEZ transformed this location into one of the most industrialized cities in the world, attracting billions of dollars in investments and becoming a major hub for technology and manufacturing.

Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai

The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is one of the most important SEZs in the Middle East. Located near the Port of Dubai, it is a strategic hub for global trade and hosts over 9,500 companies from around the world.

Special Economic Zones in Poland

Poland has established several SEZs that have attracted billions of euros in investments, generating over 280,000 new jobs. This model has significantly contributed to the country’s industrial development and its integration into global markets.

Challenges of Special Economic Zones

Despite the numerous benefits, SEZs present some challenges that must be carefully considered. One of the main issues is bureaucratic complexity, which in some cases can slow down access to incentives and create administrative difficulties for businesses.

Another factor to consider is the environmental impact. Industrial expansion in SEZs can negatively affect the local ecosystem, especially if adequate sustainability measures are not implemented. Additionally, there is a risk of market distortions, with businesses outside SEZs potentially facing competitive disadvantages compared to those operating within these privileged areas.

Despite these challenges, Special Economic Zones represent an extraordinary opportunity for businesses and regional economic development. The introduction of the Single SEZ for Southern Italy confirms the importance of these tools in promoting investments and enhancing the country’s global competitiveness.

Looking ahead, ensuring the effective and transparent management of SEZs will be crucial for them to continue providing tangible benefits for businesses and local economies.

In conclusion, for companies operating in international logistics, such as CTI, SEZs offer a unique opportunity to optimize operations and access new markets. If your company is considering an investment in SEZs, CTI is ready to assist you with tailored logistics solutions to support your success.

Contact us for a personalized consultation!

L'articolo Special Economic Zones (SEZs): A Strategic Opportunity for Global Trade proviene da CTI SRL.

DAP: what does Delivered at Place mean? 

The DAP incoterm is a “Delivery at Place” clause, meaning that the seller makes the goods available to the consignee at an agreed location, but without taking care of the unloading of the vehicle: therefore, he retains responsibility for the goods shipped up to that point.  

It is therefore the seller who is obliged to take care of customs clearance for export and bear all the risks associated with delivering the goods to the agreed point, such as:  

• Theft. 

• Loss. 
• Damage. 
• Destruction. 

Should any of these events occur, or in the case of any other default, the seller remains liable to the buyer. 

When a shipment crosses several countries, with DAP surrender it is the seller who will also take care of the formalities that may be necessary in any of the transit countries. 

The buyer, on the other hand, must take care of: 

• Import customs clearance. 
• Post-delivery transit. 
• Possible post-delivery transportation through third countries. 

DAP Incoterms: who pays for transportation? 

As we also mentioned in this article, the DAP Incoterms 2020 clause, as well as DPU and DDP, belongs to group D: this group of clauses stipulates that regardless of the means of transportation used and the number of transports required, the seller will bear the costs and risks until delivery at the destination of the goods. 

On the dedicated page of the CTI website, you can see a summary table showing which costs are chargeable to the seller and which to the buyer. In the row corresponding to the DAP, you will find that the seller is entitled to the costs up to unloading: 

• Freight to delivery/destination. 
• Export customs clearance. 
• Delivery of transport documents. 

• Control of goods at export. 
• Unloading costs, if stipulated in the transport contract (in exceptional cases). 

Once the cargo has arrived at its destination, responsibility passes to the consignee who will also take care of any other import-related expenses: 

• Importation. 
• Customs clearance at destination. 

• Possible storage at the destination. 
• Unloading at warehouse. 
• Any other post-delivery transportation. 

Incoterms: DDP vs. DAP 

The DAP incoterm is often equated with DDP, another Group D incoterm, which means “Delivered Duty Paid“. This clause is the one that carries the highest level of obligations for the seller. The major difference between DDPs concerns the responsibility for import customs clearance. 

Both clauses provide that the seller is responsible for the goods until arrival at the point of destination, with no obligation to unload the means. In the case of DDP, however, it is always the seller who has the burden, and thus the expense, of customs clearance not only on export, but also for import and all customs formalities. 

They will also always be borne by the seller, VAT or other similar taxes for import unless otherwise agreed in the sales contract. 

If you need more information we are at your disposal: please contact us! 

L'articolo DAP Incoterms: Delivered at Place proviene da CTI SRL.

The traceability of the pharmaceutical products’ journey, preservation measures, and quality control are just a few of the key elements of the correct distribution chain, which in the pharmaceutical sector is strictly regulated.

The role of logistics in the pharmaceutical sector

Pharmaceutical logistics plays a very important role in the management of drug transportation. This complex coordination system is responsible for ensuring utmost care in the movement of drugs along the entire distribution network.

The preservation and management of pharmaceutical goods involve a series of responsibilities that require not only advanced skills in logistics management but also the rigorous adherence to high standards of quality and safety. These standards are crucial to preserve the properties of the medicine from the beginning of its journey to its destination.

Challenges and solutions in pharmaceutical logistics

The pharmaceutical logistics sector faces complex challenges related to regulatory integration, traceability, and temperature management of goods during transport.

The need to integrate quality control systems into shipping methods highlights the importance of adhering to strict regulations that impose complex management of operations systems. Additionally, the traceability of pharmaceutical products throughout the supply chain is fundamental to monitor the goods in detail, respecting deadlines and avoiding economic waste.

Ensuring the preservation of drugs at controlled temperatures during transport is also a growing priority. The increasingly personalized nature of medicines and the spread of temperature-controlled biopharmaceutical products necessitate the adoption of specific technological systems and vehicles equipped with special equipment to cope with thermal variations.

Best practices for shipping in the pharmaceutical sector

In the pharmaceutical sector, the effectiveness of shipments is crucial to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. One aspect to consider is the use of specialized packaging designed to protect drugs during transport. The materials of these packages must comply with the regulations of good distribution practice of drugs to ensure product stability.

It is also important that shipments are equipped with advanced systems for recording and monitoring environmental conditions to ensure that drugs remain within the required temperature limits throughout the entire distribution chain.

Moreover, the implementation of robust security procedures, such as operator authentication and risk management, contributes to preventing counterfeiting and ensuring product quality.

Traceability in drug transportation

Drug traceability is another element that facilitates identification and recording to track the drug’s journey throughout its entire route.

Let’s look specifically at the most commonly used traceability systems in pharmaceutical logistics:

• Barcode and RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification): The use of barcodes and RFID tags allows for quick and accurate identification of products during all stages of the distribution chain. These systems facilitate traceability and enable precise inventory control.
• Order and Inventory Management Systems: Advanced software platforms that provide real-time visibility on order status, product availability data, facilitating stock management.
• Blockchain: This technology offers a decentralized and secure solution for recording transactions along the pharmaceutical supply chain. Blockchain provides immutable traceability, reducing the risk of fraud and counterfeiting.
• Serial Tracking Systems: Some pharmaceutical products require detailed serial tracking to monitor each individual item. These systems provide a very high level of detail in product traceability.

Regulations and compliance in the transportation of pharmaceutical products

Pharmaceutical companies must adhere to GxP (Good Practices) regulations. These are a set of rules that establish high standards for the production, management, transportation, and distribution of drugs.

GxP regulations include:

• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Good Distribution Practices (GDP)
• Good Clinical Practices (GCP)

Temperature management is therefore particularly critical, and regulations often require the use of thermal packaging and temperature monitoring systems during transport.

Compliance with regulations is therefore crucial to avoid legal sanctions and ensure consumer trust: relying on specialized and certified logistics partners is an additional guarantee for safe pharmaceutical transport.

Need a quote or looking for a reliable partner for your pharmaceutical shipments? Contact us for more information about our transportation services.

L'articolo Pharmaceutical logistics: guarantee of safe and reliable shipments proviene da CTI SRL.

Rigorous control during transportation is crucial to protect the goods not only from potential errors in managing the storage temperature but also from inadequate temporal and environmental factors. Let’s look specifically at the aspects that should not be underestimated in the logistics of transportation.

Shipping perishable goods

Maintaining controlled temperature throughout the entire logistics journey is fundamental to preserve the quality of the goods. Moreover, minimizing the exposure time of goods to suboptimal conditions is important to prevent premature deterioration. Therefore, managing transit time is essential to maintain the freshness of the goods, especially in international shipments, where the journey might involve different modes of transport.

C.T.I., as a company also specialized in international freight transport, ensures that each phase of the transport process is managed with the utmost precision and timeliness, offering a continuous and efficient exchange of information regarding the status of the goods and the shipment.

Only through careful supervision of every variable is it possible to ensure that perishable goods reach their destination in optimal conditions, without undergoing changes or damage, and without releasing toxic and harmful substances into the environment.

International regulations for the transportation of perishable goods

The international regulations for the transportation of perishable goods are governed by the European Agreement known as the “ATP Agreement“. This agreement was developed in the context of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and aims to establish uniform standards for the transportation of perishable goods across international borders.

In addition to the ATP Agreement, there may be specific regulations in force in individual countries or regions. Operators in the field must comply with relevant local and international regulations to ensure legal compliance and the safety of transporting perishable goods.

ATP: essential certification for the transportation of perishable goods

The main objective of the ATP Agreement is to ensure that vehicles are equipped with adequate equipment to maintain the required temperature during the transportation of food products, pharmaceuticals, or other goods subject to deterioration due to thermal variations.

The ATP regulation provides a specific classification of vehicles, indicating 4 types of specific transport means:

1. Isothermal: equipped with thermally insulating walls that limit heat exchange between inside and outside;
2. Refrigerating: with the aid of a cold source, they maintain the necessary temperature inside the empty body;
3. Refrigerators: equipped with a cooling system that allows lowering the temperature inside the body, keeping it constant when the external temperature is too high;
4. Heaters: equipped with a heating device that allows raising the temperature inside the body, keeping it active for at least 12 hours. The internal body temperature is never below 12°.

Technologies for monitoring perishable goods

The joint implementation of advanced technologies allows logistics operators to create a controlled and safe transportation environment for perishable goods even during the longest journeys. Let’s look at some of these technologies:

• Temperature sensors: allow constant measurement and recording of thermal variations, providing operators with real-time information on the internal temperature of the cargo;
• Temperature recorders: in addition to measuring the cargo’s temperature, they monitor critical factors such as humidity, pressure, and geographic position, providing precise data on the condition of the goods;
• Remote monitoring systems: thanks to IoT (Internet of Things), they allow remote control of cargo conditions;
• RFID and GPS tracking: the use of RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technologies and GPS tracking devices helps maintain control over the position and status of goods during transport;
• Humidity control system: designed to maintain optimal levels of humidity and prevent condensation formation.

Customized logistics for perishable goods

Customized logistics refers to the design of tailor-made logistic solutions to meet the specific needs of each type of perishable good. The ultimate goal of customized logistics is to ensure the maintenance of the highest quality and safety of perishable goods through the use of specific technologies and optimal transportation methods.

Request a quote or contact us here for more information about our services.

L'articolo Logistics in the transportation of perishable goods proviene da CTI SRL.

Introduction to Flat Rack Containers: Versatility and Advantages

As previously mentioned, Flat Rack containers represent a very intelligent solution for transporting bulky or out-of-shape goods, offering numerous significant advantages in the field of international shipments. These specialized containers stand out for their open structure, providing a flexible platform for bulky loads. But what makes them so crucial for the logistics sector?

Features and Specifications of Flat Rack Containers

Flat Rack containers have features and technical specifications that make them suitable for a wide range of particularly bulky loads. Their dimensions vary, allowing the handling of goods of different shapes. The robust metal structure, often equipped with foldable walls, offers flexibility in loading and unloading goods, simplifying the logistics process.

The load capacity varies depending on the container’s size, enabling the handling of heavy and voluminous goods. These containers can be used to transport goods by road, rail, or sea, offering a comprehensive solution for international shipping needs.

Mafi Containers

Mafi containers are a specific type of container used in Flat Rack logistics. Unlike standard containers, Mafi containers are designed for transporting goods that cannot be easily loaded or unloaded with traditional cranes.

These containers have an open structure on all four sides, making them particularly suitable for transporting large or irregularly shaped goods. The open structure essentially facilitates access to the goods by lifting equipment, such as port cranes or shipboard cranes.

Out-of-Shape Flat Rack: Tailor-Made Solutions for Special Loads

For loads of unconventional sizes and shapes, out-of-shape Flat Rack containers represent the best solution. These containers are custom designed to fit the specific dimensions of the most complex loads. Their flexibility allows for the transportation of goods that might otherwise pose significant logistical challenges.

This tailored option offers an unprecedented level of adaptability in the field of international shipments, ensuring that even uniquely shaped goods are transported safely and efficiently.

Advantages of Using Flat Rack Containers

The use of Flat Rack containers offers numerous practical advantages. Their open structure simplifies the loading and unloading process, improving overall logistical efficiency. The ability to secure goods directly onto the platform also reduces the risk of damage during transportation, ensuring greater safety.

Finally, the versatility of Flat Rack containers makes them suitable for a variety of industries, including industrial, automotive, and construction. The ability to transport large-sized goods contributes to optimizing the supply chain, reducing delivery times, and overall logistic costs.

Safety and Regulations in the Use of Flat Rack Containers

In the transportation of voluminous goods, safety is a priority. For this reason, Flat Rack containers are constantly subject to rigorous international regulations to ensure safe loading and the protection of goods during transportation. Companies must follow recommended procedures to ensure proper securing of goods and comply with loading and transportation regulations.

C.T.I. also handles shipments with Flat Rack containers. If you want a customized quote or simply want to contact us for more information, write to us now!

L'articolo Flat Rack container for the transport of bulky goods proviene da CTI SRL.

In this article, we will explore the challenges related to transportation damages, analyzing the causes, adopted safety procedures, and presenting cutting-edge technological solutions to reduce their impact. The protection of goods during the transportation process is a fundamental element for us at C.T.I., as we aim to ensure maximum safety and integrity of products for our clients.

Analysis of Causes: Why Do Damages Occur During Transportation?

Goods damage during transportation can be attributed to various causes. A critical element is inadequate packaging, where incorrect choices in material selection or packaging techniques can expose the goods to significant risks. The lack of proper support and cushioning can make them susceptible to shocks, vibrations, and pressures, thereby increasing the risk of damages.

In addition to packaging, logistical issues should also be considered. Unforeseen delays, route deviations, or improper handling during loading and unloading operations can trigger situations that jeopardize the safety of the goods. It is essential to understand the chain of events that can contribute to damages, addressing gaps in logistical processes and implementing targeted preventive measures.

Another critical aspect not to forget is the variability of environmental conditions. Sudden changes in temperature, humidity, and other meteorological factors can negatively impact sensitive products. Accurate analysis of these variables becomes a fundamental step in preventing damages during transportation.

Safety Procedures to Avoid Goods Damages

Preventing goods damages during transportation is an aspect that can resolve many more situations than one might think. As we have already seen regarding packaging, it is important to understand that simple external protection is not sufficient. The use of suitable and customized materials based on the type of goods is essential. The use of advanced techniques can also work in favor, such as strategic padding and the use of tailor-made containers, contributing to minimizing negative impacts from shocks or abrupt movements.

Operational procedures during loading and unloading phases are equally crucial. Training the involved personnel is useful to ensure safe and careful handling. The adoption of specialized equipment and the implementation of specific protocols help reduce the risk of damages during these critical transport phases.

How to Manage Damaged Goods

In the event of goods being damaged during transportation, prompt action is required. Firstly, practical advice should be provided to customers on how to handle these situations, including timely reporting of damages and procedures for requesting compensation. Relying on C.T.I. also means having a serious and transparent partner actively supporting clients in these situations, ensuring efficient management of issues related to damages.

Economic Impact of Transportation Damages on Companies

The economic impacts resulting from damages during transportation can extend well beyond the direct cost of the damaged goods. Firstly, there is an immediate expense to replace or repair the damaged goods, representing only the tip of the iceberg. These costs can exponentially grow when considering additional expenses related to extraordinary shipments, urgent work, and potential service disruption to customers due to delays or missed deliveries.

However, the economic impact is not limited to these tangible costs. Corporate reputation is another asset to consider, and damages during transportation can seriously undermine it. Dissatisfied customers, negative reviews, and the spread of news about damaged products can harm the brand’s image, compromising the trust of existing customers and discouraging new business.

The impact is also reflected in refund procedures and dispute management. Compensation claims, as we know, can sometimes become a long and complex challenge, requiring significant resources to resolve disputes and maintain customer trust. The long-term effect is evident in customer loyalty, which can decrease drastically if damages during transportation become a constant.

Technological Solutions for Reducing Damages During Transportation

To effectively address the challenge of damages during transportation, cutting-edge technological solutions can be employed. Advanced monitoring sensors, for example, allow constant surveillance of environmental conditions and any impacts suffered by the goods. This real-time monitoring enables immediate interventions to mitigate risks.

Alternatively, artificial intelligence (AI) can be employed to analyze large amounts of data, identifying patterns and trends that may indicate potential risks during transportation. This predictive capability allows for more accurate planning and proactive prevention of situations that could compromise the integrity of the goods.

Furthermore, advanced packaging systems designed to adapt to the specific needs of each type of goods can be integrated. These systems combine innovative materials with customized designs to ensure maximum protection during transportation.

If you are looking for a reliable partner for shipments, contact us now. We are here to offer customized solutions that protect goods and contribute to the success of your business.

L'articolo Management and prevention of goods transportation damages proviene da CTI SRL.

The importance of goods traceability

Goods traceability, as mentioned earlier, is a fundamental pillar in our field of shippers because it is a practice that ensures transparency and control at every stage of transportation. This practice not only improves efficiency but also strengthens the overall security of shipping operations. Successfully implementing a traceable transportation system is crucial for companies that want to remain competitive and provide a reliable service.

The goods receipt monitoring sheet simplifies the goods reception process

At the heart of efficient transportation management is the goods receipt monitoring sheet. This tool simplifies the process of recording and tracking incoming goods, contributing to more accurate information management, and improving overall operational efficiency. The clarity provided by this sheet is crucial to maintaining an optimal workflow and ensuring seamless traceability.

Checkpoints and the flow of information

The essential nature of the flow of information between checkpoints is evidence of precision in goods traceability. Each checkpoint represents an opportunity to identify potential issues, anomalies in the transportation process, or risks of loss or damage to goods. This practice not only improves the transparency and visibility of the supply chain but also emphasizes the importance of appropriate security protocols to protect sensitive data and prevent manipulations or intrusions.

Advantages of traceable transportation

The tangible benefits of a traceable transportation system are numerous. Reduced delivery times, optimized stock management, and improved customer experience are just a few of the positive outcomes. Precision in traceability not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to creating a context where customer trust becomes a fundamental and solid element.

Advanced technologies for increasingly effective logistics

Talking about goods traceability inevitably leads us to consider advanced technologies that are playing a not insignificant role in redefining the shipping landscape. From the digitization of documents to geolocation and the use of sensors and real-time monitoring systems, technological innovation is the engine driving a more efficient and reliable shipping service. Embracing these technologies is crucial to remain competitive and ensure traceability that exceeds customer expectations.

At CTI, we also offer an effective system for tracking shipments. Thanks to the container tracking service, you can trace any container using the tracking code and obtain all the information about its current status and location.

If you have questions, doubts, or would like more information, contact us immediately – we are at your complete disposal.

L'articolo Optimizing transportation with goods traceability proviene da CTI SRL.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fundamentals of dangerous goods transportation, focusing on the importance of Kemler codes, the ADR table, and the key regulations that govern their management. Furthermore, we will provide valuable tips on how to handle dangerous goods safely and responsibly.

Understanding Kemler codes

In the transportation of dangerous goods, safety is an absolute priority. In this context, Kemler codes – internationally known as UN codes – represent the fundamental element to successfully achieve maximum safety.

These codes are a classification system for dangerous goods, in which each harmful substance or material is assigned a specific Kemler code that identifies its characteristics and the necessary precautions for safe transportation. For example, the first number of the code indicates the main danger class of the substance, while the second number represents the sub-danger class. The third number provides additional information, such as storage conditions and safety measures.

This type of code is essential, especially to allow anyone involved in the supply chain to immediately understand the type of risk posed by the cargo. It is, in fact, crucial, to ensure safety during transportation, that Kemler codes are correctly applied to dangerous goods. This implies that labeling is correct and clearly visible, documentation is accurate, and all transport regulations, including packaging requirements and emergency procedures, are adhered to.

The ADR table: regulations for safe transportation

The ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) is a multilateral agreement developed by the United Nations that establishes safety standards to be respected by all signatory countries, ensuring a uniform basis for the safe transportation of dangerous goods throughout Europe.

Specifically, the ADR table, a key tool within this agreement, is the official reference document that provides a series of mandatory guidelines, regulations, and detailed requirements to ensure extreme safety in cargo transportation.

The table, divided into various sections, addresses specific aspects of transportation, including labeling, packaging, classification of goods, documentation, emergency procedures, and much more.

Knowledge of the ADR table is essential for anyone involved in the transportation of dangerous goods, in order to ensure the safety of operations and compliance with regulations. Adhering to ADR provisions requires training, constant awareness, and the adoption of practices that conform to the various provisions.

List of main dangerous goods codes

The world of dangerous goods transportation is characterized by a wide range of substances and materials, each with its own risks and specific safety measures.

Knowing the most common Kemler codes and the key precautions to be taken during their transportation is of fundamental importance to avoid accidents and hazardous situations.

• Kemler Code 3 – Flammable Liquids. Precautions include the use of special containers, transportation in fire-prevention vehicles, and adherence to distances from heat sources.
• Kemler Code 6 – Toxic and Infectious Substances (for human health). Precautions include correct labeling, the use of personal protective equipment, and rigorous procedures to prevent contamination.
• Kemler Code 8 – Corrosive Materials. Precautions involve the use of corrosion-resistant containers, isolation from other goods, and measures to prevent leaks and skin contact.

Regulations and Safety in Transportation

Compliance with regulations related to the transportation of dangerous goods is essential to ensure the safety of operators, the surrounding environment, and the involved communities.

In this process, freight forwarders play a crucial role: they are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing transportation operations, including the classification of goods, packaging and loading, documentation, and driver training.

Similarly, drivers play a key role in the practical application of regulations and precautions. They must be adequately prepared to handle unforeseen situations – such as leaks, fires, or exposures – and ensure the safety of operations.

How to handle dangerous goods

Managing dangerous goods is a complex task that requires attention to detail and strict adherence to safety regulations and procedures. Practical guidelines for handling them correctly encompass all critical phases of the operation: from packaging to labeling, from secure loading to proper transportation, to emergency procedures.

Do you want to transport dangerous goods but don’t know who to turn to? Contact CTI, our team of experts will be at your complete disposal to ensure maximum safety and regulatory compliance. Safety begins with knowledge, and we are here to help you ensure it in all transportation operations.

L'articolo Dangerous goods transportation: the complete guide proviene da CTI SRL.

One of the most critical aspects of this planning is also the logistics of transportation and shipments. A reliable and customized shipping service becomes essential to ensure the presence of products, machinery, and materials at a trade show, thus contributing to the company’s success.

The role of shipments for trade shows

It may not be immediately apparent, but companies participating in trade shows must face significant logistical challenges. Often, the products to be displayed are fragile and valuable, making careful handling and safe transportation essential. Moreover, timing is tight as the goods must be delivered and ready for booth setup. Delays in delivery or damage to products could have disastrous consequences for the company’s image and reputation.

Customized Transportation for Events

Transportation methods dedicated to events differ from standard ones. Every detail must be customized to meet not only the specific needs of the company but also the requirements sometimes imposed by the event organizer. These shipments, therefore, require a tailored approach that includes:

Precise Timing

Timing is crucial. Merchandise must always be picked up, transported, and delivered promptly to ensure that everything is ready before the event begins. Planning is a fundamental element, with minimal margin for error.

Special Packaging

Packaging must be designed to protect products or machinery during transportation. Sturdy and customized packaging materials are often the only solution to ensure the integrity of the goods.

Customized Deliveries

Deliveries should be coordinated to meet the specific times and locations of the event. This may involve delivery to locations outside of normal delivery routes or during unconventional hours.

Planning Trade Show Shipments

To successfully handle trade show shipments, precise planning is essential. It may be useful to keep in mind and follow a checklist of actions to have a reference guide with the goal of ensuring that everything is organized in the best possible way:

1. Identification of products to be transported

List all products to be displayed and establish priorities based on their importance or fragility.

2. Choice of Shipping Service

Choose a company with experience in trade show shipments and the ability to handle special loads.

3. Proper Packaging

Ensure that all products are adequately packaged to withstand transportation. Consider using customized packaging materials, as mentioned earlier.

4. Timing Planning

Coordinate with the shipping company to establish precise timing for merchandise pickup, transportation, and delivery.

5. Real-Time Monitoring

Use monitoring tools to track shipment progress in real-time and respond promptly to any unforeseen events.

6. Reserve Additional Resources

Prepare to deal with unforeseen events, such as flight delays, customs issues, or road accidents, by booking additional resources in advance.

Event Logistics

Event logistics involve several key phases, each with its own challenges and solutions. First, merchandise pickup must be carefully planned to ensure that all products are available in time for transportation. The company should also verify that all products are in perfect condition and correctly packaged.

Next comes transportation, which requires the use of appropriate vehicles and experienced drivers. The merchandise should also be constantly monitored during transportation to ensure its safety. Finally, delivery to the event location must be punctual and follow a quick and efficient unloading procedure. It goes without saying that coordination with event staff is absolutely essential in this last phase.

If you are looking for a reliable partner for your trade show shipments, you can contact us immediately. We guarantee precise planning, attention to detail, and extreme cooperation.

L'articolo Transportation and shipments for events and trade shows proviene da CTI SRL.

Luxury on the move: managing precious goods

Let’s explore how a leading company in the shipping and logistics industry must commit to managing and transporting valuable goods safely, and reliably, by offering tailored solutions based on various types of cargo or customer requests.

Customized shipping solutions for luxury

Security is a primary concern when it comes to shipping luxury goods. Protecting these precious cargoes is essential to prevent financial losses and irreparable damage. Companies specialized in the shipping industry, such as CTI, are aware of this responsibility and have developed a series of measures for the benefit of customers to ensure maximum security throughout the shipping process.

Safety as a priority: transporting high-value products

There are numerous formulas to ensure effective and secure transportation of luxury goods. Vehicles and storage facilities are typically equipped with advanced security systems, including 24/7 video surveillance, controlled access, and intrusion alarms. Moreover, drivers are always trained to handle valuable cargo with extreme care, following rigorous procedures to ensure that each shipment reaches its destination in perfect condition.

But security doesn’t stop there. Increasingly, companies engaged in import and export also offer specialized insurance services to further protect valuable goods during transportation. This additional coverage provides peace of mind to customers, ensuring that their precious assets are safe from any unforeseen events.

Freight brokers: key facilitators

A crucial element in the management of luxury shipments is the role of the freight broker. In this regard, CTI serves as a reliable collaborator, bridging the gap between the customer and transport carriers, ensuring that every aspect of the shipment is planned and executed with the utmost efficiency.

We need to work closely with customers to understand their specific needs. This understanding allows us to create customized shipping solutions that optimize delivery times and costs, ensuring that every luxury shipment is handled with the utmost attention to detail.

Furthermore, a truly reliable broker is one who, thanks to a global network of partners and transport carriers, can offer competitive rates and flexible shipping options. The goal is to ensure that every luxury shipment is managed efficiently and professionally, always considering the specific needs of the customer.

Innovative technology for goods tracking

Technology is an aspect that cannot be overlooked in the management of luxury shipments. Thanks to innovative technology and systems, it is possible to use advanced tracking methods to constantly monitor the location and status of precious goods throughout the transportation process. With these solutions, customers can, for example, access real-time information about their shipment through secure online platforms. This transparency allows them to track the shipped precious items and have the assurance that everything is proceeding as planned.

In addition, some systems leverage innovative technologies to ensure efficient shipment management, such as automated systems, to name one: they enable optimal coordination of transport, reducing waiting times and ensuring timely delivery.

In a world where luxury demands extraordinary attention, CTI could be your ideal partner for managing the shipment of precious goods. Our experience in the industry and our absolute dedication to security invite our customers to trust us with the management of valuable cargo.

First and foremost, we prioritize the peace of mind of our customers, and then we ensure that every shipment proceeds and concludes successfully. Contact us to discover how we can meet your luxury logistics needs and provide you with customized shipping solutions.

L'articolo Luxury logistics and high-value shipments proviene da CTI SRL.

Brexit and the new transport regulations: an overview

With the UK’s departure from the European Union, many new regulations were introduced, and substantial changes were made in the transportation sector. One of the most significant changes concerned customs procedures. Before Brexit, the UK was part of the EU’s single market and customs union, which meant that the transport of goods between the UK and the EU occurred without the need for complex customs procedures. However, after Brexit, new customs rules, documentation, and border checks were introduced, significantly affecting logistics flows and timelines.

The complexity of post-Brexit logistics: challenges and solutions

Businesses in the logistics sector, as well as others, suddenly found themselves having to adapt their operations to the new import/export regulations imposed by Brexit.

Delays in transportation, additional costs, and administrative complexities were just some of the side effects of this maneuver. Border delays, for instance, became one of the most pressing issues, causing long truck queues and disruptions in the supply chain. Furthermore, businesses had to navigate new import and export procedures and comply with health and phytosanitary regulations.

During this period, CTI consultancy played a fundamental role in helping companies navigate through these diverse complexities, both from a logistical and administrative perspective, providing comprehensive support to ensure full transport compliance.

Transportation in England: the impact of Brexit on trade routes

Brexit directly impacted trade routes in the UK and consequently its four constituent nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

England, for example, has been a gateway to and from the EU for centuries, but in this context, many companies had to reconsider and adapt their transportation routes due to new regulations and ongoing disruptions caused by changes in customs procedures.

The primary goal of the transportation sector remained to minimize delays and ensure efficient delivery of goods, with flexibility and adaptability becoming crucial characteristics in this continuously evolving landscape, even though more than three years have passed.

The key role of freight brokers in the post-Brexit era

In the post-Brexit era, freight brokers, professionals, or companies specialized in facilitating and managing the organization and execution of transportation and shipment operations, have taken on a crucial role in supporting businesses facing the new challenges imposed on the logistics and transportation sector.

In this context, CTI acts as a trusted partner for all forwarding, logistics, and customer support activities, both for import and export operations to and from the United Kingdom. Our experts work closely with companies to plan efficient routes, manage customs procedures, and ensure timely delivery of goods, offering comprehensive support in the management of post-Brexit operations.

Do you want to ship to the United Kingdom but don’t know where to start? Don’t hesitate to contact us; we are at your complete disposal!

L'articolo Post-Brexit logistics and transportation in the United Kingdom proviene da CTI SRL.

Goods storage is a fundamental activity for the management of supply and distribution within a company’s warehouse. Its main objectives include ensuring the protection of goods from damage, theft, or loss, facilitating the picking and dispatch of goods, and finally, minimising warehouse management costs.

So let’s look in detail at what goods storage is and how it works.

What is goods storage?

Goods storage is the process of managing and storing goods in a warehouse or other storage location. This process involves the professional organisation and storage of goods for a specific period of time to ensure their integrity and availability for sale or distribution.

Goods, depending on their nature, may be stored in warehouses, containers, trucks, refrigerated warehouses, and other appropriate storage locations.

The storage of goods is essential for efficient business operations and for controlling production and logistics costs. It also enables companies to have greater control over the flow of goods and to avoid loss or damage of goods.

How goods are stored

The storage of goods takes place in various ways depending on the type of goods and the needs of the warehouse or the company handling them.

Generally, however, storage involves the following steps:

• Receipt: the goods are received from the supplier and checked for expected quantity and quality. Any damage occurring during transport is also checked at this stage.
• Identification: each unit of goods is labelled so that it can be easily identified during storage.
• Classification: goods are classified according to their characteristics, such as fragility, size, weight, required temperature and so on.
• Packing: the goods are packed appropriately in order to prevent damage during storage.
• Actual storage: the goods are placed in storage in order to maximise space and minimise the risk of damage or degradation.
• Control: the goods are periodically checked for anomalies and to keep the inventory up-to-date.
• Order preparation: following an order, the goods are taken from the warehouse and packed in order to prepare them for shipment.
• Shipment and monitoring: the goods are loaded onto the means of transport, shipped to the final consignee and monitored throughout the journey until they are delivered.

Goods storage systems

There are different storage systems, and one of the most common and widely used is the shelving system: in this case, goods are placed on special shelf structures, made of various materials and sizes, depending on the type of goods to be stored. Shelving can be fixed or mobile and can be arranged on the floor or suspended, with the aim of optimising space.

Other forms of storage may involve the use of specific containers, such as crates, bins or pallets. In this case, goods are placed inside the containers, which can then be stacked or placed on trolleys or pallet trucks to facilitate movement within the warehouse.

In other cases, especially for large goods or goods of a special nature, dedicated storage areas, such as warehouses or open warehouses, can be used.

Generally speaking, each storage system has its own characteristics, so the choice of the most suitable system depends on several factors such as the specific requirements of the goods, the size of the warehouse and the budget available to the company.

If you have any doubts or questions about this, you can refer to us: contact us without obligation!

L'articolo Goods storage: what it is and how it works proviene da CTI SRL.

The Fifo and Lifo methods are two goods flow management systems that are widely used in warehouses and companies. Both methods are used to keep track of the order in which goods arrive and leave, but the approaches differ in the order in which they are taken into consideration.

In this article, we will explain in detail what Fifo and Lifo are and how they differ.

The Fifo method

Il metodo Fifo, letteralmente First In, First Out (ovvero “primo ad entrare, primo ad uscire”), è un sistema di gestione dei flussi e permette che le merci che entrano per prime nel magazzino siano anche le prime ad essere prese in considerazione per la vendita. Pertanto, le merci che sono state in magazzino più a lungo vengono vendute per prime, ottenendo così una buona rotazione delle scorte. Questo sistema, che tiene conto dell’ordine cronologico di arrivo della merce, è particolarmente indicato per prodotti alimentari e per merci soggette a scadenze, come ad esempio farmaci o cosmetici.

The Fifo method, literally First In, First Out, is a flow management system and allows the goods that enter the warehouse first to be also the first to be considered for sale. Therefore, the goods that have been in the warehouse the longest are sold first, thus achieving good stock rotation. This system, which takes into account the chronological order of arrival of goods, is particularly suitable for foodstuffs and goods subject to expiry dates, such as medicines or cosmetics.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Fifo method

The advantages and disadvantages of the Fifo method include:

Advantages

• Assesses inventory accurately. This method accurately evaluates the costs of the goods sold and the remaining stock.
• Avoids expiry of goods. Goods are sold in a chronological order, so the oldest goods are sold first and the risk of goods expiring is avoided.
• Reduces losses. Due to this method, the oldest goods are used first, thus avoiding the risk of unsold goods.

Disadvantages

• Increases the cost of goods. The cost of goods sold is calculated on the basis of the cost of the oldest goods, which may be higher than the cost of the newest goods.
• May cause a distortion of results. The Fifo method could lead to a distortion of results in case of fluctuations in the price of goods.
• It has a medium to high management difficulty. In order to avoid errors in the valuation of goods, this method requires very careful management of inventories and stock movements.

The Lifo method

The Lifo method, literally Last In, First Out, in contrast to the Fifo method, holds that the goods that enter the warehouse last are then the first to be considered for sale. This method can be advantageous when product prices tend to decrease over time, as the cost of goods remaining in the warehouse will be priced lower, which will have a positive impact on the company’s profits. The system is particularly suitable for clothes or electronic products, which have a value that decreases rapidly over time.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Lifo method

The advantages and disadvantages of the Lifo method include:

Advantages

• It allows a reduction in taxation. This method can reduce the company’s taxable income and consequently the taxes to be paid.
• It has an effective correspondence between cost and revenue. The Lifo system more accurately reflects the trend in the cost of goods over time, since the latest is always the one with the highest cost (due to inflation or price changes).

Disadvantages

• The value of inventories is distorted. This happens because, with the Lifo method, goods remain in stock for a long time, resulting in a loss of value.
• It has a high accounting complexity. The constant monitoring of inventories and costs can create accounting complexity for the company, especially when there are a lot of movements.
• It is not available for all types of business. In the case of businesses that offer services and do not have a stock of goods, the Lifo method may not be applicable.

What are the main differences between Fifo and Lifo?

Both the Fifo and the Lifo method can have a significant effect on the valuation of inventory and the determination of the cost of goods sold.

In general, the Fifo method tends to increase the inventory value and reduce the cost of goods sold, while the Lifo method tends to have the opposite effect. Therefore, it is essential to choose the method best suited to the company’s needs and keep it constant over time to ensure proper management of goods.

Examples of calculation of the Fifo and Lifo methods

A practical calculation example is the best way to understand the meaning and differences between the two methods.

Let us assume that a company purchases:

• Lot A on 01/01/2023: 200 pieces at EUR 2 each;
• Lot B on 01/02/2023: 200 pieces at EUR 3 each;
• Lot C on 01/03/2023: 200 pieces at 4 euros each.

Out of a total of 600 pieces, it is assumed that 400 pieces were sold. The stock is therefore reduced to 200 pieces.

Is it possible to determine the value of the remaining pieces, taking into account the various costs incurred by the company?

Using the Fifo method, the remainder is valued with the prices of the lots that arrived last, in this case 4 euros.

Inventory value = 4 x 200 = 800 euros

Using the Lifo method, on the other hand, the remainder is valued with the oldest prices, those of the first purchases of the year, in this case 2 euros.

Inventory value = 2 x 200 = 400 euros

In this particular case, prices have trended upwards over time, so the Lifo method leads to an underestimation of inventories. The Fifo method, on the other hand, leads to an inventory calculation closer to the last costs.

Do you have doubts, questions, or simply wish to receive more information? Contact us, and we will be at your complete disposal.

L'articolo The Fifo and Lifo methods: meaning and differences proviene da CTI SRL.

Women who live in the municipality where the event will be held and who meet the necessary requirements, will be able to have free mammograms and ultrasounds with immediate communication of the report.

The initiative is dedicated to women not included in screening programmes* and allows for free diagnostic tests.

Reservations will be available on the welfarecare.org website closer to the date of the event.

The official date will be announced shortly.

Find out more about the initiative on welfarecare.org and on their social channels!

*Age ranges may vary according to regional health guidelines.

#welfarecare #prevention #socialinitiatives #healthandwellness #breastcancer #womenpower #supportwomen

#breastcancerprevention

L'articolo CTI official partner of WelfareCare for breast cancer prevention proviene da CTI SRL.

The cross docking logistics method, therefore, exists to improve the efficiency of the supply chains and eliminate temporary storage: goods are transferred from the point of departure directly to the shipping point without the need to go through intermediate storage. This process reduces inventory management costs and accelerates the speed of procurement. In addition, the cross docking technique makes it possible to reduce the risk of damage to goods and increase the quality of the service offered to the end customer, also thanks to the speed of product delivery.

This logistics system is mainly used in the large-scale organised distribution of goods, such as the food and e-commerce sectors, where speed of delivery and cost reduction are key aspects of a company’s success.

Cross Docking and Logistics

Logistics – a set of activities aimed at the strategic and operational management of material, information and service flows – also deals with all activities related to supply chain management, including transport, warehousing, order processing, inventory management, distribution and after-sales.

As cross docking is a logistics technique that minimises the time taken to handle goods and thus the associated costs, it is also part of the lean logistics strategy, the supply chain management philosophy that aims to eliminate waste and improve the efficiency of the entire process. This strategy focuses on identifying problems, on removing unnecessary activities, and on creating smoother and more integrated workflows.

To apply lean logistics to cross docking, it is thus necessary to optimise workflows through targeted planning and coordination. This includes effective management of vehicle routes, careful planning of transfer times and the setting up of a storage and retrieval system capable of reducing product waiting times.

Furthermore, lean logistics requires the reduction of waste at every stage of the cross docking process, such as the elimination of excess inventory or the reduction of waiting times for trucks. This helps to ensure a consistent and efficient workflow that maximises resource utilisation and minimises downtime.

The Cross Docking System

The cross docking system, as we have seen, can be an effective and optimal tool, but it can only work at its best if the steps of the optimisation process are followed in detail.

Generally, the cross docking steps are as follows:

1. Collection of goods: goods from different suppliers are collected and transported to the collection centre (warehouse).
2. Sorting and checking: incoming products must first be sorted according to their destination, and then be checked to ensure that they have no anomalies and correspond to the order description.
3. Order preparation: depending on the different requirements, the outgoing order is prepared (picking) for the arrival of the means of transport.
4. Order loading: depending on the destination, the goods are loaded onto the various means of transport.
5. Truck departure: the trucks leave the central warehouse and drive to the final destination.

These steps may vary slightly depending on the type of cross docking system used and the type of goods transported.

Example of Cross Docking

A concrete example of cross docking could be that of a large clothing company that receives orders from its shops located in different parts of the country. In this case, the goods are delivered to the company’s central warehouse, where they are sorted and divided according to the needs of the individual shops that require them. The goods are therefore not stored long-term in the collection centre, but they are moved immediately by truck or van to the requesting shops.

Find out how cross docking could help you improve your supply chain. Click here to contact one of our operators: we are at your disposal.

L'articolo Cross Docking: Meaning and Method proviene da CTI SRL.

By “transportation” the term CPT means the journey from the place of departure to the carrier – a third party contractually obliged to move things or people from one place to another – who is responsible for transporting the goods to the destination agreed with the buyer.

Developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the organisation that represents an international business, the CPT contract term is part of the ICC Incoterms, a set of international transport rules that define the obligations and rights of parties to an agreement for the international sale and purchase of goods.

CPT yield: who pays?

The CPT clause, as we have seen before, indicates the seller’s obligation to pay the cost of transportation to the destination agreed with the buyer. However, once the carrier receives the goods, the risks and liability for any damage or loss automatically pass to the buyer.

The clause generally covers the main transport costs but does not include additional expenses such as insurance fees or import taxes. Nevertheless, these additional expenses can be included in advance in the negotiation between buyer and seller.

Obligations of seller and buyer

Now let’s look in detail at the specific obligations of the seller and the buyer. Over the years, the International Chamber of Commerce has developed rules and guidelines for the international sale and purchase of movable goods, known as the ICC Rules for the International Sale and Purchase of Goods (ICC Incoterms), which were updated in 2020 and entered into force on 1 January of the same year.

The Incoterms Rules, which contain the CPT Incoterms within them, are used to standardise international trade and to minimise possible disputes between the parties involved. That is why the CPT Incoterms establish unambiguous perimeters as to which obligations are the sellers’ and which are the buyers’.

Seller’s Obligations:

• Conclusion of the contract of carriage of the goods to the place of destination;
• delivery of the goods to the designated carrier or freight forwarder by bearing all costs necessary to transport the goods to the agreed place of destination;
• bearing the risk of loss of or damage to the goods until the carrier or forwarder receives them;
• export customs clearance (where applicable) at the buyer’s own expense;
• updates the buyer on the status of delivery of the goods to the carrier or forwarding agent;
• provides the buyer with the transport document for commercial usage and, if required, with the information necessary to insure the goods.

Obligations of the buyer:

• Taking delivery of the goods at the agreed place of destination and bearing the risks from the moment the carrier or forwarder receives the goods;
• payment of the costs of unloading the goods at the place of destination if they are not part of the cost of transport paid by the seller;
• compliance with customs formalities for importation, bearing the relevant and possible costs.

Which are the differences between CPT and DAP?

DAP, literally Delivered At Place, is also, like CPT, a term used in international trade to define a mode of delivery of goods.

The main difference between CPT and DAP lies in the degree of responsibility of the seller and the buyer during the transport of the goods.

Unlike in the CPT clause, where the seller is responsible for the delivery of the goods until the agreed destination carrier receives them, in the DAP clause, the seller is responsible for the delivery of the goods to the agreed final destination and is obliged to cover all transport costs, including import and customs fees.

Do you have questions, doubts or would like more information? Contact us now: we are at your disposal.

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What does assigned port mean?

The term “free port” refers to a shipment in which the seller is responsible for paying shipping costs until the goods arrive at their destination. If we are talking about international shipments, we can refer to Incoterms 2020 and link this wording to the DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) clause.

In other words, the seller assumes all the risks and costs associated with shipping the goods:

– arranging the transportation of the goods

– verifying that the packaging of the goods is adequate and correct for transportation

– paying all costs associated with the transportation itself (including insurance costs).

Once the goods arrive at their destination, responsibility shifts to the consignee, who is responsible for any damage or loss that occurs after the goods have been delivered to his or her address.

What does assigned port mean?

Instead, “assigned port” refers to a type of shipment in which the consignee must assume responsibility for the goods. He or she will therefore have to assume all the risks and pay all the shipping costs, from departure to arrival at the destination.

In this case, the buyer will then have to:

– arrange for the transportation of the goods

– pay all costs associated with the transportation itself

– ensure that the goods are properly packed for transport.

If one moves in the dimension of international trade one must refer to the Incoterm EXW (Ex Work).

Who pays for the transportation?

Who pays for the transportation is precisely the differentiating issue between free port and assigned port, in the world of logistics. In the case of free port, it is the seller who bears the costs associated with shipping the goods, while in the case of assigned port, it is the buyer’s burden. In any case, this type of choice always depends on the agreements between the parties.

Ordinary shipping and COD shipping

For those outside the industry, it is more common to encounter the terms “ordinary shipping” and “COD shipping.” In ordinary shipping, payment is made before the goods are shipped, while in COD shipping, payment is made upon delivery. However, these two terms are not assimilated with the terms being discussed in this article.

For this reason, it is important for sellers and buyers to be aware of the implications of these terms before agreeing to a transaction. Making sure you have a clear understanding of shipping terms can help avoid confusion or problems during the shipping process.

If you have any concerns or questions about this, you can refer to us: contact us!

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The Bill of Lading (B/L) is a basic document of the transportation industry, used in domestic and international shipping.

The Bill of Lading certifies:

• The boarding of the goods in a specific ship at a specific port.
• The carrier taking over of the shipment of that cargo to a predetermined destination port.

The carrier takes responsibility for delivering the cargo in good condition.

According to the Navigation Code, the Bill of Lading, signed by both parties, is a binding contract with obligations and conditions stated on the back of the document, which has several functions:

• It constitutes proof of the agreement between the parties: carrier and shipper.
• It is valid as a cargo receipt.
• It guarantees the existence and nature of the goods described in the contract of carriage.
• It gives the person in possession of the original bill of lading also possession of the goods and thus the right to collect them at destination and the possibility of disposing of them for transfer to third parties by endorsement.
• It allows goods to be sent to multiple recipients by creating as many delivery orders as there are recipients.

The Bill of Lading is, therefore, a negotiable, representative of the goods and fractionable title.

Bill of Lading: who issues it?

The Bill of Lading is issued by the shipping company, in three originals, normally distributed as follows:

• One copy remains with the shipper as proof of carriage or in case of dispute.
• One copy to the carrier for handling the cargo during transport.
• One copy to the consignee to collect the goods at the port of arrival.

The B/L therefore is sent by the company (or the issuer) to the rightful claimant (sender), who will in turn forward it to the consignee of the goods only once the consignee has proceeded with payment.

There are cases, however, where a full set (3/3 originals) is required for a bank negotiation or at the express request of the supplier of the goods, and in special cases a larger number may be issued.

The bill of lading can be:

• Nominative: the name of the person who will collect the goods at the port of destination is indicated in the document.
• Bearer: the document does not identify the owner of the goods transported.

In both cases, therefore, the goods can be picked up only upon delivery of the bill of lading, and if the original is lost, the recipient may be denied delivery. Once one of the originals is used, the remaining two lose their validity (except for special constraints).

How to fill out a Bill of Lading

The bill of lading must be completed in its entirety, mandatorily including:

• Name and address of the shipper (or forwarder), i.e., the sender of the goods.
• Name and address of the carrier, i.e., the person in charge of the transport.
• Name of the recipient of the goods if the B/L is nominative.
• Description of the goods:
  • Nature, quality, and quantity of the items sent.
  • Number of packages and weight.
  • Value and conditions of return.
• Name of the ship on which the goods are loaded.
• Exact indication of the port of departure.
• Exact indication of the port of arrival.
• Indication of any ports of transshipment (transhipment).
• Date of departure of the ship (day, month, and year).

Another fundamental element that must be present on the Bill of Lading is the annotation “goods on board” dated and signed by the captain of the ship. If not, the document would have no value as a bill of lading but would become a simple receipt.

Bill of Lading: some typologies

In this area of mandatory documents, there are many details and shades that bring with them specific terminologies. Let us look at the main ones together.

Master Bill of Lading

The Master Bill of Lading (MBL) is a document used in maritime transport issued by the carrier, i.e. the shipping company, to the person who entrusted it with the cargo:

• To the exporter: the sender, who also organises the forwarding.
• To the shipper: if the exporter has entrusted the shipment to an intermediary who takes care of it on his behalf.

The purpose of the Master Bill of Lading is therefore to certify the taking-over of goods pertaining to multiple shipments. This document can be issued for shipments:

• FCL (Full Container Load): when the container is filled by a single shipper or loaded with goods all for the same consignee.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): in the case where a container contains several loads from different shippers with several consignees.

This transport document is not significant for either the exporter or the recipient, as both will refer to the bill of lading for the specific shipment, issued for them by the shipper.

House Bill of Lading

The House Bill of Lading (HBL), therefore, is always consequential to the Master Bill of Lading, or rather, to the presence of a figure intermediating the forwarding, the shipper. This document, in fact, is issued by the shipper for the benefit of the exporter as a receipt for taking charge of the goods and usually contains:

• Exporter’s details.
• Recipient’s details.
• Shipped cargo.
• Terms of payment.
• Shipper’s contact details.

Clean Bill of Lading

This is a characteristic of any bill of lading: it must be clean, meaning that it must not contain reservations, indications about the condition of the goods such as damage to packaging, goods, seals, etc.

Telex Release

In this case, the 3 original copies of the Bill of Lading are printed and stored in the home office of the shipping company. With the approval of all parties, the shipper authorizes the shipping company to “destroy” the set of originals and do a so-called “telex release” with a digital copy of the policy. This saves the cost of the express courier to physically send the original policies to the recipient, and most importantly, there is no risk of losing the originals.

Express Release

Once the Bill of Lading is confirmed in all its details by the shipper, the printing of the set of 3 originals is not done, as is usually the case, but only copies with also digital validity are produced. Obviously in this case there must be maximum trust between the parties, as there is no possibility of having control over the release of the goods at destination. The advantage is that it saves both the cost of printing the original set and sending it by express courier.

Through Bill of Lading

“Through Bill of Lading” means a direct or cumulative policy and is no longer used; it could be issued in the case of a transport performed by different modes by several carriers or when the place of pick-up or drop-off of the goods was different from the port of destination. In this case each ocean carrier took responsibility only for the section under its jurisdiction.

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Exporting to China: Certifications and Customs Clearance

Exporting goods to China involves complex bureaucracy. First of all, before exporting to the Chinese territory, you must verify if the product in question belongs to either of the two categories that require specific certifications managed by the CNCA (Certification and Accreditation Administration of the People’s Republic of China):

• Voluntary certification, not compulsory for authorization to sell
• Compulsory Certification (CCC – China Compulsory Certification), mandatory for products to be marketed in China

At the same time, for customs clearance paperwork, companies exporting to China must rely on a local partner in possession of Foreign Trade Rights, i.e. the Foreign Trade License issued by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Trade. These files are submitted to the General Administration of Customs (GAC) office, which classifies goods into categories:

• Prohibited, goods whose import/export is prohibited
• Restricted, goods subject to quotas or licenses
• Fully traded, goods with no special restrictions.

All Documentation Required for Export to China

Goods being exported to China must have a customs declaration (SAD) and the following documentation must be submitted:

• Commercial invoice, drawn up in English
• Certificate of Origin, certifying the origin of the goods
• Phytosanitary certificate, required for export of cultivated products
• Certificate or declaration of free sale of cosmetics, to certify that the products comply with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009

Moreover, the relevant transportation documents must be presented:

• Air Waybill, which is the document for transporting goods by air
• International waybill, which certifies that the shipment has been accepted for delivery
• Packing list, with information on volumes and exact quantities of packages
• Labels, the requirements of which vary depending on the goods, but must contain the product’s name and origin, and the contact details of the importer

Importing goods from China: formalities and documents

In order to import products and goods from China to EU member states, it is necessary to:

• File a customs declaration in the country you are importing into
• File a customs declaration to prove payment of duties and VAT.

Regarding documents, however, it is mandatory to be in possession of:

• Commercial Invoice, which is essential for import transactions from China. It must contain details of the producer, the buyer, the products and the economic value of the goods
• Packing List, containing all necessary cargo data
• Bill of Lading, certifying the conclusion of the transportation contract and granting the right to obtain the goods
• Certificate of Origin, which states the country of origin where the goods were manufactured or assembled.

Shipping to and from China: how much does it cost?

When importing or exporting goods to and from China, three taxes have to be considered:

• Customs duties, calculated on the basis of rates that vary depending on the type of goods and the origin of the exported goods
• VAT, whose rates are 9% or 13% depending on the category of the product. For imports into Italy, on the other hand, VAT is 22%
• Consumption tax, which varies from 1% to 40% depending on the type of goods. This tax applies to health-damaging products, such as alcohol and tobacco, luxury goods, cosmetics and high-end products, such as cars and motorbikes.

Shipping costs must be added to these taxes, which naturally vary depending on the type and quantity of goods shipped and the means of transportation used.

C.T.I.: experts in extra-European shipments

Importing/exporting to and from China requires attention and in-depth bureaucratic knowledge, which is why we recommend relying on expert forwarders for a seamless and simplified experience. We have specialized in the transport of goods to non-European countries and China for years now at C.T.I. International Forwarders, using our passion, care, and above all, experience and professionalism to provide complete and secure services for shipping containers to China.

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Incoterms: Unambiguous Rules for International Trade

Incoterms, short for International Commercial Terms, were defined in 1936 by the International Chamber of Commerce with the aim of facilitating international trade after the First World War. The multitude of contractual terms required harmonization and identification of shared rules to make trade between countries easier.

Over the years, the diversification of modes of transport and the increase in the number of countries involved in trade have made it necessary to continuously update Incoterms. Although the previous editions are still valid and applicable – as long as they are made explicit in the contract – today reference is made to the latest revision that came into effect on January 1^st, 2020.

What are Incoterms rules?

Incoterms are a set of contractual rules used in the field of importing/exporting, which unambiguously define the rights and obligations of the parties involved in the transaction. Specifically, these rules regulate who amongst the parties must:

• Stipulate the contract for the transportation of the goods and any required insurance up to the place of arrival;
• Take responsibility for the duties related to customs clearance.

Furthermore, Incoterms identify:

• The time and place in which the delivery takes place;
• The moment in which the risk of loss or damage is transferred from seller to buyer;
• The costs related to the delivery of the goods.

How many Incoterms are there and how are they classified?

The Incoterms 2020 include 11 terms, which are classified into 4 macro-groups based on the obligations that fall to the seller and the buyer:

• Group E: obligations fall predominantly on the buyer (EXW yield);
• Group F: main transportation is the buyer’s responsibility (FCA, FAS and FOB yields);
• Group C: transportation is the seller’s responsibility and the risks are the buyer’s responsibility (CPT, CIP, CFR and CIF yields);
• Group D: both transportation and risks are the seller’s responsibility (DAP, DPU and DDP).

Another classification of contract terms is also made according to the mode of transport:

• Incoterms applicable to all types of transport, i.e. EXW, FCA, CPT, CIP, DAP, DPU and DDP;
• Incoterms applicable only to maritime transport, i.e. FAS, FOB, CFR and CIF.

The importance of Incoterms in a sales contract

The use of Incoterms is optional, but they are now an essential element in commerce as they provide basic guidelines for importers, exporters, transporters, lawyers, and insurers involved in international trade.

If the parties choose to adopt these rules, it is good to remember that they must be referred to within the contract, stating the chosen term, the agreed location and the reference edition.

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Ex Works surrender term: what does it mean?

Ex Works (EXW) is the return term that minimizes the seller’s obligations, risks, and costs. Therefore, all obligations are borne by the buyer, who assumes all possible risks and bears all transport costs. That is why it is one of the most appreciated and used Incoterms in international buying and selling.

Ex Works: the Seller’s Obligations

Ex Works is therefore the most advantageous term of delivery for the seller, as they only have to comply with the following obligations:

• Provide the goods and the commercial invoice to the buyer
• Deliver the goods to the named place, without loading them onto the means of transport
• Provide the necessary documents and all information relevant to the movement of the goods

Moreover, only if explicitly requested is the seller responsible for assisting the buyer in obtaining the export license or other authorizations. Furthermore, sellers are not responsible for drawing up the transport contract, taking out the insurance or providing the delivery documents to the buyer.

Ex Works: The Buyer’s Obligations

If EXW is advantageous for the seller, it is less so for the buyer on whom most of the obligations fall. The buyer, in fact, must:

• Pay transport costs
• Obtain import/export licenses or other possible authorizations
• Take delivery of the goods
• Communicate the date and exact point of delivery of the goods
• Provide the seller with proof of taking delivery.

What are the risks and costs of the EXW term?

So far, we have seen how the obligations of the EXW term are divided, but what does this clause state in regards to costs and risks? Ex Works return term foresees that the seller bears any risk of damage to or loss of the goods up to the moment of delivery. Thereafter, it is the buyer who bears all risks.

On the other hand, as far as costs go, the seller is obliged to bear the costs of the goods up to the time of delivery, including those related to quality control, measuring, and counting. Meanwhile, the buyer bears all costs from the time of delivery onwards, including any inspection costs for import/export.

Critical issues related to Ex-works

The term “Ex-works” exerts a good impression on operators, however, especially sellers, should not underestimate some problematic aspects that may arise. In fact, it entails a loss of control over the formalities related to customs operations, increasing the risk of non-declaration of goods or difficulties in finding export customs documents. Moreover, the absence of a direct relationship between seller and carrier means that it is impossible to monitor the shipment.

For this reason, before choosing between the different Incoterms yields, it is a good idea to get properly informed. We at C.T.I. International Forwarder are always available to advise you on the best transport solution and assist you at every stage of import/export.

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What does electronic data interchange mean?

EDI -an acronym for Electronic Data Interchange– is an electronic system that enables the exchange of standardized data, automating inter-company communication processes. Indeed, in an increasingly digital world, commerce not only has to digitize buying and selling activities, but also make all related activities, such as the exchange of information and documents, more efficient. And in this context EDI is becoming increasingly established.

Thanks to this technology, small and large companies can share with customers and/or suppliers, in an immediate and dematerialized way, a wide range of information including:

• Purchase orders
• Invoices
• Bills
• Transport documents
• Payment confirmations
• Inventories
• Requests for quotations.

Here EDI takes on a key role within the supply chain, making communication faster, safer and up to date with the digitization of the industry.

How does EDI work?

Today, many companies use EDI to exchange business documents. But how does this process work? First, there are two types of EDI transmission:

• Point-to-point, i.e. via an Internet connection between two computers or systems;
• Value-added network (VAN), which involves the use of a third-party network that handles the data transmission.

Underlying both these modes of interchange are EDI standards, common languages for the creation of electronic documents that can be elaborated by the computer systems of any trading partner. Let us see in detail what these are.

What are EDI standards?

EDI standards define the rules for sending and interpreting various business transactions, such as the order in which information is to be presented and the mandatory data to be entered. It is therefore the standardized language that must be used to generate the documents to be exchanged between the parties involved.

There are different types of EDI standards, from the most generic and widespread to more specific ones, used for particular companies. Among the most common ones are:

• ANSI ASC X12, widespread in Canada and the USA;
• ODETTE, mainly used in Europe for the automotive sector;
• TRADACOMS, predominant in English distribution;
• UBL, the standard used by European PAs.

The benefits of electronic data interchange

EDI is a valuable ally in business management, as automating the exchange of documents brings a wide range of benefits to companies:

• High time savings;
• Reduction of management costs by up to 90 per cent;
• Reallocation of human resources to non-time-spending activities;
• Optimisation of commercial and administrative departments;
• Reduction of errors and increased security;
• Real-time alignment of the business situation between partners.

The use of EDI is becoming increasingly widespread, especially by companies that develop many regular transactions with several trading partners. This is why we at C.T.I. International Forwarder have also adopted this technology, so that we are always up to date with the technological innovations related to our sector.

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What is the REX system?

The REX system is the new certification system used to manage the origin of goods, and consists of a mandatory document that must be attached to the commercial document. In a more specific way, this new system is a specific case of invoice declaration, which is based on the principle of self-certification by traders.

This system was introduced by the European Union on 1 January 2017, as part of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) and in line with preferential trade agreements between countries. The intention of this change was to bring a significant advantage within trade: with this process, traders can provide their personal details only once and obtain the REX code, an identification value that allows them to benefit from preferential treatment.

You should know that the REX system does not affect the rules for determining the origin of goods, but concerns the method used to obtain that declaration.

How to register in the REX system as an approved exporter?

The first step in issuing a certificate of preferential origin using the REX system is to become an approved exporter. The procedure is simple: apply to the competent territorial office, filling in the form that can be downloaded directly online from the REX Portal, of which we will talk about later.

You must indicate the following data on the application form:

• Name
• Address
• Exporter’s identification number
• Any additional contact details.

In addition, if you are a trader, or a manufacturer, you will have to list the goods intended to be exported.

Customs offices then proceed with the registration in the database and provide operators with an identification number to be applied on the origin declaration, which must be attached to the commercial document.

Registration through the REX Portal

Since 25 January 2021, the technical services of the European Commission have made available the Operator Portal for the REX system. This site allows the digital submission of the registration request to the database.

To access this service, economic operators must possess:

• An EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) code, which is the unique registration and identification code of the operator.
• A consultative or executive authorisation, requested through MAU, the Single Authorisation Model.

Which countries apply the REX system?

In 2017, when the new REX model came into force, the use of this system was limited to countries benefiting from the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), but it was soon progressively extended to all preferential trade agreements between the European Union and other countries.

If you need to ship your goods to countries that apply the REX system and need help, don’t hesitate to contact us. We at C.T.I. are at your side to guarantee you an efficient goods transport service in line with all your needs.

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Environmental labeling of packaging: what it is and what information it contains

How often does it happen that you don’t know where to throw away the packaging of a product? The consumer receives very little information regarding the proper disposal of packaging, and that’s where the environmental labeling of packaging intervenes. This is a label that is applied to packaging placed on the Italian market to facilitate collection and encourage recovery and recycling. The label, in fact, provides information on the exact composition of the packaging and its destination, so that disposal can be properly managed.

The environmental labeling of packaging, in fact, provides information about the packaging so as to properly manage disposal. Specifically, the following information is provided to the consumer:

• Type of packaging, indicated with a graphic or description
• Identification of the material used, indicated by a code established by Decision 97/129/EC
• Family to which the reference material belongs and indications of the type of collection.

Where should environmental labeling be placed?

Environmental labeling must be made on all packaging that can be separated manually. Accordingly, it should be on:

• Individual manually separable components, such as caps
• On the main body of the packaging
• On the component that already bears the label.

What happens when the size of the packaging does not allow for the inclusion of these markings? Fortunately, nowadays technology comes to our rescue with QR codes or applications aimed at providing all the necessary information.

Is environmental labeling mandatory? What the new legislation provides

If you are a producer, you should know that Legislative Decree 152/2006, containing the information of the packaging waste management activity, was amended by Legislative Decree of September 3, 2020, No. 116, introducing a number of new features. The two main ones concern:

• The obligation of environmental labeling of packaging, in the manner prescribed by UNI technical standards and in accordance with the determinations adopted by the EU
• The obligation on the part of producers to indicate the nature of the materials used for packaging in accordance with the provisions of Decision 97/129/EC (European reference legislation)

However, provision is made for the possibility of marketing, while stocks last, products without the labeling requirements, provided that they are already on the market or already provided with a label.

Environmental labeling of packaging: the CONAI guidelines.

However, the new provisions have raised some doubts and uncertainties. For this reason, CONAI (National Packaging Consortium) has provided guidelines and a tool (e-labeling) to provide companies with answers on interpretative doubts related to the new regulations and to guide operators toward the correct implementation.

The document thus represents a clarification regarding:

• The components on which environmental labeling is required
• The applicable UNI technical standards
• The mandatory and optional contents

If you have doubts, do not risk putting on the market a product that is not in line with the regulations, but consult the official CONAI Guidelines.

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Let’s see together what the term “milk run” means and how the application of this method works in logistics.

What does milk run mean? The “milk run” in contemporary logistics

Nowadays, in a world increasingly focused on production and consumption, the cost of transportation cannot be neglected. For this reason, it is crucial to optimize shipments by organizing trips in such a way as to fully load the vehicle. As a result, more and more companies are working by following the philosophy of full-truck shipping, but without understanding its limitations: on the one hand, the customer may be oversizing his supply needs, and on the other hand, the supplier may only be interested in filling the vehicle.

It is in this context that the milk run, a strategic alternative for replenishment logistics, is developed. To understand what this is all about, however, we need to take a trip back in time, more specifically to the 1960s in the United States. Families used to leave empty milk bottles outside the door, which were promptly refilled with fresh milk so that they would never be without or overstocked. This is the rationale behind the milk run: managing raw materials according to a useful method that allows the real needs of the stock to be met and delivery to be organized from a Just in Time perspective.

How the milk run process works in logistics

The milk run method in logistics allows companies specializing in transportation to make multiple pickups and deliveries to different suppliers. But how does such a process work?

First, to make transportation efficient and avoid loaded vehicles, milk run logistics requires planning that takes into consideration the route to be taken, different intermediate stops, and delivery times. This will help to assess the most efficient route, greatly reducing transportation costs.

Once the planning is defined, the milk run process comes into motion: the vehicle travels to the suppliers’ warehouses to pick up the load, which will then be transported to the various destination areas, according to the defined route and within the established delivery time.

What are the benefits of the milk run system?

The main goal of milk run logistics is to carry out a lean production process that keeps the number of inventories low, limiting waste. Not only that, with this system the benefits are many:

• It improves stock logistics, as having only the right amount of goods on hand saves space and optimizes storage;
• Involves a reduction in transportation costs because it is planned in such a way that one vehicle can pick up different loads and deposit them at the same end point, without each supplier shipping the goods on their own;
• Environmentally friendly because optimizing transportation has a major impact on reducing CO2 emissions.

For a business, therefore, implementing milk run management could bring several advantages in terms of economics and coordination of production resources, greatly improving its performance. If you think your business might require such an approach, contact us; we at C.T.I. International Forwarder are available to provide you with the most effective transportation solutions in line with your business.

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What does customs clearance mean?

While free trade between EU Member States has allowed goods to circulate freely, in non-European countries, such as China and the United States, products must first be cleared through customs. But what does this mean?

In the context of import/export, customs clearance is a process that involves a series of controls to release goods from customs detention. This ensures that the goods comply with the regulations of the destination country and have met all tax obligations. Once these checks have been passed, the goods are ready to cross the border.

Customs clearance process: how it works

The customs clearance process for import involves:

• The arrival of the goods at customs
• The payment of customs duties and taxes
• Control inspections of the goods and related documentation.

At the end of this process, if everything is in order, the goods are released and placed in the country of destination. On the other hand, there are no customs duties and taxes on exports.

The customs declaration: the document required for customs clearance

All customs clearance operations obligate the owner of the goods – or his representative – to lodge a customs declaration. This is a unilateral act manifesting the will to place imported or exported goods under a certain customs procedure. This declaration must be made on a special form, the so-called SAD (Single Administrative Document) and must contain the following information:

• The identity and domicile of the owner of the goods
• The place of origin, provenance, and destination
• The number of packages
• The full description indicating the quality, quantity, commercial designation, and customs classification (HS code)
• The value of the goods and the amount of duty.

As soon as the goods arrive at the customs office of destination, the document is presented to the customs authorities, who are responsible for identifying the customs control circuit of the goods, which can be:

• Green channel, indicating that the goods are compliant
• Yellow channel, indicating that the declaration must pass through a further documentary check
• Red channel, indicating that the goods are to be physically inspected.

Once the inspection is complete, if the goods are found to be compliant, the declaration is signed and officially becomes a ‘customs bill‘.

Customs clearance: how much does it cost?

As we stated above, the customs declaration is also the element that gives rise to the tax obligation. Based on Art. 8 paragraph 3 Legislative Decree 374/90, the determination of customs clearance costs is linked to the parameters relating to:

• The quantity of the goods declared
• Their nature
• Their customs origin
• Bilateral agreements between nations
• Their value.

However, it is not so uncommon to run into misunderstandings: it happens that the goods get stuck in customs and a penalty is charged for compliance or, in the worst case, that it is seized and/or destroyed.

That is why it is necessary to inform yourself properly and seek advice from an expert. Rely on us at C.T.I. International Forwarder: we can support your business, offering you comprehensive customs advice to better manage the customs clearance of your shipments, even in countries with more complex customs regimes and processes.

L'articolo Customs clearance: what it means and how it works proviene da CTI SRL.

In recent years, we at C.T.I. International Forwarder have increasingly specialized in the transport of goods in the eyewear sector, including for trade fairs. To do this, we provide vehicles and specialized personnel to guarantee our customers a complete, accurate and personalized product pick-up and delivery service. In short, we take care of the complete logistics management: this is the key to a successful trade fair event.

Let’s look together at what is meant by ‘logistics management’ for events such as trade fairs and what are the most important steps to follow.

Managing trade fair logistics: what is it all about?

Logistics management is a supply chain process, which consists of planning and implementing the transport and storage of goods from the point of departure to the point of arrival, which in this specific case will be the trade fair venue.

Managing this activity in the best possible way ensures the correct handling of goods on time and reduces transport costs, for complete customer satisfaction. However, considering the duration of the process, it is necessary to deal with it in detail: from strategic planning to the supervision of each individual operation.

Logistics at an exhibition event: how to manage it

When organizing an exhibition event, logistics management plays a fundamental role. So it’s a good idea to analyze the main phases on which to focus your attention in order to ensure the success of the event.

Assessment of Technical and Design Requirements

The first step is the assessment of technical and design requirements. It starts with a discussion with the customer to understand together what the customer’s needs and objectives are, in order to offer a customized, fast and efficient service. In this way it is possible to accurately assess:

• The type of goods to be handled
• The most suitable means of transport
• The time required for delivery

Adoption of a logistics strategy

After assessing the technical and design requirements, a strategy is devised. In this phase, tactics must be adopted to organize and optimize distribution processes, with the goal of reducing losses, maximizing profits, and satisfying the customer.

Tracking and tracing all operations

The entire logistics management process is long and complex, which is why it is necessary to track all operations. This makes it possible to manage time schedules and, in the event of unforeseen events, to intervene promptly, without creating difficulties for the customer.

Supervision and Control

Sometimes the customer may require support in setting up the stands. To ensure an all-round service, we work with trusted partners who complete the set-up operations to a high standard, guaranteeing a complete job and maximum customer satisfaction.

We at C.T.I. International Forwarder take care of both public and private trade fairs, all over the world, even in the most difficult countries, thanks to a dense network of relationships and the experience and passion that characterizes our staff. If you need support, do not hesitate to contact us, we are here to offer you the best service for your business.

L'articolo Logistics management: the key to success for trade fairs proviene da CTI SRL.

Shipping to and from England: What’s new?

The trading economy between Italy and England is one of the most flourishing, but with the event of Brexit, shipping goods to and from the UK requires some extra precautions. While Britain’s former EU membership allowed it to enjoy all the benefits of the unified market, the situation has now changed.

In order to ship physical goods to and from the UK, you must now follow the procedure for shipping outside the EU, which involves:

– Completion of documents for customs procedures.

– The assignment of an identification code to the goods, the sender, and the consignee.

Exporting to England: What has changed with Brexit?

Exporting goods to England requires the submission of full customs declarations, which include:

– Invoice for export: this is the most important document for the customs clearance of goods. It should include the sales invoice number, the name of the sender and consignee, a detailed description of the goods and their Tariff Number (i.e. the customs code).

– Declaration of Free Export: a mandatory document for non-European shipments, certifying that the goods in question are not among those prohibited in the UK.

– EORI Code: a code identifying the economic entity that is to ship goods to the UK.

– Waybill in English: a document certifying that the goods have been dispatched and that sets out the contractual terms with the shipper, as well as the tracking code to monitor the shipment.

– Sender’s identity document and recipient’s contact details.

Importing goods from England: How it works after Brexit

In order to import goods from Britain to EU member countries, you need to:

• Obtain an EORI code.
• Submit an electronic declaration to customs in the state you are importing into. Alternatively, you can hire a customs agent to deal with this.
• File an entry summary declaration (ENS) at the customs office where the goods arrive. The document must contain all the necessary information related to the security of goods and persons.

Shipping to and from England: How much does it cost?

As far as costs are concerned, the EU and the UK have a free trade agreement that does not charge customs duties for importing goods to England in the following cases:

• The goods have European or English origins.
• The materials or workmanship come from a European or UK country.

Otherwise, customs duties must be paid if the total value of the goods is greater than £135.

On the other hand, regarding VAT, for the import of goods and subsequent supply of goods from England to an EU Member State, the applicable rate is that of the destination country.

C.T.I., experts in extra-European shipments

Importing and exporting to and from Great Britain is certainly more complicated than in the past, which is why it is a good idea to rely on expert forwarding agents. For many years now, C.T.I. International Forwarder has specialized in the transport of goods to non-European countries. With care, passion, and, above all, experience, and professionalism, we can offer you a complete and safe service for shipping your goods to the UK.

L'articolo Importing/exporting to England: How to ship goods to and from the UK? proviene da CTI SRL.

What is meant by intermodal freight transport?

The increase in international freight traffic that began in the early 1950s created the need for increasingly efficient transport solutions, standardizing long-distance journeys and minimizing the use of resources. Hence, intermodal transport is being increasingly implemented to achieve this goal.

According to EU Directive No. 92/106/EEC, intermodal transport is defined as the use of maritime or rail services that span a distance of more than 100 km and that are combined with road transportation at the beginning and end of the journey. Through this method it is therefore possible to optimize the loading and unloading of goods, which, being arranged in loading units such as containers, mobile crates, and semi-trailers, can be easily transferred to different means of transport.

The main characteristic of this type of transport is that the goods must be placed in a specific Intermodal Transport Unit (ITU), from which they are never moved until they reach their final destination. In this way, goods do not have to be handled during transshipment. Furthermore, intermodal transport induces one to consider transportation not as a sum of individual and autonomous activities, but as a global goods transfer process in the perspective of an integrated logistics chain.

Why choose intermodal transport? The advantages

The possibility of combining several means of transport, such as ships, trains, trucks, and planes, makes intermodal transport advantageous in many ways. Let’s take a look at the benefits it can offer:

– Efficiency: the intermodal system maximizes the benefits of the different means of transport used, such as the capacity of trains, the convenience of ships, the speed of planes or the flexibility of road transport.

– Convenience: the combined use of several means of transport makes it possible to optimize time and reduce the costs of transferring goods.

– Safety: the products, placed in dedicated loading units, do not have to be handled during shipment, as it is sufficient to transfer the specific ITU to another means of transport. This reduces the risk of damage.

– Control: intermodal transport involves precise planning of movements between the different vehicles, which allows for continuous tracking.

– Sustainability: intermodal transport is one of the most effective ways towards sustainable logistics. In fact, intramodality foresees the use of road transport only in the first and last mile of the entire transport operation, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

The differences between intermodal, multimodal, and combined transport

In addition to the term ‘intermodal’, one often hears of multimodal and combined transport, but these are not synonyms. Multimodal transport simply intends a service that uses different means of transportation to deliver goods to their destination. Intermodal transport, on the other hand, indicates a specific type of multimodal transport that is carried out using a single load unit. Finally, combined transport is when the mode of transfer is mainly by rail or sea, limiting road transport as much as possible.

Intermodal transport at C.T.I.

At C.T.I. International Forwarder, thanks to a dense network of international relations and many years of experience in the logistics sector, we plan intermodal transport down to the smallest detail, choosing the safest, fastest, and most cost-effective modes. With competence, dedication, and passion, we strive to guarantee a complete service capable of satisfying all our customers’ needs each and every day.

L'articolo Intermodal transport: what it is and what the advantages are proviene da CTI SRL.

The meaning of ‘picking’ in logistics

Warehouse picking consists in the activity of picking, sorting, and distributing materials from one loading unit to others. Every day, customers order goods that are to be shipped, and the objective of warehouse picking is to group all the items in an order with precision, process them, and send them to the recipients.

A properly functioning picking process can act as an effective warehouse management and monitoring strategy, especially if it is efficiently integrated with other warehouse operations, such as:

• Material procurement
• Order preparation and dispatch processes
• Packaging and wrapping of goods
• Storage and depositing

How picking works

The picking activity consists of selecting a type of product according to the picking list. This list organizes and orders the gathering activity, giving useful information on the location of the goods in question, the warehouse layout, and the quantity required. Once the items on the list have been picked, they must be packed and packaged for dispatch.

Particularly when managing large, well-stocked warehouses, it is important that products are efficiently  positioned and organized so as to optimize productivity and reduce the onerous costs of warehouse picking.

Types of picking: manual and automated

Warehouse picking can be done in different ways, from the traditional, manual picking that sees the physical involvement of an operator, to the more innovative picking approach based on a fully automated system. Both types can be effective, however, depending on the need and size of the warehouse, one will bring more advantages than the other.

Manual Picking

Manual picking is a type of warehouse picking that involves an operator selecting and gathering the units of goods on the picking list. This method is subject to the physical limitations of the human body, which is why it is suitable for smaller warehouses.

Mainly, the task of a picker is to identify and select the products on the list, check for damage, pack and label the order. Finally, the picker compiles a series of documents necessary for filing the order.

Automated Picking

Automated picking, on the other hand, involves the use of advanced technology for the picking of goods. Thanks to digitization, this picking method makes it possible to efficiently cope with the criticalities of a warehouse and aids in improving productivity, optimizing time and reducing the risk of errors.

This solution requires a more significant investment than manual picking, but automated warehouses will be increasingly indispensable as we move into the future, especially considering the characteristics of today’s logistics: demanding, flexible and digitized.

How to improve your order picking

Order picking can exceed 60 percent of a warehouse’s operational costs, which is why it is necessary to be able to implement the activity as efficiently as possible, by adopting more and more technological systems, but also through small measures that can make a difference:

• Appropriate training for picking staff
• An optimization of the warehouse layout according to logical parameters
• Investing in the technologies, from warehouse software to innovative tools such as voice picking, which consists of a voice synthesis device capable of sending commands to the picker, indicating the route to be followed and the tasks to be performed.

L'articolo Order Picking: what it is and how it works proviene da CTI SRL.

What is preferential origin?

Preferential origin is a status granted to goods originating from certain countries and that have fulfilled certain criteria, granting these goods the right to preferential tariff treatment. This status allows the sender to obtain:

– A reduction or exemption of the amounts due for customs duties

– The abolition of quantitative bans or quotas

Declaring preferential origin is certainly an advantage to be exploited when exporting and/or importing, but it is a complex and delicate process. The rules for acquiring preferential origin in EU agreements are set out in Article 64 UNCRC and the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), a non-reciprocal, non-discriminatory system through which developing countries can gain preferential access to EU markets.

In order to benefit from these preferential agreements, goods must meet specific requirements, which vary depending on the product and the individual agreements between the EU and each foreign country.

The conditions for determining preferential origin

One of the factors determining the preferential origin of a product is whether it has been produced with raw materials originating entirely from its country of production. If this is not the case, to enjoy the benefits of preferential origin, goods must undergo sufficient working or processing in said country.

Alternatively, preferential origin can be obtained if the product meets the “added value” criterion, which can be reached through two possible means:

– if the value of the non-originating components used to make the product is lower than a certain percentage, which is established according to the invoice price of the product

– if the value of the non-originating components used to make the product is higher than the previously mentioned percentage, but remains lower than the value of the originating components.

For each type origin protocol there is a specific list of rules, i.e. all the working operations that must be considered sufficient, and that must be followed in order to confer preferential origin to the product. In addition, all the processes that would immediately disqualify a product from obtaining preferential certification are also listed.

Declaration of preferential origin: certificates and standards

Once you have verified that you meet the necessary conditions to obtain preferential origin status, you can proceed with your application. Until March 2022, preferential origin was guaranteed by the EUR1 pre-validation form for relations between the EU and countries with specific trade agreements. Since April, however, the European Customs Agency has decided that the pre-validation procedure is no longer necessary, favouring a digitalised procedure via the AIDA portal for requesting certificates. This solution aims to streamline the process and improve control.

Another simple solution is self-certification by the exporter, but this possibility is limited to goods with a maximum value of €6,000. Furthermore, this declaration must be completed according to specific wording provided by the customs authorities and presented with an original stamp and signature.

The regional convention on preferential PEM rules of origin

The regional Convention on Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) preferential rules of origin provides common rules of origin among more than 20 EU partner countries to facilitate trade in the pan-Euro-Mediterranean free trade area. Since 2012, a modernisation process has been taking place and some countries have decided to temporarily apply the revised rules. As of September 1^st, 2021, these changes are applicable in trade between the EU and Albania, the Faroe Islands, Georgia, Iceland, Jordan, Norway, Switzerland, Palestine, and North Macedonia.

L'articolo Declaration of preferential origin: meaning and regulations proviene da CTI SRL.

What is integrated logistics?

Integrated logistics is an innovative process for planning, implementing and controlling all activities that constitute the transportation and flow of raw materials and semi-finished and finished products from their place of origin to the end customer. These processes include:

• Order management
• Stocking
• Warehouse management
• Shipments
• Goods tracking
• Returns management

In order to provide a complete overview of integrated logistics, it’s necessary to take a step back in time. Up until the 1960s, traditional logistics, that is, all activities required to move a product from the supplier to the consumer, were carried out with a fragmented approach where divisions remained divided and were managed independently. In later years, this approach was replaced by an integrated system based on the strategic co-ordination of all management activities in order to make it more efficient, reduce time and costs, and better satisfy customer needs.

Integrated logistics: how it works

So how does integrated logistics work? First, integrated and flexible logistics require a high degree of digital maturity for all operations, those related to storage and dispatch, as well as the real-time tracking of goods.

To make this complicated system easier to understand, it can be divided into two streams:

– Physical flow, the operational aspect of logistics including procurement, production support, distribution, and eventual recovery;

– Information flow, related to on demand information, logistical planning phases, production schedules, and supply chains.

It is essential to optimize these flows to reach efficiency, profitability, and quality of service objectives, to satisfy new customer needs, and to be competitive in today’s market.

The benefits of integrated logistics

The integrated logistics system, thanks to the synergy that characterizes all phases of the process, creates a series of benefits for both companies and customers:

• Maximizing time and saving money
• Better use of human resources
• Management optimization, given the presence of a single unit to whom the entire process is entrusted
• Greater customization
• Increased competitiveness in the global market

Nowadays, in our fast-paced world, the concept of integrated logistics continues to adapt, changing and adjusting to the evolution of supply chain management, which is being characterized by the improvement of management flows and the collaboration amongst external players. In this context, integrated logistics takes on a new approach in which the company becomes part of a network of players who all work together to provide products and services that create added value for the end customer. And that’s how we work at C.T.I. International Forwarder, guaranteeing that those who rely on us receive a specialized, attentive, and tailor-made service.

L'articolo Integrated logistics: what is it and how does it work? proviene da CTI SRL.

This has consequences for both producers and distributors, causing both delays and increases in transport costs, so much so that the Financial Times has called it the biggest crisis since the beginning of shipments by container. This crisis was mainly caused by the pandemic and worsened by adverse events such as the Ever Given grounding, the closure of two Chinese ports, the port of Yantian for a Covid outbreak in May and that of Ningbo-Zhoushan in August for the same causes. These events, however, have only highlighted the preexisting problems as many ports are inefficient and cannot manage the traffic of modern ships, which are too large for the existing infrastructures. Furthermore, the flow is based on a delicate balance of timing to have intermodal flow without delays. The slippage of the arrival of ships leads to slowdowns along the entire chain.

Among the most congested ports are those of Karachi, with an average delay of 27 days (and peaks of almost 90 days), Fos Sur Mer (France) with 16 days, Charleston, Long Beach and Atlanta (USA) with an average of 25 days late, Santos (Brazil) and Tomakomai (Japan) with an average delay of 15 days. To make up for these delays, ships may decide to skip some ports along the route (so called “blank sailing”), resulting in a delay in the delivery of goods that had to be unloaded and loaded in that port, as the routes are “circular” and then the ship returns to the port on the next “lap”.

Furthermore, measures put in place everywhere to counter the pandemic have created further delays, due to closures, buffers to be presented and so on. Secondly, there is the increase in consumption, resulting in an increase in the supply of raw materials / goods. In addition to this, given the collapse of global trade during the lockdown, many shipowners have canceled hundreds of ship trips, both to save on empty trips and because they took advantage of it to refurbish ships, thus leaving empty containers in the ports of destination, without being able to bring them back to the places where they would be needed (in particular the China -> USA route which after the reopening saw a displacement of over 4 million TEUs from September to December, without them returning to China). Consequently, this lack of gaps has created an imbalance between supply and demand, causing freight costs to rise, which have reached record levels with average increases of 800% on all routes.

Over this time horizon, the greatest threat remains the closures due to the outbreaks of Covid, especially in China where stringent rules and maneuvers are implemented, creating greater uncertainty on the timing of resorption of delays and consequent return to normality both in terms of punctuality and costs.

Contact us

L'articolo Why is my merchandise taking so long to arrive? proviene da CTI SRL.

Non preferential origin and preferential origin

The concept of “origin” has become important especially for consumer protection. In the customs and excise field, the origin of goods is a complex concept which is of fundamental importance: the exact identification of the origin of goods is essential for a proper settlement of the tax due and to avoid incurring penalties resulting from failure to observe restrictions on import and export.

Non-preferential origin

By “non-preferential origin” we mean, in accordance with the provisions of Community regulations, the place of production of a good or the place where it has undergone its most recent substantial transformation. It can be stated that, for non-preferential origin, it is sufficient (exceptions) that a commodity undergoes substantial transformation on the territory irrespective of any percentage of domestic or foreign commodity used in production. From a customs and excise point of view, it is commonly found in the change of customs heading (the first four digits) a sufficient activity to change the origin of the goods. Establishing the origin can be more complex for a product made in a country using imported raw materials or parts. In principle, it can be stated that all the activities of mere conservation of a product, or which are limited to changing the appearance of the goods (e.g. change of packaging, packing or box) can never be considered sufficient to confer the origin of the goods as they do not materially alter the commodity itself (the good is and remains as it is, albeit with external appearance, although different).

The certificate of origin issued by the competent Chamber of Commerce is the document certifying at international level that the goods have actually been produced (or have undergone “the ultimate substantial transformation”) in a particular country. Therefore, in the case where it is shown that the goods could not receive such a certification, the consequences, which may be of a criminal nature, relate solely to the person who made the declaration and requested that the certificate be issued, incurring in this case a “false declaration of origin”.

Production which, by its nature, must always be considered insufficient to confer the origin:

1. Handling intended to ensure the preservation of the products

2. Simple dusting, sifting, sorting, classifying, assortment, washing, reduction of pieces

3. Packaging changes, divisions or match meeting

4. The affixing of brands, labels or other distinguishing signs on products or their packaging

5. The simple assembly of parts of products to make up a finished product

6. The accumulation of two or more of the above listed operations

Preferential origin

For products imported from certain countries and meeting specific requirements, provision may be made for granting “preferential origin”, namely the granting of import duty benefits (reduction or exemption of duties, abolition of quantitative restrictions or with fixed quotas). Basically there is generally an agreement between two countries From a general point of view, a commodity, which does not meet the requirements to be considered “entirely obtained” in a given country, must be “sufficiently” processed to be considered “original”. The identification of the processes that are considered sufficient to grant origin is instead based on the origin protocols of the individual agreements signed by the EU with certain non-EU countries, as sometimes the rules may differ in themselves, even considerably.

If you would like to know more about it and know what CTI could do for you, ask us.

L'articolo Concepts of origin proviene da CTI SRL.

MIDO, the international optics, optometry and ophthalmology exhibition that will be in Rho Fiera Milano from April 30^th to May 2^nd 2022, is just around the corner. The eyewear show is organized by ANFAO, the Italian Association of Optical Goods Manufacturers, and we at C.T.I. International Forwarder are the first and only official forwarders to take part in the most important event for the industry.

MIDO is the most complete, fascinating, and avant-garde exhibition of the eyewear world. This event marks an important and exclusive opportunity for the major names in the optical industry to introduce their new products. However, it is also a space designed to discuss the trends of the future and create a network of shared knowledge and innovation. In this way, MIDO is a creative laboratory where participants can explore and test innovative projects. MIDO is an event not to be missed, whether you are a specialized professional in the business or are just looking for innovation and inspiration!

Over the last few years, our teams at C.T.I. International Forwarder have specialized in the transportation of products related to the eyewear sector. We provide vehicles and specialized personnel to guarantee our customers a complete, accurate and personalized package of product pick-up and delivery.

Come and visit us at MIDO, we will be at stand D16 in hall 24 for the whole duration of the fair. And, if you need to send your merchandise to the show, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

L'articolo C.T.I for MIDO: the official shippers of the eyewear show proviene da CTI SRL.

Groupage transport is a particular type of shipment that consists in combining goods ordered by different customers into a single transport operation. In order to efficiently carry out groupage transport, it is necessary to precisely follow process at all times, that is, reception, storage, order preparation and dispatch of the goods.

This activity has the potential to become rather complex. For this reason, to guarantee an efficient and safe groupage service here at C.T.I. International Forwarder, we put our competent operational staff at your disposal, who are dedicated to managing each operational phase with care, attention, and speed.

What is groupage transport in logistics?

Groupage transport is becoming increasingly popular in national and international trade. But what exactly is it? Groupage is a type of transport that consists in grouping and consolidating goods that have the same or similar origins and destinations so that a single means of transport is used.

When a customer needs to ship small consignments of goods that do not take up the entire space of the required vehicle, they can opt for groupage transport by purchasing individual truck lots or containers. The products are then grouped together with those of other senders and shipped in a single loading unit. This optimizes transport management and thus saves shipping costs.

Groupage is therefore the ideal solution for companies that do not have a high volume of shipments, which is often the case for the eyewear sector. CTI has specialized in this growing sector, becoming a point of reference for transportation to hard-to-reach countries, as we also offer our clients a complete service in customs assistance.

The stages of the groupage process

The groupage process consists of several stages that must be organized and managed in detail by professionals in order for the shipment to be a success:

• Collection of goods by pre-defined zones
• Consolidation of articles according to destinations
• Transfer of goods, by appropriate means of transport
• Sorting of the packages, which are then grouped according to destinations

Delivery to various destination areas

Shipper obligations for groupage transport

The shipper that relies on a groupage transport service must provide the carrier with all the necessary documents for the shipment, especially in the case of dangerous, perishable, or valuable goods. In addition, they must fill out information documentation for the carrier, including:

• Recipient’s delivery address
• Number of packages, weight, volume and maximum overall dimensions
• Name of recipient
• On-call hours and closing times of the institution or establishment of destination

Carrier obligations for groupage transport

Once the groupage service has been commissioned, the shipping company commits to dispatching the goods by the deadline set by the customer. However, as far as the provision of the service is concerned, the company is free to choose which routes and means of transport are to be used, as well as the itinerary to be followed. At C.T.I. International Forwarder, having operated in the shipping sector since 1997, we ensure precision and a speedy service thanks to state-of-the-art transportation and, above all, an expert team that studies the best solutions, predicting and preventing possible criticalities to guarantee a successful shipment, whatever the destination.

L'articolo Groupage Transport: A C.T.I. Service. proviene da CTI SRL.

What is a cold chain and what are its stages?

For companies working with fresh food, frozen products, or medicines, the cold chain is one of the most crucial aspects of safe and sanitary product delivery as it allows avoiding thermal shocks that may alter product properties. In fact, cold chain is precisely the process of maintaining a constant temperature of these delicate goods throughout their life cycle from production to sale, including transport, storage and loading and unloading.

In order for these products to arrive to the end customer intact, it is therefore necessary to ensure the efficiency of each stage of the cold chain, namely:

• After production, the first storage of the article takes place, with possible rapid blast chilling
• Storage in temperature-controlled cold stores
• Transport from production centres to storage warehouses using suitable vehicles
• Storage in warehouses
• Transport to distribution centres, using vehicles equipped to keep the temperature under control
• Refrigerated point-of-sale storage

Every single step is of fundamental importance to avoid product deterioration. This is why the entire cold chain must be controlled through a quality management system that documents and shares updated data with all operators involved.

Given the care required in this process, our company ethos of compliance with regulations provides a selected and trained staff to deal with every aspect of cold logistics, ensuring the correct storage of products.

Cold chain safety and relevant regulations

The cold chain requires qualifications, precision, and strict compliance with the laws relating to food hygiene, as set out in the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points). This set of regulations aims at guaranteeing product health and is a true control system that involve all the players in the cold chain: producers, transporters, and distributors.

Therefore, to avoid any contamination or degradation, operators involved in the various cold chain stages are required to meticulously comply with:

• Constant cleanliness and hygiene of premises, equipment and means of transport
• Pre-established critical limits in the various stages of the cold chain
• The temperature capacity of different means of transport

What temperatures should be maintained in the cold chain?

Temperature-sensitive products must therefore follow precise hygiene measures and respect the temperatures laid out by the law. Frozen foods, as declared by Legislative Decree No. 110 of 27 January 1992, must maintain a constant temperature of -18° Celsius, however, during transport, small upward fluctuations of no more than 3°C are permitted. As far as fresh food is concerned, each has its own reference temperature, for example:

• Meat +7° C
• Fish +2° C
• Fresh products +5° C

Finally, the same applies to pharmaceutical products which, depending on their type, are subject to specific temperatures and tolerances. Not only that, in some cases additional parameters such as the level of air quality are also required, which can make the correct cold chain process even more difficult.

It is very important that these temperature limits are respected as the interruption of the cold chain causes the formation of certain micro-organisms that can deteriorate the product and make it harmful to the consumer’s health.

Transport and cold logistics

In regards to cold logistics, the transfer of temperature-sensitive products requires the use of suitable means of transport, manufactured according to European ATP (Accord Transport Perishable) standards. In addition, the transporter is charged with the task of:

• Arranging the goods for proper cold air circulation
• Measuring the temperature of the products during the entire journey
• Documenting the data in order to make it available to regulatory bodies

This is therefore a complex sector that requires experience, expertise and attentive care. For this reason, it is always advisable to rely on expert companies, like us here at C.T.I. International Forwarder. Thanks to a widespread network of operators and state-of-the-art equipment, we guarantee efficient management of the cold chain in both the storage and transport of products at controlled temperatures and ensure maximum protection for our customers and end consumers.

L'articolo What is the cold chain for food, frozen goods, and medicine? proviene da CTI SRL.

The International Transport Forum (an organization operating within the OECD) has for years been warning about the size of container ships which they consider are too large.

Following the blockade of the Suez Canal, the debate entered the public domain, leaving serious doubts on the balance between pros and cons regarding the size of these vessels. According to an analysis by Allianz, the number of 20-foot containers that ships can transport has increased by 1500% over the past 50 years. In 2006 there was a decisive leap when Maersk introduced the first mega-ship which could carry about 15 thousand containers, doubling the previous record. To date, there are about 133 ships with a carrying capacity of between 18 and 24 thousand containers. This development is mainly due to the economy of scale: the use of a single ship instead of two to transport the same cargo saves fuel, significantly reduces the cost of transport per container and reduces the environmental impact of the ship. However, there are also negative aspects, namely the risk of accidents due to the greater risk of losing part of the load because of bad weather, having a larger surface area and consequently more height, and greater manoeuvring difficulties, especially in the narrowest channels such as the Suez and Panama canals. Furthermore, only a few companies own all these giants of the sea, and they can easily meet around a table to define tariffs and service protocols together.

At the same time, there are not very many ports that could be widened and deepened to accommodate such ships and offer shore services and efficient connections. In addition to these complications, we must consider the delocalisation of production with respect to where the consumption will take place, this concerns not only low-tech products, but increasingly semi-finished products. For example, to put together an iPhone, Apple has to count on prompt supplies from 49 countries. Pfizer vaccine has 5,000 suppliers located around the world. It can therefore be said that international economic integration requires efficient supply chains and the only apparent answer at the moment is the use of mega ships.

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L'articolo Ocean ships too big? proviene da CTI SRL.

Transport of goods is a fundamental pillar of the European Union considering that the logistics and transport sector has a value of 675 billion euros and the volume of goods traffic handled within the Union amounts to 3731 billion tkm (tons transported per kilometre) and employs 11.7 million people, suffice it to recall that during lockdown, the flow of food supplies and essential goods was not interrupted, with articulated lorries and trucks crossing along empty highways, and containers and cargo trains in deserted ports. But, despite all this, there have been very serious repercussions on transport, with a collapse of international trade due to a huge fall in supply and demand.

Air cargo sector has been the most affected, with an estimated loss of -16.8% for 2020 in terms of tkm (in the first 5 months of the year it had dropped by -26.7%) due to the significant reduction in flights, with passenger flights decreased by 95%, leading to countless inconveniences, delays and price increases for goods sent by air. Belly capacity, which means hold capacity, has dropped by 70% and is currently seeing a lot of competition, thus compensated by a 32% increase in the use of all cargo aircraft, but without an increased demand.

Furthermore, the decrease in passener flights to certain places such as small cities, makes the shipment of goods to these destinations even more complicated, requiring a multimodal shipping service, or the combination of several services, for example transport by air and land: shipping the goods first by air to larger neighbouring cities and then continuing by truck.

According to studies by McKinsey (a consultancy firm), international freight volumes will take 15 to 48 months to return to the levels of the last trimester of 2019, with some locations more affected than others. Unfortunately, the rush to bring personal protective equipment (PPE) to markets has diminished as supply chains have become regulated.

As international freight forwarders, we at C.T.I. will help you organise new strategies for the transport of your goods, providing the best solutions in terms of scheduling and budget at any time of the day and making the whole operation simple for you.

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L'articolo The impact of Covid-19 on transport proviene da CTI SRL.

This numbering is used in trade between nations, both in exports and imports, to allow a clear and rapid identification of goods.

Initially, the harmonized system was introduced by the “Custom Cooperation Council” in 1983, which then evolved into the WCO (World Custom Organization – WCO), a supranational organization based in Brussels (Belgium) and with over 170 member states.

HOW IS THE HARMONIZED HS SYSTEM DIVIDED?

The harmonized system (HS) is divided into 21 sections, subdivided in turn into 99 chapters sorted by type of goods, to reach 5000 groupings of goods.

The basic classifications, harmonized globally, are contained in the first 6 digits of the code (the first 2 digits correspond to the section, the second 2 digits correspond to the chapter and the third 2 digits correspond to the grouping of goods) and each state can divide further the goods included in these items, therefore from the seventh digit onwards the various customs tariffs may differ from each other. This structure is updated every 5 years, to take into account the evolution of the products subject to international exchanges, the last update took place in 2017.

WHAT ARE TARIC CODES?

The TARIC code is a method of classification and identification of goods traded internationally between the member states of the European Community, for the purpose of determining customs tariffs. TARIC codes, that is, the “Community customs tariff” have been applied in the European Union since 1987. TARIC codes are composed of 10 digits and are based on the nomenclature of the Harmonized System (HS) established by the international convention of the same name. They include, in addition to the rates of duties applicable to imports from third countries, the preferential duties applicable to goods originating in the countries to which the European Union has granted special treatment and a whole series of other specific measures.

The correct coding of goods is extremely important as it influences the application of import duties.

Do you want to know more about this topic?

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L'articolo WHAT IS HARMONIZED SYSTEM – HS CODE proviene da CTI SRL.

According to the study “Global Sulphur Cap 2020”, recently published by DNV GL on the case, more than 70.000 ships will be involved globally. If the ship is not up to code from 1/1/2020 won’t have the permission to sail.

To meet the conditions of the legislation by 2020, shipping companies will have to comply with these by choosing one of the following options:

1. Using new fuel: before the end of the year, all ships of the fleet must have done the tank cleaning from the remainder of the old fuel in order to use the new one. The cost of the “Sulphur compliant” fuel oil is, however, much higher than the standard and the vessel must be stopped to do the cleaning.
2. Installing “Scrubber”: a filtering system for Sulphur oxides, a very expensive process (from 2 to 10 million dollars, depending on ship’s dimensions) without considering that installation requires a dead ship.

Both solutions entail the detention of the vessel and massive extra costs for the companies.

But what happens to me as a customer?

Limited spaces on ships, since they will be stopped in rotation in order to comply with the regulation from January the 1^st, and higher costs for shipping companies will affect end-consumers too.

If you would like to know more about it and know what CTI could do for you, ask us.

L'articolo The SULPHUR CAP – A new regulation for the fuel of the ships proviene da CTI SRL.

We plan to sort out any concerns you may have by helping you to understand and teaching you to calculate the chargeable weight, depending on the type of shipment you are making so that you are not unaware of the facts in this matter. The premise, although trivial, is that the volumetric space is calculated by multiplying the three measurements length, width and height of each carton or package sent. The result is divided by the ratio applied to the individual type of delivery that varies according to whether it is shipped by air, sea, land or courier.

This result will be compared to the gross weight of the goods. The highest weight between the gross (real) weight and the one obtained from the calculation will be the one taken as the weight to be considered for the shipment.

Here are the weight / volume ratios.

• For air cargo: The volume to weight ratio is very simple, for every cubic metre of space a weight of 167 kg (formula: 1 CBM = 167 kg) is estimated, but if the weight exceeds the estimated weight, taxation will be applied on the actual weight. Example: 5 parcels with a total weight of 250 kg single item size of 60x70x80 cm. Shipment volume will be calculated as 5 x 60 x 70 x 80 = 1.68 m3 The chargeable weight will be 1.68 m3 x 167 = 280.56 Thus the cost of shipping will be calculated on the chargeable weight of 280.56 kg.
• For sea cargo: (In the case of LCL) the tax is applied per cubic metre or per ton according to the ratio: 1 cubic metre = 1 ton, (expressed in W / M formula). That will multiply the rate for the volume if in absolute terms the value in cubic metres is greater than the value in tons and vice versa for the weight if the value in tons is greater than that measured in cubic metres. Example: 8 packages with a total weight of 2200 kg individual packet size 120 x 80 x 150 cm The volume of the shipment will be determined as = 8 x 120 x 80 x 150 = 11.52 m3. The chargeable weight will thus be 11.52 m3 x 1000 kg = 11520 kg that is greater than 2200 kg. Thus the cost of shipping will be calculated on the chargeable weight of 11520 kg.
• For overland transport: In general, in the case of truck shipments, the tax is applied per cubic meter or kilogram according to the ratio:1 cubic metre = 300 kg. That will multiply the rate for the volume if in absolute terms the value in cubic metres is greater than the value in kilograms and vice versa for the weight if the value in kilograms is greater than that measured in cubic metres. Example: 5 parcels with a total weight of 700 kg with the size of each package 120 x 80 x 100 cm The shipment volume is determined as 5 x 120 x80 x 100 = 4.80 m3 The chargeable weight will be 4.80 m3 x 300 = 1,440 kg Thus the cost of shipping will be calculated on the chargeable weight of 1440 kg. Courier shipments need to be considered differently as they often differ depending on the carrier concerned. We hope we were able to make all this all bit less obscure but if you require further clarification, please contact us, our staff are always at your disposal.

L'articolo How cumbersome is my parcel? proviene da CTI SRL.

The FDA reports to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The primary objective of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is to protect and safeguard the safety and health of citizens by issuing rules and principles of control, regarding the marketing of products, which are investigated according to rigorous processes, including: medicines, foods, supplements and food additives, animal feed and veterinary drugs, medical devices and equipment (including glasses), blood and blood products for transfusion, and cosmetics. Instruments used for control include both pre-marketing assessments and postmarketing monitoring.

For this reason, the first step for any company that intends to export to the United States is FDA registration, which is valid for the calendar year (so regardless of the registration date, it runs out on December 31st).
Until 2012, registration for glasses manufacturers had no cost, but in 2013 the Obama administration put glasses on the same level as medical devices. The cost for 2022 was $ 5,546.00. For 2023, the total cost increased to $ 6,493.00 and for 2024 it has been set at $ 7,653.00.

In order to register, companies must appoint a “representative” based in the States, who the FDA will refer to in case of any problems.
At the end of the registration (which can be done online) you will receive your so-called FDA number, which will be specified in the documentation that your US broker will submit to US Customs and allow your good to be cleared.

In addition to the registration of the manufacturer, the recipient must also be registered with the FDA and declare who the manufacturer is.
To date, however, there are some exceptions for authorised practitioners who create or modify a medical device, which is also applied to stores and similar outlets that make direct sales to the final consumer (Direct Sales Under 21 CFR 807.65)

The matter is, however, very complex and intricate, as there are exceptions and inconsistencies depending on the customs officer and the customs through which the goods enter the United States. If you would like any further information, all CTI staff is at your full disposal, including the support of our agent who can also act as an FDA representative.

L'articolo CTI. Export in the USA: what “FDA” prescribes proviene da CTI SRL.

What is the incentive for the European Community to adopt a measure concerning wood packaging material from China and Belarus? In recent years we have seen the spread of various microorganisms, insects or “alien” moulds in our ecosystem that can devastate crops, gardens and damage urban greenery.

These are the killer parasites that have been threatening plants and crops in Italy for years. From the Popilla Japonica, which is destroying the vegetation between Lombardy and Piedmont, to the Xylella fastidiosa, which has massacred olive trees in Salento, to the Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, the red palm weevil, which has scourged the palms in southern Italy. These are just some of the numerous alien insects from other continents that, due to the intensification of trade, have arrived in Italy, where they found a favourable habitat due to climate change.

In view of Council Directive 2000/29/EC of 8 May 2000 on protective measures against the introduction into the Community of organisms harmful to plants or plant products and against their spread within the Community, the European Community has adopted the following measures with effect from 1 October 2018:

Wooden packaging materials, definitions:

a) “wooden packaging material”: wood or timber products used to support, protect or transport goods, with the exception of wood processed by glue, heat or pressure or a combination of these factors and wood packaging material made entirely of wood of a thickness not exceeding 6 mm;
b) “specified products”: products originating in Belarus and China imported into the Union, supported, protected or transported by means of wooden packaging material;
c) “shipment”: quantity of goods covered by a single document required for customs or other formalities;
d) “professional operator”: any person governed by public or private law professionally involved in the introduction of wood-based material into the Union and legally responsible for such introduction.

Wood packaging materials: controls and risks

The wooden packaging material of each shipment is subject to customs supervision and may be subject to full or random checks to ensure that they are not contaminated with harmful organisms and that they are accompanied by the certificates required to certify their quality. These may be subject to one of the customs procedures for release for free circulation or special arrangements, with the exception of special procedures involving external or internal transit, or storage, including customs warehousing and in free zones, provided that the plant health checks referred to in
Article 4 have been completed. If the plant health checks reveal that the requirements have not been met or that the packaging material/wood product is infested with harmful organisms under this directive, the Member State concerned shall immediately carry out a full or random inspection to physically establish the non-compliance.
Where such non-compliance or infestation is found, the Member State concerned shall ensure the immediate destruction of such wood material.
The material shall be treated before destruction in such a way as to ensure that there is no phytosanitary risk during and after destruction.
As always, we are at your disposal for any further clarification or information that may help you to carry out your business with peace of mind.

For information: aelmi@cti-spa.com

L'articolo Wood packaging from China and Belarus: here is the news proviene da CTI SRL.