Trade & Import Blog
Practical guides for international trade professionals. HS codes, duty, freight, Incoterms, and customs — covered with up-to-date 2026 rates and step-by-step workflows.
- LCL11 min read
LCL vs FCL Shipping: Which Is Right for You in 2026?
Detailed comparison of LCL and FCL container shipping. Cost, transit time, risk, and the exact break-even volume to switch from LCL to FCL on major lanes.
Read the guide → - import tax13 min read
Import Taxes and Duties by Country 2026: Rates Compared
Up-to-date 2026 import tax and duty rates for 25 major countries. Compare MFN duty, VAT, GST, de minimis thresholds, and special surcharges at a glance.
Read the guide → - freight forwarder13 min read
How to Choose a Freight Forwarder: 2026 Buyer's Guide
Step-by-step guide to choosing the right freight forwarder or shipping agent. Compare services, fees, insurance, tech platforms, and get the right questions to ask before signing.
Read the guide → - customs12 min read
Customs Clearance Process Step by Step (2026)
Walk through customs clearance end-to-end: pre-arrival filings, entry, examination, duty payment, and release. Learn typical timelines and how to speed up clearance.
Read the guide → - HS code11 min read
How to Find the Right HS Code for Your Product (Step by Step)
A repeatable process for classifying any product under the Harmonized System. Use the General Rules of Interpretation, chapter notes, and a free HS code tool to classify accurately.
Read the guide → - documents13 min read
Complete Import Export Documents Checklist for 2026
The complete list of import and export documents you need in 2026: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and more. Free checklist tool included.
Read the guide → - Incoterms14 min read
Incoterms 2020 Explained Simply: FOB vs CIF vs EXW and All 11 Rules
Plain-English guide to all 11 Incoterms 2020 rules. Understand FOB, CIF, EXW, DAP, DDP and when to use each. Risk, cost, insurance, and documentation responsibilities explained.
Read the guide → - shipping13 min read
Shipping Costs from China to USA 2026: Complete Rate Guide
2026 shipping rates from China to the USA by sea, air, and express. LCL, FCL, air freight and courier prices, transit times, fuel surcharges, and how to estimate your exact cost.
Read the guide → - import duty12 min read
How to Calculate Import Duty: A Practical 2026 Guide
Step-by-step walkthrough of how import duty is calculated. Learn CIF valuation, tariff classification, duty types, and use our free import duty calculator with worked examples.
Read the guide → - HS code11 min read
Complete Guide to HS Code Lookup in 2026
Learn how to look up, read, and verify HS codes. Step-by-step guide for importers, exporters, and freight forwarders with examples and a free HS code search tool.
Read the guide →