Author Archives: PITCO (Shanghai)

Global trade is governed by a complex and often confusing web of regulations, fees, and charges. Understanding the exact difference between customs duties, taxes and tariffs is a critical requirement for Importers, Exporters and those related with international trade. A mistake in classification or valuation can lead to significant shipment delays, unexpected fines, and damaged…

Knowing how to avoid the common mistake importers make during customs clearance is essential for cost efficiency and preventing fines, and shipment rejections. Even a small mistake can lead to extra costs, lost income, and unhappy customers that can harm your reputation. At PITCO, we’ve seen firsthand the mistakes businesses make when moving cargo through…

A Customs Broker is a licensed company that acts as an essential intermediary between importing businesses and the government’s Customs Authority. The importers are often at risk for observing all rules, paying any commitments or costs, and ensuring the product fulfills the goal country’s rules. Customs brokers help importers move goods flawlessly across borders, without…

Knowing how to speed up the customs clearance process is perhaps the most important skill for any importer. For any business involved in international trade, having goods stuck at the border is more frustrating and costly. Clearance delays can quickly spoil delivery schedules, inflate shipping costs, and damage customer relationships. Most of the time, customs…

Understanding customs regulations is important for importers looking to successfully navigate the complexities of international trade. As an importer, you should consider several factors, from tariffs to documentation requirements. Failing to understand or comply with these regulations can result in delays, unexpected costs, or even seizure of goods. Customs procedures may seem overwhelming due to…

In today’s highly connected global economy, international trade plays a vital role in companies’ growth and expansion strategies. However, the path is not without challenges, and companies must address these barriers to achieve lasting success. This article provides an in-depth analysis of common challenges in global trade and offers corresponding solutions. 1. Tariff and Tax…

Geopolitics has a critical role in shaping global trade. Political tensions, wars, sanctions, and changing alliances can affect everything from shipping routes to supply chain stability. All global businesses need to understand the effects of geopolitics if they want to grow and survive. Geopolitical changes can change trade routes overnight, limit exports, or increase costs….

Today, sustainability is becoming a key focus in global trade. International Companies are looking for ways to reduce environmental impact while keeping their operations efficient. Green logistics is one of the most important strategies in this effort. It focuses on transporting goods in a way that minimizes carbon emissions, energy use, and waste. For importers…

Exporting goods can open the door to new opportunities, larger markets, and increased profits. By expanding the company’s turnover, it enables its expansion and growth, with a variety of markets with different types of customers. However, for many businesses, the process may seem complicated and overwhelming. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to help…

Cargo and storage infrastructure play a key role in achieving supply chain resilience. Companies that have reliable cargo systems and modern storage facilities, are able to anticipate disruptions and respond effectively. In today’s global market, challenges like natural disasters, political instability, and economic shifts can easily interrupt supply chains. Having a well-developed cargo and storage…