The importance of maritime shipping

Ocean shipping services transport more than 80 percent of all globally traded products. In fact, maritime trade is a huge part of what makes the world go round. The clothes you wear, the vehicle you drive (and the fuel), the TV you watch, and the cellphone in your hand likely came from countries like China, Japan, Germany and the United Kingdom. But, have you ever thought about the shipping routes ocean vessels take to ensure a quick and safe delivery?

Shipping freight between Canada and the United States

In 2016, the United States-Canada trade market exceeded $600 billion, making Canada the United States’ second-largest trade partner after China. Though trade between these two North American giants is common, for those new to international shipping, the process can seem overwhelming. With regulations to follow and documentation to complete, shippers have a lot to consider. That’s why using a company like ArcBest®, with cross-border shipping certification and relationships with trusted customs brokers, is crucial.

Types of transportation equipment

The furniture in your home, the clothes you’re wearing, your vehicle, even the device you’re reading this on — most of the products and materials we use every day have been shipped in some way. How do these items get from the manufacturer to the store, or even from a warehouse to your home? Take a look at the different types of trucking equipment, trailers, planes and containers used to transport goods across the globe in our latest infographic.

Need faster LCL shipping?

If you need fast delivery for your international freight, you might be considering full-container load (FCL) shipping. FCL is often seen as a fast shipping option because the freight isn’t sorted at the port and travels directly to its destination. But what if you don’t have enough freight to fill a 20-foot container? Less-than-container load (LCL) shipping is normally the most cost-effective option for small shipments, but it isn’t known for being fast. So, what’s the solution?

Hanjin bankruptcy causing shipment delays

Have you been notified that your ocean shipment is delayed? If so, it’s quite possible that it’s sailing on a Hanjin ship. Hanjin Shipping Co. Ltd, the world’s seventh-largest container carrier, filed a court proceeding in Korea seeking to be placed into receivership on August 31, resulting in $14 billion in stranded cargo around the world, according to various media reports.  The company’s vessels have been seized at ports or stranded at sea because of an inability to pay required fees.