36-day average transit time on China-US West Coast route underscores the extent of supply chain breakdown
With the Biden Administration now stepping in to tackle the port congestion crisis at Long Beach and Los Angeles, China-US West Coast transit data and insights provided by digital freight forwarding company Shifl underscores how bad the situation has become, and how much work it will take to get cargo moving on time again. Between the 2nd half of May 2021 and the 1st half of October 2021, the average transit time from Chinese base ports to the US West Coast ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach increased from 19 to 36 days. This means that customers are currently forced to wait an additional 20 odd days for their products to reach them, which is only part of the equation. With the ports facing delays due to inadequate landside infrastructure, containers are sometimes forced to be stuck in closed areas within the port, delaying inland transit even further leading to potential business-crippling conditions. Commenting on the Biden administration’s efforts, Shabsie Levy, Founder, and CEO of Shifl said “With 40% of US inbound containers moving through Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, efforts by the administration is rightfully focused on a critical node of the global supply chain. The fact that the President of the world’s largest economy is getting involved in addressing this problem is already a huge relief for importers who have been struggling so much.” “However, this is just the tip of the iceberg and a lot more will need to be done to get our industry under control towards a sustainable future.” added Levy. “Usually, a ship from Chinese base ports like Shanghai, Ningbo will take between 16-18 days to arrive and discharge cargo at US West Coast ports” said Levy, commenting on the findings of the data analysis. “The increase in transit to 36 days, makes it very extremely painful for businesses dependent on supply chains.” added Levy. “While we are in constant communication with our customers about the location, release, and delivery times of their shipments, when a ship spends 2-3 weeks waiting to unload, that’s a nerve-wracking situation for the customer” said Levy. To speak with Shifl about the conditions facing importers, and how freight forwarders are working to address congestion, please contact Charlie Pesti at [email protected] About Shifl: Shifl is bringing the freight forwarding industry into the future with technology and innovation that brings a huge array of real-life benefits to its customers. If you’re an importer looking to bring your business into today’s digital age, be more in control of your shipping processes, and pay less — Shifl is for you. Shifl is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in China, India, Vietnam, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Georgia, and The Philippines. To learn more, visit https://shifl.com. The post 36-day average transit time on China-US West Coast route underscores the extent of supply chain breakdown appeared first on Shipping and Freight Resource. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/36-day-average-transit-time-on-china-us.html October 18, 2021 at 09:17AM
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Extended working hours justified as Port of Long Beach records second busiest September in history10/14/2021
Extended working hours justified as Port of Long Beach records second busiest September in history
The Port of Long Beach had its second-busiest September on record, down 5.9% from the same month last year, demonstrating the need for extended work hours within the supply chain as unprecedented numbers of vessels wait off the coast to unload cargo. Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 748,472 cargo container units, a dip from the Port’s strongest September on record, achieved in 2020. Imports decreased 8.7% to 370,230 TEUs, while exports declined 1.6% to 110,787 TEUs. Empty containers moved through the Port dropped 3.6% to 267,456 TEUs. “We are having capacity issues due to the unprecedented number of containers waiting to move off the terminals, while warehouses have little to no room to accommodate this ongoing spike in cargo moving through our port,” said Mario Cordero, Executive Director of the Port of Long Beach. “This is not just about a record number of ships waiting off the coast. We are working with state, federal, local and industry partners to address issues with the entire supply chain that have finally caught up with us.” “Our waterfront workforce is moving cargo as quickly as possible as we continue to collaborate with stakeholders from throughout the goods movement industry to develop solutions for our capacity challenges,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Steven Neal. “This cargo surge is anticipated to last well into 2022, so we need to start thinking of new ways to meet the expected growth in goods movement and rising consumer demand.” The ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles last month announced a joint effort to expand operating hours that provides more time for trucks to pick up and return shipping containers as a measure to improve freight movement and reduce delays through the port complex. Total Terminals International container terminal on Pier T rose to the challenge last month by launching a pilot program that makes it easier for trucks to access the facility during the overnight hours. Issues within the supply chain have slowed the country’s economic momentum, but have not reversed it. Strong consumer spending supported by rising employment and wage growth will continue to drive economic expansion. The Port of Long Beach has moved 7,094,849 TEUs during the first nine months of 2021, up 24.3% from the same period in 2020. The Port is on pace to move more than 9 million TEUs by the end of this year, surpassing the current record of 8.1 million TEUs achieved in 2020. The Port processed 2,341,021 TEUs between July 1 and Sept. 30, a 2.9% increase from the third quarter of 2020. The post Extended working hours justified as Port of Long Beach records second busiest September in history appeared first on Shipping and Freight Resource. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/extended-working-hours-justified-as.html October 14, 2021 at 04:17PM
Biden steps up pressure on ports and supply chains to address port congestion woes
US President Joe Biden seems to have increased his efforts to ease the current congestion, transportation and supply chain blockages that are disrupting the US ports especially on the West Coast and avoid disruption of goods delivery through the ports especially for holiday shoppers. Speaking at the White House on Wednesday, Biden said “The moves were a first step to pushing supply chains in the United States, the world’s biggest consumer economy, to operate faster.“ Biden announced a number of steps to achieve this objective including moves by the nation’s two largest ports Los Angeles and Long Beach to expand to 24-hour operation, and also to ramp up efforts by big conglomerates like Walmart, FedEx, UPS, Samsung, Target and The Home Depot for quicker cargo clearance. These companies were joined by powerbrokers from ports, terminals and labour unions to discuss how to speedily address a backlog of cargo sitting in thousands of containers on ships outside the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach waiting for a berth. The main cause of the congestion is said to be the increased demand from US consumers as e-commerce increased by 39% in Q1 2021 compared to Q1 2020 as more and more Americans seemed to have stayed indoors due to the COVID-19 pandemic and found the “buy” button on their computers. Suppliers couldn’t keep up with the demand and experienced several difficulties getting the goods to USA amid soaring freight rates, extreme space and equipment crunch only to face congestion at the ports caused by a combination of factors including inadequate and insufficient port infrastructure. Biden announced on Wednesday that the Port of Los Angeles has committed to joining the Port of Long Beach in stepping up its round-the-clock operations while customers like Walmart have also committed to picking up their cargo on a 24/7 basis to assist in clearing the ports of the congestion. “I want to be clear. This is an across-the-board commitment to going to 24/7. This is a big first step,” Biden said. “But now we need the rest of the private sector chain to step up as well. This is not called a supply chain for nothing.“ Biden further requested the terminal operators, truckers, shippers and the rest of the supply chain to step up as well while he committed to all Federal support stating that “strengthening the supply chain will be my team’s focus“. He also indicated that the administration will be calling out the private sector to act in case they don’t step up. He added that USA should address the long standing weakness in the transportation supply chain that the pandemic has exposed and it is time to improve the infrastructure. Biden further alluded to the fact that the time of cheering for the lean and Just In Time supply chains and leaving no buffer prior has gone as the world has changed adding that supply chains needs to be more resilient. Close on the heels of the meeting, Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka issued a statement regarding President Biden’s announcement regarding 24/7 operations for the Port of Los Angeles. “Operational details are being discussed and worked out with the supply chain stakeholders. The significance of today’s announcement is the commitment from industry leaders responsible for moving goods on behalf of American consumers and businesses to open up the capacity needed to deliver. It’s a call to action for others to follow. We have heard directly from the President, the Vice President, Secretary Buttigieg, National Economic Council Director Deese, and Port Envoy Porcari. We have a lot of work ahead. The Port of LA is called America’s Port because cargo we handle reaches every corner of the country. In the days ahead, we are committed to continuing to be the convener to ensure the supply chain delivers for the American people.”
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Moving to Hawaii: Things That You Need to Know
Thousands of people migrate to Hawaii every year, buy a home and start to live their dream. Most of them have high goals of living in this paradise, a beautiful beach house, everyday surfing opportunities, and sipping margaritas out of coconut shells. Hawaii is the last country that became part of the US, comprising islands. … Continue reading “Moving to Hawaii: Things That You Need to Know” Originally Published Here: Moving to Hawaii: Things That You Need to Know from Wailea Movers and Storage – Feed https://www.waileamovers.com/moving-to-hawaii-things-that-you-need-to-know/ Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/moving-to-hawaii-things-that-you-need.html October 13, 2021 at 12:17AM
COVID-19 crew change crisis – draft Assembly resolution approved
COVID-19 crew change crisis – draft Assembly resolution approvedThe Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), 104th session, 4-8 October 2021, approved a draft IMO Assembly resolution consolidating issues related to crew change, access to medical care, ʺkey workerʺ designation and seafarers’ prioritization for COVID-19 vaccination, with a view to adoption at the 32nd session of the IMO Assembly (6-15 December 2021). The draft Assembly resolution on comprehensive action to address seafarers’ challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic urges Member States to:
COVID guidance approvedThe MSC approved Guidance on seafarers’ training and certification for issuing Administrations, flag States and port States during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance contains recommended practices for exceptional measures adopted as a consequence of the pandemic. The guidance outlines the principle that force majeure is temporary and that STCW Parties should seek to revert to performing their obligations under the STCW Convention and Code as soon as possible. Piracy and armed robbery against ships and other illicit maritime activityThe MSC approved a draft update of IMO Assembly resolution A.1069(28) on Prevention and suppression of piracy and armed robbery against ships and illicit activity in the Gulf of Guinea. The resolution has been submitted to the 32nd session of the IMO Assembly with a view to adoption. The draft revised resolution will include a reference to the definitions of ʺpiracyʺ and ʺarmed robbery against shipsʺ in the preambular part of the draft resolution in addition to other editorial changes. Global pictureThe Committee noted that 83 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were reported in the first six months of 2021, amounting to a decrease of approximately 23% at the global level compared to the same period last year. The areas most affected by acts of piracy and armed robbery during that time were West Africa (27), the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (23) and the South China Sea (12).The number of incidents in the Gulf of Guinea (West Africa) decreased in the first half of 2021 by 5 compared to the same period in 2020, a decrease of 16%. The Committee noted the ongoing implementation of the Djibouti Code of Conduct, as amended, in the in the western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden. The region has established, with the support of the IMO Secretariat, a strong governance framework to spearhead the implementation and is now better prepared to find regional solutions to address existing gaps in Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and to develop response capabilities. The Committee requested Member States to continue to report incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships to the IMO Secretariat to [email protected], using the reporting form in appendix 5 of MSC.1/Circ.1333/Rev.1 and invited them to consider making financial contributions to IMOʹs West and Central Africa Trust Fund (WCA TF). Domestic ferry safety – model regulations approved for adoption in 2022The Committee finalized and approved recommendatory Model Regulations on Domestic Ferry Safety, for adoption at MSC 105 in April 2022, together with an updated plan for further work. The draft model regulations provide framework provisions on domestic ferry safety for incorporation into national law. They cover a range of issues, including: certification; manning; safety management; navigation and communications equipment and life-saving appliances.. The need for domestic ferry regulations is outlined in a new animated video, which can be viewed here. Goal-based ship construction standards (GBS)Having considered the report of the combined GBS audit on the rectification of non-conformities of IACS and DNV-GL (which has since changed its name to DNV) ship construction rules, the Committee agreed with the recommendations of the auditors and confirmed that the non-conformities of IACS common structural rules (CSR) identified during the first GBS maintenance audit in 2018 and during the re-verification audit of DNV-GL in 2019 had been duly rectified. The Committee confirmed that IACS CSR and the DNV rules demonstrated continued conformance with the Organization’s goal-based ship construction standards for bulk carriers and oil tankers. The Committee agreed to consider the remaining documents under this agenda item intersessionally by correspondence, for consideration of any action to be taken at MSC 105. The International Goal-based Ship Construction Standards for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (“the Standards”) describe the goals and establish the functional requirements that the rules for the design and construction of bulk carriers and oil tankers of an organization recognized by the Administration, or the national rules of an Administration, shall conform to, as defined in SOLAS regulations II-1/2.27 and II-1/3-10. Additionally, the Standards establish that the abovementioned rules shall be verified as conforming to the goals and functional requirements. The verification is achieved by conducting regular GBS audits of the ship construction rules of organizations recognized by the Administration who had already been verified to conform to the Standards. Those recognized organizations or Administration seeking to have their ship construction rules verified to be GBS-conform for the first time will have to undergo an initial GBS audit, in accordance with the Revised guidelines for verification of conformity with goal-based ship construction standards for bulk carriers and oil tankers (resolution MSC.454(100)). The next scheduled GBS audits will be conducted in early 2022 when the first three-year maintenance audit cycle begins. Amendments to mandatory instrumentsThe MSC adopted:
The amendments are expected to enter into force on1 January 2024. Modernization of the GMDSS – approval of amendments to SOLAS and related instrumentsFollowing a comprehensive review of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) by the Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR), the MSC approved a set of draft amendments to the 1974 SOLAS Convention, together with associated amendments and revisions to existing related instruments. The aim of the amendments is to enable the use of modern communication systems in the GMDSS whilst removing requirements to carry obsolete systems. The revision of the relevant regulations in SOLAS chapters II-1, III, IV and V and preparation of related and consequential amendments to other existing instruments is the result of a decade of detail-oriented work by IMO, in particular by the NCSR Sub-Committee. Safety of navigation and safety of life at sea depend on the integrated satellite and terrestrial radiocommunication systems to support ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore and shore-to-ship distress, urgency and safety communications at sea, which is known as the GMDSS in general. Mandatory requirements for the GMDSS are laid down in the SOLAS Convention. The MSC approved, for adoption at MSC 105, draft amendments to: SOLAS chapters II-1, III, IV and V, and the appendix (Certificates) ; the 1988 SOLAS Protocol; the 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes; – the 1983 and 2008 SPS Codes; and the 1979, 1989 and 2009 MODU Codes. In addition, the MSC approved, in principle, a further 11 draft MSC resolutions and two draft MSC circulars, with a view to final approval/adoption at MSC 105, – see full list here https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/MeetingSummaries/Pages/MSC-104th-session.aspx Recognition of Japanese Regional Navigation Satellite SystemThe Committee recognized the Japanese Regional Navigation Satellite System Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) as a component of the world-wide radio navigation system (WWRNS). IMO has an important role in accepting and recognizing radionavigation systems which can be used by international shipping and has recognized the global positioning system (GPS), global navigation satellite system (GLONASS), BeiDou navigation satellite system (BDS), Galileo global navigation satellite system and Indian regional navigation satellite system (IRNSS). SOLAS chapter V requires all ships to carry a global navigation satellite system or terrestrial radio navigation receiver, or other means, to establish and update the ship’s position by automatic means, for use at all times throughout the voyage. Future work on autonomous ships – goal-based instrument to be developedThe Committee agreed to develop a goal-based instrument for maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS). This follows the completion of the regulatory scoping exercise (RSE) in May 2021 which analyzed relevant ship safety treaties, in order to assess how MASS could be regulated internationally. Read more about the RSE here: Autonomous ships: regulatory scoping exercise completed (imo.org) The MSC included a new output on “Development of a goal-based instrument for maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS)”, with a target completion year of 2025, in its biennial agenda for 2022-2023 and the provisional agenda for MSC 105. The Committee agreed that the MASS Working Group should be re-established, starting at MSC 105. Having agreed that the first step in the work on the new output would be the finalization of a road map, the Committee requested the Chair to prepare, together with the Secretariat, a draft roadmap, including scope, steps and timelines, as well as the coordination of work with other IMO bodies, and submit this to MSC 105 for detailed consideration. Unsafe mixed migration by sea – resolution mootedThe Committee considered a proposal to adopt an MSC resolution to reiterate the importance of effective and timely involvement of Governments in cases of rescue of migrants at sea by merchant ships. While noting support in principle for the draft resolution, the Committee postponed further detailed consideration of this sensitive matter to MSC 105 and invited Member States to submit comments to the next session, with a view to finalizing the resolution then. New output on remote surveysThe Committee included a new output on “Development of guidance on assessments and applications of remote surveys, ISM Code audits and ISPS Code verifications”, in the biennial agenda of the III Sub-Committee for 2022-2023 and the provisional agenda for III 8, with a target completion year of 2024. Other mattersThe Committee:
MSC 104 DocumentsMSC documents may be accessed via IMODOCS (registration required) IMODOCS Contact InformationNatasha Brown Notes to editorsPicture CREDIT – Capt Felino D’Souza The post COVID-19 crew change crisis – draft Assembly resolution approved appeared first on Shipping and Freight Resource. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/covid-19crew-change-crisis-draft.html October 12, 2021 at 01:17PM
7 Tips for Setting Up Furniture in your New Home
Welcome home! All of your dreams of being in a new space are finally coming true. Except you forgot one part… the one where you put in the effort to actually arrange the furniture exactly how you want it. That’s not exactly the most fun step of getting into a new place, but it’s worth it! We’ll help you with some tips for setting up furniture in your new home so you can get set in no time. 1. Consider the Room’s PurposeIt’s best to tackle the furniture planning room-by-room. Giving proper attention to each room will ensure you create a comfortable space that you don’t need to rearrange right away. Before you begin, start with the basics. Think about the purpose and function of the room is. This may seem obvious but trust us, it can be easy to lose sight of this point. If you’re setting up your living room as a cozy after-work space, don’t try to turn it into a dining room as well. You’ll end up cramped and cluttered with a room that feels thrown together. Decide on the primary purpose of the room you’re setting up, and make decisions that serve that idea. 2. Decide on a Focal PointA focal point in a room is a place to draw the eye and helps to create balance within the space. Oftentimes you’ll need to create this point with furniture or decor. Fireplaces often become natural focal points, as do picture windows. If your room lacks a natural focal point, you’ll find that the largest piece of furniture often becomes that point. That’s usually your bed, sofa, dining table, etc. Start with the focal point and build around that. 3. Start with Large PiecesAs your largest piece of furniture will be your focal point, start by placing it first. Having a primary starting point will make the rest of the room setup easier. Since you’re in a new home, there’s a chance that your focal piece won’t fit the new room. No matter your attachment, be realistic. If your dining table is too big for your new dining room, it may be time to trade it out for a new set. 4. Go for BalanceYour focal point will help you to ensure your room has visual balance. When a room is in balance, everything looks like it belongs – and flows – together. When you step into a balanced room there is a sense of visual harmony. To ensure visual balance, try finding elements that pull everything together. A large area rug can help bring the room into a common space. This can tie together multiple pieces of furniture. Using similar colors or patterns can also bring a sense of cohesiveness to items that may not otherwise have much in common, stylistically speaking. Using furniture in a variety of sizes will also help to bring some balance to the room. You can offset a large sofa or armoire with smaller accent tables, for example. 5. Think About MovementForm and function – key elements to a well-designed space. You may love all of your beautiful furniture pieces from your old living room, but be realistic: do they fit in your new home? Consider how people will move through the space once it’s set up. Be mindful of foot traffic and making sure the room isn’t too cluttered to move about. That includes your kids and pets too, of course! Your room should be stylish and functional all at once. If that means moving some furniture to places where it can be better used, shift them over. Keep the room free of clutter and the movement in a good flow. You’ll feel more at home. 6. Use Visual TricksUsing visual tricks will help you create and recreate the space you want. Mirrors are a great way to add a touch to your room. They can help to reflect light, making your room brighter and more inviting. Placed thoughtfully with the intention of expanding your space, they give the illusion of a bigger room. They can also add a little pop of detail without distracting from your focal point and flow. 7. Consider Your LightingSetting up your furniture isn’t just about sofas and tables. Your lighting can also play a key role in how you arrange the functional pieces in your room. Start by considering overhead lighting and where you might have dark or visually heavy pockets of the room. Place tables and stands in ways that both make sense for the room’s flow and can hold lamps as needed. If you have a big heavy sofa or chest in the room, make sure you have some lighting to visually lighten them up.
The post 7 Tips for Setting Up Furniture in your New Home appeared first on Flatrate Moving. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/7-tips-for-setting-up-furniture-in-your.html October 08, 2021 at 10:17AM China-US freight rates plunge but China manufacturing woes create new headaches for shippers10/7/2021
China-US freight rates plunge, but China manufacturing woes create new headaches for shippers
Suffern, NY, October 06, 2021 —Shippers might finally be catching a break, as China-US spot freight rates plunge in the first week of October. With Chinese manufacturers throttling production due to the power crisis and the off-season coming into view, competition for freight capacity in terms of containers and vessel space has fallen off, moving prices down by up to 51.4% on some routes. Data provided by digital freight forwarding company Shifl shows that the spot rate for shipping a 40′ container from China to Los Angeles dropped by $9,000, or 51.4% between September and October of this year, from a high of $17,500 to $8,500. For China-US East Coast shipping, rates dropped by 28.2% in one month, down to $14,000 per container in October from $19,500 in September.
However, this temporary reprieve could soon be overshadowed by a growing backlog of unfulfilled orders. Chinese energy rationing policies and the impact of COVID-19 shutdowns are throttling factory output meaning that US and EU manufacturing orders are not being filled on time. While US and EU businesses scramble to diversify their supply chains, inventory shortages and price increases will become more pronounced. “Before the pandemic, our customers were getting containers shipped for around $1,500,” said Shabsie Levy, Founder, and CEO of Shifl. “Some agents (co loaders) took advantage of the price increases and congestion by buying up capacity, and now they are looking to unload it as quickly as possible,” he added “For shippers with inventory still in China, access to capacity at lower rates is great news. But the big question now is whether or not there will be products to fill these containers” “These rates could go even lower. We’re already seeing long-term rates for shipping 40-foot containers from China to the U.S. go below $5,000,” added Levy. “
About Shifl: Shifl is bringing the freight forwarding industry into the future with technology and innovation that brings a huge array of real-life benefits to its customers. If you’re an importer looking to bring your business into today’s digital age, be more in control of your shipping processes, and pay less — Shifl is for you. Shifl is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in China, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Georgia, and The Philippines. To learn more, visit https://shifl.com.
Media contact: The post China-US freight rates plunge, but China manufacturing woes create new headaches for shippers appeared first on Shipping and Freight Resource. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/china-us-freight-rates-plunge-but-china.html October 07, 2021 at 03:17AM
Zim becomes the latest shipping line to enter the freight forwarding market
HAIFA, Israel, Oct. 6, 2021 — ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (NYSE: ZIM) announced today the creation of a new subsidiary, Ship4wd, a digital freight forwarding platform offering an online, simple and reliable self-service end to end shipping solution. Ship4wd will launch on October 18 2021.
Ship4wd will target US & Canadian small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) importing and exporting from China, Vietnam and Israel. Relying on ZIM’s vast experience and in-depth knowledge of the shipping industry, along with its proven track record in digital shipping, the new digital freight forwarding company will provide small and medium businesses, as well as entrepreneurs worldwide, a simple and direct solution for shipping cargo – through an advanced ‘one-stop-shop’ digitalplatform. The digital service offered by Ship4wd is based on one-stop-shop service covering all aspects of the complex international shipping process. It enables customers without previous experience in cross-border shipping to manage their import and export business simply and efficiently, with live chat 24/7 expert support throughout the process. The Ship4wd platform will offer each customer the optimal solution – either the most economic or the fastest option – according to the customer’s preferences. The platform offering consists of both sea and air shipping services up to the final destination, including land & rail transport, with associated logistic services, all backed up by a variety of professional vendors. Headed by Carmit Hoshen-Glik, an entrepreneurial executive with vast experience in digital transportation and global freight forwarding solutions, Ship4wd is located in Herzliya, one of Israel’s main innovative startup hub. Eli Glickman, ZIM President & CEO, said: “As a leader of the accelerating digitalization trend within the shipping industry, we are leveraging our expertise to launch an independent digital multi-function freight forwarder, consistent with our strategy of developing growth engines adjacent to our core business. Ship4wd undertakes to manage the entire logistic chain end to end, harnessing our core assets as a leading global carrier with a unique customer-centric approach to provide the optimal digital solution for the SMB segment, backed up by a wide network of vendors including ZIM. The global need for digital services via personal mobile phones and tablets is increasing, especially among small and medium businesses, and Ship4wd is the ultimate solution. We are confident that with Ship4wd’s excellent team it can become a significant player in the multi-billion dollars freight forwarding industry as it will meet a much-needed demand for its services in the market.” Assaf Tiran, ZIM VP Global Customer Service, also heading Digital Innovation, added: “Similar to the way other groundbreaking platforms such as Airbnb in tourism and Uber in transportation have transformed their industries, we are aiming to enable everyone to be a self-shipper, by simplifying and streamlining the transfer of goods worldwide down to its essence – a ‘few clicks’ shipping solution.” Carmit Hoshen-Glik, Ship4wd CEO, added: “We believe it’s time for international shipping to become simple, easy and trustworthy for SMBs. Our promise of unremitting reliability and support from industry professionals will offer a much-needed solution for small businesses and entrepreneurs relying on relatively small shipments for their ongoing business.” About ZIM ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (NYSE: ZIM) is a global, asset-light container liner shipping company with a leadership position in the markets in which it operates. Founded in Israel in 1945, ZIM is one of the oldest shipping liners, with over 76 years of experience, providing customers with innovative seaborne transportation and logistics services, with a reputation for industry-leading transit times, schedule reliability and service excellence. About Ship4wd Ship4wd is a best-in-class digital-first freight solution that gives small businesses the personal freedom, ease and control to better manage their imports and exports. With full end-to-end visibility and built-in flexibility, Ship4wd is helping businesses to progress and thrive. The post Zim becomes the latest shipping line to enter the freight forwarding market appeared first on Shipping and Freight Resource. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/zim-becomes-latest-shipping-line-to.html October 06, 2021 at 12:17PM
The 10 Most Surprising Moving Costs
When you’re starting a new chapter in a new place, there’s a lot involved. You may find yourself daydreaming about all of the new cafes you’ll explore and researching the best bars and eateries nearby. One thing that can kill your New Place Buzz is unexpected expenses. You may assume that once you’ve paid your deposit and sorted your mover, you’ve got it all covered. While that’s a good start, you’ll find there are other expenses that pop up along the way. This list of the most surprising moving costs will help you brace yourself and avoid sticker shock. 1. Packing MaterialsCollecting packing materials is often one of the most overlooked aspects of moving. While it may seem simple to collect packing materials, it can be a costly and time-consuming process. If you choose to get free boxes, you’ll need to spend some time hunting around for them at local shops. If you opt for purchasing boxes, you’ll still need to make at least one trip to your local shop to stock up. Either way, this process takes time and money. You can save by going for free boxes, but you’ll still need things like tape and moving labels. Decide on your strategy and do your best to estimate just how much you’ll need so you don’t over- or under-spend. One way to ensure you’re covered on this step without surprises is to hire a full-service moving company. They’ll bring all of the materials to your home and pack your things for you. On the other side, they’ll save you the time and disposal costs by taking all of the materials out with them. 2. TimingThe rules of supply and demand apply in the moving process. Depending on when you’re moving, the cost of a moving company will fluctuate. Times that are more sought-after such as weekends, holidays, and the summer months tend to be more expensive. To save, try to move mid-week. 3. Oversized or Awkwardly-Shaped ItemsWhen hiring your moving company, you’ll discuss specialty items with them beforehand. That means when you confirm your quote these pieces – and any associated costs – will be included. But you should still prepare for them before pricing out your mover. Large or awkward items require special equipment. The same goes for antiques or bulky artwork that should be handled with extra care. Not only will you need a mover with experience in shifting these items, but they’ll need the right equipment and perhaps even an extra set of hands. All of these things will come at a cost, so be prepared. As a side note: you may also encounter extra fees for moving into or out of a place with stairs, or a complicated entry. Cover all of this with your mover beforehand. 4. Moving InsuranceThe benefit of hiring a moving company is that your items are insured. Moving companies often carry basic insurance and provide options for extra coverage. While you will hire a reliable, trusted mover to handle your precious possessions, things occasionally happen. It’s best to be protected and prepared for the unexpected. 5. Storage SpaceDepending on your move, you may need to store some or all of your items. If you’re moving out of your home but can’t move into your new place right away, you may want short-term storage. If you’re moving into a smaller space but just can’t part with some of your items, you may be looking for a longer-term solution. Whatever your need for storage, it won’t be free to rent a space. It’s important to pare down your items as best you can before moving. Then you can get a picture of what you’re bringing to your new home, and what may need extra space. 6. Care for Pets or KidsMoving day can be stressful for all involved, and it gets even more cumbersome when you need to juggle movers, keys, and kids or pets. Perhaps you have a friend or family member who can keep your little ones for the day. If not, you’ll need to hire someone and that costs money. We recommend factoring this cost in rather than assuming you can manage all of the tasks of the move along with kids and pets who need care and attention. It will be smoother – and safer – for everyone. 7. RestockingYou won’t purge all of your items before moving, of course, but that doesn’t mean you’ll take everything with you. Those items like nearly empty bottles of cleaning products or food in the cupboard may not make the cut. That means you’ll need to repurchase these items on the other side. 8. Unsold ItemsInevitably, we collect things we don’t want, need, or use in our homes over time. Preparing for a move is a great moment to purge these items. After all, you don’t want to move things you won’t touch again. When you create piles of things that aren’t coming to your new home, you’ll likely have a pile of things you’ll endeavor to sell. If you’ve started early – and have the patience – you’ll be able to list these things on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist or take them to a consignment shop. Inevitably, selling things often takes longer than imagined. Depending on how much time you’ve allowed for this process, there may be items that go unsold. While this isn’t a direct cost, it does mean there’s less money going into your pocket. 9. Cleaning and PreparingWhether it’s to get your deposit back for a rental or to prepare your home for the new owners, you’ll want to clean your space as you leave. It’s great to save yourself the hassle of scrubbing your old home yourself and to instead hire someone to do the work for you. The same goes for your new home. Hopefully, it’s been cleaned and prepped before you arrive, but it can be nice to give it a good cleaning anyway to start your time in your new space. The same can be said for repairs in your old place, or improvements in the new one. 10. TippingTime is money and hiring a moving company will save you a lot of time and effort. These professionals will keep your items safe and ensure they make it to your new home in the same condition they left the old one. You’re trusting your movers with all of the items in your life, so it’s great to offer a thank you at the end. Make sure you tip your movers for their hard work. The post The 10 Most Surprising Moving Costs appeared first on Flatrate Moving. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/the-10-most-surprising-moving-costs.html October 05, 2021 at 02:17PM
IMO and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia sign new partnerships
IMO has signed three partnership agreements with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to support the preparation of a new global project that targets ship-based emissions. Further funding goes to existing projects focused on biofouling and marine plastic litter. The agreements, signed by IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim and His Excellency Mr. Saleh bin Nasser al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (28 September), will see US$509,000 going to the three environmental initiatives. “IMO is committed to a global approach to environmental protection, with capacity building in developing countries to ensure that no Member State is left behind on this important journey. Lowering emissions, reducing marine litter and tackling invasive aquatic species are vital to preserving our oceans. I am very pleased that these agreements will go towards IMO projects to help reduce the impact of shipping on our oceans. They demonstrate our continued commitment to protecting our environment,” said Secretary-General Lim. “We know that it is technological innovation and the development of alternative future fuels that will be key to progress. But it’s equally important that we ensure that innovations in these areas are inclusive and coordinated as well. No one can do this alone and no one should be left behind. We need both the North and the South to get connected in this innovation ecosystem and we need all stakeholders to be around the innovation table including stakeholders across the value chain,” said His Excellency Mr. Saleh bin Nasser al-Jasser. Emission reduction Under the first agreement, around US$400,000 will be used to fund a 12-month preparatory phase of a new long-term IMO CARES (Coordinated Actions to Reduce Emissions from Shipping) initiative. The Project aims to accelerate demonstration of green technologies and their deployment globally in a manner that facilitates blue economic growth in developing regions. The preparatory Project will lead to the design of IMO CARES Programme and will be executed by IMO’s Department of Partnerships and Projects (DPP). “IMO is committed to long-term technology cooperation and capacity building programmes focussed on needs of developing countries that will support the IMO Initial GHG strategy, the IMO resolution on technology transfer and capacity building as well as the resolution on cooperation between ports and shipping to reduce GHG emissions,” said Mr. Jose Matheickal, DPP Chief. He said that the IMO CARES Project will build on and complement other ongoing work by IMO and connects this work to various R&D and innovation initiatives around the world. This work includes Green Voyage 2050, GHG-SMART Project, the Blue Solutions Project, the FINSMART initiative and the NextGEN initiative. The Project will continue IMO efforts to increase cooperation and collaboration between all decarbonization initiatives. The IMO-Singapore NextGEN online portal for information sharing on decarbonization projects was launched this week. (Read more here) The preparatory phase of IMO CARES is designed to identify various key stakeholders who might become part of the long-term IMO CARES programme. Potential stakeholders include donors, regional maritime technology cooperation centres, various decarbonization R&D centres, Global Industry Alliances, financial institutions, and more. The foundation Project will undertake regional and global consultation workshops to design the key elements and framework of the global programme. It will maintain a focus on developing countries in order to facilitate a global decarbonization shift. Raising awareness of biofouling for women in Arab States The second agreement sets out US$54,500 in funding for IMO’s ongoing GloFouling initiative, a GEF-UNDP-IMO GloFouling Project to drive actions to implement the IMO Guidelines for the control and management of ships’ biofouling. The funding will go towards holding an awareness-raising workshop on ships’ biofouling for women in Arab States. Ships’ biofouling is one of the main sources for introductions of invasive aquatic species and is one of the main threats to marine biodiversity. The environmental impacts are often associated with substantial economic costs. Biofouling also results in increased fuel consumption and contributes to GHG emissions from ships. The workshop will seek to improve awareness and expertise on general aspects of biofouling management to increase participation of women across maritime industries and administrations. Additionally, the workshop will create new opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship, with a specific focus on initiatives sponsored or created by women. It is expected to create an empowering space for reducing existing gender disparities in maritime administrations, the scientific community and the private sector. The event will gather women in maritime administrations, female business entrepreneurs, researchers and representatives from private sector companies, industry associations and the IMO-supported Women in Maritime associations for a review of the issue of biofouling, and a cross-sectoral analysis of solutions and services that will be required in relation to biofouling prevention and management. Find out more about the GloFouling Project here: GloFouling Partnerships Project (imo.org) Targeting marine plastic litter The IMO-Norway-Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) GloLitter Project to tackle marine plastic litter will receive co-financing of US$54,5000 under the third agreement with Saudi Arabia. Reducing and preventing marine plastic litter, which can include discarded items from ships and discarded fishing gear, is vital to safeguard coastal and global marine resources. The GloLitter Project encourages twinning between countries to create a network for facilitation of knowledge dissemination about best practices to tackle marine plastic litter. The additional funding will be used to strengthen this model. Under the agreement, the additional funding from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will augment the ongoing GloLitter Project by focusing on some of the Lead Partnering Countries (LPC) and twin those with one or more Partnering Country (PC) within the GloLitter network. IMO will prepare a guidance document for twining purposes and then the twinning countries can apply to be nominated as twins together with their specific work plan and related funding support needed. Funding support will include aspects such as organising workshops, providing expertise, etc. Find out more about the GloLitter Project here: GloLitter Partnerships Project (imo.org) The post IMO and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia sign new partnerships appeared first on Shipping and Freight Resource. Via Moving http://www.rssmix.com/via Blogger http://irynamacdonald.blogspot.com/2021/10/imo-and-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia-sign.html October 05, 2021 at 05:17AM |