When you start out exporting goods to another country, it tends to be far more complex than setting up shop in your home country. Dealing with foreign agencies and myriad regulations is time-consuming, but finding buyers may be one of the biggest challenges of all. Luckily, technology helps make the process easier. Here’s an overview of what to consider when choosing an export distributor in North Charleston, SC: Buying agents: Your local foreign embassy is a good place to start looking for buying agents. These agents are part of foreign agencies, and proactively look for exporters to help them bring... View Article
The United States Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) regulates all imports to and exports from the United States. Before you start importing and/or exporting goods, make sure you’re familiar with CBP policies about your specific product. You’ll also need to know if there are other industry or federal regulations regarding your exports and imports, as you’ll be expected to comply with all of them. Of course, if you’re unsure, it’s smart to get tips on importing and exporting in North Charleston, SC from experts in your industry, as well as from shipping providers. They may be able to alert you... View Article
Time is money—and the faster and more reliably you can ship goods domestically or internationally, the better your business and trade will be. That’s why intermodal drayage is such a boon to the shipping industry. It helps streamline the shipping process, even if you have to use different modes of transportation. Instead of using one carrier to handle the journey from beginning to end, you can save time, money and reduce your carbon footprint when you embrace the benefits of intermodal transportation in North Charleston, SC. What is intermodal drayage? Intermodal drayage is the practice of using different carriers for... View Article
As we all know, COVID-19 has had the biggest negative impact on our economy since the recession of 2008—and that includes causing issues in the international intermodal trucking industry. This unprecedented event has caused delays in and cancellations of shipments, renegotiations of tariffs and slowed international business communications regarding trade. In short, the virus has caused a massive slowdown in nearly every aspect of trade and business. Here’s a brief overview of COVID-19’s impact on international trade in North Charleston, SC and beyond: Postponed meetings and negotiations: Both international and domestic organizations, from the European Union to the World Trade... View Article
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought national attention to trucking and the supply chain, as well as increased concern for the drivers who are considered “essential” to the nation and the economy. As they work relentlessly to deliver goods across the country, their jobs are hindered by the shelter-in-place orders recommended to slow the virus’ spread. One unexpected challenge has been finding truck stops open in each state during COVID-19, including in North Charleston, SC. While some states initially included them in their business closures, the trucking industry has pointed out that truck stops provide a vital service, and should be... View Article
