News & Insights

A recent General Average (GA) declaration on the vessel ONE Henry Hudson has prompted understandable concern among shippers and the logistics community. When GA is declared, cargo may be delayed, documentation requirements can increase, and shippers, especially those without adequate insurance, may face unexpected financial obligations before their goods are released. For logistics service providers, moments like this are an opportunity to offer clarity and confidence. Your clients look to you for guidance, and having a clear, consistent explanation of the GA process helps reduce uncertainty during an already stressful situation. For a step-by-step overview you can share with your […]

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has completed its annual review of importer financial security requirements. This review—conducted each year on October 20—recalculates the financial security (customs bond) needed for each importer’s RM business account. If your required bond amount has increased, you’ll need to update your financial security by January 15, 2026 to remain compliant. Why CBSA Runs an Annual Review Each year, CBSA reassesses every importer’s bond requirement based on the most recent transaction history and import activity. This process ensures that the financial security in place accurately reflects current import volumes and liabilities. Only importers whose required […]

For non-vessel-operating common carriers (NVOCCs), compliance with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of doing business legally and avoiding steep penalties. During our recent webinar, Avoid Costly FMC Penalties, industry expert Mauricio Larenas of AP Tariffs reminded participants that compliance begins with a simple but critical question: does your business qualify as an NVOCC? Who Qualifies as an NVOCC? According to the FMC, any company that offers ocean shipping services is considered an NVOCC. That definition is broad—so broad that even a small storefront advertising “Ship to Colombia for $50” or a Facebook post offering to move […]

Minimize disruption. Maximize recovery. Insure what matters. Why Insurance Readiness Is Business Resilience Every hurricane season, logistics businesses across the Gulf and East Coasts — and increasingly, inland — face serious risks. From warehouse flooding and power loss to damaged cargo and business shutdowns, the financial fallout can be significant. The good news? Insurance isn’t just a recovery tool — it’s a strategic advantage. This guide will help you evaluate your current policies, identify critical gaps, and understand what protections are most important before the next storm strikes. Designed for: Freight forwarders Customs brokers Warehouse and yard operators Inland and […]

By Trent Van Wormer, Strategic Relationship Manager The transportation industry operates on trust, efficiency, and strong partnerships. For third-party logistics providers (3PLs), choosing a reliable trucking partner is not only critical for operational success but also essential in combating fraud—a persistent threat in the logistics industry. According to the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), fraud-related issues, including double brokering and carrier identity theft, cost the industry millions annually. By conducting thorough due diligence, 3PLs can mitigate risks and build long-term, trustworthy relationships with great trucking partners. Here are the key factors to consider. Operational Capabilities and Capacity Assessing a trucking company’s […]

By: Kelli Milianti, ATA Carnet Manager, Roanoke Insurance Group Inc. When shipping goods for temporary importation and re-exportation, businesses must select a form of security to meet customs requirements. Most often the cargo owner faces the choice between using an ATA Carnet with a carnet bond or a Temporary Import Bond (TIB). Each option has its advantages, but the ATA Carnet generally offers more streamlined benefits for international trade. Benefits of an ATA Carnet 1. Cost Savings: ATA Carnets eliminate duties and value-added taxes (VAT) when goods are re-exported within the validity period, reducing financial burdens[1][2][3]. 2. Simplified Customs Procedures: […]