International Freight: A Comprehensive Overview in Common English Terms

International freight forwarding serves as the backbone of global trade, facilitating the seamless movement of goods across international borders. It encompasses a series of interconnected processes, each requiring precise communication and adherence to specific procedures. Let's explore the key elements of international freight using common English terminology and detailed explanations.

1. Export Process Initiation

The journey of international freight typically begins with the exporter engaging with a freight forwarder. The exporter provides crucial details about the goods, such as their description, quantity, weight, and value. For instance, when dealing with sea freight, terms like FOB (Free On Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight), and CFR (Cost and Freight) are pivotal. Under FOB, the seller is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto the vessel, while CIF includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the named port of destination. The exporter must clearly communicate these details in English to ensure the freight forwarder can accurately arrange the logistics.

2. Customs Clearance: Vital Documentation

Customs clearance is a critical step in international freight. Exporters must prepare several documents, including:

- Commercial Invoice: This details the description of the goods, quantity, unit price, and total value. In English, it is termed "Commercial Invoice," and it serves as a primary document for customs valuation.

- Packing List: Specifies how the goods are packed, ensuring proper handling during transit. It is referred to as "Packing List" in English.

- Bill of Lading (B/L): Issued by the carrier, it acknowledges receipt of the goods and guarantees delivery at the destination. In maritime transport, the bill of lading is indispensable, and phrases like "Please issue the bill of lading" are common in communication with carriers.

- Certificate of Origin: Indicates the country of origin of the goods, which is "Certificate of Origin" in English. This document is essential for determining tariff rates and trade compliance.

The process of declaring goods to customs is "declaring the goods to customs," and the relevant form is the "Customs Declaration Form."

3. Sea Freight: Containers and Schedules

Sea freight is widely used for its cost-effectiveness, especially for large volumes of goods. Containers are the standard mode of transport, with common types including 20-foot containers (20GP) and 40-foot containers (40GP or 40HQ for high cube). The freight forwarder arranges for containers to be picked up from the exporter’s warehouse and delivered to the port. Shipping schedules are crucial, with terms like ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) and ETD (Estimated Time of Departure) used to track vessel movements. For example, "Please confirm the ETA of the vessel" is a typical query when coordinating with carriers.

4. Air Freight: Urgent and High-Value Shipments

Air freight is ideal for urgent or high-value goods. The air waybill (AWB) acts as the equivalent of the bill of lading in sea freight. Air freight charges are calculated based on either weight or volume, using the "weight charge or volume charge, whichever is higher" (W/M) principle. Exporters must provide the air consignment note, which includes details such as the consignor, consignee, and description of goods. Phrases like "We need to book an air freight service" are common when arranging urgent shipments.

5. Land Transport: International Rail and Road

Land transport, particularly international rail, plays a significant role in connecting regions. For example, China-Europe freight trains link China with European countries. The railway waybill is used in rail transport, and terms like "through transport" (联运) are standard. In English, booking a rail freight service is "booking a rail freight service," and relevant documents include the "railway consignment note."

6. Communication in International Freight

Effective communication in English is paramount in international freight. Freight forwarders and involved parties use phrases such as:

- "Please confirm the booking" (请确认订舱)

- "Could you provide the latest ETA?" (你能提供最新的预计到达时间吗?)

- "We need to settle the freight charge" (我们需要结算运费)

Clear communication ensures that issues like document errors, delays, or shipment tracking are addressed promptly.

7. Challenges and Risk Management

International freight faces challenges such as customs delays due to document errors or inspections. For example, incorrect information on the commercial invoice can cause delays. To mitigate risks, exporters often purchase marine insurance ("marine insurance" in English) to cover potential damage or loss of goods during transit.

8. Understanding Incoterms 2020

Incoterms 2020 provides rules for the interpretation of trade terms. Terms like EXW (Ex Works), DAP (Delivered At Place), and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers. EXW means the buyer is responsible for all costs from the seller’s premises, while DDP means the seller is responsible for delivering goods to the buyer’s destination, including duty payment.

In conclusion, international freight forwarding is a complex yet essential process that involves multiple steps, modes of transport, documentation, and communication in English. Mastering the relevant terms and procedures ensures the efficient and successful movement of goods in the global marketplace. From the initial booking of space to customs clearance, transportation, and risk management, each环节 requires a thorough understanding of the English terminology and processes. By navigating these aspects with precision, businesses can overcome challenges and ensure their goods reach their destination smoothly, contributing to the growth of international trade.