Freight & Logistics Blog

Freight & Logistics Blog
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Freight & Logistics Blog

Our blog is where our freight specialists share practical knowledge — how-to guides for first-time importers, expert commentary on market developments, and plain-English explanations of complex logistics topics. No jargon, no sales pitches — just useful information for people who move cargo internationally.

Featured Articles

In-Depth Freight & Trade Analysis

How-To Guide

How to Find a Reliable Freight Forwarder in China

Choosing a freight forwarder is one of the most consequential logistics decisions you'll make. This step-by-step guide explains what to look for — licences, FIATA membership, references, communication standards, and the red flags that indicate an unreliable operator.

 By Marwest LLC Team

Explainer

What is a Freight Forwarder? (And What Do They Actually Do?)

Many importers confuse freight forwarders with customs brokers, shipping agents, and carriers. This explainer covers exactly what a freight forwarder does, what they don't do, and why working with a full-service operator like Marwest LLC simplifies the entire process.

 By Marwest LLC Team

Practical Guide

5 Ways to Reduce Your Freight Costs Without Compromising Service

From optimising your container utilisation to negotiating annual rate agreements, there are concrete steps every importer can take to reduce freight costs. This guide covers five strategies our clients have used to save between 10% and 25% on annual freight spend.

 By Marwest LLC Team

Customs

Why Your Cargo Gets Held at Customs (And How to Avoid It)

Port holds are every importer's nightmare — costing time, money, and customer goodwill. This article explains the five most common reasons CBP and African customs authorities hold cargo, and what you can do before shipment to minimise your risk.

 By Marwest LLC Team

Africa Trade

Doing Business in West Africa: A Freight Perspective

West Africa is one of the world's most dynamic trade regions — but it also presents unique logistics challenges. This article shares what our Lomé and Shandong teams have learned from 15 years of Africa–China freight experience.

 By Africa Operations Team

Trade Finance

Letters of Credit Explained for First-Time Exporters

A Letter of Credit is the gold standard of payment security in international trade — but many exporters find them intimidating. This plain-English guide walks through how L/Cs work, the common pitfalls, and when to use them.

 By Trade Finance Team

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Frequently Asked Questions

About This Section

We aim to publish two to four new articles per month. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive new articles directly in your inbox.

Yes. We write for our clients and prospective clients, so topics that address real logistics challenges are always welcome. Email topic suggestions to {{ $company->cargo_email ?? $company->email ?? 'Cargo@marwestllc.com' }} with the subject line 'Blog Topic Suggestion'.

Our articles may be republished with attribution (link back to the original page on marwestllc.com) and written permission from our team. Contact us at {{ $company->cargo_email ?? $company->email ?? 'Cargo@marwestllc.com' }} for republication requests.
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Need Expert Logistics Advice?

Our freight specialists are ready to turn your questions into a concrete shipping plan. Contact Marwest LLC for a free consultation tailored to your cargo and destination.