Logistics Knowledge

What is a Surrendered Bill of Lading? When Should It Be Used in International Trade? In international shipping, a Bill of Lading (B/L) is not only a transport document but can also function as a document of title to the cargo. However, in many cases businesses do not need this ownership function and choose to […]

What Is a Revocable Letter of Credit (Revocable L/C)? A Revocable Letter of Credit (Revocable L/C) is a type of letter of credit that the issuing bank may amend or cancel at any time, without prior notice and without the consent of the beneficiary (exporter). In other words, even if the seller has already shipped […]

What Is a Heat-Treated Pallet? A Heat Treated Pallet (HT pallet) is a wooden pallet processed at 56°C for at least 30 minutes to eliminate insects and harmful microorganisms. This treatment meets the ISPM15 standard, which is mandatory for most importing countries. Heat treated pallets are widely used in: Ocean and air freight Industrial goods, […]

In import–export operations, a Freight Quotation (shipping cost quotation) is not just a cost figure, but the basis for businesses to make decisions on selling prices, delivery schedules, and profit margins. Properly understanding Freight Quotations helps businesses minimize unexpected costs and avoid risks during international transportation. What Is a Freight Quotation? A Freight Quotation is […]

In the set of import–export documents, the Commercial Invoice (CI) plays a central role, directly affecting customs clearance, taxation, and international payments. Preparing it incorrectly or using the wrong type of invoice may expose businesses to customs inspections, price consultations, or shipment delays. This article helps businesses gain a correct, complete, and compliant understanding of […]

What is a Letter of Credit (L/C)? A Letter of Credit (L/C) is a conditional payment commitment issued by a bank on behalf of the buyer (importer), guaranteeing that the seller (exporter) will receive payment once the required shipping documents are provided in full compliance with the terms and conditions specified in the credit. In […]

 What Is Cut-off Time (Closing Time)? Cut-off time (also known as closing time, deadtime, or lead time) refers to the final deadline by which exporters must complete customs clearance, container gate-in, and all necessary procedures for the shipment to be loaded onto the vessel. In Vietnamese, this term is commonly called “thời gian cắt máng” […]

What Is C/O Form AANZ? C/O Form AANZ (Certificate of Origin – AANZ Template) is a document certifying the origin of goods under the AANZFTA Agreement. It is used for exports between ASEAN countries, Australia, and New Zealand. When goods meet the origin criteria under AANZFTA, exporters can declare this certificate during importation to enjoy […]

What Is CO Form AI? CO Form AI (Certificate of Origin Form AI) is a document certifying the origin of goods issued under the ASEAN–India Free Trade in Goods Agreement (AIFTA). The agreement, signed between ASEAN’s 10 member countries and India, aims to promote trade liberalization, tariff reduction, and deeper economic cooperation among participating nations. […]

CO Form S (Certificate of Origin – Form S) is a preferential certificate of origin issued for goods exported from Vietnam to Laos. It enables Vietnamese exporters to enjoy special tariff preferences under the Vietnam–Laos Bilateral Trade Agreement. This article explains what CO Form S is, its purpose, documentation requirements, and application procedure — along […]

What is import-export tax? Import-export tax (Customs Duty) is an indirect tax that businesses must pay when goods are allowed to cross Vietnam’s borders for export or import. This type of tax functions independently within Vietnam’s legal system and is applied similarly in many countries worldwide. The main purposes of Vietnam’s import-export tax are to: […]

What Is Import and Export Cargo Insurance? Import and export cargo insurance provides financial protection for goods during international transportation — whether by sea, air, road, or rail. When risks such as fire, explosion, vessel sinking, collision, loss, or damage occur, the insurer compensates the shipper or consignee according to the insurance contract. The main […]