Steer Clear of Shipping Risks: Ensure International Trade Regulations Compliance with Liner Agency Software

Managing movement of containers and cargo across international borders is not an easy task. Typically, a single international shipping transaction involves dozens of different parties, data elements, and business documents. Add to that, every country has its own set of trade rules and regulations with regard to importing and exporting goods. Failure to follow these rules can result in painful and costly penalties, fines, and business restrictions for any shipping company. Fortunately, modern supply chain logistics technology, in the form of shipping solutions software, is widely available to help you manage increasingly complex import and export trade regulations smoothly and affordably.

Traditionally, trade activities such as management of customs and transit procedures were handled manually often resulting in delays and worse, exposure to fines and/or other penalties for non-compliance. With integrated shipping software, shipping companies can replace traditional spreadsheet-and-fax-based systems with more efficient automated solutions. Marine software solutions can be configured to perform logistics activities such as:

• Product classification
• Management of customs processes and transit procedures.
• Restricted party screening and embargo checks.
• Creating and filing trade documents.
• Electronic customs reporting.
• Streamlining communication with port and customs authorities

Like other shipping companies, your biggest challenge with regard to implementation of liner agency software solutions is integrating it into your shipping process. The good news is that there are packaged or off-the-shelf software systems that are easy to install into existing platforms. In addition to addressing trade compliance woes, liner solutions such as container management and container tracking software provides complete visibility on your entire logistics network which allows you to effectively monitor and control your inventory, make intelligent decisions, and further improve the quality of your services.

When you have functional liner shipping software taking care of your international trade compliance requirements, you can confidently ship across international borders without worrying about any risk, liability, or exposure to illegal trade practices.