Customs laws and concepts

International trade and the transit of goods is like playing on a specialized field; if you do not know the rules and language of this game, the likelihood of being fined or having your shipment delayed is very high. The “common language” in the procedures for the entry and exit of goods are the same customs concepts and terms.

In the realm of cross-border trade, the movement of goods without a clear legal framework can entail significant financial risks. International transport contracts clarify the relationships between the cargo owner (shipper), transport companies (carriers/freight forwarders), and the consignee, while defining responsibilities, costs, and risks. In this article, we review the most popular and important types of international contracts in the logistics industry.