In the world of logistics, OBC service is the premier choice for ensuring high-value shipments reach their intended destinations with unparalleled precision – but not all premium logistics companies offer this service. If you want to use an OBC for your shipment, you’ll need to partner with the best of the best – a premium logistics company that has already vetted, hired and trained OBCs. In this blog, we’ll define what OBC services are and go over the top five reasons you should choose an OBC service provider for your next luxury shipment.

What Is an On-Board Courier?

An OBC is a dedicated courier who personally transports urgent or valuable items, accompanying them all the way to their destination. The courier accompanies your shipment on commercial flights, hand-carrying the cargo as a passenger to ensure its secure and expedited delivery to its destination.

OBCs provide an unparalleled level of service and ensure your valuable shipments are delivered swiftly and securely to their destinations. They go beyond conventional delivery methods, providing a unique and personalized experience based on project specifications. When you have an urgent deadline for a critical event or occasion, OBCs are the people who get your items there on time.

Top 5 Reasons to Choose OBC Over Anything Else

So, why should you hire an OBC? When does the extra layer of surety make the biggest difference for a given shipment? Let’s look at the biggest factors.

#1 – Speed to Delivery & Chain of Custody

OBC services address both speed to delivery and chain of custody thanks to the special status that passengers are granted on flights versus unaccompanied cargo. To ensure seamless and expedited transportation, all OBC luggage is appropriately prioritized as baggage. This translates to an unparalleled advantage – it mitigates common cargo delays and allows OBCs to accompany your shipment in person or monitor it closely if it is checked as baggage.

#2 – Regulatory Documentation

When you utilize OBC services offered by an experienced and trusted premium logistics company, you receive invaluable guidance in preparing and securing necessary documentation such as commercial invoices, navigating CITES, help with U.S. Fish and Wildlife,  ATA Carnets and more. While the preparation of these documents might be time-consuming, fashion-oriented premium logistics companies know how to handle all necessary legal and Customs formalities and have a deep understanding of these complex import and export regulations. So, before anything else, a dedicated logistics team will evaluate your shipment and begin the steps for all required paperwork. Once this step is complete, the OBC can effectuate their part of the transportation process.

#3 – Global Coverage

The obstacles that come with international shipping are no match for a well-located network of trained OBCs. If your shipping partner’s OBC network spans the globe, particularly in fashion and entertainment capitals, your shipment’s geographical requirements will be served skillfully and on time. Whether your shipment requires communication with TSA or Customs, needs to get on the next flight to Paris, or needs paperwork to get into another country, OBC services provide comprehensive international coverage to get the job done.

#4 – Personalized Communication

As you can see, OBC services go beyond traditional logistics in many ways – and personalized communication is one of them. OBCs know that certain shipments require real-time updates, which is why they will provide customers with manual texts and emails during each pivotal step in the transportation journey. For example, when your shipment is processed through security, loaded onto the plane and then processed through security at its destination, you will know. You can also request more specific real-time updates depending on your shipment’s specific journey. With OBC, transparency and engagement fuse, allowing you to remain deeply connected and well-informed at every juncture.

#5 – Unmatched Fashion & Luxury Expertise

When it comes to handling fashion and luxury shipments, OBC services are the number one solution. If your shipping partner is armed with extensive experience in these exclusive industries, then their OBCs possess an intimate understanding of the intricate nuances surrounding such shipments. From haute couture ensembles to exquisite jewelry pieces, OBCs adeptly navigate the terrain to ensure your fashion and luxury items have the secure and prestigious transportation they need.

When DON’T You Need an OBC?

Every shipment is unique and OBCs aren’t always the right answer. While we encourage you to follow the advice of your logistics partner, here are a few reasons an OBC could be overkill.

Non-urgent shipments

If your shipment doesn’t require immediate or expedited delivery, or if there’s no strict deadline, standard “premium” shipping methods will be more cost-effective.

Cost constraints

If your budget is limited or the urgency of your shipment does not warrant the additional expense, then shipping services of a lower priority can still potentially get the job done.

Too large or too bulky goods

While experienced on-board couriers are used to hand-carrying all kinds of shipments, not every item can be easily handled or maneuvered on its way to a destination. If a shipment is impractically large, heavy, or bulky – and also not extremely urgent or of irreplaceable value – then an OBC may not be the best solution.

Well-planned shipments

If you have enough lead time to plan and organize, you might be able to use a lower-cost shipping option that can still provide reliable delivery within your timeframe. That said, an OBC might still be the best option if the item in question is of critical importance or value.

Unnecessary security

If your shipment does not contain sensitive or valuable items that require constant supervision and accompaniment, you might not need an OBC.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision to hire an on-board courier should be based on the specific needs of your shipment. Assess urgency, value, size, chain of custody and other factors to determine whether an OBC service is the best solution. That said, if you’re after the absolute best, OBC services are it. There is no other service that will treat your cargo with such care and prioritization – especially if you partner with a premium logistics company that employs its own couriers.

Need an experienced OBC for your next luxury shipment? Contact Worldnet today to get started.

The post Do I Need an OBC? 5 Reasons to Hire On-Board Courier Services for Your Next Shipment appeared first on Worldnet International.

Transporting luxury items across the globe isn’t a job for just anyone. The nature of these items often requires unique expertise; highly customized services and exceptional capabilities – and that’s precisely what premium logistics companies with OBC capabilities offer.

What is an on-board courier?

An OBC is a dedicated courier who personally transports urgent or valuable items, accompanying them all the way to their destinations. The courier will ride along on commercial flights, hand-carrying the cargo as a passenger to ensure its secure and expedited delivery to the destination.

OBCs provide an unparalleled level of service and ensure your valuable shipments are delivered swiftly and securely to their destinations. They go beyond conventional delivery methods, providing a unique and personalized experience based on project specifications. When you have an urgent deadline for a critical event or occasion, OBCs are the people who get your items there on time.

Let’s dive into the details of OBC services and discuss the advantages of using a premium fashion and luxury logistics company with OBC capabilities for your next critical shipment.

OBC: An on-flight priority

When it comes to using an OBC service, priority is the name of the game. Because OBCs are actual passengers, they are able to take advantage of the flexibility of commercial flights. This allows them to accompany your luxury shipment in person, which is a highly customized and meticulous undertaking.

OBC & regulatory documentation

Regulatory requirements can often be time-consuming and complex – but an experienced premium logistics company specifically in the fashion and luxury space can guide you through the process before transporting your shipments with an OBC. For example, if your shipment requires a commercial invoice, ATA Carnet, or contains a CITES it will require additional clearance documents, experienced logisticians will guide you through the clearance process.

Key benefits of OBC

The benefits of OBC services really can’t be compared to any other shipping process. OBCs are meticulous and prepared from the beginning, so no aspect of the process is overlooked. The main benefits of this service are:

1. Speed of delivery: Time is of the essence, especially when it comes to delivering high-value fashion and luxury items. With OBC services, you can bid farewell to lengthy delivery times and uncertainty. OBCs are masters of efficiency, swiftly navigating through airports and Customs, ensuring your item reaches its destination on time. The speed of OBC services is unrivaled, and there is no other service that can match its rapid delivery capabilities without chartering your own flight.
2. Ultimate chain of custody: OBCs take the security of your shipments incredibly seriously. Throughout its journey, your item will be under the watchful eye of a dedicated OBC, reducing the risk of damage, loss or theft. When you use an OBC service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your luxury shipment is in safe hands.
3. Personalized communication: Premium logistics companies with OBC services are committed to delivering excellence and often provide individual emails and texts to keep you informed of your shipment’s status throughout its journey. You will receive milestone updates so you’re always in the know, especially during the most critical stages of the journey.

OBCs aren’t just for fashion

While OBC services have become synonymous with luxury fashion shipments due to their time-sensitive nature and the need for utmost care in handling high-end garments and accessories, it’s important to note that OBC services are not limited to the fashion industry alone.

While OBCs are the go-to choice for fashion designers, runway shows and high-profile events where timing is critical, they can be utilized for transporting any valuable item requiring expedited and secure delivery. From precious artwork and delicate electronics to other sensitive items, OBC services cater to a diverse range of industries and clients. The versatility and reliability of OBC services make them the premium choice for anyone seeking a fast, secure and personalized transportation solution for critical shipments.

Final Thoughts

In the world of premium logistics, OBC services stand alone as the pinnacle of efficiency and excellence. Whether it’s a haute couture gown for a fashion event or one-of-a-kind artwork, OBCs ensure that each item receives exceptional treatment throughout the journey.

Worldnet is the premier OBC service provider and we are committed to crafting an experience that goes beyond traditional logistics. Our OBCs are dedicated to the timely and secure delivery of your high-value items and work every day to provide an unparalleled shipping experience to our clients.

Need OBC services for your upcoming shipment? Contact Worldnet today.

The post The On-Board Courier (OBC) Process: How It Works & 3 Benefits appeared first on Worldnet International.

Calculating fuel surcharge and chargeable weight is essential when shipping items across the country or globe because they both directly impact the overall cost of the shipping process. There are formulas for calculating both of these costs, which are both key aspects of a transport budget. In this post, we’re going to show you how to calculate each one (you can also use our calculator for help!).

Fuel surcharge calculation

Fuel surcharge rates are subject to fluctuation and are based on a regulated fuel index. It’s important to check the rate every month to maintain accuracy. Or, use a trusted logistics company to complete your shipments who will then provide you with this information while quoting your shipment costs.

As of July 2023, Worldnet’s fuel surcharge rate is 19%. Here is an example of how you would calculate a surcharge for your unique shipment based on this percentage:

1. Determine your base rate: The base rate is the standard cost of shipping without any additional surcharges. This rate is usually provided by the shipping company you’re using to transport the items.
2. Obtain the fuel surcharge rate: As mentioned, the fuel surcharge rate is 19%.
3. Calculate the surcharge: Multiply the base rate by the fuel surcharge rate (expressed as a decimal) to calculate the fuel surcharge amount. For example, if the base rate is $100, the fuel surcharge would be calculated like this:

Fuel Surcharge = Base Rate * Fuel Surcharge Rate = $100 * 0.19 = $19

So, the fuel surcharge for a $100 base rate with a 19% fuel surcharge rate would be $19.

4. Add the fuel surcharge to the base rate: Lastly, add the calculated fuel surcharge amount to the base rate to obtain the total shipping cost. Using the previous example, the total shipping cost would be:

Total Shipping Cost = Base Rate + Fuel Surcharge = $100 + $19 = $119

Chargeable weight

Chargeable weight is determined by either the weight of your shipment or the amount of space (dimensional weight) it takes up on an aircraft or truck. Airlines will charge for whichever is the greater of the two numbers – dimensional weight or actual weight.

The equation for finding a shipment’s dimensional weight is:

Imperial: Inches to LBs = (Length* Width * Height)/139
Metric: Centimeters to KGs = (Length* Width * Height)/5000

To calculate your item’s dimensional weight in imperial, you’ll need to:

1. Convert the dimensions of the item into inches if they are not already in inches. Ensure that the length, width, and height are all in inches.
2. Multiply the length, width, and height of the item to obtain the volume in cubic inches.
3. Divide the volume by 139 to calculate the dimensional weight in pounds.

For example, suppose your item has the following dimensions in inches: Length = 12 inches, Width = 8 inches, Height = 6 inches

Volume = Length * Width * Height = 12 in * 8 in * 6 in = 576 cubic inches

Dimensional Weight = Volume / 139 = 576 in³ / 139 ≈ 4.15 lbs

So, the dimensional weight of the item would be approximately 4.15 pounds. If the actual weight is less than 4.15 pounds, you will be charged on dimensional weight. So for example, if the shipment’s actual weight is 2 pounds, you will still be charged for a shipment of 4.15 pounds.

Note: If your shipping provider uses kilograms (metric) instead of pounds (imperial) for weight calculations, you can convert the dimensional weight from pounds to kilograms using the conversion factor: 1 lb = 0.4536 kg.

Simplify the Process: Hire a Premium Logistics Company

These calculations aren’t necessarily easy – they can be difficult to complete, especially when you’ve got several items to ship with different measurements and weights. This is when a premium logistics company comes in to save the day. This team of experts will handle your fuel surcharge and chargeable weight and report back to you with accurate information, so you can plan and budget accordingly. They will also handle the entire shipping process from start to finish, so you can have peace of mind while focusing on other tasks.

An experienced premium logistics company will help you:

• Plan ahead: Heavier shipments require more fuel, additional handling equipment, and potentially specialized transportation arrangements. By knowing fuel surcharge and chargeable weight and considering them ahead of time, you’ll be able to account for the additional resources and costs associated with heavier shipments, thereby ensuring proper planning and resource allocation.
• Reduce costs: A premium logistics company will be mindful when it comes to packaging and how it impacts cost of shipping. Avoiding boxes that are too big for your goods can save space and reduce cost.

Final Thoughts

Calculating fuel surcharge and chargeable weight for a shipment is an important part of the overall logistics process. Whether you ship often or once in a while, it’s crucial to understand these calculations so you can budget accordingly for shipping.

Need help preparing and/or transporting an international shipment? Contact Worldnet today to get started.

The post How to Calculate Fuel Surcharge & Chargeable Weight When Shipping: Step-By-Step Directions appeared first on Worldnet International.

No matter the purpose, shipping items internationally is highly complex.

The ATA Carnet is a document that was created to simplify the process. But while many people think that its only purpose is to save money, it actually offers additional benefits that streamline the entire shipping process. This makes it a critical component in every shipping and operations manager’s toolkit.

But before we get too far ahead of ourselves, let’s cover the basics.

What is an ATA Carnet?

The ATA Carnet, often referred to as a “passport of goods,” is an international Customs document that permits the tax-free and duty-free temporary export, import and return of nonperishable goods for up to one year.

What are ATA Carnets used for?

ATA Carnets are typically used for shipping high-value goods and consignments such as couture clothing, commercial samples, professional equipment, technology prototypes, and visual displays. However, they can be used for larger items, like vehicles, as well. The types of companies that use them include fashion, entertainment, and technology brands.

How do you obtain an ATA Carnet?

In order to obtain an ATA Carnet for your shipment, you’ll need to document a few things:

• The destination country (or countries) the item is headed to
• The General List (a documented list of all the items traveling on the Carnet)
• A Carnet Power of Attorney, which will list your EIN (employer identification number) or taxpayer identification number

What is the biggest benefit of using an ATA Carnet?

ATA Carnets help you save a significant amount of money. Every country has different tax and duty rates for importing and exporting items, and if you ship items frequently, these rates can add up fast. Many people who own businesses, manage major events, and work in fashion use ATA Carnets to save on these costs and efficiently transport goods across the globe. The items must return to the original country of export within a 365 day period to close out the ATA Carnet and avoid penalties.

How does an ATA Carnet make the shipping process easier?

Aside from saving money, an ATA Carnet can aid in a simple shipping experience. For example, the U.S. has different import and export requirements and utilizes documentation such as Drop Ball Test Certificates for sunglasses or Footwear Declaration Forms for footwear. Some countries require EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) numbers and HS (Harmonized Commodity) codes to classify certain products. However, if you’re using an ATA Carnet, there are sometimes less requirements, as the Carnet will cover some of those bases as the goods are returning to their origin.

How long can you use an ATA Carnet?

In general, ATA Carnets are valid for a maximum of one year from the date of issue. But you can use the ATA Carnet for multiple trips within that one-year validity period as long as each trip does not exceed one year.

Can I extend an ATA Carnet for longer than one year?

In some cases, an ATA Carnet extension is possible, but this isn’t something that typically occurs. Countries will occasionally allow an extension of an additional year, in which case the item at hand will need a Replacement ATA Carnet. This happens on a case-by-case and country-by-country basis.

Who governs ATA Carnets?

The World Customs Organization and the World Chambers Federation of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) issues ATA Carnets.

How much does an ATA Carnet cost?

The price of your specific ATA Carnet depends on the value of the item you’re using the document for. The final ATA Carnet cost will depend on the item’s total value, the number of pages submitted, and the timeline to create the ATA Carnet. As the time of travel gets closer and closer, the price gets higher, as it takes time to create every ATA Carnet, and associated costs differ in each country.

Are there other documents that do the same things as an ATA Carnet?

No. The ATA Carnet is the only international shipping document that has 74 participating signatory countries and is accepted by 100 Customs territories across the globe. There is no other comparable document.

What items aren’t eligible for an ATA Carnet?

Anything that’s perishable, consumable, or intended to be discarded while in country isn’t eligible. Also, anything that will change in value or shift in tariff classification isn’t eligible. For example, an item that needs repair and will be fixed or replaced in the destination country cannot be shipped under an ATA Carnet.

What happens if my ATA Carnet is lost?

You can purchase insurance that covers the cost of duplicating an ATA Carnet in the event the original document is stolen or lost. Your luxury logistics provider will provide information about insurance and replacement costs.

Who are the parties required to legitimize an ATA Carnet?

The entity who submits the application for an ATA Carnet (known as the Preparer) and the entity who is exporting the item (known as the Holder) are required parties who will both be listed on the ATA Carnet forms. A Power of Attorney (POA) is also required at the time of application to ensure legitimacy of the relationship between the Preparer and Holder.

What is the easiest way to get an ATA Carnet?

The easiest way to get an ATA Carnet for your eligible items is by using an experienced premium logistics company. This team of shipping experts will be able to advise you regarding eligible items, initial application, time needed to obtain the document, Carnet extensions, and so much more. These experts have handled international shipments time and time again and know a thing or two about ATA Carnets, so you can have peace of mind knowing that the tricky nuances are out of your hands.

Final Thoughts

If you frequently ship items internationally, utilizing an ATA Carnet is definitely in your best interest. Not only will this unique document help you save money on taxes and duties, but it will provide an added level of ease and convenience to your shipping experience.

Want to use an ATA Carnet for your upcoming shipment? Contact Worldnet today to get started.

The post What is an ATA Carnet? 14 FAQs appeared first on Worldnet International.

Shipping high-value items can be stressful and daunting. With shipping regulations, security protocols and tight deadlines, it’s difficult to get the job done yourself. And relying on a standard shipping carrier just won’t work, as they don’t offer the necessary services to complete a high-value shipment.

That’s where an experienced premium logistics company can make all the difference.

What is a Premium Logistics Provider? 

On a basic level, a premium logistics provider is a carrier that specializes in transporting high-value or extremely complex shipments, all over the world. This kind of shipping requires greater precision and care at every step. As such, a premium logistics company will have more rigorous packing and handling procedures, and more in-depth tracking capabilities.

They will also have a deeper understanding of international shipping requirements, including the various regulatory hurdles and regional nuances that can complicate a package’s journey. To help you navigate these complications, they typically offer an additional layer of specialized services a standard carrier won’t – from onboard couriers to regulatory document preparation to chartered flights.

Now let’s look at how working with a premium logistics provider can benefit you and your company.

Top 5 Reasons to Use a Premium Logistics Provider 

Premium logistics carriers get your items from point A to B without a hitch – but it’s the shipping process itself that provides the real benefits. Here are the five biggest.

#1 – Convenience  

Shipping packages isn’t your job – you probably have a ton of other responsibilities and don’t have the time to manage a high-value shipment from start to finish. Using a premium logistics company is the most convenient way to handle this task because your only duties are providing the item, its delivery location and time. After that, you can trust that the item will arrive on time and unharmed because a premium logistics company handles everything from packaging, to insurance, to documentation.

Additionally, most premium logistics companies offer on-board courier (OBC) hand carry service. This means a professional courier will personally chaperone your item to its destination, even through multiple checkpoints. Whether that requires a train, plane, boat or all three, this person will remain with your item over the entire journey.

#2 – On-Time Performance 

In many cases, a high-value item must arrive at its destination on a specific day at a specific time because of an important event, photoshoot or business transaction. This type of punctuality is nearly impossible to guarantee ­– but good premium logistics companies will pre-plan to mitigate any delays. They are able to do so because of extensive planning that helps ensure:

• All required documentation is completed.
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs requirements are met.
• The correct packaging is used.
• There is a plan B in case transportation is delayed.

#3 – Compliance

Both domestic and international shipping have unique logistics needs, and a premium logistics company knows how to navigate each one. For example, premium shipping specialists know that the TSA X-rays all bags before putting them on a flight, so they will screen the contents if anything looks suspicious. In fact, some premium logistics companies have their own in-house X-ray machines (Worldnet included) so they can see how items will look when they go through security. This helps ensure compliance and avoid potential problems at the airport.

Documenting an item correctly is also a key element of compliance. Supporting documents are critical for a shipment’s on-time delivery. A premium provider knows what documentation is required for certain items and how to prepare it correctly. Examples include:

• Detailed commercial invoices that describe the value of an item.
• IFI Footwear Declaration forms for imported shoes.
• Drop Ball Test Certificates for items like sunglasses.
• Fabric detail sheets for luxury fabrics.

#4 – Financial Efficiency 

Premium logistics companies know how to save you money on duties and taxes – by utilizing ATA Carnets and shipping programs that reduce certain taxes and duty exposure.

ATA Carnets are a “passport of goods,” which enables a duty and tax reduction for transporting of goods that return to their country of export within one year. ATA stands for Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission and is the name for a treaty between more than 80+ countries allowing for its use. Using an ATA Carnet for an applicable item can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

Other shipping program examples include:

• Duty Drawbacks – Refunds on duties, taxes and fees paid on imported goods that are later exported.
• Goods Return – Used to return delivered goods to vendors or to reverse a purchasing transaction for an item.

A premium logistics company understands how these shipping programs work and will consult with you regarding applicable items and how to save money on every shipment.

#5 – Peace of Mind

Many premium logistics companies specialize in shipping certain types of goods, such as fashion and luxury. As such, they know the ins and outs of the industry and its demands. Your new team of logistics experts will know what services and documentation you need based on the commodity you’re shipping.

This kind of confidence and predictability is rare in the logistics world. Knowing that you can trust your shipping partner to fulfill the most complex shipments provides absolute peace of mind, allowing you to focus more on the project or event you’re planning.

Final Thoughts

Premium logistics companies are often a much better option for moving high-value goods or complex shipments internationally. They know how to be careful, but also fast. And they know how and where to shield you from risk and expense. If you regularly ship important items or face shipping challenges, having a premium logistics provider on your vendor shortlist is a must.

Need help transporting your high-value items across the world? Contact Worldnet today.

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