Importance of understanding local requirements and processes in shipping

The shipping industry is all about timing. A small delay in documentation or payment processing can cause a ripple effect, leading to hold on cargoes leading to additional costs, and frustrated stakeholders.

As much as freight payments and overseas payments are important, there needs to be a clear understanding of local requirements, and the processes involved in the world of shipping.

As part of our commitment to make shipping hassle free, lesser delivery delays and overall ODeX has expanded its digital capabilities and offerings and also introduced Online Payment Solutions using which customers can pay freight charges, customs duties, and other logistics costs from anywhere, at any time. 

This helps customers to improve cash flow, reduce delays, and enhance supply chain efficiency for customers.

We are also excited to introduce two new localised features for Hong Kong—Carrier Haulage Instruction and Storage/Overstay Invoice Request. These enhancements aim to simplify key operational challenges, reducing manual efforts and minimising delays in container movement and release.

 

Carrier haulage instruction

Carrier haulage is when a shipping line arranges the transportation of a container from Point A to Point B using its chosen haulage contractor.

For shipments that require door-to-door delivery, ensuring smooth coordination between carriers and consignees can often be complex.

With ODeX’s new Carrier Haulage Instruction feature, customers in Hong Kong can now update their bookings seamlessly when opting for carrier haulage services.

• The option will only be available for bookings made with carrier haulage.

• Once enabled, users can update the instruction directly within ODeX, eliminating the need for multiple follow-ups or manual interventions.

• This ensures that last-mile logistics are executed efficiently, reducing the risk of miscommunication and delays.

By integrating this feature, ODeX continues to bridge the gap between ocean freight and inland transport, making it easier for customers to manage door-to-door shipments.

 

Storage/Overstay invoice request

Overstay happens when uncleared containers are moved to a customs-approved depot for storage until the consignee is ready to clear and collect them. This usually occurs after the free storage period at the port expires, and the shipping line handles the process.

The management of storage and overstay charges involves customers having to deal with tedious back-and-forth emails, manual invoice requests, and delayed payments that could result in further penalties or shipment holds.

With the introduction of the Storage/Overstay Invoice Request feature, ODeX now offers a faster, more transparent way to handle these payments:

• Users can directly request an invoice for storage and overstay charges within ODeX, eliminating manual email follow-ups.

• Once generated, the invoice can be downloaded instantly, allowing shippers to make payments without unnecessary delays.

• This streamlined approach ensures that containers are released on time, preventing further demurrage and detention charges.

By digitising these critical steps, ODeX enhances operational efficiency, reducing administrative burdens while ensuring that containers move seamlessly through the supply chain.

 

A step forward for digital shipping in Hong Kong

These new localised features reinforce ODeX’s commitment to enhancing digital trade documentation and payment solutions for the Hong Kong market.

Whether it’s simplifying inland transport coordination or eliminating payment bottlenecks, these enhancements provide shipping professionals with the tools they need to operate with greater speed and efficiency.

As global trade continues to evolve, digital-first platforms like ODeX are shaping the future of shipping, because in global shipping, time is money, and ODeX is here to help you save both.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to innovate and expand our solutions across key markets.