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Reviewer Allison Boulton

Allison Boulton

About

Following a three-year stint residing in China and the Middle East, Allison returned to Vancouver and joined Small Business BC as an International Trade Advisor. Additionally, she established her own consultancy, providing valuable assistance to entrepreneurs seeking global expansion. During her time overseas, Allison pursued her MBA and served as the China Director of Marketing and Trade Sales for a prominent importer and distributor of North American beverages. Before her international endeavors, Allison held the position of Director of Operations at a prestigious Canadian winery, overseeing exports to more than 20 countries.

Driven by her passion for travel and a deep curiosity about diverse lifestyles worldwide, Allison has explored over 30 countries. She leverages this extensive experience to guide clients not only in navigating international trade regulations but also in understanding the cultural nuances of various countries—an essential element for businesses aiming to thrive in the global marketplace.

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Reviewed Articles

Advantages and Disadvantages of Exporting
July 28, 2023

Advantages and Disadvantages of Exporting

Explore the pros and cons of exporting with our comprehensive guide. Understand how exporting can boost your business growth, diversify market exposure, and increase sales while also considering the potential challenges such as cultural differences, logistics complexities, and regulatory hurdles.

Export License Guide: Understanding Requirements and Types
July 27, 2023

Export License Guide: Understanding Requirements and Types

Read our guide on export licenses to learn about the different types, understand the requirements, and discover the steps to apply for them.

Bill of Exchange
July 25, 2023

Bill of Exchange

Understand the intricacies of a Bill of Exchange and learn how this payment order issued by the drawer can streamline transactions and boost cash flow. Discover its importance, types, and how to manage it effectively.

Cost and Freight (CFR) Incoterm Explained
July 24, 2023

Cost and Freight (CFR) Incoterm Explained

Explore the ins and outs of Cost and Freight (CFR) in international trade. Understand its benefits & drawbacks and find out if it's the right Incoterm for you.

Port-to-Port Shipping: Explained in Detail
July 21, 2023

Port-to-Port Shipping: Explained in Detail

Discover the intricacies of port-to-port shipping & get insights into the process, benefits, and key terms involved in this fundamental aspect of global trade.

Freight Insurance: Cover Your Bases
July 20, 2023

Freight Insurance: Cover Your Bases

Discover how freight insurance can protect your goods during transit, understand its various types, & learn how to choose the right coverage for your business.

Ex Works (EXW) vs Free on Board (FOB)
July 18, 2023

Ex Works (EXW) vs Free on Board (FOB)

Understand the key differences between Ex Works (EXW) and Free on Board (FOB) Incoterms from the responsibilities of buyers and sellers to risk transfers.

Importer's Guide to Annual Freight Contracts
July 17, 2023

Importer's Guide to Annual Freight Contracts

Dive into our comprehensive guide on annual freight contracts. Learn how they provide stability in pricing, ensure capacity, & can streamline your logistics.

Shipper, Consignee, and Notify Party: Understanding the Differences
July 14, 2023

Shipper, Consignee, and Notify Party: Understanding the Differences

Learn the differences between shippers, consignees, and notify parties, how each role contributes to a successful shipment, & understand their roles.

Master Bill of Lading vs House Bill of Lading
July 13, 2023

Master Bill of Lading vs House Bill of Lading

Dive into our comprehensive comparison of Master vs. House Bill of Lading. Understand their differences, uses, and which one is right for your shipping needs.

AES Filing: Complete Guide for Efficient Shipping
July 11, 2023

AES Filing: Complete Guide for Efficient Shipping

Learn about the importance of AES filing, when it's required, & the process to ensure your exports are compliant with US regulations.

How to Apply for a Letter of Credit
July 10, 2023

How to Apply for a Letter of Credit

Discover the step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Letter of Credit. ✔️Learn about the documentation required, the parties involved, and the overall process.

How to Avoid Delays in Customs Clearance
July 7, 2023

How to Avoid Delays in Customs Clearance

Discover how to avoid customs delays. ✔️Learn about essential documentation, customs regulations, and more to ensure your goods sail smoothly through customs.

Shipping Process
July 4, 2023

Shipping Process

✔️Dive into our comprehensive guide on the shipping process and understand its key steps to streamline your supply chain.

Exporting to India: Everything You Need to Know
July 3, 2023

Exporting to India: Everything You Need to Know

Discover essential insights for your business with our guide on how to export to India. ✔️Master customs regulations, cultural nuances & more to ensure success.

How to Negotiate Payment Terms with Suppliers Effectively
June 30, 2023

How to Negotiate Payment Terms with Suppliers Effectively

✔️Discover how to negotiate payment terms with suppliers to ensure a win-win situation & foster strong relationships, including an example letter to send.

The Role of AI in Procurement
June 29, 2023

The Role of AI in Procurement

Explore how Artificial Intelligence is transforming procurement. ✔Learn about AI's role in automating tasks, driving cost savings, etc.

Navigating Incoterms for Air Freight
June 27, 2023

Navigating Incoterms for Air Freight

✔️Discover the essential guide to understanding Incoterms for air freight. Learn how these international trade terms affect your shipping processes and costs.

Bill of Lading vs Packing Slip: Key Differences Explained
June 26, 2023

Bill of Lading vs Packing Slip: Key Differences Explained

✔️Discover the essential differences between a bill of lading and a packing slip. Learn their unique purposes, required information, & grab free templates.

Certificate of Origin from the Chamber of Commerce: A Comprehensive Guide
June 23, 2023

Certificate of Origin from the Chamber of Commerce: A Comprehensive Guide

✔Discover the importance of a Certificate of Origin in international trade & learn about the process and benefits of obtaining one from the Chamber of Commerce.

3 Shipping Companies that Are Going Green
June 22, 2023

3 Shipping Companies that Are Going Green

✔️Learn about the benefits of being eco-conscious, how it can impact your bottom line, and learn from example from 3 shipping companies that are going green.

Revolutionizing Supply Chain Management with SaaS Solutions
June 21, 2023

Revolutionizing Supply Chain Management with SaaS Solutions

✔️Discover how SaaS solutions are revolutionizing supply chain management by streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs.

Eliminating Supply Chain Bottlenecks
June 9, 2023

Eliminating Supply Chain Bottlenecks

✔️Learn how to identify and eliminate supply chain bottlenecks, ensuring a smooth, efficient, and cost-effective logistics process.

7 Strategies to Boost Supply Chain Efficiency
June 9, 2023

7 Strategies to Boost Supply Chain Efficiency

✔️Transform your logistics operation with 7 proven strategies to boost supply chain efficiency, enhance performance, and drive cost savings.

Shipping Packaging: Tips for Efficient Cargo Solutions
June 9, 2023

Shipping Packaging: Tips for Efficient Cargo Solutions

✔️Discover expert tips for efficient cargo shipping packaging to streamline your logistics, reduce costs, and boost your business's overall performance.

Lean Logistics
June 6, 2023

Lean Logistics

✔Discover the power of lean logistics with strategies & best practices to streamline your supply chain, reduce costs, &improve efficiency for long-term success.

The Art of Freight Negotiation: How to Optimize Your Shipping Costs
May 29, 2023

The Art of Freight Negotiation: How to Optimize Your Shipping Costs

✔Master the art of freight negotiation with our comprehensive guide, packed with tips to help you optimize your shipping costs & streamline logistics processes.

Building a Resilient Supply Chain
May 19, 2023

Building a Resilient Supply Chain

✔️Learn how to build a resilient supply chain to enhance adaptability, optimize efficiency, and minimize disruptions for long-term business success.

Shipping Hazardous Materials: Best Practices
May 12, 2023

Shipping Hazardous Materials: Best Practices

Keep your shipments safe & secure with the best practices for shipping hazardous materials. ✔Learn everything from proper labeling & packaging to documentation.

The Importance of Load Planning: Tips for Efficient and Safe Shipment
May 5, 2023

The Importance of Load Planning: Tips for Efficient and Safe Shipment

✔️Learn about the importance of load planning and learn five tips to make the process efficient and cost-effective.

Shipping Quotation
April 21, 2023

Shipping Quotation

Need help in efficiently running your shipment operations? ✔️Use our shipping quotation template to quickly get the right quotes and have an organized system.

7 Benefits of Adopting Export Documentation Software
April 21, 2023

7 Benefits of Adopting Export Documentation Software

✔️Discover the many advantages that export documentation software brings, from improved accuracy to cost savings.

Shipping Packing List
April 21, 2023

Shipping Packing List

Easily create a shipping packing list with our step-by-step guide and template. ✔️Ensure your shipments arrive safely without any complications.

Shipper’s Declaration of Dangerous Goods
April 17, 2023

Shipper’s Declaration of Dangerous Goods

✔️Get a comprehensive overview of the shipper's declaration of dangerous goods and access our downloadable template to ensure you're following regulations.

How to Avoid Demurrage Charges
April 17, 2023

How to Avoid Demurrage Charges

Looking for ways to save time and money? ✔️Here's a practical guide on how to avoid costly demurrage charges.

Purchase Order
April 7, 2023

Purchase Order

✔️Get an overview of what is involved in a purchase order, why it is important for international shippers, and how to create one using our free PDF template.

Commercial Invoice
March 9, 2023

Commercial Invoice

✔️Learn why a commercial invoice is essential when it comes to international shipping, how to fill out one, & download our handy PDF template.

The Difference Between Free on Board (FOB) vs Free Carrier (FCA)
March 9, 2023

The Difference Between Free on Board (FOB) vs Free Carrier (FCA)

✔️Learn the important differences between Free on Board (FOB) and Free Carrier (FCA) Incoterms, including when to choose one over the other for your business.

Delivered at Place Unloaded (DPU) Incoterm Explained
March 3, 2023

Delivered at Place Unloaded (DPU) Incoterm Explained

Confused about Delivered at Place Unloaded (DPU) Incoterm? ✔️Learn why businesses use it, what its advantages are, &how you can benefit from understanding it.

Ex Works (EXW) Incoterm Explained
February 24, 2023

Ex Works (EXW) Incoterm Explained

✔Find out the ins and outs of Ex Works Incoterm, one of the most used Incoterms in international trade, including benefits, obligations, etc.

Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight: Which is Right for Your Business?
February 21, 2023

Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight: Which is Right for Your Business?

✔️If you're choosing between air freight vs. ocean freight, here is the breakdown of all the important factors that can influence your decision.

Free Alongside Ship (FAS) Incoterm Explained
February 17, 2023

Free Alongside Ship (FAS) Incoterm Explained

Free Alongside Ship (FAS) is one of the most popular incoterms. ✔️Learn what it is, when to use it, and how to make the most of it with this guide.

Free Carrier (FCA) Incoterm Explained
February 13, 2023

Free Carrier (FCA) Incoterm Explained

What is Free Carrier (FCA)? How does it work? What are the benefits? ✔️Learn everything you need to know about this Incoterm in our comprehensive guide.

Shipping Container Dimensions and specifications
January 17, 2023

Shipping Container Dimensions and specifications

✔️If you're looking for a comprehensive list of shipping container dimensions, read about the 15 types of containers, their sizes, and specifications.

15 Shipping Container Types
January 16, 2023

15 Shipping Container Types

Wondering what types of shipping containers are available? ✔️Here's a complete list of the most common types of cargo containers.

Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping
January 4, 2023

Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping

Are you looking to ship a full container load? ✔️Here's everything you need to know about FCL shipping, from what it is to price quotes and how to get started.

Carriage and Insurance Paid To (CIP) Incoterm Explained
January 4, 2023

Carriage and Insurance Paid To (CIP) Incoterm Explained

✔️Learn about the Carriage and Insurance Paid To (CIP) Incoterm, what it covers, when it's used, and how it benefits both buyers and sellers.

The Differences Between Proforma vs. Commercial Invoice
January 3, 2023

The Differences Between Proforma vs. Commercial Invoice

✔️Learn the key differences between a proforma invoice and commercial invoice, and discover which one is right for your needs.

Delivered At Place (DAP) 2020 Incoterm Explained
December 23, 2022

Delivered At Place (DAP) 2020 Incoterm Explained

Ready to grasp DAP Incoterm? It's complex, but we'll shed light on its intricacies. ✔️Understand its practical applications with our help.

Proforma Invoice
December 21, 2022

Proforma Invoice

Looking for a proforma invoice? ✔️This guide will show you what it is, how to fill it out, and provide you with a free PDF template to get started.

Shipper’s Letter of Instruction
December 16, 2022

Shipper’s Letter of Instruction

✔️Read our article to find out what a shipper's letter of instruction is, how to fill it out, and download the fillable PDF template.

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Incoterms Explained
December 12, 2022

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Incoterms Explained

✔️Learn the definition, advantages, and disadvantages of the Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Incoterm and get tips on whether it's the right choice for your business.

List of US Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
December 9, 2022

List of US Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

When it comes to global trade, the United States has a lot of free trade agreements in place. ✔️Here's a comprehensive list of all 14 US FTAs.

Freight Bill
December 5, 2022

Freight Bill

Freight bills are important documents in the shipping process. ✔️Learn what it is, how it's used, & the difference between a freight bill and a bill of lading.

Free on Board (FOB) Incoterm Explained
December 2, 2022

Free on Board (FOB) Incoterm Explained

Free on Board (FOB) is a commonly used Incoterm. ✔️When should you use it? ✔️How does it work? Get all the answers to your questions about this Incoterm here.

5 Reasons for Outsourcing Your Logistics
November 28, 2022

5 Reasons for Outsourcing Your Logistics

When it comes to logistics, sometimes it's best to leave it to the experts. ✔️Here are 5 reasons why outsourcing your logistics might be a good idea.

The Difference Between Delivered at Place (DAP) vs Delivery Duty Paid (DDP)
November 21, 2022

The Difference Between Delivered at Place (DAP) vs Delivery Duty Paid (DDP)

What's the difference between Delivered at Place (DAP) &Delivery Duty Paid (DDP)?✔Get an in-depth look at both incoterms & decide which method is right for you.

The Customs Duty Drawback Process: Everything You Need to Know
November 18, 2022

The Customs Duty Drawback Process: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re both an importer and an exporter looking for cost svings, look no further than the customs duty drawback.✔️Find out everything about the process.

Importer Security Filing (ISF): The Complete Guide
November 16, 2022

Importer Security Filing (ISF): The Complete Guide

✔️If you're importing to the US, read our guide to learn the ins and outs of filing and importer security filing (ISF) and how it impacts your business.

Full Container Load (FCL) vs Less Than Container Load (LCL)
November 11, 2022

Full Container Load (FCL) vs Less Than Container Load (LCL)

Read an overview of the differences between FCL & LCL, ✔️with insights into how choosing the right option can save you time, money, and stress.

The Difference Between Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) vs Free on Board (FOB)
November 7, 2022

The Difference Between Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) vs Free on Board (FOB)

When it choosing the right incoterms, do you know the difference between CIF and FOB?✔Get an in-depth explanation of both terms and the difference between them.

Import Business Guide: Documents, Rules, Examples, and Practical Information
November 4, 2022

Import Business Guide: Documents, Rules, Examples, and Practical Information

Here’s (nearly) everything you need to know about importing.✔️From the required import documents to practical tips, our import guide has it all.

Free on Board (FOB) vs Delivered at Place (DAP)
October 28, 2022

Free on Board (FOB) vs Delivered at Place (DAP)

Choosing the right delivery terms is vital for your success.✔️Read our article to learn the difference between Free on Board (FOB) and Delivered at Place (DAP).

Export Business Guide: Documents, Rules, Examples and Practical Information
October 24, 2022

Export Business Guide: Documents, Rules, Examples and Practical Information

✔️Whether you're just getting started or an expert, our guide to exporting will help take the mystery out of this complex process.

Guide to Ocean Freight Visibility
October 16, 2022

Guide to Ocean Freight Visibility

Ocean freight visibility is a complex process, but tracking of your sea shipments is essential.✔️Read our guide to learn everything everything you need to know.

How to Get a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Certificate of Origin (CO)
October 16, 2022

How to Get a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Certificate of Origin (CO)

Wondering how to get a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Certificate of Origin (CO)?✔️Here's everything you need to know and how to get one.

Cost Insurance Freight (CIF) Incoterm Explained
October 14, 2022

Cost Insurance Freight (CIF) Incoterm Explained

✔️Read our article and find out what Cost Insurance and Freight (CIF) Incoterm is, how it works, and who is responsible for what during the shipping process.

Electronic Bill of Lading
October 10, 2022

Electronic Bill of Lading

✔️Learn everything you need to know about going digital with an electronic bill of lading and learn how to make the switch to paperless trade with Cargoflip.

The Real Cost of Manual Data Entry in Logistics
October 7, 2022

The Real Cost of Manual Data Entry in Logistics

✔️Read our article to discover the true cost of manual data entry in logistics — it might be costing your business more than you think.

How to track Shipping Containers?
October 3, 2022

How to track Shipping Containers?

The demand for international trade has increased exponentially as the world becomes increasingly globalized.

The Difference Between Fourth Party (4PL) vs Third Party (3PL) Logistics
September 30, 2022

The Difference Between Fourth Party (4PL) vs Third Party (3PL) Logistics

Outsourcing logistics can be a daunting task. ✔️Read our article to learn the difference between 3PL and 4PL and make the best decision for your business.

The Essential Customs Clearance Guide for International Shippers
September 27, 2022

The Essential Customs Clearance Guide for International Shippers

Before shipping an item internationally, you need to clear it through customs first.✔We've put together a comprehensive guide to the customs clearance procedure

How Real-Time Supply Chain Visibility Can Benefit Your Business
September 21, 2022

How Real-Time Supply Chain Visibility Can Benefit Your Business

✔️Learn about the benefits of real-time supply chain visibility and how you can implement it at your organization.

The Difference Between CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) vs DDP (Delivery Duty Paid)
September 21, 2022

The Difference Between CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) vs DDP (Delivery Duty Paid)

Want to know the difference between CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) and DDP (Delivery Duty Paid)?✔️We'll explain the terms and how they affect your shipments

13 Criteria to Choose the Best 3P Logistics Provider
September 19, 2022

13 Criteria to Choose the Best 3P Logistics Provider

Outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider has become standard practice.✔️Here's the selection criteria you should look out for when choosing a 3PL provider.

Carriage Paid To (CPT) Incoterm Explained
September 16, 2022

Carriage Paid To (CPT) Incoterm Explained

What is the Carriage Paid to (CPT) incoterm? What are obligations and when does the risk transfer?✔️Find out everything you need to know

5 Most Popular Methods of Payments in International Trade
September 12, 2022

5 Most Popular Methods of Payments in International Trade

Here are the 5 most popular payment methods in international trade.✔Read our article to learn more about them and find out which one is right for your business.

Free on Board (FOB) vs Free Alongside Ship (FAS): What's the Difference?
August 29, 2022

Free on Board (FOB) vs Free Alongside Ship (FAS): What's the Difference?

When it comes to shipping, do you know the difference between FOB and FAS?✔️Get a quick overview of both methods, so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Proof of Delivery (POD) vs Bill of Lading (BOL): What's the Difference?
August 26, 2022

Proof of Delivery (POD) vs Bill of Lading (BOL): What's the Difference?

Wondering what the difference is between a POD and a BOL?✔️Check out this post for a breakdown of each and when you might use them.

3 Elements of Supply Chain Sustainability for SMBs That You Can't Ignore
August 22, 2022

3 Elements of Supply Chain Sustainability for SMBs That You Can't Ignore

✔️Find out which 3 elements of supply chain sustainability are critical for your business and follow simple steps to achieve it.

LCL Shipping 101: Complete Guide to LCL Freight Shipping
August 17, 2022

LCL Shipping 101: Complete Guide to LCL Freight Shipping

✔️Learn everything there is to know about LCL shipping - from what it is and how it works to the pros and cons of using this type of freight transport.

Bill of Lading: Understanding its Importance and Implications
August 2, 2022

Bill of Lading: Understanding its Importance and Implications

Bill of Lading (BOL) is one of the most important legal documents to a shipper, an importer and an exporter.✔️Here's what you need to know about it.

Easy Guide to Calculating Landed Costs
June 30, 2022

Easy Guide to Calculating Landed Costs

✔️Find out what landed costs are and how you can use them to assess the profitability of your shipments.

Cargoflip The Journey: Vol 2
November 23, 2021

Cargoflip The Journey: Vol 2

✔️After a successful launch, Cargoflip is back with new features that make shipping and logistics easier than ever.

International Shipping Documents: A Comprehensive Guide for SMBs
October 26, 2021

International Shipping Documents: A Comprehensive Guide for SMBs

Customs requirements for import and export can be confusing. ✔️Learn what international shipping documents you need to have in order, and how to obtain them.

Understanding Incoterms
October 5, 2021

Understanding Incoterms

Do you know what Incoterms are and how they affect your shipping? ✔️Check out this post for a comprehensive guide to understanding Incoterms.

Understanding the ABCs of Harmonized System (HS) Codes
August 6, 2021

Understanding the ABCs of Harmonized System (HS) Codes

The Harmonized System or HS Code is a machine-readable worldwide system for classifying goods. ✔️Find out how it can help your business.

Cargoflip The Journey: Vol. 1
July 30, 2021

Cargoflip The Journey: Vol. 1

An update on Cargoflip's journey and new features.

Our latest round, and a look back on 2020
January 8, 2021

Our latest round, and a look back on 2020

Less than a year ago my co-founder, Prateek, and I decided to set off on a new path to building Cargoflip.