Bill of Lading Operation Guide During Port Congestion | China–U.S. Trade

In recent years, the China–U.S. shipping route has been under continuous pressure. During port congestion periods, issues such as vessel delays, yard overflow, earlier cut-off times, and bill of lading (B/L) handling confusion frequently occur. For exporters, cross-border e-commerce sellers, and freight forwarders, whether the bill of lading is properly managed directly determines if the cargo can be cleared and delivered smoothly.

This article provides a practical bill of lading operation guide during congestion periods on the China–U.S. route, helping you reduce risks and maintain supply chain stability.

I. Main Causes of Port Congestion

Peak shipping seasons: Concentrated exports before Black Friday, Christmas, and Chinese New Year overload terminals.

Unstable vessel schedules: Delays, rolled containers, or port changes increase yard pressure.

Higher inspection rates: U.S. Customs often strengthens inspections during peak seasons, lengthening clearance times.

Labor & equipment shortages: U.S. ports face labor gaps and reduced handling efficiency.

II. Common Problems in Bill of Lading Operations

Delayed release: Carriers or forwarders may delay issuing original B/L during congestion, affecting cargo release.

Document errors: Mistakes in consignee info, cargo description, or HS codes can cause clearance failures.

Late Telex Release decisions: Failure to confirm Telex Release in time may block cargo pick-up at destination.

Increased demurrage & storage fees: Every extra day cargo stays at port adds unexpected costs.

III. Bill of Lading Operation Guidelines During Congestion

1. Before shipment

Confirm consignee information: Ensure Consignee, Notify Party, address, and contact details are accurate.

Choose the right B/L type: During peak seasons, prefer Telex Release or Sea Waybill to avoid mailing delays.

Clarify responsibilities with buyer: Under FOB, CIF, DDP terms, confirm who is responsible for B/L release, payment, and delivery.

2. After vessel departure

Review draft B/L promptly: Avoid document errors that may block clearance.

Secure Telex Release early: If using Telex Release, complete payment and confirm release immediately.

Track vessel schedule & congestion: Especially for LA, Long Beach, NY, NJ ports—monitor ETA and congestion status.

3. Before arrival

Complete B/L release in advance: Avoid system delays that block timely pick-up.

Stay connected with customs broker: Ensure all documents are ready (B/L, invoice, packing list, arrival notice).

Plan buffer time: Clearance, drayage, and inland delivery may all take longer.

4. Contingency measures

Prioritize Telex Release: Minimize risks of original B/L mailing.

Prepare backup customs brokers: Prevent delays caused by single-agent dependence.

Split large shipments: Ship in multiple containers to lower congestion risk.

Purchase delay/congestion insurance: Offset potential financial risks.

IV. Recommendations for China–U.S. Trade

Cross-border e-commerce sellers: Stock up early and use Telex Release or Sea Waybill to avoid supply chain breaks.

Traditional exporters: Strengthen communication with customers and forwarders to ensure smooth document, payment, and clearance flow.

Freight forwarders: Build multi-channel resources for B/L release, customs clearance, and trucking to handle congestion effectively.

V. Conclusion

During peak trade seasons, the accuracy and timeliness of B/L operations are critical for smooth cargo delivery. Choosing the right B/L type (preferably Telex Release), carefully reviewing documents, and preparing clearance and delivery in advance not only avoids costly demurrage and storage fees but also ensures customer satisfaction and competitiveness.

When facing port congestion, proactive planning is the key to keeping your supply chain efficient and stable.

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