In this edition, we cover:

• NEWS | Fuel prices set to jump 32 cents a litre as government scarps cost-of-living relief
• Client Notice: Service Disruptions and Delays – Asia & Europe Trade Lanes
• Shipping Charges & Fees

Click here to read the full newsletter.

The post News Alert | 19 June 2026 first appeared on Stockwells.

In this edition, we cover:

• New U.S. Customs Rules to Impact Importers of Record
• Client Notice: Service Disruptions and Delays – Asia & Europe Trade Lanes
• Shipping Charges & Fees

Click here to read the full newsletter.

The post News Alert | 12 June 2026 first appeared on Stockwells.

In this edition, we cover:

• Public Holiday Notices
• Client Notice: Service Disruptions and Delays – Asia & Europe Trade Lanes
• Brisbane Patrick Fisherman Island Terminal Closure 9th June 2026
• Extended ABF Border Holds
• Notice: Deferred GST Scheme for Importers
• Important Notice – Timely Provision of Import Documents for Australian Clearance
• Shipping Charges & Fees

Click here to read the full newsletter.

The post News Alert | 05 June 2026 first appeared on Stockwells.

For more than 55 years, Stockwells has built its reputation on doing exactly that. We sat down with our export team to discuss what’s happening on the ground right now: the disruptions reshaping global trade, the opportunities emerging for Australian exporters and how our team is helping clients stay ahead in a constantly changing landscape.

Q&A with the Stockwells Export Team

What does a typical export cycle look like at Stockwells, and where does your team add the most value for clients navigating global markets?

Like any shipment, a booking request comes through to our team and we assess what is needed to get the goods moving. From there we find the best available slot on a vessel to get the goods from A to B. We leverage our relationships to ensure your goods are exported as smoothly as possible, no matter what is happening in the global market.

What have been the biggest export disruptions or shifts over the past 6–12 months, and how have you adapted your approach in response?

The freight and logistics industry is constantly at risk of disruption. This is a direct result of navigating international borders, geopolitical issues, weather events and more. More recently we have seen the vast impacts of conflicts such as what is happening in the Middle East. Not only are shipments that pass through the Strait of Hormuz directly impacted – causing lengthy delays, congestion and uncertainty of slots – but we’re also seeing increases in fuel availability constraints and cost.

At Stockwells, our teams work tirelessly to mitigate the impacts of these disruptions where possible by rerouting cargo, rebooking cancellations and staying on top of developing information to best inform and react for our clients.

Are there any emerging trade lanes, markets or commodities where you’re seeing notable growth or new opportunities for Australian exporters?

Key growth opportunities for Asian market sectors currently are Food & Beverage – covering dairy, beef, wine and infant nutrition; agribusiness – covering fertilisers and ag-tech; and resources – covering metals and equipment. We are also seeing opportunities in India in metallurgical coal and agricultural commodities, with most of these moving in bulk. We may also see an increased market trend as the UK free trade agreement is put in place.

How are current regulatory or compliance changes – such as updates to Incoterms, customs requirements or DAFF rules – influencing the way exporters need to plan their shipments?

Incoterm updates occur on a ten-year cycle, making them relatively straightforward to manage through proactive client education. Our focus is on ensuring customers understand any changes as they arise and are aware of alternative Incoterms that may better suit their commercial or risk profile.

All other export regulatory requirements are verified through the relevant government portals to ensure compliance with destination-specific rules for both the commodity and the receiving country. This process also captures any biosecurity, quarantine or import permit requirements applicable to the destination market.

With ongoing volatility in global freight (capacity, schedules, pricing), what strategies does your export team use to maintain reliability and minimise risk for clients?

We educate clients on early booking in volatile times. This includes the factors around pricing and where it is better to take a spot rate over a standard contract rate, which assists in limiting rollovers and securing prebooking opportunities. All forwarders are limited to what a shipping line allows, what equipment they have available and what schedules they adopt. As long as we are in front of the changes and reduced cycles in these areas for each shipping line, and we are educating our clients accordingly, then clients themselves must also take accountability for the timeframes they give us for booking. In volatile times these will always be extended due to limited capacity and equipment. Due to the extensive contracts we hold with most shipping lines, we are able to get across booking limitations on most occasions.

How does Stockwells differentiate its export management from other freight forwarders?

The process of exporting goods does not differ greatly from forwarder to forwarder, but what does differ is the level of service you will receive. For over 55 years, Stockwells has prided itself on providing our clients with the highest level of customer service possible. Through this, our mindset is, and will always be, how we can best support our clients and their supply chain.

Can you share a recent example where your team had to problem-solve a complex export challenge?

A recent example involved a client’s shipment that needed to navigate challenges in the UAE. Their cargo was re-routed and had to come back to Australia due to UAE closures. To mitigate the effects of this unforeseen issue, our team worked closely with the shipping line and shipper to determine the best options for the cargo, including storage solutions and alternative routing. It’s exactly the kind of situation where having strong shipping line relationships and an experienced team makes all the difference.

What role does technology now play in export operations at Stockwells, and what improvements are you excited about next?

Technology is advancing quicker than we can keep up with, and Stockwells is committed to staying across the options available to us. AI will no doubt deliver some exciting advancements and we’re looking forward to what’s next – even if we don’t yet know exactly what that will look like for exports.

What do people most commonly underestimate or misunderstand about the export process?

We don’t expect our clients to understand straight away what exporting goods entails and that’s exactly why we pride ourselves on educating and supporting them through the process. As our clients’ chosen freight forwarder, Stockwells aims to make the process as smooth and seamless as possible.

Looking ahead, what trends do you expect to shape Australian exports? How is Stockwells preparing to support clients through these changes?

AI will be a trend that crosses both import and export, and we will ensure we understand any advancement that will benefit either Stockwells internally or our clients externally. Unfortunately, many of the trends at the moment are around geopolitical unrest, and we are simply navigating a very volatile time in shipping. We prepare our clients through constant updates and by working on alternative transport tradelane solutions as they become available.

The global export landscape isn’t getting any simpler, but with the right partner, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. 

No matter if you’re navigating geopolitical disruption, capitalising on emerging trade lanes, or staying ahead of regulatory change, success in exporting comes down to expertise, relationships and a team that’s genuinely invested in your business.

That’s what Stockwells has been delivering for over 55 years.

Ready to take your exports further? Get in touch with Stockwells today to see how we can support your operations.

The post Inside Stockwells export operations: A Q&A with our export team first appeared on Stockwells.

The way goods move from suppliers to your customers affects delivery times, cost and customer satisfaction. When the process is slow or unclear, customers feel it. When it works smoothly, you protect margin and build trust.

Stockwells has put together a guide to break down the core steps, logistics models, challenges and strategies for startup brands building their first supply chain. 

Understanding the four main shipping methods

Choosing how your goods move is one of the most important early decisions an importer will make. The right method depends on volume, urgency, product value and how much margin you have to work with.

Air Freight

Air freight offers speed and reliability and is ideal for urgent or high-value shipments where timely delivery matters. Transit times are measured in days rather than weeks, which makes it the go-to option for stock replenishment, product launches or testing new lines quickly. 

The trade-off is cost, along with limitations around aircraft size and weight. Early-stage brands often lean on air freight for the flexibility it provides, while more mature businesses use it tactically rather than as a default.

Sea Freight LCL (Less than Container Load)

LCL shipping allows you to share container space with other importers and pay per cubic metre. It is well suited to moderate volumes where flexibility matters, particularly for growing brands not yet ready to fill a full container. The trade-off is more handling at consolidation points, which can introduce delays.

Sea Freight FCL (Full Container Load)

FCL is where you book an entire container at a flat rate. This delivers the lowest cost per unit, reduced handling and better control over your timeline. It is the natural fit for businesses with stable, predictable volumes who are ready to focus on margin protection and consistent freight planning.

Express Courier

Express courier shipping is the simplest option. It offers door-to-door delivery with bundled transport, customs clearance and final mile in a single service. This makes it ideal for samples, small test orders and early importing activity. 

The trade-off is a high landed cost per unit and limited scalability. As order sizes grow, this method should be phased out in favour of air or sea freight. As a guide, the cut-off between courier and air freight sits around 65 to 70kg volume weight, though this can shift with market volatility.

Choosing a logistics model

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. The right model depends on your volumes, margins and available time.

Third-party logistics (3PL) 

A 3PL handles warehousing, picking, packing, shipping and returns. This frees you to focus on sales, marketing and growth.

Benefits often include:

• Better rates
• Faster scalability
• Technology integration
• Reduced handling
• Experienced logistics oversight

Stockwells does not specialise in 3PL directly, but we work down to pallet and carton level for warehousing and freight needs. For full 3PL services, we can connect you with one of our trusted partners to make sure your goods are in the right hands.

Manufacturer-managed shipping vs. freight forwarders

Another decision is whether to let your supplier manage shipping or to engage a freight forwarder. When the manufacturer controls the freight, they also control the terms, the costs and the timeline. This often results in limited transparency and reduced leverage for the importer. A freight forwarder, on the other hand, offers strategic support. This includes advising on INCOTERMS, recommending the right shipping method for your goods and providing advocacy if things go wrong. For growing businesses, working with a forwarder enables better cost optimisation, compliance and long-term scalability.

INCOTERMS play a major role in how these arrangements are structured, as they dictate who is responsible for the goods at each stage of the journey. For a deeper breakdown, see our previous article covering INCOTERMS in detail.

Hybrid models

Many brands blend approaches. For example, fulfilling domestic orders in-house while using Stockwells for international freight or higher-volume lanes.

This gives flexibility without overcommitting to a single model.

Common logistics challenges for startups 

Every fast-growing e-commerce business hits similar pain points. Knowing them in advance helps you plan rather than react.

Urgency and convenience

Faster shipping protects revenue and keeps customers happy, but rushing every shipment quickly erodes margin. Evaluating urgency on a shipment-by-shipment basis is critical.

Size and weight

Bulky, low-value items favour sea freight, while small, dense, high-value goods may justify air freight. Misjudging this can mean paying premium rates for goods that did not need them.

Product value and margins

High-margin products give you flexibility on freight costs. Tight margins demand cost-efficient shipping, which usually means planning further ahead.

Cash flow and risk tolerance

Faster shipping improves inventory turnover but costs more upfront. Sea freight involves higher delay risk than air freight, so importers need to weigh up cash flow against schedule reliability.

Why the cheapest quote can be misleading  

When you are starting out, it is tempting to compare quotes and pick the lowest number. The problem is that freight rates rarely tell the whole story.

Hidden additional costs

Shipping involves many fees beyond the headline freight rate, including port charges, customs, storage and handling. A low quote often leaves these out.

The impact of incorrect INCOTERMS

Choosing the wrong Incoterm can shift unexpected costs onto your business at the worst possible moment. What looked like a saving on paper becomes a financial burden once goods are in transit.

Risk with LCL and supplier-managed shipping

LCL shipments and supplier-managed freight often bundle costs together in ways that only become clear once the invoice arrives. Importers can be left chasing line items they did not see coming.

The importance of holistic evaluation

Evaluating shipping costs holistically, rather than chasing the cheapest rate, gives you better predictability and fewer surprises. A slightly higher quote with full transparency is usually the better long-term decision.

Strategies to optimise your logistics

These are the practical tools that help brands stay efficient, reduce risk and serve customers well.

Use technology to automate

Warehouse management systems, shipping software and predictive analytics reduce manual work and highlight issues early.

Optimise packaging

Right-sized packaging prevents damage and reduces costs. Eco-friendly materials and consistent branding elevate the unboxing experience.

Adopt sustainable practices

Route optimisation, electric vehicles and carbon offsetting are becoming standard expectations for customers and stakeholders.

Improve returns management

Clear policies and simple processes reduce friction. Efficient reverse logistics keeps customers satisfied and reduces write-offs.

How Stockwells supports e-commerce logistics

Startups often outgrow their logistics setup quickly. Stockwells supports businesses from early scale through to high-volume operations, offering:

• Air freight
• Sea freight solutions
• Inland transport
• Customs clearance and compliance support

We partner seamlessly with your fulfillment provider or operate directly from your warehouse. Our team coordinates suppliers, manages international freight, supports customs requirements and keeps goods moving with clarity.

With more than 50 years of experience, our approach is to move products efficiently, protect margin and give you visibility from origin to delivery.

Moving e-commerce forward

E-commerce logistics is a series of connected steps. When each one works well, you get faster delivery, fewer surprises and a smoother customer experience.

By choosing the right model, investing in the right systems and working with a logistics partner who understands the full picture, you set your business up for long-term growth.

If you want to review your current setup or explore better ways to move freight into Australia, our team at Stockwells is here to help. 

Reach out to our friendly team today. Let’s move forward, together.

The post A complete guide to e-commerce logistics for startups first appeared on Stockwells.

1. Underestimating total landed costs

Many first-time importers focus solely on the supplier’s invoice price. However, this figure is only a starting point and rarely reflects the true cost to your business.

Total landed costs capture the full cost of getting your goods from origin to final destination. Most of these costs are variable and can fluctuate right up until your goods are delivered. They typically include:

• Freight rates, which can shift with fuel prices, capacity, and seasonal demand
• Duties and taxes, calculated on landed value and influenced by exchange rates
• Port and terminal charges, which vary by location and can change with congestion or peak periods
• Customs clearance fees
• Insurance premiums based on cargo value and route risk
• Warehousing and storage, which can escalate quickly if goods are held longer than expected

If you’re a first-time importer, take the time to map out your total landed costs, and the factors that can change them, before making pricing and purchasing decisions.

2. Choosing the wrong Incoterms

Incoterms, or International Commercial Terms, define who pays for what, and who carries the risk, at each stage of your goods’ journey. They’re often dismissed as technical details, yet even experienced importers can misunderstand what they really mean.

When something goes wrong in transit, however, those details matter. This is where many importers realise they wish they’d read the fine print.

Choosing Incoterms isn’t about right or wrong, but about selecting terms that align with your risk and cost management needs. Some options may look simpler or cheaper upfront, but can limit your visibility and control later on.

Working with a freight forwarding and logistics specialist like Stockwells allows you to understand what your Incoterms mean. Look for a forwarder that supports informed decisions and avoid unnecessary exposure.

3. Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Import documentation is one of the most common causes of delays for first-time importers. Even small errors in documents such as commercial invoices, certificates of origin, or customs declarations can result in shipments being held, delayed, or fined.

While documents are often prepared by suppliers, responsibility for their accuracy ultimately sits with the importer. Working with an experienced freight forwarder and customs team helps identify missing or incorrect documentation before it disrupts your shipment.

4. Lack of planning for transit times and delays

Transit times are estimates, not guarantees. First-time importers often plan around exact arrival dates, without accounting for the variables that come with global shipping. From port congestion to public holidays, there are many factors that can lead to delays.

When delays aren’t built into timelines, they can impact stock availability and broader business planning. Allowing for flexibility upfront makes it easier to manage change when it occurs.

An experienced freight forwarder can help set realistic expectations and keep you informed when conditions shift. When unexpected disruptions occur, they can help you pivot while avoiding unnecessary delays and costs. 

5. Choosing price over expertise

When comparing freight forwarders, it’s easy to focus on the lowest headline rate. But importers eventually learn that cheaper upfront prices don’t always translate to lower total landed costs – especially when unreliable service can lead to delays, unexpected fees, and fines.

Choosing the right freight forwarder is especially important for first-time importers who may be unsure which costs to expect. Look for a forwarder with a proven track record of transparency, expertise, and proactive communication, and don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from trusted peers.

Your first-time importers checklist

Before confirming your first shipment, take a moment to check the following:

☐ Do you have a clear view of your total landed costs, not just the supplier invoice?

☐ Have you confirmed who is responsible for freight, duties, insurance, and risk under your chosen Incoterms?

☐ Are all import documents complete, consistent, and aligned with customs requirements?

☐ Have you planned your timelines with flexibility, allowing for potential transit delays?

☐ Do you have visibility over key shipment milestones once goods are in transit?

☐ Have you done your research on your freight forwarder? Do they offer proven experience, compliance support, and proactive communication?

Importing doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require understanding. Taking the time to work through these considerations early can help you avoid common pitfalls and navigate your first import with confidence.

If you’d like support reviewing your first shipment or understanding what to expect, Stockwells’ team is here to help. Please reach out to sales@stockwells.com.au – we’ll get back to you soon.

The post 5 Common Mistakes First-Time Importers Make – And How to Avoid Them first appeared on Stockwells.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, operational updates, and industry insights from Stockwells.

In this edition, we cover:

• Public Holiday Notices
• Extended ABF Border Holds
• Notice: Deferred GST Scheme for Importers
• Important Notice – Timely Provision of Import Documents for Australian Clearance
• Shipping Charges & Fees

Click here to read the full newsletter.

The post News Alert | 01 June 2026 first appeared on Stockwells.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, operational updates, and industry insights from Stockwells.

In this edition, we cover:

• Extended ABF Border Holds
• Notice: Deferred GST Scheme for Importers
• Important Notice – Timely Provision of Import Documents for Australian Clearance
• Shipping Charges & Fees

Click here to read the full newsletter.

The post News Alert | 22nd May 2026 first appeared on Stockwells.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, operational updates, and industry insights from Stockwells.

In this edition, we cover:

• DP World Port Botany – Protected Industrial Action
• Notice: Deferred GST Scheme for Importers
• Important Notice – Timely Provision of Import Documents for Australian Clearance
• Shipping Charges & Fees

Click here to read the full newsletter.

The post News Alert | 15th May 2026 first appeared on Stockwells.

That’s where Stockwells comes in. Stockwells has over 50 years of experience in international freight, and our WA team helps clients move cargo smoothly, efficiently, and compliantly through ports like Fremantle, Geraldton, Karratha/Dampier, Port Hedland, and Bunbury. Our in-house customs brokers work closely with you to plan ahead, minimise delays, and keep shipments moving safely every step of the way.

We spoke with Austyn Gambell, WA Manager, to get his take on the unique challenges and opportunities of importing and exporting in WA, and how Stockwells supports businesses across the state.

Q: What WA ports do Stockwells work through most frequently and why?

Austyn: Most of our WA freight, about 95%, moves through Fremantle Port, the main gateway for Perth. Port Dampier is used for large mine belts, as it’s closer to the mine sites our clients serve. Port Hedland is used less often, only when specific mine sites require it.

Q: What cargo types are most common across each port?

Austyn: Fremantle Port handles a variety of goods, supporting both local Perth needs and nearby mining operations. Port of Dampier primarily deals with mining equipment imports and exports like iron ore, salt, and scrap. Port of Hedland sees similar mining-related cargo, depending on the site.

Q: What are the biggest differences between Fremantle and regional ports from a cargo handling perspective?

Austyn: Fremantle has plenty of dedicated equipment to handle all types of freight quickly and efficiently. Regional ports, on the other hand, are more focused on specific commodities like salt and iron ore, which are loaded onto bulk-style vessels via conveyor belts rather than shipping containers. They can still handle containers, but in much smaller volumes, so the equipment reflects that. 

Q: Are there any port capacity issues customers should be aware of?

Austyn: At Fremantle, there’s often a backlog of vessels over the weekend, so a lot of containers are discharged then. Most deliveries happen earlier in the week, and things tend to slow down towards the end of the week before the cycle starts again.

Q: What delays or problems do clients most often face when importing into WA?

Austyn: At the moment, the Fremantle Bridge closure is causing traffic delays for trucks coming in and out of the port. This is leading to longer transit times both entering and leaving Fremantle.

Q: How does port congestion affect lead times?

Austyn: Port congestion in WA, especially at Fremantle, can have a big impact on freight lead times. When terminals get busy, vessels may have to wait offshore for a berth, which pushes back discharge schedules. Once alongside, limited yard space and terminal capacity can slow unloading and container release.

The effects don’t stop at the port gate. Congestion can delay container availability, increase truck turnaround times, and tighten booking windows for transport operators. In some cases, export cargo can even miss vessel cutoffs and be rolled to the next sailing. For businesses relying on reliable supply chains, lead times can extend from a couple of days during mild congestion to a week or more during peak periods. This is why Stockwells’ decades of experience in WA freight allows clients to plan around these challenges effectively.

Q: What port-specific requirements catch people off guard (quarantine, scanning, inspections)?

Austyn: Many delays at ports actually come down to small details people don’t expect. Slot booking systems, tight export cutoffs, and strict compliance around weights and documentation can all hold cargo up. Even after a container is discharged, it might not be immediately accessible if it’s buried in the stack. Missing a truck slot or receival window can quickly delay a movement by a day or even a full sailing. It really highlights the importance of understanding port processes, not just the shipping itself.

Q: What are the most important compliance rules importers need to know for WA ports?

Austyn: Importers need to make sure cargo is correctly declared with the Australian Border Force and meets biosecurity requirements through the Department of Agriculture before it can be released. Accurate container weights and matching documentation are also essential. Mismatches are a common cause of delays. On top of that, importers need to understand their Chain of Responsibility obligations for road transport leaving the port. Missing any of these requirements can quickly hold containers at the terminal and add days to delivery times.

Q: How do Stockwells’ in-house customs brokers simplify clearance?

Austyn: Stockwells’ customs brokers make clearance easier by managing the entire process directly. Import declarations, biosecurity requirements, and documentation are all handled internally, which helps reduce delays and catch issues early. Because the brokerage and transport teams work closely together, containers can move from clearance to delivery much faster. It also gives clients a single point of contact and better visibility across the whole shipment.

Q: How does early planning reduce costs for WA importers?

Austyn: Early planning helps WA importers avoid extra costs once cargo arrives. By preparing documentation, booking transport in advance, and checking biosecurity or customs requirements ahead of time, containers can be cleared and collected more quickly. This reduces the risk of storage, detention, or demurrage charges and allows better coordination with transport providers, often leading to faster and more cost-effective deliveries.

Stockwells’ in-depth understanding of WA ports ensures these plans are realistic and efficient, helping clients avoid unnecessary delays or charges.

Q: How does your WA team support regional businesses?

Austyn: Our WA team supports regional businesses by coordinating freight between major ports and remote locations across the state. With experience handling mining, industrial, and project cargo, the team manages everything from customs clearance to road transport and final delivery. This gives regional companies reliable logistics support without having to deal with multiple providers and keeps freight moving efficiently in areas where supply chains can be more complex.

Q: What tools or tracking systems help clients stay in control of their shipments?

Austyn:  We help clients stay in control through our Track and Trace platform and client portal. They can monitor shipments in real time, access documents, and get status updates all in one place. GPS tracking and integrated logistics systems give even deeper visibility across the supply chain, so businesses can plan ahead and respond quickly if anything changes.

Q: Are new port expansions, upgrades or technologies expected to impact importers?

Austyn: The Fremantle Traffic Bridge closure is already affecting freight into the port, with truck traffic being diverted to other crossings. This is creating more congestion and could extend delivery times for importers while the bridge is closed, which is expected to be around 12 months from February 2026.

Looking further ahead, WA is planning the Westport container terminal at Kwinana. Once operational in the late 2030s, it will shift container trade from Fremantle and support growing freight demand. In the short term, changes like the bridge closure may create challenges, but long-term projects like Westport are designed to improve capacity and efficiency across WA supply chains. Through it all, Stockwells’ local knowledge and dedicated WA team mean our clients have the support and guidance they need to navigate these changes smoothly.

At Stockwells, we know that navigating WA’s ports can be complex, from Fremantle to Dampier and beyond. That’s why our WA team, led by Austyn Gambell, works closely with every client to plan, manage customs, and keep shipments moving efficiently. It’s this hands-on local knowledge and experience that makes a real difference for businesses across the state.

If you want a logistics partner who knows WA ports inside out and is there to guide you every step of the way, get in touch with us today.

The post WA ports we import and export through: A complete guide first appeared on Stockwells.