We are here with another unfortunate maritime incident. In this blog, we will give the details of the explosion at the Colombo Port related to the MSC Cape Town vessel. On August 11, fires flamed on board MSC Cape Town III. MSC Cape Town III container ship was built in 2006 and has a capacity of 2,824 TEU. The ship was docked at Jaya Container Terminal in Colombo Port, Sri Lanka, by the time the fire started. The fire started in the area of 41/43 and spread through 100 under-deck and 60 on-deck containers rapidly; in the end, the fire led to an explosion, resulting in significant concern within port authorities and the maritime industry.

The details of MSC Cape Town III fire

While conducting its East African voyages, MSC Cape Town III experienced an uncontrolled fire during the exchange of 995 containers. When this fire occurred, all ship crew and operational personnel were immediately evacuated for their own safety. Thankfully, the SLPA Fire Brigade put the fires to an end and protected both the ship and its surroundings from further damage. H.J.K.U. Kumara, Director of Port Operations for South Louisiana Public Authority (SLPA), applauded the response team’s swift identification of the smoke source and immediate actions taken to prevent other potential fires. At this point, authorities continue to work in an investigation on what led up to this unfortunate occurrence.

What are the impacts of the incident?

Consequently, the fire and explosion on the MSC Cape Town III caused operational disruptions at Colombo Port, leading to delays in loading and unloading activities and pretty severe congestion at major Asian ports. As a result of this incident, combined with the existing issues caused by the peak season, shippers may face extended container availability delays along with ocean schedule changes and increased dwell times.

Shipsgo’s Actions on the MSC Cape Town III Incident

We closely and carefully followed the incident at the Colombo Port with our expert operation team from the first moment it occurred. After carefully investigating the vessel and the containers it carries, we informed our customers who had shipments on the ship.

We have also reached out to our customers whose shipments will be using this route and who may be potentially affected. We hope that no one will be significantly affected by the negative effects of this accident. We will closely follow the process for our customers’ affected and potentially affected containers.

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What caused the YM Mobility incident?

Yang Ming reported that the explosion originated from a reefer container carrying dry goods; speculation suggested lithium-ion batteries or organic peroxides might have been present, both highly flammable substances. No casualties were reported at the Ningbo Port, and three fire-extinguishing tug boats were sent to respond and extinguish any flare-ups at once. At this point, initial findings of an ongoing investigation indicate that an explosion occurred within a container carrying dangerous goods.

What are the impacts of the incident?

This unfortunate incident caused some delays in loading and unloading activities, disrupting container trade during the peak shipping season. The combination of existing congestion at major Asian ports and this incident has extended container delays, leading to degraded ocean schedules and extended dwell times; it’s advised to choose alternate sea routes or prepare for potential rerouting of shipments as a result of these circumstances.

Shipsgo’s Actions on the YM Mobility Incident

We closely and carefully followed the incident at the Ningbo Port with our expert operation team from the first moment it occurred. After carefully investigating the vessel and the containers it carries, we informed our customers who had shipments on the ship.

We have also reached out to our customers whose shipments will be using this route and who may be potentially affected. We hope that no one will be significantly affected by the negative effects of this accident. We will closely follow the process for our customers’ affected and potentially affected containers.

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In CIF, the seller bears the responsibility of covering all freight costs to ensure the goods are delivered at the port of destination, as specified by the purchaser.

CIF risk is transferred when the product is loaded onto the transport vessel. It is suitable for situations where the seller of the shipment has direct access to the vessel, such as bulk transportation. However, CIF is not much preferred for containerized transportation.

Seller’s obligations under the CIF Incoterm

• Delivery of goods and documents required
• Packaging and wrapping
• International freight
• Customs handling fees at origin
• Origin charges
• Insurance
• Inland transport in the country of origin

Buyer’s obligations under the CIF Incoterm

• Payment of goods
• Destination charges
• Payment of duties and taxes
• Customs handling fees at destination
• Inland transport at the destination country

Cost, Insurance and Freight Insurance Details

Under CIF, the seller is bound to provide insurance in the event of a loss or damage during transport. This can be seen as a benefit, as it relieves the buyer of the responsibility. However, it’s important to note that CIF and CIP are the only two Incoterms that require the seller to provide insurance, which may have implications for the overall cost of the transaction.

It is common for buyers to prefer the CFR Incoterm over CIF if their shipment and cargo insurance policy offers better coverage. CFR is preferred because, unlike CIF, the seller is not required to offer insurance; the buyer can instead purchase this coverage.

CIF and Container Transportation Details

CIF Incoterm does not have the same risk transfer as other incoterms. “Cost, Insurance and Freight Insurance” transfers risk only when the goods are loaded onto the ship.

As an Incoterm, CIF is not suitable for containerized goods that are typically delivered to the terminal several days before loading. This could create a gray area in which shipment can be unknowingly damaged.

Due to the nature of containerized goods, which remain unopened until they reach their destination, it is almost impossible to determine when and if any merchandise has been damaged. CIP is recommended as an alternative to CIF when dealing with container shipment.

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Container movement efficiency is essential in today’s globalized industry. It can also be very worrying not to know where your container is. Container tracking platforms provide solutions regarding shipment visibility. Container tracking platforms such as Shipsgo mainly offer real-time container tracking and updates on your shipments. Eventually, they can give you full visibility of your supply chain and prevent you from some waiting costs, such as demurrage charges.

Here are the Top 5 Container Tracking Software of 2025

Modern systems provide a complete view of your shipment. You should be looking for certain features when choosing a container tracker platform. These include location tracking in real time, status updates with detailed iInformation, ETA (Estimated Delivery Times).

1- Shipsgo

Shipsgo Container Tracking Platform facilitates stress-free shipment tracking and intelligent decision-making by offering notifications, predictions, analysis, and reports. By reviewing your shipping performance at Shipsgo, you can grow your business.

All-in-one Dashboard: Shipsgo’s all-in-one dashboard helps you track and analyze shipments in one place for a more streamlined process.

Notification Emails: Shipsgo notifications and alerts will let you know of all changes and updates so that you never miss a thing about your shipments.

Reports and Statistics: Shipsgo shipping reports will help you review your shipping performance and make better decisions for your business. You can download reports daily, weekly and monthly.

Other Key Features: 

• Tracking API
• Live Map <iframe> integration
• Transit time predictions
• Multiple tracking upload via Excel
• Air cargo tracking beta
• CO2 Offset Load via Excel
• Analytics 360 panel
• Inviting Users
• Daily, weekly and monthly reports

2- Track-Trace

Track-Trace offers parcel/shipment tracking services for various carriers. You can track your cargo or container with a container number or with a Bill of Lading number. Besides the containers that are carried by shipping lines like; MSC, Maersk, COSCO, Hapag Lloyd etc. Track-Trace also covers parcel tracking; UPS, DHL, TNT, Fedex.

3- Descartes MacroPoint

Descartes is a global supply chain technology platform with 20,000 customers worldwide. Descartes provides effective freight visibility solutions and carrier network. They are continuously innovating new technologies for more than three decades. The Focus groups of Descartes are owner-operators, enterprises or anywhere in between. Descartes MacroPoint is a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) solution that aims to deliver productivity, performance, and security for logistics companies. 

4- Cogoport

Cogoport is a popular platform that allows you to track your transportation shipments online in one place. More than 90,000 businesses worldwide use container tracking by Cogoport. It provides end-to-end visibility into your supply chain. 

Some Key Features of Cagoport:

• Real-time container tracking
• Real-time alerts
• Control Dashboard
• HS Code Finder

In addition to container tracking, Cagoport offers many other trade management solutions such as freight rates and tariffs.

5- Alpega

Alpega is a cloud-based TMS (Transportation Management System) that offers advanced features that streamline supply chain operations of businesses. Alpega’s user-friendly interface, coupled with its analytics capabilities allows businesses to optimize shipping processes and increase overall efficiency. Alpega TMS is also a digital collaboration platform where all stakeholders can easily collaborate for smooth execution of transportation processes.

Some Key Features of Alpega

• Order Management
• Shipment Tracking
• Route Optimization
• Freight Procurement & Bidding
• Reporting & Analytics
• Integration

Key Factors When Selecting Container Tracking Software

Scalability and Integration:

Choose a container tracking software that seamlessly integrates with your enterprise resource planning (ERP) framework and other TMS solutions. 

User-Friendly Interface:

Businesses require more than a pretty website with well-executed fonts. The container tracking platforms you’ll choose should be user-friendly, more than it has an attractive appearance. You should be able to easily execute your desired action without forcing significant adjustments. A well-crafted user experience helps you and your team quickly adopt the platform and dashboard.

Cost-Effectiveness: 

Find a container tracking platform that best suits your shipment volume and daily operations. There are various pricing options for container tracking platforms; you should review at least a few options before you select directly.

Reliable Customer Support: 

It’s essential to work with a provider offering proactive customer support with fast response times to address software problems quickly and minimize downtime.

Trial Version and Feature Analysis: 

With so many container tracking solutions on offer, select those that best align with your organization’s supply chain goals, as well as offer a trial version with all pertinent features covered so as to make an informed decision before full-scale deployment.

The post The Best Container Tracking Platforms in 2025 appeared first on Shipsgo Blog.

In the FOB Incoterm, the seller is responsible for all costs and risks until the goods are loaded onto the vessel. The risks are then transferred to the purchaser, a significant shift in the contractual obligations.

FOB Incoterm is similar to FCA Incoterm but has a few key differences. The FOB Incoterm, unlike FCA, explicitly states that the risk transfer occurs upon the complete loading of the goods. Because of this difference, FOB is less suitable to ship containerized cargo. This is an important factor in making logistics decisions.

Seller’s obligations under the FOB Incoterm

• Delivery of goods and documents required
• Packaging and wrapping
• Inland transportation in the country of origin
• Customs handling fees at the origin
• Origin charges

Buyer’s obligations under the FOB Incoterm

• Payment of goods
• International Freight
• Destination charges
• Customs handling fees at the destination
• Inland transportation in the destination country
• Payment of duties and taxes

Free on Board Insurance Details

Insurance coverage isn’t mandatory under the FOB Incoterm.  It is expected to purchase insurance. Buyers, sellers or both can obtain insurance that covers the entire ocean journey or their responsibility.

Avoid problems by ensuring your cargo insurance policy is clearly described and specified within the contract.

FOB and Container Transportation Details

Although FOB is often used to describe containerized imports, especially from China, it should be used with attention to detail. FOB only transfers the risk from the buyer to the seller once the goods are loaded onto the freighter. This is especially true for containerized cargoes, often left at terminals for several days before loading. The container is in a gray zone where damage to the cargo inside is possible. This can happen when the container is being loaded or transported. The cargo is kept inside the container from receipt until arrival. This makes it difficult for the responsible parties to determine when the damage occurred.

What is the Difference Between FOB and CFR?

The Cost and Freight (CFR) assigns the cost of transporting your goods to their destination port to the supplier. The cost of freight is calculated by adding any fees related to exportation to the total. You are responsible for it after the delivery has been unloaded to the destination country. CFR excludes insurance and costs related to delivery. Also excluded are any customs duties.

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A lot of carbon is emitted during the transportation of shipments by land, waiting at ports, and loading them with cranes on ships. According to Smart Freight Center’s research in recent years, the transportation sector represents 23% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Freight Transportation accounts for 36% of this. These data may increase to 50%-60% by 2050 in line with expectations.

When we looked at all these conclusions, we thought that we had to do something as Shipsgo. As a result of long researches and studies, we created two different services.

• Carbon Offset for Shipping
• Port Area Carbon Emission Tracker

Shipsgo and SFC GLEC Framework Accreditation

It is very important to track CO2 emissions and take action accordingly. At this point, let’s talk about the details of the Port Area Carbon Emission Tracker service:

Shipsgo Carbon Emission Tracker is a digital platform that tracks real-time carbon emissions of every port area in the world. The platform also allows users to compare historical changes in carbon emissions and discover emission sources.

We have been accredited by Smart Freight Center for our service “The Port Area Carbon Emission Tracker”, which is significant because Smart Freight Centre (SFC) is a global non-profit organization dedicated to an efficient, zero-emission transport sector. Furthermore, the process is aligned with the Global Logistics Emissions Council Framework for Logistics Emissions Methodologies (GLEC Framework).

What is Carbon Offset?

ShipsGo is committed to supporting environmental sustainability and is concerned about climate change! Carbon offsets neutralize the unavoidable greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during shipping operations. It is seen as a quick, simple and practical way to motivate action to reduce the impacts of climate change.

By financing the environmentally sensitive projects proposed, container shipping companies and beneficial cargo owners will be able to neutralize their share of the total emissions for a given shipment.

The post Smart Freight Centre Accredits Shipsgo – GLEC Framework appeared first on Shipsgo Blog.

According to Incoterms 2020, CFR means that the risk of the goods is transferred from the seller or buyer to the buyer once the goods have been loaded onto the vessel at the port of export and before carriage. In this case, however, the seller will be responsible for all transportation costs until the goods are delivered to the delivery port on the buyer’s side. The seller pays for international transportation, but the buyer is responsible for the condition of the goods during the journey.

The most significant difference between CIF and CFR shipping is insurance. CIF and CFR terms of shipping transfer the risk to the buyer after the goods are loaded aboard the chosen vessel at the origin port. Under CIF, however, the seller is required to insure the shipment.

Seller’s obligations under the CFR Incoterm

• Delivery of goods and documents required
• Customs handling fees at the origin
• Inland transport in the country of origin
• Packaging and wrapping
• Origin charges
• International Freight

Buyer’s obligations under the CFR Incoterm

• Destination charges
• Customs handling fees at the destination
• Inland transport at the destination country
• Payment of duties and taxes
• Payment of goods

Cost and Freight Insurance Details

While Incotermslaws do not require shipment insurance for CFR, it is strongly recommended that all international ocean freight shipments are insured. 

Buyers and sellers can take out two separate policies or one to cover all shipments. You must specify the insurance conditions when you negotiate your sales contract.

CFR and Container Transportation Details

Cost and Freight risk transfer point differs from many other Incoterms. CFR transfers the risk when the goods are loaded onto the vessel at the origin.

The CFR Incoterm should only be used when direct access exists between the seller and the vessel. For example, in bulk cargo shipments, the goods are not dropped into a container but instead loaded directly on the ship. CFR Incoterm does not apply to containerized shipments.

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It is important to know that under free alongside ship, the seller must deliver the goods alongside the ship and bear all risks and costs until the goods are placed. Under FAS, the buyer is responsible for the cost of clearing export and unloading. This is an important thing, as under FAS the seller is obliged to pay the customs fees at the place of departure of the goods.

Seller’s obligations under the FAS Incoterm

– Delivery of Goods and Documents Required
– Packaging and Wrapping
– Inland Transport in the Country of Origin
– Customs Handling Fees at the Origin

Buyer’s obligations under the FAS Incoterm

– Payment of Goods
– Origin Charges
– Destination Charges
– Customs Handling Fees at the Destination
– Inland Transport at the Destination Country
– Payment of Duties and Taxes

Free Alongside Ship Insurance Details

While not mandated under FAS, acquiring insurance is a prudent and highly recommended step for both the buyer and seller. It’s a common practice to secure coverage for the portions of the shipment’s journey they are each responsible for. This ensures that any unforeseen circumstances during transit are adequately covered, providing a strong sense of security in an otherwise unpredictable shipping process.

As a buyer or seller operating under the FAS Incoterm, you have the option to take on the responsibility of securing shipment insurance for the entire shipping process. This decision, however, should be clearly communicated and agreed upon in your sales contract. By doing so, you maintain control over the insurance terms, ensuring they align with your specific needs and risk tolerance.

FAS and Container Transportation Details

Insurance is not mandatory under FAS but it’s a wise and recommended step both for the buyer and seller. The practice is to insure the portion of the shipments journey for which each party is responsible. It is a common practice to ensure that the shipment’s journey is adequately covered in case of any unexpected circumstances.

As a buyer, or seller who operates under the FAS Incoterm you can choose to be responsible for shipments insurance during the entire shipping process. It is important to communicate and agree on this decision in your contract. This allows you to maintain control of the insurance terms and ensure they match your specific needs.

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The Italian Coast Guard quickly responded to the accident, while Guardia Costiera deployed an aircraft, a helicopter, and a ship for monitoring. The Guardia Costiera reported that the collision site was not polluted. After the collision, both EF OLIVIA and HAYRIYE ANA were redirected along the Sicilian coast. According to the most recent marine traffic AIS data, the container ships are moving towards the north, and their status is “restricted mobility.” HAYRIYE ANA only suffered minor damages, while the hull of EF OLIVIA sustained punctures.

Shipsgo Approach for EF Olivia and Mother Hayriye Accident

As Shipsgo, we took quick action after the accident. Our expert operation team quickly started the investigation and analysis process. The investigations were critical for informing our customers about the process and informing the affected shipments.

Based on the detected information, 134 shipments of Shipsgo users were identified, and notifications were made quickly. Determining that 43 different users were affected, our team established one-to-one private contact with the users. They communicated detailed information on the subject, and it was conveyed that information will be provided with instant notifications in the future.

Details of the EF Olivia and Hayriye Ana Accident

The collision has not been revealed in any further deepest detail. However, the Guardia Costiera’s footage indicates that weather conditions were severe at the time of the collision. EF OLIVIA (42,200 dwt) is a container ship Peter Doehle manages. Built-in 2006, it is registered with Portugal and was to sail to AUGUSTA port on Monday. HAYRIYE ANA belongs to a Turkish shipping line. The 8300 dwt Liberia-registered left Istanbul, Turkey, on April 19, bound for A CORUNA in Spain, which was expected to arrive on April 29.

The HAYRIYE ANA was recently inspected, and several defects were found. Chinese maritime authorities reported several deficiencies in November 2023, including issues with the vessel’s VDR. In January 2024, the Greek authorities also noted deficiencies on the vessel. This further highlighted the need to conduct safety and maintenance checks.

The post EF Olivia collided with Hayriye Ana off the Sicilian Coast appeared first on Shipsgo Blog.

Myths surrounding the container shipping industry can create misperceptions, hindering decision-making and affecting business operations. Accurate information can eliminate such assumptions and build a foundation for better understanding. This article explores five of 2024’s most prevalent container shipping myths. These myths are not based on reality and can be corrected with the right information. Also, Shipsgo’s motto is ” Make people happy with the information.”

Be ready, as we will present the facts and debunking myths surrounding container shipping.

5 Myths of Container Shipping and Container Tracking Industry

1- All Container Shipping Companies Are the Same

Every Container Shipping Company is unique and has strengths and weaknesses. Some cargo shipping companies have a more substantial route network. Others may have more specialization in a specific type of cargo. You should compare and research several companies before choosing one.

You can use the Shipsgo Service Finder service to research transportation companies and find the service you seek among the routes. It lists the latest and most recent data for its users. You can use it easily with its user-friendly interface.

2- All Container Ships Are the Same Size

Container ships come in all different sizes, from small ships that can only carry a handful of containers to massive ships that can carry thousands of TEUs. The size and weight of the container and shipments will determine the size of the vessel. You can review the history and development of container ships in our blog post.

3- It’s not Possible to Track Shipment While It’s in Transit

Shipsgo Container Tracking Platform debunks the myth that “a shipment cannot be tracked during shipment” in container transportation. The solution facilitates shipment tracking by providing users with real-time location, status, and ETAs. It sends push notifications to its users and provides fast-action notifications during critical events, such as the Red Sea Incident.

In this way, users have instant information about the status of their shipments and manage their supply chain processes more efficiently.

4- Very Difficult to Find a Carrier and Forwarder for Shipments

Due to busy work schedules or complex issues, finding the carrier or forwarder service you are looking for can be difficult. However, this could be clearer.

The Shipsgo Service Finder tool lists carrier and forwarder information serving you between any route you want. You can quickly discover them right away.

5- Achieving Supply Chain Visibility Needs Too Much Effort

Supply Chain Visibility is one of the most essential elements for companies in the logistics industry. Many companies believe they need to put a lot of effort and money into achieving Supply Chain Visibility. This is also a misconception. Being able to track the whereabouts of your shipments at any time and get instant information about your shipments will take you to the next level in supply chain visibility. 

With Shipsgo Container Tracking, you can easily access much information about your shipments and make your processes more visible. In addition, with Service Finder, you can speed up your processes and make your transportation processes more predictable. Thanks to this tools, your Supply Chain Visibility will level up very quickly.

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