Blog
Insights for European importers
How to organise import documents so nothing gets lost
14 April 2026
A practical system for organising import shipment documents across multiple parties — from purchase order to customs clearance to archive. Built for small European import teams.
Best import management software for small European importers (2026)
11 April 2026
An honest comparison of 6 import management tools for European SMB importers in 2026. Includes pricing, features, and which tool fits which type of importer — from free options to enterprise platforms.
EU Customs Documents Checklist: What You Actually Need
8 April 2026
Commercial invoice, packing list, BL, certificate of origin — the full EU import document checklist, who provides each, and what to do if one's missing.
How to get automatic shipment updates from your freight forwarder
7 April 2026
A practical guide for European importers on how to stop chasing your freight forwarder for ETAs — what to ask for, what technology exists, and how to set up a system that keeps you informed automatically.
How to manage your freight forwarder relationship
6 April 2026
Practical advice for European importers on getting the most from your freight forwarder — what to expect, what to ask for, how to measure performance, and when to switch.
CARVO vs Excel: which is better for managing import shipments?
5 April 2026
A side-by-side comparison of CARVO and Excel for European importers managing shipments. See where each tool fits, what breaks at scale, and when to switch.
What to do when your shipment is held at EU customs
5 April 2026
A practical step-by-step guide for European importers: why shipments get held at customs, how to resolve it fast, and how to prevent it happening again.
Landed Cost Calculation for EU Imports: Worked Example
3 April 2026
The full landed cost formula for EU imports — duty, VAT, freight, insurance, handling — with a worked example in EUR and a spreadsheet template to copy.
How to choose shipment management software: a guide for European importers
3 April 2026
A practical buyer's guide for European importers evaluating shipment management software. What to look for, what to avoid, and how the options compare — from spreadsheets to enterprise TMS.
Incoterms 2020: which terms should European importers use?
28 March 2026
Incoterms 2020 explained for European importers. Which terms to use, FOB vs CIF vs DAP compared, common mistakes, and how Incoterms affect your landed cost.
EU Customs Procedures: The 5 Main Options for Importers
23 March 2026
Release for free circulation, warehousing, inward processing, transit, temporary admission — the 5 main EU customs procedures, which to use when.
Why European importers outgrow Excel (and what to do instead)
16 March 2026
Most European importers start with spreadsheets to track shipments. Here's why they outgrow them, what it costs, and what the alternatives look like.