The Drip Capital Blog

Insights on finance, working capital, and the realities of international trade: exports, imports, shipping, logistics, and customs clearance.

Resource Library

House Bill of Lading [HBL] - Format, Issuing Authority & Details

House Bill of Lading [HBL] - Format, Issuing Authority & Details

A house bill of lading (bl) is issued by an NVOCC or CHA and not by the shipping line. Find its meaning, uses in shipping and difference from a master BL

14 January 2026 14 min read
Inland Container Depot (ICD) - Meaning & The complete process

Inland Container Depot (ICD) - Meaning & The complete process

An Inland Container Depot (ICD) is a container storage facility situated in the hinterlands, away from any major port. Shipping companies use ICDs to store and move containers before and after transporting them to the seaport.

14 January 2026 5 min read
What is the difference between BAF and CAF?

What is the difference between BAF and CAF?

BAF and CAF are two crucial charges that shipping carriers use to protect themselves against price fluctuations. These surcharges are levied on the total freight bill and play a significant role in understanding the transport’s final price.

14 January 2026 4 min read
The Different Types of Letter of Credit Used in Import-Export

The Different Types of Letter of Credit Used in Import-Export

There are several types of letter of credit which are used by businesses for International or Domestic trade transactions. It is important to understand these types and their purpose, to use the appropriate letter of credit for your trade transaction.

13 January 2026 6 min read
Difference between a Proforma Invoice and a Commercial invoice

Difference between a Proforma Invoice and a Commercial invoice

One of the most important processes in invoicing is generating a pro-forma invoice and a commercial invoice. Considering the complex nature of these invoices, exporters tend to get confused between them. Read this guide to understand the difference between a pro-forma invoice and a commercial invoice and learn when to use them.

13 January 2026 2 min read
Packing List for Shipping | Defination, Sample & Example

Packing List for Shipping | Defination, Sample & Example

A packing list is a document to help identify & handle export products for all parties in an export transaction. See its template, format & other details in this article

13 January 2026 5 min read
Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) | System, Application & Report

Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) | System, Application & Report

Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) enables the trade community to connect with the CBP through a convenient and centralized single window to facilitate a smooth and seamless global exchange of legitimate goods.

12 January 2026 8 min read
CBP Form 5106: Importer Identity Form Requirements & Filing

CBP Form 5106: Importer Identity Form Requirements & Filing

The CBP Form 5106, also known as the Importer Identity form is a document that must be submitted to the CBP before importing commercial goods into the US. This form is used to keep track of every importer's identification information.

12 January 2026 9 min read