Category Sourcing: Our topic overview

Chinese New Year 2027: How to Prepare Your Supply Chain

Chinese New Year 2027 (February 6) causes 6–8 weeks of factory shutdowns in China. Plan orders, freight, and safety stock before key deadlines pass.

FCL vs. LCL: Costs, Transit Times and Decision Matrix

FCL or LCL for your sea freight? We explain the difference, the real costs, and when each shipping method makes more sense for your import from China.

What Is Stainless Steel? Grades, Properties & Procurement Tips

Stainless steel: EN 10088 definition, grades (V2A/V4A), material numbers 1.4301 and 1.4404, magnetic properties, and procurement tips for buyers.

Procurement Logistics: Processes, Tasks and Control

Procurement logistics bridges purchasing and physical material flow. Learn which processes and control instruments ensure a reliable supply chain.

Demand Planning in Procurement: Methods, Types & Best Practices

What is demand planning in procurement and which methods exist? Guide to demand types, net requirements calculation and how to avoid typical mistakes.

Customs Value: Methods, Additions and Incoterms

How to determine customs value correctly: transaction value method, required adjustments, Incoterms impact and typical mistakes explained for importers.