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THE ROLE OF HSN CODE AND ITS USAGE IN IMPORT–EXPORT OPERATIONS AND ITS IMPACT ON THE LOGISTICS FIELD"
Ganesh G and Dr Anitha Kumari. D, MBA (Shipping & Logistics Management) and Associate Professor, School of Management Studies, Department of Management Studies, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai-117
Pages: 1-15 | First Published: 15 May 2026
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This empirical research analyses the influence of HSN Codes (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) on the efficiency of operations (OE) and performance of logistics outcomes (LPO) in the import and export industries. Primary data used in the analysis consisted of responses to a structured questionnaire by fifty logistics professionals, IMPEX executives, customs house agents (CBHC) and brokers. The techniques used to analyse the primary data were: Percentage analysis, Descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation, Multiple Regression, Sobel Test, Mediation Analysis, and Structural Equation Modelling (using SPSS/AMOS). Results indicate that HSN Code classification practices are the strongest predictor of Trade Efficiency (r = .831, p < .01). HSN Awareness, Knowledge Level, and Training Requirements do not predict improvements either in Customs Clearance or reductions in cost on their own; however, the effects of these three variables are indirect through a mediator variable, Ease of Classification, which plays a significant role in classifying goods for entering a country. The Structural Equation Model (SEM) has acceptable fit indices across each of the eight fit indices. Brand Trust, analogous to Supply Chain Efficiency within the conceptual framework developed for this research, maintains structural independence; therefore, Performance Logistics operates primarily from operational accuracy rather than based on perceptual constructs. The Study recommends that logistics companies develop a structured training programme for HSN classification, clear the use of Artificial Intelligence to enhance and support the overall HSN classification processes, and create an integrated HSN compliance process in their digital Customs process in order to be competitive at sustainable levels.

KEYWORDS: HSN Code Classification, Import–Export Operations, Logistics Performance, Trade Compliance, Trade Efficiency, Supply Chain, Customs Clearance, B2B Logistics

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  2. Bansal, R. (2022). Awareness of HSN Codes by Small Businesses. Indian Journal of Trade and Taxation, 8(1), 22-35.

  3. Chopra, A. (2024). Utilising Digital Tools for HSN Classification. Journal of Customs and Trade Technology, 15(2), 55-70.

  4. Das, R. (2020). Incidence of Classification Errors in Import/Export Companies. International Trade Journal, 5(2), 20-34.

  5. Gupta, M. (2020). HSN Codes and Customs Clearance Efficiency. Journal of International Business, 9(4), 60-75.

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  8. Iyer, S. (2023). HSN Codes and Supply Chain Efficiency. Journal of Operations Management, 13(1), 35-50.

  9. Khan, A. (2021). Awareness of HSN Codes by Logistics Professionals. Journal of Trade Education, 7(3), 25-38.

  10. Kumar, A. & Singh, P. (2022). The Effect of HSN Codes on GST Compliance. Indian Journal of Commerce, 10(3), 55-70.

  11. Mehta, R. & Shah, K. (2023). Cost Efficiency Through Proper HSN Classification. Logistics Management Review, 11(2), 40-55.

  12. Patel, D. (2024). The Challenges of Using HSN Codes in Logistics Classification. Journal of Supply Chain Research, 14(2), 78-90.

  13. Reddy, S. (2021). The Use of HSN Codes in Import/Export Documentation. International Journal of Trade and Logistics, 8(1), 30-42.

  14. Saxena, P. (2023). How Frequent Updates of HSN Codes Affect Compliance. Taxation and Trade Review, 9(2), 45-58.

  15. Sharma, R. (2023). The importance of HSN codes for classifying international trade. Logistics Studies, 12(2), 45–60.

 

ROLE OF TALENT ACQUISITION IN PROMOTING DECENT WORK AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH (SDG 8) A STUDY OF CORPORATE HR PRACTICES
Jaya Shree E and Dr Anitha Kumari. D 1MBA (HR and Finance Specialization), and Associate Professor School of Management Studies, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai-117,
Pages: 16-24 | First Published: 16 May 2026
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In today's dynamic environment, talent acquisition has come out as an effective tool for achieving organization sustainability and socio-economic development. This is particularly true when we consider Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) where inclusion and decent work are of prime importance. Although the trend towards adopting a diverse approach towards talent acquisition is gaining importance, there still exist certain difficulties in ensuring inclusive recruitment through talent acquisition. This paper seeks to find out how talent acquisition can help organizations ensure inclusiveness and enhance employees' engagement levels. For this purpose, a quantitative research method was employed and data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire from a sample of 120 respondents. The main independent variable included talent acquisition practices while the dependent variable was inclusive growth. Employee engagement and workforce diversity were considered mediating factors. Some of the statistical tools used for analyzing the relationships among different variables included descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, ANOVA, t-test, chi-square, and mediation analysis.

Keywords: Talent Acquisition, SDG 8, Inclusive Growth, Decent Work, HR Practices, Employee Engagement.

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ANALYZING CONTAINER ACTIVITY REPORT (CAR) FOR IMPROVING OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE
Keshavardhini K and Dr Anitha Kumari. D, MBA (Shipping and Logistics Management) and Associate Professor, School of Management Studies, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai-117.
Pages: 25-34 | First Published: 16 May 2026
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handles the efficient carriage of containerized cargo through international business. Container Activity Report (CAR) is one of the important documents in liner shipping operations used for various purposes including container tracking, terminal activities, operational expenses, approvals, and invoicing. Efficient CAR management increases efficiency in shipping operation. The present study aims at assessing operational challenges in handling Container Activity Reports. This particular study concentrates only on operational categories such as Container Terminal Logistics (CTL), Port Terminal Charges (PTC), and Miscellaneous (MSC) activities relating to CAR processing. Descriptive research method was used for the analysis and secondary data were gathered from operational data, approved CARs, shipping documentation, and process observation during the internship. A number of operational challenges were found including errors in data entries, absence of mandatory fields in CAR forms, delay in CAR approvals, inconsistency in cost calculations, human errors in data entry, lack of system integrations in the whole process, and delays in invoice process due to lack of approvals. All these challenges increase operational burden. The study recommends process automation, real-time data validation, system integrations, and automated approval process for better CAR operations in shipping business.

Keywords: Container Activity Report (CAR), Liner Shipping, Logistics Operations, Container Terminal Logistics (CTL), Port Terminal Charges (PTC), Shipping Management, Operational Efficiency, CAR Automation, Maritime Logistics, Invoice Processing

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  3. Bouhachi, S., Ouzayd, F., & Ech-Cheikh, H. (2025). Operational Processes and Optimization in Container Terminal Management.

  4. Al-Ali, S. J. Enhancing Maritime Financial Operations Using Lean Six Sigma Methodology.

  5. Alavi-Borazjani, S. A., Bengue, A. A., Chkoniya, V., & Shafique, M. N. (2022). Digital Shipping Corridors and Their Role in Sustainable Maritime Logistics.

  6. Rahman, M. H., & Baldacci, R. The Gulf–Europe Transportation Project and Its Impact on Logistics Sustainability and Regional Trade.

  7. Alemu, A. E., Alhabsi, A. H., Kiran, F., & Al Kalbani, K. S. (2022). Artificial Intelligence Applications in Maritime and Logistics Operations.

  8. Mohsen, B. M., & Mohsen, M. (2025). Artificial Intelligence and Energy Optimization in Urban Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

  9. Gentilucci, R. (2025). Role of the International Transport Forum in Global Transport Policy Development.

  10. Li, R. (2025). Impact of Suez Canal Congestion on Global Supply Chain and Maritime Logistics.

  11. Alnıpak, S. (2022). Selection Criteria and Operational Importance of Terminal Operating Systems in Container Terminals.

  12. Gavalas, D., Katsounis, I., & Vasiliadis, L. (2023). Port Performance and Logistics Resilience During Major Global Disasters.

  13. Arvanditya, R., & Melia, I. (2025). Logistical Challenges and Technology-Driven Solutions in EPCI Projects.

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A SOFTWARE-BASED SYSTEM FOR SUPPLIER COMMUNICATION AND USMCA CERTIFICATE REQUEST AND CORRECTION PROCESS IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Arunkumar M and Dr Anitha Kumari.D, MBA (Shipping & Logistics Management) and Associate Professor School of Management Studies, Department of Management Studies, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai-117.
Pages: 35-46 | First Published: 16 May 2026
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The US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has created extensive documentation obligations necessary to establish qualification for preferential tariffs for trade within North America. Despite their criticality, many organisations continue to utilise manual, email-based processes to manage their USMCA Certificates of Origin (COOs). This creates many challenges, including errors, delays, vulnerability of being audited, and failures to meet compliance. The goal of this study was to evaluate an organisation’s current manual process for managing USMCA certificates within a Global Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) Company (XYZ) and to analyse twelve actual examples that represent various forms of manufacturing, including automotive, retail, aerospace, textile, and food. The descriptive research design used a combination of first-hand observation and secondary data to identify systemic inefficiencies within XYZ’s USMCA certificate management systems; to propose an around-the-clock, software-supported workflow for effective management of certificates; and ultimately to achieve significant improvement in operational performance through application solutions. The research results indicate that automated, centralised repositories for managing certificates, supplier portals for inputting information directly into the system, and contemporaneous real-time tracking of compliance all provide significant reductions in errors, improve readiness for an audit, and generate a quantifiable savings from duties. This study provides safety, significant recommendations for logistics companies that want to update their trade documentation to comply with recent requirements.

KEYWORDS: USMCA, Certificate of Origin, Trade Compliance, Supply Chain Management. Digital Documentation.

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AN ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF DIGITAL MARKETING IN THE FREIGHT FORWARDING INDUSTRY IN CHENNAI
Jahan M MBA and Dr Anitha Kumari. D (Shipping & Logistics Management), and Associate Professor, School of Management Studies, Department of Management Studies, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai-117.
Pages: 47-61 | First Published: 15 May 2026
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To assess how Digital Marketing Practices (DMP) and Communication Practices (CP) impact Customer Awareness (CA), Brand Trust (BT), and Business Impact (BI) in the freight forwarding sector in Chennai, this study gathered primary data from 50 logistics and import/export professionals via a structure questionnaire, then used a combination of Correlation Analysis, Multiple Regression, Sobel Test and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine the stated hypotheses and validate our model. Digital Marketing Practices are the strongest predictor of Customer Awareness with an R² value of 0.690 (p < 0.001).

 In addition to DMP directly impacting Business Performance, both DMP and CP significantly influence Business Performance indirectly (through CA), thus indicating partial mediation. BT does not significantly affect either DMP or CP, therefore indicating that Trust in B2B Freight Forwarding relationships is generally formed via dependable operations, consistently delivered services, and long-term relationship management, but not through Digital Channels.

Our recommendations are for Logistics companies to implement Digital Marketing strategies in conjunction with dependable service provision and customer-focused relationship management if they seek to develop a lasting competitive advantage.

KEYWORDS

Digital Marketing Practices, Freight Forwarding, Customer Awareness, Brand Trust, Business Impact, B2B Logistics

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