• 30-05-2022

Criterias Should Know When Choosing A Freight Forwarder

Reserving to a freight forwarder is a conclusion with long-term outcomes. Freight Forwarders are firms that specialize in all setting the shipping and logistics of goods from the start to finish of the supply chain. They will work on the behalf of shippers to place services ranging from export documentation, international seafreight charges, cfor ustoms clearance procedures, import duties/taxes, port handling fees, local trucking and marine insurance. It is very essential that you choose a right freight forwarding partner who can manage your international and domestic conditions efficiently and effectively. So in this blog you can understand what are the criterias that you should be looking when choosing a freight forwarding partner to ensure that your supply chain needs are met?

Let dive in to key references!

Ensure freight forwarder a member of trade bodies or do they hold any accreditations?

Peek for a freight forwarder who is a partner of trade bodies. A membership to associations such as FIATA (International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations), BIFA (British International Freight Association) or IATA (The International Air Transport Association) is a strong indication that the company operates in an ethical manner, and is compliant with the applicable legal requirements. An AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) accredited freight forwarder fetches the added benefits of being able to take benefit of certain simplified customs procedures. An internationally acknowledged accreditation issued by customs, holders of the AEO status are deemed to offer secure and efficient supply chain security standards.

Trustworthiness

While cost is always on the short list of vital items, fulfillment is the top preference. Freight must be gathered up and delivered on time and in good condition. A forwarder that has proven to be reliable in these areas will become a preferred forwarder for many clients.

Customer Service

Forwarders should be on time, responsive, flexible and proactive. Forwarders should reply to client emails and phone calls promptly. A forwarder that goes the extra mile to see that their client’s needs are met will make a valuable supply chain partner.

Never choose freight forwarding companies based on cost

In brief, moving freight around the world is a complex process. It affects many different procedures which can often go wrong and cause issues throughout the supply chain. If you pick the cheapest freight forwarding service you will not acquire the level of service that you need and their group will often lack industry experience and knowledge on how to solve these problems quickly. Because of this, it’s worth having a good long term relationship with your freight forwarder and pay a fair price. Choosing a freight forwarding service based on the cheapest price will cost your business more in the long run.

Range of services

Each industry has specified necessities when it comes to international shipping. When choosing a freight forwarder, ensure that they have the assistance you require. This will confirm all your international shipments go smoothly.

  • Tracking inland transportation
  • Preparation of import and export documentation
  • Packing and storage
  • Inventory management
  • Booking cargo space
  • Customs clearance
  • Negotiating freight charges
  • Freight consolidation
  • Insurance

Terms and Conditions

The best freight forwarders will take the moment to help you understand their pricing structure. A quality freight forwarding company offers a crystal clear quotation with all the terms and conditions upfront. Examine into extra costs for services including warehouse storage, cargo tracking and dangerous goods handling. Whether you need these services at the time, it’s worthwhile to be aware of the charges for future shipment needs. You have to consider the following queries while choosing freight forwarder

  • What types of insurance do you offer? Costs?
  • Do rates fluctuate seasonally?
  • Do your rates include incidental charges?
  • Charges for document preparation/AES filing?
  • What is my commitment to get a certain price?