Freight forwarding companies are companies that specialize in arranging the storage and shipment of goods on behalf of their clients. They typically provide a wide range of services including import/export and shipping document preparation, ground transportation tracking, warehousing, freight consolidation, freight charge negotiation, cargo space reservation, shipping insurance and filing insurance claims.
These companies have established significant importance in the import and export industry due to the great role they play in ensuring the smooth and fast shipment of goods on a global scale. Due to its growing importance, a large number of companies now offer freight forwarding services. This makes finding a reliable logistics partner quite a difficult task.
The key to a smooth and successful freight shipment is choosing the right carrier. But how will you know which company is trustworthy enough to fulfill your shipping requirements efficiently? There are certain criteria that you need to establish when hiring the perfect logistics partner. Here are some of the top qualities to look for in a forwarder.
1. Highly organized and expert in the documentation process for shipping goods inside and outside the country. A good carrier is able to provide accurate and efficient services to their customers because in this type of business mistakes can be very costly. That is why in cargo transport there is hardly any room for errors such as a mistake in the documentation or the delivery of the cargo in the wrong country. Although there is insurance for such circumstances, processing the requirements to claim the insurance can be a waste of time and resources. After all, all he wanted was for his products to be shipped to their correct destination without delay.
2. Provide good packing service.. Regardless of the shipping method you choose for your products, be it by land, air or sea, shipping conditions can sometimes be difficult and can damage your shipment if not packed correctly. A good carrier has an efficient and reliable packaging system for various types of products, especially for fragile products. When choosing a carrier, knowledge of and experience with the proper shipping and handling of your particular type of product should also be an important consideration.
3. It has a reliable network of customs brokers and freight forwarders in the country of origin and destination. This ensures that all information related to your shipments will flow back and forth without delay and reduces the chance of your shipments being held up at ports. Any delay in the line can be very costly.
4. It offers a high level of communication and an accurate tracking system. When shipping goods abroad, it is very important to establish a good line of communication between the carrier and the sender. This will allow you to know the progress in real time or the exact location of your shipments, giving you peace of mind and security that your shipment will arrive in a timely manner.
5. Good insurance coverage. It is equally important to hire a company that has a high level of cargo insurance to cover your products and shipments to ensure that any damage or loss in shipping or storage is adequately compensated.