Last Updated on January 27, 2023 by Tabraiz
Shipping your goods to international markets can contain quite a few hassles and complications. While some businesses rely on their in-house arrangements to overcome these complications, others choose a freight forwarder for the same.
However, the consensus has shown how hiring freight forwarders can be a much more sorted option. If you are contemplating making this switch, or this is your first time hiring one, you should start by understanding what is freight forwarder.
In the simplest terms, freight forwarders are the intermediary between the point of distribution and the consignor of goods. They will help arrange inland transport, take care of the customs and port documentation, the overall shipping process, and some other supplementary activities.
Since they have a better rapport with government agencies and other similar services, they are a more efficient addition to your company. They will surely be able to get the job done more smoothly, in addition to getting better shipping rates, faster schedules, and more.
What Qualities Should A Freight Forwarder Possess?
Import and export are quite common in this field of business. However, proper planning and execution can help create several profitable opportunities for the companies. That said, maintaining the logistics of international shipping can be quite complicated. Any freight forwarder from Alibaba will always have:
- Required licensing and understanding of the market
- Proper knowledge of all customs protocols and standards, often varying from country to country
- Quick problem-solving skills, given the unpredictability of weather, market conditions, and technology
- A keen interest in network building as a supply chain is only as efficient as the parties involved
All international supply chains are part of the globalized marketplace. Whenever you might need help with warehouse planning, customs cargo insurance, scheduling, and other such necessities, you will need the help of a freight forwarder. To say the least, they are an integral part of your shipping process from start to finish.
The Procedure of Freight Forwarding
Before you can find the perfect freight forwarder for your business, you need to understand what they actually offer. Most commonly, freight forwarders offer services including:
- Booking cargo space on ocean vessels
- Negotiating cargo charges for the supplier
- Arranging the transport and manpower required
- Inland hauling of transported goods
- Offering cargo insurance
- Finding temporary storage for cargos
- Consolidating cargo shipment
- Preparing customs and shipping documents and export papers
Whichever service you choose should also have good relations with government agencies. However, this mainly depends on the type of cargo you are exporting, for instance, if they are food products or restricted items.
Freight forwarders should always abide by the regulations and laws of both the exporting and importing country. To ensure that, they will need to have good communication and networking skills. Having a good impression on the government and other associated agencies can ensure a smoother and more convenient process.
With the information mentioned in this article, it is quite clear why freight forwarders make an important addition to most companies. Rest assured, with the right help and guidance, you will surely be able to ensure a profit and stay on the right side of rules and regulations. Before you make your choice, however, make sure you check their market review and reputation. With the information mentioned in this article, it is quite clear why freight forwarders make an important addition to most companies. Rest assured, with the right help and guidance, you will surely be able to ensure a profit and stay on the right side of rules and regulations. Before you make your choice, however, make sure you check their market review and reputation. Before you make your choice, however, make sure you check their market review and reputation.
