When shipping goods between countries, your international freight forwarder should be a trusted partner, after all, you’ll be putting your valuable stock in their hands.
5 Tips on How to Choose an International Freight Forwarder
An international freight forwarder is a company that specializes in the logistics and shipping of goods.
International shipping is complex and there are lots of elements to the process. Using a freight forwarder helps you connect these elements across different countries so that you get a streamlined movement of your freight.
Here are five tips on how to choose the best international freight forwarder.
1.Understand Your Companies Shipping Needs
Before you choose your international cargo shipping, you should first evaluate the needs of your business. Knowing what you need shipping, and where and when you need your stock will indicate the shipping option you’ll need to take.
For instance, if you need your items moving quickly, you may wish to consider air freight. For larger bulky shipments, think about sending it on the sea.
2. Consider the Industry Experience and Reach of the International Freight Company
You need to know that your stock is in the safest pair of hands possible. For this reason, you’ll want to find out about the companies experience. Ideally, you’ll want to work with a company that has experience working with businesses in your sector.
While learning about the shipping company, find out where they operate.
3. Ensure Proper Risk Management is in Place
Trusting your stock in the hands of a freight forwarder is like trusting your business with them.
You wouldn’t want your stock to get damaged on route or it could prove to be very costly for your business. Find out what measures the freight forwarder has in place to manage risk.
4. Check Licenses, Insurance, and Permits
Freight forwarders are required to have permits and licenses to be able to carry out their work. Find out whether they have all of the necessary documentation and can legally carry your stock.
Similarly, check your freight forwarders’ insurance. What does it cover? Find out whether you need to take out additional insurance to cover your shipment.
5. Check Out the Customer Reviews or Testimonials
Finally, you should read reviews of your chosen freight forwarder online. Look for patterns in any negative reviews as this may indicate that they have ongoing issues.
You can also ask the freight forwarder if they have any testimonials that you can read. While these will generally be more positive in nature, they give you a good idea of the benefits of using the company.
How to Choose an International Freight Forwarder
Trusting your stock in the hands of an international freight forwarder takes research. By considering whether they have the necessary permits, licenses, and risk management measures in place, you can be sure that you’re choosing the right company.
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