February 9, 2023
AGI News
Air Freight
Road Freight
Sea Freight
You probably already know that a freight forwarder helps businesses ship goods around the globe on their behalf. However, transportation is only a part of the service a good freight forwarding company provides. Warehousing, insurance, paperwork, clearances, packaging, documentation, liaising with customers… there is a long list! But why use a freight forwarding company rather than doing it yourself? Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of partnering with a good freight forwarder!
Customs management and clearance
Dealing with customs clearance is not a trivial matter. Rules evolve and change. Different countries have different requirements. Many small or medium sized businesses struggle to gain and maintain the in-house knowledge required to ensure timely customs clearances. This is especially so when new materials or goods are being shipped for the first time. The result can be delay, frustration or even fines and additional charges.
Knowing exactly what is required at all stages of the customs process, is a key part of the service a freight forwarding company provides. Because they do it day in, day out, they have the skills, knowledge, and experience to ensure a smooth process.
Documentation
Importing and exporting goods requires a lot of very specific paperwork! The right commodity codes, labels, licences, bills, invoices, declarations, certificates. The list seems endless. Get any of this documentation wrong and significant delays in the shipment, as well as unexpected costs, can arise. The knowledge of an experienced freight forwarding company can ensure that the right documentation, in the right format, is presented at the right time to the right person. It’s a major reason many businesses partner with a freight forwarder for their logistics needs.
Insurance
Things do go wrong, accidents happen, and when they do it’s vital that companies have the right insurances in place. A freight forwarding company can help put in place insurance either for an individual assignment, or provide coverage for all goods over the course of a year. Their industry knowledge allows them to access competitive rates, and know which policies will meet the needs of their customers.
Negotiating freight charges
Whether shipping by air, road, rail, or sea, obtaining the best value rates from shipping companies plays an important part in keeping logistics costs low. The knowledge and experience of a good freight forwarding company can ensure the lowest prices for the right level of service, keeping costs low and profits high. In some cases, freight forwarders can offer their own logistics services for part, or all of the journey.
Time-sensitive deliveries
For some deliveries, time is of the essence. Whether delivering perishable items, or ensuring a client can meet tight project deadlines, the goods simply have to arrive on time. A good freight forwarding company can advise you on the quickest route for your shipment, and advise on the lowest cost options to meet that deadline. However, problems can arise, and when they do you need proactive help to solve them, find alternatives, and still meet the deadlines. With years of logistics experience and industry relationships, your freight forwarder can ensure timely deliveries and satisfied clients.
Dealing with customers
Many businesses underestimate the importance of keeping their customers updated with timely information about their shipments. Customer service is a vital part of a business, and constantly needs to be cared for. A freight forwarder can not only provide proactive updates, but also help respond to specific requests for information, or deal effectively with any issues that might arise. If customers know where their shipment is, their level of satisfaction is kept high.
How can we help?
Whether you require local, national, European, or international logistics solutions, we have the industry knowledge, and experience to provide the best service possible. To find out more about our logistics services and how we can help your business, please get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you.