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6 Things To Consider When Choosing A Freight Forwarder

A smooth and efficient transportation of goods is always important. One of the many factors that will determine whether your goods will arrive safely to their destination is the freight forwarder you choose.

A reliable forwarder could save you a couple of very important things – time, money, and headaches. On the other hand, picking an unprofessional freight forwarder could often lead to delays, extra costs, and operational disrupts. To avoid this and pick the right freight forwarder, consider these 6 things.

Experience and Expertise

Firstly, the thing that will most often indicate whether a forwarder is reliable or no is the experience they have. You’ll want to look for experts that have a proven track record in handling shipments similar to yours.

They will be more likely to understand various complexities of international shipping such as customs and regulations, documentation requirements, and potential pitfalls. Thanks to their rich experience, they should be able to offer invaluable insights, as well as solutions for your potential problems and questions.

Range of Services

Another very important thing to consider before hiring anyone is their range of services. Different business will have different shipping needs, which is why you should look for a freight company that offers services that you need.

Choosing a freight forwarder with a comprehensive range of services is always a good idea. A company that offers ocean, air, and land transportation, warehousing, customs brokerage, insurance, and supply chain management will make it easier for you to streamline all your logistics operations.

Customer Service and Communication

Effective communication is crucial in any sort of business. The same goes for international shipping. There is no successful business without effective communication and responsive customer service. The forwarder you choose should be proactive when it comes to keeping you informed about the status of your shipment.

In case a potential issue occurs, effective communication is more than necessary. That is why a transparent freight company that puts communication and responsiveness should be the one you pick. As long as the communication is open, there is no space for misunderstandings and the shipping process is smooth.

Network and Global Reach

When working with international shipments, network and global reach are pretty important. A freight forwarder with a strong global network can offer plenty of benefits. For instance, they offer better route options, competitive pricing, and local expertise.

A simple way to see if the forwarder is globally connected is by checking if they have established relationships with experts in the region where you plan to operate. See if they have relationships with carriers, agents, and partners. This will all affect the efficiency and cost of your operations.

Technology and Tracking Capabilities

Another very important factor to consider when picking a freight company, especially today, is the technology the company is using. Real-time visibility into the shipments is crucial in today’s day and age. A forwarder that leverages advanced technology would be the perfect pick.

There are plenty of technology advancements that allow for proper tracking and motoring capabilities. Online platforms and mobile apps offer the best ways to track shipments today. Not only that, but they are also perfect for receiving updates and managing documentation. All these technological advancements will make it easier for you to make informed decisions.

Cost and Value

Finally, the last factor you should consider before opting for a freight forwarder is the cost. Even though this shouldn’t be the sole factor in the decision-making process, it shouldn’t be overlooked either. You should evaluate the overall value of the offer and make a good financial decision.

You should pay attention to the quality of the service offered, to the reliability of the company, and their ability to meet your needs. In some instances, it’s better paying a bit more for a forwarder with strong reputation than saving money and choosing someone unreliable or unprofessional. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that the whole shipping process goes smoothly.

Conclusion

Choosing a freight forwarder is a decision that will significantly impact your future business. Due to the 6 factors we have listed here, you could quickly find the perfect freight forwarder for you. Make sure to find a reliable, transparent, and professional group of experts that will ensure for a smooth and issue-free co-operation.

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