Finding a reliable freight forwarder for your shipping requirements is crucial. Here are seven practical tips to guide you:
- Identify your shipment needs
- Seek expertise on your shipping routes
- Decide what type of freight forwarder you prefer
- Obtain a quote and understand its breakdowns
- Evaluate the services offered
- Check out the freight forwarder’s reputation
- Discover nearby logistics events
Continue reading for further details.
Identify your shipment needs
Before choosing a freight forwarder, determine your shipping requirements. Below are some common factors to consider:
- Shipping methods: Decide whether you need air freight, LCL, FCL, railways, or express services.
- Goods classification: Pinpoint the type of goods you are shipping.
- Freight route: Specify your cargo origin and destination.
- Special requirements: Note any special conditions your goods may require, such as MSDS, FDA approval, or specific loading equipment.
- Delivery timeframe: Establish your delivery lead time.
With a clear understanding of your needs, you will be better prepared to find a freight forwarder that fits your shipping criteria.
Seek expertise on your shipping routes
Each freight forwarder often specializes in specific shipping routes. To check if a forwarder can meet your geographic needs, think about these questions:
- New to International Shipping? If yes, working with forwarders who can customize solutions and provide necessary assistance is especially beneficial for new importers and exporters.
- Where are your prime suppliers, manufacturers, and factories? Choose a forwarder with experience and power networks in your origin and destination areas.
- If your business operates globally, opt for a forwarding partner with a broad network of carriers. It offers more shipping options and flexibility.
- Are you planning to expand to new locations? Find a freight forwarder experienced in the new routes you’ll need.
If you tap into the Airsupplycn.com marketplace, you can switch between reputable freight carriers, ensuring you always meet your freight needs as your business grows.
Decide what type of freight forwarder you prefer
Obtain a quote and understand its breakdowns
Several factors influence your shipping rates, including:
- The type of shipped goods
- The weight and volume of your cargo
- The shipping mode
- The container type (20 ft, 40 ft, or 40 HC container)
- Charges for services such as storage, packaging, labeling, and customs clearance
- Additional costs like terminal fees, local charges, and handling fees
When you receive your freight quote, ensure you know all the included costs and confirm that it covers all necessary services.
Evaluate the services offered
Some freight forwarding companies specialize in certain types of transportation, while others provide a comprehensive range of services.
You should determine if they offer the modes of transport your goods require most often.
Additionally, research details about the freight forwarder, such as whether they offer global cargo insurance, handle dangerous goods, or transport non-perishable items.
Describe the main criteria to ensure the selected forwarder meets your needs.
You can also ask them the following key questions, including:
- How large is the company? Can it manage everything from customs brokerage to final delivery without subcontracting tasks?
- Does the forwarder hire staff or use independent contractors?
- Is it a non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC)?
- What regions does it ship from and to?
- Does it have customs brokers on staff to clear your cargo, or would you need assistance with local contacts?
- Does the company offer additional services such as packing, unpacking, crating, labeling, and marking?
Check out the freight forwarder’s reputation
Investigate which companies/carriers they have partnered with, their past achievements, and their mission and values.
Moreover, seek positive reviews from other clients, consult your network for feedback, and assess the impression you get from your interactions with the forwarder.
Discover nearby logistics events
Research where and when logistics events are happening near you and attend. Companies participating in these events are usually industry experts and open to networking.
It is an excellent opportunity to meet various freight forwarding companies face-to-face and ask them all your questions. These events are ideal for finding future agents to manage your international shipments.
Conclusion
No matter how you choose your forwarder, comparing multiple forwarding agents is an effective strategy to find the right fit for your business.
Using platforms like Airsupply, you can obtain quotes and access tailored solutions at competitive prices. It allows you to evaluate various options and make an informed decision tailored to your shipping requirements.
