Are you running an international commerce business or providing transportation services? You might have used third-party logistics (3PL) to operate your business smoothly. Similarly, a good freight forwarder functions the same.
Since the industry is evolving and technology has taken over the charge, it is becoming vital for every business to run efficiently without the hassle of hiring and training professional in-house staff. So, this article helps you decide if your business needs a good freight forwarder to improve your logistics.
What Is A Freight Forwarder?
A good freight forwarder acts as an intermediary, ensuring a smooth movement of goods from one location to another. They own the following important responsibilities;
Transportation Management entails coordinating the transport of products by road, sea, air, or rail in accordance with the shipment’s specifications and limitations.
Customs clearance entails managing the essential documents and records that are necessary at the different stages of the process, comprising duties, taxes, and import and export regulations.
Warehousing and Distribution: Ensuring timely client delivery through the storage and management of inventory by utilizing the warehousing and distribution services.
Implementing suitable insurance and security measures to mitigate risks associated with transportation, including but not limited to delays, damages, and loss of products.
In short, freight forwarders are professionals offering all these services and expert insights to improve your supply chain and save you money on transportation.
What to Know About Working with a Freight Forwarder?
It is useful to understand how a freight forwarder and its services can benefit your business and what services you need beforehand. The following are a few tips for working with a freight forwarder.
1. Understanding the Cost
Many factors affect the freight charges, including the distance traveled, the weight and volume of the cargo, the mode of transportation used, or any additional warehousing or packaging services. It is important to understand which services your business needs from your freight forwarder, get an estimate before you agree on their terms and arrangements, and ask for a quote.
2. Understanding the Freight Forwarder’s Network Strength
The success of a freight forwarder is measured by its network. It determines the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy of the shipment and transportation process. If you work with an experienced freight forwarder possessing a robust network, you can face any global logistics challenge effortlessly. Focusing on a forwarder that works for you can save you the cost of paying for anything you don’t need.
3. Complete all the Calculations
Many freight forwarding companies like FedEx calculate shipping costs based on dimensional weight instead of actual weight. When you start working with a freight carrier, take your time to calculate the dimensional and actual weight of the freight. Work with them to find ways to reduce dimensional weight to avoid any unexpected shipping charges.
4. Handling International Shipping
Once you choose a logistics provider, you ensure your forwarder can simplify all the complexities of international trade. From paperwork and import customs clearance to export customs clearance legal documentation and warehousing, your freight forwarder should have all the expertise to mitigate any risk/ stress involved in the process and ensure a smooth transaction from the first step to the end delivery.
How Fast N Accurate Helps Clients Connect With Freight Forwarding Services?
Fast n Accurate is a renowned freight forwarder in Saudi Arabia, offering exceptional logistics and transportation services across the globe. At Fast n Accurate, we provide tailored and effective logistics solutions to our partners, helping them achieve their business needs and shipping objectives. Prior to accepting the offer, we dive deep to understand your business model and provide a transparent and best strategy to manage your freight. If you invest with us today, you will have smoother shipping and better results.
