How to deal with freight forwarders?

Choosing from a list of freight forwarders to handle your transportation needs can mean the difference between satisfied customers or unhappy ones; efficient, cost-effective distribution of goods or careless, wasteful handling of them. Before using a freight forwarder, make sure you know what you expect for your freight forwarding services. Here are some tips:

Take your Time.

Before entering into negotiations with a logistics provider, analyze your own transportation procedures and determine your requirements. Consider factors such as the volume of shipments the new agent will be handling.

Will your shipments move primarily via ocean, air, or truck? Do your oceans shipments consist primarily of container loads or do they sail as break-bulk or heavyweight freight? If your product moves via air, will most of the cargo fit into the bellies of passenger aircraft or must it travel via more expensive main-deck configuration? If the freight moves by truck, is it a full truckload or less than truckload?

Seek Help from the Professionals

Don’t leave negotiations solely in the hands of your company’s traffic group, as competent as they may be. Draw upon the knowledge and expertise of other internal departments, such as finance, marketing, purchasing, and information technology. Also, involve senior management in the negotiations to determine their priorities.

Learn as much as you can about the forwarder’s resources and capabilities. Does it possess a network of domestic and international offices? How extensive are they? Does the logistics provider have a skilled, experienced workforce who can move not only routine shipments in an efficient, hassle-free manner but who have the ability to respond to emergencies with cool-headed judgment and decisive action?

Who are the freight forwarder’s preferred carriers? Be wary of the forwarder who claims to save you money and are just as good as the leading carriers. You are asking for trouble if you only focus on the rate, service is key. Your shipment might go for lesser freight cost but might not arrive on time.

On the other hand, using a large carrier does not necessarily ensure excellent service. Ask your forwarder why it uses potential service providers as opposed to no-name carriers. Know more about the freight forwarders your plan to use

When all is said and done

Once you sign the contract, it is only the beginning of a partnership with your logistics provider. After signing the contract, meet with the forwarder’s staff to discuss thoroughly the processes and procedures detailed in the new agreement. Develop a realistic implementation and work schedule that both parties can adhere to.

Choosing the right freight forwarder can help shippers focus on broad management strategies, and leave the nitty-gritty business of moving freight to the experts.

When dealing with international shipments, it is imperative that you seek the help of well established and experienced international freight shipping company. It could make the difference between success and failure