Shipping goods internationally can be a worthwhile investment for many businesses. However, getting it right isn’t easy for companies without experience. This is why many companies pair with freight forwarders to optimise their logistics.
Freight forwarders play a significant role in the shipping of items all around the world. They’re responsible for connecting shippers and manufacturers with transport services. They can be considered representatives of shippers that use their resources and expertise to find the best import and export options for customers.
Freight forwarding companies like WTA manage the
shipment of goods. They collaborate with air, road, ocean and rail freight transport companies. With expert knowledge, forwarders can offer hassle-free shipments for companies and manufacturers. In this article, we discuss the advantages of partnering with a freight forwarder company:
What are the advantages of working with a freight forwarder?
It’s possible for businesses to manage the importing and exporting of goods themselves. However, there are many regulations and documentation required for compliant international shipping. These complexities can make it difficult to manage it themselves and can result in an expensive operation.
Many companies use freight forwarders as logistics partners because they simplify the process. Below we discuss the specific benefits that using a freight forwarder company can offer shippers:
Efficient and stress-free
Importing and exporting is a freight forwarders company’s bread and butter. They know the shipping companies, documentation and regulations, so you don’t have to. They also have all the logistics and resources already in place and ready to go.
Forwarders liaise with carriers, negotiate prices and know the most economical and reliable routes. All this translates to efficient and stress-free shipping operations.
A range of services
International freight forwarders generally diversify their services. They can offer customers as much or as little help as they need. Forwarders can assist with the process in all stages, but generally, their services include:
- Warehouse packing assistance
- Advice on optimal packing, labelling, loading and storage methods
- Customs compliance
- International shipping documentation checks
- Cargo insurance
- Optimised transport costs
- Reports associated with shipping. These can include carbon footprint data and custom performance reports, which can be a challenge to track.
- Storage
- Inventory management
Experts in compliance
International shipping compliance means meeting documentation and regulation requirements. A freight forwarder company should know the correct documents required for compliance. As a shipper, you could be liable for compliance issues. The resulting delays in correcting the problems may cost you time and money.
These documents can change depending on the routes, destinations and type of merchandise. Using a freight forwarder for your shipping needs can ensure you’ve got everything in order and reduce the risks.
Simplify the process
Most freight forwarders have licenses that enable them to simplify the process. For example, Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) forwarders can use simplified customs clearances and deferred payments of import duties.
Experienced forwarders have overcome a variety of shipping problems along the way. Many of them have the most simplified processes in the business and can deal with issues as they arise.
A network of carriers
Experienced and well-managed freight forwarders can have a robust network of contacts within the transport industry. Their diverse network means they may have access to the most reliable and fastest options available. Forwarders allow you to stand on their shoulders and make use of their network.
Reduce your shipping costs
Freight forwarders that are embedded in the industry may have the best shipping prices negotiated with carriers. By partnering with one, you can benefit from these low rates.
Freight forwarders can help with optimising transport costs in other areas of the process. Freight charges, special documentation costs, custom clearances and duties are additional costs that forwarders can optimise for you.
Finally, freight forwarders usually handle a large number of goods. This allows them to insure in bulk and offer you cargo insurance at a low rate.
Accurate delivery
Freight forwarders can be your door to a wealth of shipping knowledge. They can help you with supply chain optimisation and find the best means of transport for your needs. The origin, nature of the merchandise, destination, season and urgency can all factor in selecting the best option to deliver your goods on time.
Delays in shipping are always possible because of bad weather and other uncontrollable factors. Partnering with a forwarder can give you the best chance at avoiding risks and delivering your goods accurately.
Summary
International freight forwarding companies act as the intermediary between you and transport companies. For many businesses, the opportunity to make use of international shipping can be a lucrative venture. But the complexities in arranging and managing the processes can be intimidating.
WTA helps businesses with efficient and cost-effective import and export options. If you’re looking for a freight forwarder, please get in touch.
