When it comes to international or domestic freight forwarding, choosing the right freight forwarding is just like choosing a key business partner. They must understand your strengths and weaknesses in order to support you, be trusted to oversee your funds, and care about your end users just like you do. Before you start looking for a logistics supplier, it's important to analyze your company's transportation needs, the type of services your business requires, and the amount of cargo you plan to ship. The right freight forwarding agency will be able to help you grow your business while maintaining personal contact.
Factors to consider when choosing a freight forwarding
Consider industry experience and influence. Does this freight forwarding have experience in your industry? Freight forwardings are typically good at transporting goods, but they may not have specific expertise in your market. Choosing a company with local experts in your field is extremely important.
Ensure risk management. Global transportation offers inherently unstable conditions. You need a freight forwarding who can mitigate risks and has knowledge and experience of dealing with problems when they arise. They should be proactive and timely in providing solutions. A risk mitigation strategy is cargo insurance. Be sure to ask what types of cargo insurance are offered, as allowing your company to assume standard carrier liability can prove costly. Seek open communication and transparency. You need a partner in times of crisis.
Confirm broad services. If your business requires multimodal transportation, or if you need to store goods in a warehouse for a long time, it is important to work with a freight forwarding agency who provides air, sea, road transportation and logistics solutions. You should discuss all aspects of your supply chain with potential freight forwardings to ensure that they provide all the services you need. If they are only local or have a narrow product range, they may not be able to be flexible when you need to go beyond the norm.
Inquire about communication and customer service. Communication is key, and logistics is a tricky business. Your freight forwarding agent should handle your cargo from door to door, but you need details. When you have questions or concerns, your logistics provider should offer online tracking, timely notifications, and personal phone calls.
Check licenses, certificates, and permits. Freight forwardings need different licenses and documents to handle your cargo, as well as special permits to transport sensitive and dangerous products. Ensure your provider has the right licenses for you and that they are publicly posted somewhere.
