7 Things You Should Know About Freight Forwarding

Freight forwarding stands out as a great way for businesses and even individuals to transport items overseas. There are numerous companies out there that coordinate goods shipping from a destination to the next with the use of various carriers, like ocean freight, air freight, railway freight, and road freight.

Obviously, for people that do not know anything about it, freight forwarding is daunting to understand. However, if we take a look at the following things, it is easier to understand the process.

Understanding Freight Forwarding

Freight forwarders are companies that are responsible for transporting goods from a destination to the next. They specialise in arranging everything for shippers. This ranges from shipping to storage. Basically, a freight forwarder is an intermediary between transportation services and shippers and is responsible for different tasks, like price negotiations or choosing the fastest, most reliable route.

Easily Importing And Exporting Goods

When a company uses the services of a freight forwarder for exporting and importing goods, the entire process becomes more effective. These firms are knowledgeable in all aspects of the supply chain. You can get help on practically all levels, from warehouse staging to packing. This removes pressure from the company.

Several Services Are Offered By Freight Forwarders

Working with the freight forwarder means that you can be helped with so much more than just shipping. These are firms that can also help you with processes like:

• Insurance
• Import documentation
• International export documentation
• Customs clearance
• Inventory management
• Storage
• Packing

No Responsibility For Delays In Shipping

Here is something most people do not know about freight forwarding businesses. They are not responsible for the appearance of shipping delays. In most cases, these appear because of breakdowns, unforeseen route changes, port delays, and bad weather. Shipping delays are always frustrating for everyone involved so at least you can be sure that the freight forwarder will do all that is possible to resolve problems fast.

Paperwork Has To Be Up-To-Date

You should not even think about using the services of a freight forwarder if you do not have perfect paperwork. This is actually your responsibility. While there are cases in which freight companies will give you a helping hand, this is not always the case. At the end of the day, it is your responsibility to make sure that all paperwork is perfect.

Shipping Restrictions Exist

When you want to import or even export some products, there are shipping restrictions that apply. All freight forwarders have to respect them, especially when referring to sea or air freight. While the list of shipping restrictions does vary from one country to the next, generally, restrictions exist with:

• Dangerous goods like toxic items and flammable liquid
• Batteries
• Alcohol
• Drugs, including recreational and prescription drugs
• Sharp objects
• Perishable items

Freight Forwarder Specialisations

There are many freight forwarders that specialise in a specific cargo type while most accept most goods. When you find a forwarder that specializes in exactly what you want to ship, it is highly beneficial for you. Specialists are employed and they have a vast experience in dealing with cargo that is very similar to what you want to transport. Always conduct research before choosing the logistics company so you end up faced with a cost-efficient shipping process.