How to Choose the Right How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarding AgentFreight Forwarding Agent

A freight forwarding agent is an important part of your operation, if that operation includes international transactions. Also known as a freight forwarder, the agent might play any number of roles within your organization.

For some companies, the freight forwarder is only required to move cargo from one place to the next, but for others the job is far more complex. He might help with quotes, booking freight space, preparing shipments, documents and various procedures that make it all happen. Here are some tips to help you choose the right freight forwarding agent for your company.

Are They the Right Size?Are They the Right Size?

The size of the freight forwarding company you end up using is a very important element when it comes to choosing your freight forwarder. They must be large enough to handle the type of global business that you are involved in shipping, or you’ll find your business lacking.

If you have a regular ‘busy season’ that requires extra carriers or extra attention, make sure you have a freight forwarder that meets your needs.

Do They Know Your Product?Do They Know Your Product?

With all of the complexities that are involved in shipping and in the freight forwarding business, it always helps if the freight forwarder you use has some knowledge of your product and your industry.

If they specialize in certain commodities or products that aren’t similar to yours, feel free to look around until you find one that does.

Do They Have an Established Do They Have an Established Network?Network?

Having an established network means that your freight forwarder can ensure a smooth flow of goods and information through each stage of the process.

You’ll know where your goods are at all times, and you’ll get everything that you’re expecting in a timely fashion. The network of agents and forwarders can work as a veritable team to help move your products through the system as quickly and smoothly as possible.

How Is the Customer Service?How Is the Customer Service?

Customer service is an important aspect in any business, and that’s just as true with your freight forwarder. It’s nice to have one person you deal with, especially in emergency situations.

If your freight forwarder isn’t available when you need him, or you’ll be directed to an automated message when you really need to speak with a person, you should probably look elsewhere.

How Does the Pricing Work?How Does the Pricing Work?

Pricing will always be a consideration, so it makes sense to keep an eye on it from the start. Find out how the price is calculated and which aspects of the process involve a fee.

Are there charges for faxes, documents, handling charges? Is it a flat rate? How much is insurance? Are there seasonal increases? How much are the fuel charges?

What Do the References Say?What Do the References Say?

Before you sign on with a freight forwarder, ask for references and then check with those references. Find out if others have been happy with the scope of the service.

If there are issues, find out if the same ones keep coming up over and over again. Sometimes you can narrow down a serious issue by speaking to references.

Overall FitOverall Fit

It pays to take a step back and figure out if the freight forwarder you are considering will be a good overall fit for you or your business. Sometimes, there may be a few minor problems, but the company has features that more than make up for them. Consider things like whether they are a full service provider, how much experience they have, how past customers speak about them, their pricing and how accessible they are for you.

What Do They Expect From What Do They Expect From You?You?For you to hold up your end of the bargain with a freight forwarder, there are a few things they’ll expect from you. They’ll want things like:

All your current contact information. Product information, including special handling instructions. Export licensing and clearance information. Anticipated shipping volumes. Any special delivery needs. Warehousing information.

ReferencesReferences

http://www.exportassistance.com/export-basics/faq/64-how-to-choose-a-freight-forwarder

Minnesota District Export Council

http://morethanshipping.com/10-tips-on-how-to-choose-a-freight-forwarder/

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