There are several reasons why one would be in the market for a shipping partner. Maybe they want to move from domestic to international freight forwarding company. The latter will better take care of shipments if the company has grown into a more global model. One should, however, note the difference between this and a broker. A broker does not actually take possession of the shipment. Brokerage is merely a bridge between a shipper and a carrier.
Nothing wrong with wanting o support a small firm. But, can the small firm handle the capacity to ship? Does the small firm have a network of contacts and agents to help straighten out kinks should they develop somewhere along the line? Or will they flounder and lose the shipment thus costing the business money and clients? If the answer to any of these questions is negative then forget the small firm.
The said longevity also means that the firm will have handled a similar shipment or several in the course of business. They will, therefore, be better placed to anticipate issues and complications. They will be able to better handle such if or when they arise. One should also find out if the company offers brokerage services. This will prevent one from having to hire a separate firm to deal with customs.
The firm should provide insurance options. They should be able to offer the client with a list of advantages and disadvantages for each coverage option. The goal is to find a cost-effective solution to insurance. One that is sustainable and fitting for the load.
One should also find out about warehousing. Is the firm warehouse big enough to house the goods? Does it have the capability to provide care for the goods? Is there a possibility of having care equipment installed if the situation calls for it? Is the warehouse secure? What is the risk of vandalism and theft?
Due diligence on the service provider is of absolute importance. Ask around, check online for reviews, anything that can give insight into the quality of service to be expected from this company. The firm will usually appoint an agent to the account. It is the responsibility of this agent to educate the client on the shipping process and all that is required. They should ensure to keep the client at ease regarding their shipment. If one feels dissatisfied or uneasy with the agent assigned, it is okay to talk to management about a different agent.
Even after the said education, go out and learn more. Research and study. The more one knows the lesser chance there is of being conned or cheated. Find out about taxes and duties. Scrutinize the bills and each piece of paper sent over.
In some cases, one will need to ship a load that does not fulfill the quota. In this instance, they should ask the company for the possibilities of matching them with other clients in the same boat to collaborate and fill a container together.
Nothing wrong with wanting o support a small firm. But, can the small firm handle the capacity to ship? Does the small firm have a network of contacts and agents to help straighten out kinks should they develop somewhere along the line? Or will they flounder and lose the shipment thus costing the business money and clients? If the answer to any of these questions is negative then forget the small firm.
The said longevity also means that the firm will have handled a similar shipment or several in the course of business. They will, therefore, be better placed to anticipate issues and complications. They will be able to better handle such if or when they arise. One should also find out if the company offers brokerage services. This will prevent one from having to hire a separate firm to deal with customs.
The firm should provide insurance options. They should be able to offer the client with a list of advantages and disadvantages for each coverage option. The goal is to find a cost-effective solution to insurance. One that is sustainable and fitting for the load.
One should also find out about warehousing. Is the firm warehouse big enough to house the goods? Does it have the capability to provide care for the goods? Is there a possibility of having care equipment installed if the situation calls for it? Is the warehouse secure? What is the risk of vandalism and theft?
Due diligence on the service provider is of absolute importance. Ask around, check online for reviews, anything that can give insight into the quality of service to be expected from this company. The firm will usually appoint an agent to the account. It is the responsibility of this agent to educate the client on the shipping process and all that is required. They should ensure to keep the client at ease regarding their shipment. If one feels dissatisfied or uneasy with the agent assigned, it is okay to talk to management about a different agent.
Even after the said education, go out and learn more. Research and study. The more one knows the lesser chance there is of being conned or cheated. Find out about taxes and duties. Scrutinize the bills and each piece of paper sent over.
In some cases, one will need to ship a load that does not fulfill the quota. In this instance, they should ask the company for the possibilities of matching them with other clients in the same boat to collaborate and fill a container together.
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