The freight forwarder is of immense importance. In fact, it is the most important part of the whole supply chain. If you are looking for a new freight forwarder or if you are planning to start a business, here are some tips that will help you make the right choice.
In this article, we’re going to discuss a few things about freight forwarders and how they can be a good partner for your business. The right freight forwarder can make the difference between a smooth and successful shipping operation and one that is fraught with frustration.
Make sure the company has a solid reputation
When it comes to choosing a freight forwarder, reputation is important. The company should have good reviews and testimonials from previous customers, and be able to provide references if you ask for them. If you’re concerned about how to find reviews or testimonials for your chosen company, check out their website or call them directly. They may have customer reviews on their website or be able to give you references from past customers.
You should also check with the Better Business Bureau or any other industry watchdog groups to see if there have been any complaints filed against them. Also check out their website, including their Terms of Service document, to see if they have any hidden fees or policies that might become an issue later on.
Do In-Depth Research
Conducting research on the Internet is another way to learn more about your chosen freight forwarder before you sign up for services. You can check out reviews on industry-specific blogs and websites that review companies in your area of business. You can also read reviews of companies on sites like Yelp and Angie’s List , which may post reviews of local businesses if they’ve received enough ratings and reviews from customers in the area.
Make sure the company offers multiple services
Freight forwarding companies typically offer a variety of different services in addition to regular shipping arrangements. A good freight forwarder will be able to handle all your needs, from consolidation of shipments to arranging for storage and insurance. You should check different freight options.
Routes They Operate On
Find out what trade routes your chosen freight forwarder uses often and where they operate from so you can get an idea of their level of experience and expertise – especially if they don’t provide shipping services directly to your country.
Ask About Insurance
Ask about insurance, warehousing and liability coverage — often overlooked by forwarders — but important for companies that want to insure their products and protect themselves if something goes wrong during shipping or delivery.
