If you look around, you will notice there is an increase in international shipping and e-commerce platforms across the country. It is the fastest and most efficient way to transport goods from one country to another. However, the entire supply chain has its challenges and complexities. To overcome them, you need expertise with many years of experience in handling international shipping.
Moving goods across country borders often requires following the specific regulations, going through customs, submitting the accurate or required documents, and using the right mode of transportation.
Failure to adhere to any step of the supply chain can disrupt the entire shipment. To avoid this disastrous situation, business owners are advised to partner with freight forwarders. They provide a system that makes your shipping process easier, less time-consuming, and manageable.
Understanding the Meaning and Role of Freight Forwarding in the Logistics Industry
A freight forwarder is a person or company that acts as the key player in ensuring your shipment moves from one place to another conveniently without any mishap. They are the central organizer and problem-solvers within the logistics process.
Their sole responsibility is to plan, coordinate, and manage the movement of goods while complying with international regulations. They also see to it that it arrives where it needs to be on time and in good condition.
Freight forwarders are entrusted with the following responsibilities:
- Selecting or providing the right carriers
- Choosing the best shipping methods (air, sea, road, rail)
- Preparing and verifying documentation
- Handling customs clearance
- Managing warehousing and storage solutions
- Tracking cargo and solving mishaps during the shipping process.
The Different Types of Transportation Used in Freight Forwarding
Air Freight
Air freight is one of the fastest and most efficient ways of transporting your goods. These include perishable products, electronics, and high-value items. It is the perfect method when you want to ship goods that are also time-sensitive or come from a long distance.
Ocean Freight
Ocean freight is a very cost-effective form of transportation if you want to ship large or heavy goods that are not bound by time. It is also a great method of transporting goods over a long distance, such as international shipments. Examples of goods transported through the oceans include bulk commodities, machinery, and vehicles.
Road Freight
Road freight is a flexible and the most common method of transportation that is used in the logistics industry. It is great for shipping goods across state lines, within a country, and to other neighboring countries.
It is also used for door-to-door delivery and small to medium shipments. The best option for business owners and e-commerce companies who desire a fast, reliable, and cost-effective delivery. This means the goods can be delivered directly to the destination without multiple transfers.
Rail Freight
Rail freight is an affordable and eco-friendly process of transporting goods in the freight forwarding industry. Trains are designed to carry heavy and bulky items such as minerals, coal, grains, chemicals, and raw materials used in manufacturing. It is also used when companies want to ship goods that are far away. Instead of using trucks, rail freight moves the goods smoothly and efficiently without any delay. Another important benefit is that it reduces air pollution, making it better for the environment.
The Benefits of Working with Freight Broker Services
Working with a freight forwarding company makes your shipping process more organized, easier, and less stressful. This is because handling it on your own can be overwhelming, like trying to put together a large piece of furniture without the manual. Let's look at some of the benefits of using freight broker services.
Save a Lot of Time
They are responsible for handling the shipping process from the planning stage until it reaches its destination. This includes choosing the right carriers, preparing all the documents needed during the process, and ensuring customs clearance. Instead of spending so much time researching all the important guidelines and regulations, you have more time to focus on your business.
Avoid Shipping Error
Internal shipping requires having the necessary documentation and complying with every regulation. This means any inability to provide the required form at any point will cause delays, fines, or worse, your shipments will be completely rejected. Freight forwarders are experts in the industry who are familiar with all the rules you need to follow. Theredore, partnering with them, ensures everything is done correctly, thereby avoiding unnecessary problems.
Network of Reliable Carrier
Freight forwarders work with a wide network of shipping carriers, trucking companies, airlines, and port services. Because of this, they can find the best and most reliable transportation options for your shipment, which are often at better rates compared to the ones you will get.
24/7 Shipment Visibility
A freight forwarder tracks your shipment and gives you updates on the process. This means you will know the location of your goods anytime, any day. This gives you confidence that your goods are well secured and in the hands of experts.
Simplified Shipping Process
International shipping requires due diligence and knowing all the important information. There are customs rules, taxes, documentation, and shipping steps that need to be followed. A freight forwarder explains every step and makes the process simpler.
What To Look For When Choosing Your Freight Forwarder
Experience
Choose a freight forwarder with many years of experience and who knows the ins and outs of the entire process. Understanding how the industry works gives room to handle any type of problem that arises.
Strong Global Network
International shipping means your cargo is transported across multiple countries and different modes of shipping. Therefore, your freight forwarder must have contacts in ports, warehouses, customs offices, and carrier networks across many countries.
Transparent Pricing
It is important to choose forwarders that has a track record of being transparent with their customers. You must know what you’re paying for, why, and when your shipment will arrive.
Strong Customer Support
Unforeseen circumstances are often unavoidable during a supply chain across countries. A good forwarder will always answer all your questions and keep you updated. They also communicate clearly and consistently when there is a delay.
Why Choose Unify Logistic Solutions for Your Freight Forwarding Needs
Unify Logistic Solution is committed to providing a seamless international shipping solution to our clients.
Our services ensure the following:
- Reliable global freight coordination
- Clear communication
- Flexible, tailored solutions
- Network of reliable carriers