The global freight forwarding market is booming. Experts project that it will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.5% to reach $220.34 billion in 2026.
If you’re in the business of importing or exporting goods, you know how important it is to choose the right freight forwarder. The right freight forwarding company will help you coordinate the movement of goods worldwide.
The wrong choice of freight forwarding services will deter your business’s success due to poor logistics management.
With so many freight forwarders to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one is right for your business. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this post, we’ll give you some tips on how to choose the right freight forwarder for your business needs.
Find an Experienced Freight Forwarder
The freight forwarding industry is complex. There are many moving parts and logistics involved in coordinating the shipment of goods around the world. That’s why it’s so important to find a company with experience.
Look for a freight forwarder that has been in business for several years and has a good reputation. An experienced freight forward professional will understand the export and import customs.
They’ll be able to navigate the regulations and laws in both the cargo’s country of origin and destination. It will be especially crucial to choose a freight forwarder who has experience dealing with cargo similar to yours.
Consider the Network of the Freight Forwarder
A freight forwarder’s network is the other businesses they work with to get your cargo from point A to point B. When looking for a freight forwarder, it’s essential to consider their network.
The ideal company will have a network of shipping companies, airlines, and trucking brokers that they work with regularly. This will give them the ability to find the most efficient way to ship your cargo.
It’s also important to consider the freight forwarder’s network in terms of the company’s reach. Make sure they have a network that spans the globe. That way, you can be confident they’ll be able to handle shipping your cargo to any destination.
Evaluate the Services of the Freight Forwarder
When you’re looking for a freight forwarder, evaluate their services. You should look for a freight forwarder that offers a full range of services. That way, you can be confident they’ll be able to handle all aspects of shipping your cargo.
Some of the services they should offer include:
- Freight shipping
- Customs clearance
- Insurance
- Storage
- Tracking and tracing
Ask about the freight forwarder’s capabilities in each of these areas. You should also inquire about any additional services they offer that could benefit your business.
Choose a Company With Transparent Pricing
Focus on finding a freight forward service provider with transparent pricing. You should look for a freight forwarder that offers all-inclusive pricing. Such pricing will let you know what you’re paying for, and there won’t be any hidden fees.
Ask the freight forwarder about their pricing structure. Find out if they charge by the hour, shipment, or some other method. Also, inquire about any additional charges that may apply.
You can compare quotes from different freight forwarders to get an idea of fair pricing. Remember to compare quotes for the same shipping services to ensure you’re getting an apples-to-apples comparison.
Get Referrals From Trusted Sources
One of the best ways to find a reputable company is to get referrals from trusted sources. Ask businesses in your industry if they have any recommendations for freight forwarders. You can also reach out to business associations or trade groups for advice.
Check online review sites like Google and Yelp to see what other businesses are saying about freight forwarders in your area. Just be sure to take the reviews with a grain of salt. Anyone can leave a review, so you can’t necessarily trust them all.
Pay attention to what people are saying about the company’s customer service and communication. Communication is crucial as it will ensure that your freight is shipped as planned. It’ll help you get timely notifications about the status of your freight.
Ensure the Freight Forwarder Has Cargo Insurance
One of the most important things to look for in a freight forwarder is cargo insurance. The insurance will protect your shipment in case something goes wrong during transit.
Ask the freight forwarder about their cargo insurance coverage during the initial consultation. Find out what type of coverage they have and what it covers. Also, ask about any exclusions or limitations.
It’s also a good idea to get your own cargo insurance policy. The insurance will ensure you are covered even if the freight forwarder’s policy doesn’t cover certain things.
Check Licenses and Certifications
When choosing a freight forwarder, ensure they have the necessary licenses and certifications. This will ensure they’re able to operate legally and that they have the necessary expertise.
The freight forwarder should have a Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) license. They should also have their International Freight Forwarder Certification (IFF) from the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA).
You can also check to see if the freight forwarder is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This is not required, but it’s a good sign that they’re a reputable company.
Make sure to ask the freight forwarder about their licenses and certifications. You can also check the FMC’s website to verify that they have a valid license.
Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder Today
Choosing the right freight forwarder is crucial for ensuring your freight is shipped safely and on time.
Be sure to keep the above factors in mind when making your decision. By following these tips, you can be confident you’ll find a freight forwarder who will meet your freight shipping needs.
Do you need to move your freight around the country or all the way to Canada? You can trust Patriot Freight Group to handle the job, as we have experienced carriers who can move anything while adhering to our quality guidelines.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
