An international freight forwarder is a company that organises shipping of goods between countries. They act as an agent for buyers and sellers, negotiating freight rates and booking cargo space on vessels and aircraft. If you're looking for a one-stop-shop for all your international shipping needs, check out this helpful comparison list of the top international freight forwarders currently available online. Let's take a closer look at the differences between the various types of international freight forwarders, and find the best one for your needs.
Traditional Vs. Modern Freight Forwarding
Traditional international freight forwarding entails using a single broker to handle all the logistics of your shipping. If you have a big order to ship, you'll likely have to work with a group of haulage companies who will coordinate transport to your location. While this arrangement can be convenient, it carries with it several disadvantages. First, the cost of shipping is often negotiated separately with each company – adding unnecessary complexity to the process. Second, you're at the mercy of the individual companies, whose service levels and reliability cannot be guaranteed. Third, the level of service that you receive will largely depend on who you're dealing with, and the relationship that you build with them. For these reasons, traditional freight forwarding isn't recommended for every shopper. It's still a popular choice for large-scale buyers with deep pockets. If you don't have the budget or need for this option, consider looking into a freight forwarder that provides a higher level of service.
Why You Need A Dedicated Freight Forwarder
If you're looking to ship a large, expensive piece of equipment or a vehicle, you'll likely need to work with a dedicated freight forwarder. They will have the necessary contacts within the shipping industry to get the best rates and terms available. They will also take care of all the documentation and legalities involved in shipping, so that you can simply focus on getting the goods to their destination.
Dedicated Versus Contracted Freight Forwarding
Another important factor to consider when choosing an international freight forwarder is whether you want your shipment to be dedicated or contracted. Your goods will be dedicated when you work with a dedicated firm; they will take care of all the logistics for your whole order. On the other hand, with contract-based shipping, sometimes called spot forwarding or tactical shipping, you will pay for the cargo space that you use plus a handling charge. This can be cheaper than dedicated freight forwarding, but it comes with several limitations. First, you'll need to find a contract carrier who holds a license to transport goods across international boundaries. Most importantly, your goods will be exposed to the risk of breakage or damage in transit, since they're not part of a protected fleet. If you don't want to take this risk, consider using a dedicated international freight forwarder.
What To Look For In A Good International Freight Forwarding Company
When researching international freight companies, it's important to look for a number of important factors. The best agencies will be fully licensed and bonded, carry protected insurance, offer emergency assistance and have established reputations for customer care. By using these services, you can be certain that your goods will arrive safely and on time at their destination.