Comprehensive Guide to Finding a Freight Forwarder
Freight forwarder companies, also known as logistics providers, are firms which provide services for individuals and businesses who need to import or export goods from overseas. They provide customized services to help you with international goods and car shipping, which include consolidating and arranging the contents of your shipments.
If your company decides to hire freight logistics transportation to import goods on your behalf, it can be hard to know what type of service to choose. Here are some tips for finding a good freight forwarder.
Verify the Company’s Credibility
You can find out whether a company is reputable by asking for references or other reviews from its past customers. Check out how long the company has been around and how well the owners have managed to run it successfully.
Check whether the shipping company in Singapore that you are looking at has handled similar cargo before. Some dangerous goods require specialized documentation to enter the country and to become registered.
You want to be sure that the freight forwarder that you decide to work with is able to give you sound advice based on their experience and their knowledge.
Shipment Types
If you need a shipment to a certain destination, you should consider using a customized shipping service. Depending on your shipping needs, you might choose a service that offers you several shipping services, depending on the weight of your items, the urgency of receiving them, etc.
It is ideal for you to give your shipping company the details of your shipping company supplier, so that the company can determine if they are able to deliver the items at the time that you request them.
Compare the Price and Rates
You are probably considering the cost of your shipment, which will influence the price you pay. It is difficult to get a clear quote from several freight forwarding companies, because each company uses various units of measure to determine the price.
Many freight forwarder companies will charge you differently for sending goods that are generally shipped as well as those that are deemed special, so that you can compare quotes or rates properly.
It’s also very useful to know the freight rates. When you initially look at the freight rates or quote provided by a freight forwarder, the shipping cost may look cheap, but it may not include the necessary components of the export/import process such as import permits. You will be charged a special import fee if you import goods for business purposes. Always double check the quotes or rates provided by the freight forwarders, to make sure that there are no extra charges that you will be charged extra, in order to avoid overpaying.
The Offerings
You can choose whether to hire a freight forwarding company that is specialized or if you prefer to be able to move a wide range of items using multiple methods. As shipments to destination countries increase, you may need to adjust your business strategy to manage this. Others specialize in a narrow area, such as domestic travel within a country or within a state.
When it comes to international shipping in Singapore, it’s always good to know what services each provider provides. The companies may provide a wide range of services, such as:
- Booking for cargo space
- Repackaging and distributing your products
- Being able to get a lower price for your services
- Assist you in clearing customs in various countries
- Complete all the necessary import and export documents
Vast Database of Agents Around the World
When you ship to another country, make sure that the country’s customs officials can help you with the shipment. Some freight forwarding companies in Singapore use overseas agents to provide you with helpful advice on delivering your packages to a country in which you want your merchandise to be shipped. These connections can help you to keep your communications open and your shipment on schedule by helping to reduce misunderstandings.
Prioritize Your Freight Needs
When a carrier is experienced, he knows that no two shipments are exactly the same. Therefore, each client should receive a custom package unique to them, and their particular needs must always be met.
Your selected shipping firm will handle all of your freight needs, but they must have good plans in place to carry your cargo safely and efficiently. You should have the assurance that the company you have chosen will be able to handle your shipment. Ask if they can adjust their rates or how transportation will be affected if you branch out into new markets.
Customer Service
If you have the delivery information that customers need to be able to locate their items, you can give them the best service. If you have any queries about your order, they will respond quickly and efficiently. The customer service department will be the first point of contact. They should be very keen on delivering great customer service and should take a keen interest in shipping overseas.
The Technology They Are Using
Some companies are able to pinpoint exactly where they are located in a country or region. You can track the satellites from your computer, and there are many companies that use satellites to enable them to track their locations accurately. Deliver details of each shipment to make sure that it reaches its destination, and as a result you can give the best service to all of your customers.
Certifications
Look carefully at their official documents and other appropriate certifications to see whether they are certified to do the work that you need them to do. It will tell you whether or not their employees have been trained properly. It will give you peace of mind that you have all the facts in your favor.
Concluding words
Regent Express is a car shipping company in Singapore with over 20 years of experience. As an international car shipping company, we are experienced in handling international shipments for businesses and simultaneously cater to the specific needs of our individual clients.
Contact us to get your vehicle shipped!
