What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?

Freight forwarders are known as the architects or transport and help many companies trade internationally by helping them deal with the complexities of organising shipments from around the world and the multitude of customs formalities that go alongside. One issue is that there are a huge number of freight forwarders in the UK, and it’s different to tell them apart to identify who you should ask.

Who to ask?

Now you have the information together to request a quotation, where do you go to request a sea freight quote?

Even in today’s digitally connected world this is not as straightforward as you may think!

There are other options, but they aren’t that straightforward.

For example - If you go alone and start DIY freighting it can be uncertain waters and an approach that could cause irreversible damage to your business. Therefore, we’re here to give you specialist advice as you can’t afford to play around with red tape, processes, and procedures.

For every successful import and export business there is a dependable freight forwarding company behind them. In the world of freight forwarding, there’s little room for inaccuracy and mishaps. Time is most certainly money and businesses cannot afford to have valuable assets and cargo sitting on dockside, in an airport warehouse or at rail terminals for weeks or months on end because the there is an issue with paperwork.

Type of goods

Mostly the product has little effect on the actual rate unless the shipment consists of dangerous goods, but most freight forwarders will want to know what they are quoting for before pricing

What do we do?

Freight forwarding companies will manage the movement of freight, packing, storing, crating, pallet storage, documentation and customs clearance for business that are importing and exporting goods.

We are the link with the various transport operators who will move your consignment whether it be by sea, rail, road, or air freight.

Freight forwarding services especially within the UK should also include:

• Storage and warehousing of goods
• Negotiating freight charges
• Booking space with cargo hauliers
• Organising freight orders (the freight forwarder includes other smaller shipments to be assembled and transported together, more economic for all parties)
• Online tracking of the status of all loads and movements during transportation
• Insurance and being accountable for filing any insurance claims in the case of accidents

There is so much that is included underneath the term freight forwarder. Time and planning are needed to make sure all these services completed correctly. Freight forwarders use all their experience, know-how and existing relationships to negotiate the most reliable and cost-efficient process to get your goods delivered to the destination of choice.

Freight and logistics, however, freight forwarders are worth their weight in gold. International transportation – especially involving valuable, priceless merchandise - should never be left to chance.

What do you need to know?

Incoterms

If you're new to shipping, you may not be familiar with Incoterms. However, it’s a good idea to start, as they are the building blocks of international trade, and help outline what parts of the journey and transaction you and your supplier are responsible for.

Is using a Freight Forwarder Cost Effective?

Absolutely. Firstly, a reputable one should be able to negotiate the best transportation discounts on your behalf and, secondly their charges for services provided should be modest in proportion. A case of your money well spent.

What benefits will a reputable freight forwarder bring to my business?

The role of your freight forwarder is to certify all the relevant services are organised, such as the documentation is valid and complies with all regulations. Frequently, pre-departure and upon arrival are the two points that can cause the biggest problems. When the goods are on the move this is relatively straightforward part of the process.  The aim is to provide a smooth faultless import or export service that would have otherwise been difficult to organise.

Frequently, pre-departure and upon arrival are the two points that can cause the biggest problems. When the goods are on the move this is relatively straightforward part of the process

If you need a freight forwarder – We’re here to help!

At Logistically, we have a team that can help you. Businesses run better when we focus on what we’re good at. By managing your shipments, you can enjoy increased productivity, reduced costs, and have confidence in your supply chain. We’ve worked with companies of all shapes and sizes, across several industries throughout the UK and overseas.

Hopefully, this has provided a good overview for you to understand the basic process in obtaining accurate freight quotes. If you are looking for a freight quote, we can help you navigate the above options and get you the best pricing for your needs. Get in touch.