A freight forwarder is an organisation responsible for the shipment of goods from one place to another. Companies can use freight forwarders to transport their products, or individuals can use them to ship personal belongings.
There are a few things that you can do to minimise the risk of being impacted by the negligent behaviour of a freight forwarder.
Do the research and find a reliable freight forwarder
The first step is to do your research and find a reliable freight forwarder. There are many ways to do this, including reading online reviews, speaking to other businesses that have used freight forwarders, and checking out the company’s credentials. Once you have found a few potential candidates, it is essential to contact them and ask questions about their services. It will help you narrow down your options and choose the best freight forwarder for your needs.
Get everything in writing
Once you have chosen a freight forwarder, it is vital to get everything in writing. It includes the terms of your agreement, the cost of shipping, and the timeline for delivery. Having everything in writing will help protect you if there are any problems with the shipment.
Keep track of your shipment
It is essential to keep track of your shipment, especially if it will be shipped internationally. You should ask the freight forwarder for tracking information, and you should also keep an eye on the status of your shipment online. It will help you identify any potential problems and take action if necessary.
Be prepared for delays
Delays are a common occurrence in the shipping industry, so it is essential to prepare yourself. If you know that there is a possibility of a delay, you can contact the freight forwarder and ask for updates. You can also make arrangements with your customers or clients in case of delays.
Understand the terms of your insurance
If you have shipping insurance, it is crucial to understand the terms of your policy. It will help you know what is covered in the event of a problem with the shipment. It is also important to remember that most insurance policies have exclusions, so you must check the policy carefully before making a claim.
Make sure your goods are adequately packaged
It is vital to ensure that your goods are correctly packaged before shipping, especially if you’re shipping FCL freight. It includes using the proper packaging materials and ensuring that the items are securely wrapped. If you are unsure about how to package your goods, you can ask the freight forwarder for advice.
Keep an eye on your budget
Shipping can be expensive, so it is crucial to keep an eye on your budget. You should compare the prices of different freight forwarders and choose the one that offers the best value for money. It would also be best to remember to factor in the cost of insurance and packaging when you calculate the shipping cost.
Check for hidden fees
When comparing the prices of different freight forwarders, it is essential to check for hidden fees. Some companies will charge extra for tracking, insurance, and delivery confirmation. These fees can add up, so it is vital to make sure that you know them before you agree to ship with a particular company.
Communicate with your freight forwarder
It is essential to communicate with your freight forwarder regularly. It will help ensure that the shipping process goes smoothly and that you are kept up-to-date on the status of your shipment. You should also let the freight forwarder know if you have any changes to your shipping plans.
Be patient
Shipping can be a complex and time-consuming process, so it is essential to be patient. If there are delays or problems with the shipment, it is essential to remember that these things happen from time to time. The most important thing is staying calm and working with the freight forwarder to resolve any issues.
