What does a freight forwarder do?

Everyone may have heard the term «freight forwarder», but they are a little confused by the main activity they perform. Many people confuse the freight forwarder with a transport company, a distribution manager, an import and export person. In fact, the specialist person assumes some of these responsibilities, but in fact he can be specifically designated as the intermediary between the carrier and the transport. So, it does not actually carry out the transfer itself, but rather arranges for the process to be carried out from one destination to another – for import and export.

What does a freight forwarder do?

Freight forwarders take care of arranging the smooth international transport of each shipment. Such professionals need both the business and the average consumer when making orders or sending on their own behalf. Shipping companies coordinate goods from one side to the other, finding the most appropriate and cost-effective transportation by volume – air, freight, ocean and, more rarely, rail.

Each freight forwarding company has a different number of freight forwarders who are closely specialized in organizing the whole process. It involves mediation between the main carrier and the transport, negotiating the best price, determining a reliable but also financially economical route. Of course, it is important to know the contents of the shipment so that it is clear whether the goods are of short duration, whether something is fragile, etc. Only then does it become clear whether some of the costs involved in arranging transportation can be reduced.

What are the main responsibilities of the freight forwarder?

The whole organizational process of coordinating the cargo from point A to point B, the preparation of accurate and specific documentation, in accordance with all laws and regulations for international trade, is the responsibility of the freight forwarders. It may be intimidating and justifiable for you, so it is best to trust a specialist company. It will bring you security and peace of mind as you manage the rest of your business.

Here are the main benefits of using freight forwarding services. Their activities include the following:

• Coordination of international shipments
• Inland transport tracking
• Preparation of customs and other documentation (transport and export) imposed by regulatory authorities in specific countries
• Cargo insurance and insurance claims
• Conservation of cargo space according to the volume of the consignment
• Warehousing
• Risk assessment and management
• Handling the weight of the shipment
• Warehousing
• Negotiating freight charges and international payment methods and more

Forwarder, as it has already become clear, is the organizational side of the process, which can sometimes cause you a lot of trouble. The best part of all activities is that you do not have to be familiar with local legislation on the import and export of goods, because freight forwarders are constantly trained and up-to-date with the latest updates to laws and regulations. This is a great convenience for all customers – they get a high guarantee of trouble-free transportation and reduced likelihood of solid fines due to lack of documentation or incorrect due to incompetence.

Why use forwarders?

The relationships built with the freight forwarders provide a quick and secure solution for transporting your shipment. Whether it is ocean liners, rail freight or an express delivery flight, freight forwarders will draw the shortest route and negotiate the best price for the volume of goods.

By choosing a freight forwarding company, you receive a specific offer and you are relieved of any obligation to arrange transportation, especially the preparation of country-specific documentation. This is a serious burden, which is why most clients use a professional service. Whether you are in the small, medium or large business category and have a minimal load or a large volume, freight forwarders will assist you in docking at the door.

Forwarders face different problems on a daily basis and know how to solve even the most complex tasks in order for delivery to arrive on time. They can claim insurance when needed and negotiate reasonable financial fees. Most importantly, they are aware of the regulations that must be followed in each country. Otherwise, you are not immune to sanctions, shipment privatization and monetary fines, which entails considerable financial loss.

How to find a reliable freight forwarder for your shipments?

Finding a safe and responsible person can be difficult, but not so much if you study the different companies well. It is advisable to look at what Internet marketing is all about, once you already know the basic definition and specific responsibilities of the freight forwarder. It is not in vain that proven businesses have a rich content website. This way you can get to know the company and their work better.

The content listed on the company website will guide you whether it is the specific freight forwarder for your business or for your individual one-time shipment. If you are wondering if you can build long-term relationships with international freight forwarders, the answer is YES. The shipping companies will also take care of the accuracy of the extremely important accompanying documentation with the consignments.

Make the best decision, you just have to look for the right people. You might also want to consult your business partners, who often use freight forwarding services. Sometimes, with the practice of the «trial-and-error» method, the best specialists are found, so that someone by chance can help you a lot with your choice.