Modern logistics ensures that goods are moved from their source to a warehouse and the end-buyer as quickly as possible. For companies who do not have a warehouse on either side of a shipment, freight forwarders take care of collection and delivery on their behalf.
Here is a list of ways to streamline your FCL shipment.
- Double-check the weight before making payment
Freight prices may vary depending upon whether your shipment weighs 10kg or 25kg; cubic meters will cost more than cubic feet. For instance, seashells in a box would cost less than that same box filled to the brim with heavy items like chains or steel rods.
It’s important not to assume the weight when giving your shipment instructions to the freight forwarder, be explicit in what you are shipping and make sure all of it is accounted for before making payment.
- Workaround peak seasons
Shipping rates go up during Christmas because everyone wants their goods by December 24th, meaning delivery services are more crowded. If your products can wait until after the holiday season has passed, do not ship until then – it will save you money and time later on.
- Ask about consolidation services
In addition to the usual sea and air freight options, you can also consider both of them combined! A forwarder with a strong network will be capable of evaluating routes and travelling times to find the most efficient way to get your goods from port A to port B.
- Keep cargo secure
Most modern ports have a security scanner where every container must pass before being loaded onto a ship for transportation overseas. If your shipment contains high-value items that are easy to steal, you should work with your freight forwarder to find a way to keep the cargo safe.
- Ensure your cargo
Many freight forwarding companies offer insurance for complete convenience as part of their package deals. Cargo insurance costs vary depending upon what you’re moving and how much of it there is, so you should work with your forwarder and insure everything just in case.
- Fill out the shipping documents correctly and fully
Freight forwarders may reject incomplete paperwork if they cannot evaluate the cargo because it lacks specific details. Ensure you fill in your bill of lading and air waybill with accurate and honest information: giving an incorrect description is a breach of contract and could result in denied delivery.
- Make payments quickly
Most companies work on a trust system – once you’ve paid for your shipping costs, that’s it until somebody delivers the shipment. However, many freight forwarders will ask for initial payment before they begin working on your shipment, especially if volumes are high or there is a lot of trouble involved with the destination.
- Know who’s driving your shipment safely across borders
The UN Convention on International Transport Workers’ Rights states that every worker must be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race, colour, sex or creed. If you’re shipping something precious – such as high-end vehicles like Ferraris or boats like yachts – then it may be a good idea to include details that detail where each item is located in the cargo container.
- Do not break any laws, even if they are inconvenient
It’s tempting to send cargo using a route that goes through another country to save money on gas or is faster than taking the long road. However, you could be breaking the law by doing so and may have your shipment seized upon arrival at port.
Your freight forwarder should have contacts in any number of different countries who can help with these kinds of unorthodox deliveries – ask them about it next time your company needs something shipped internationally.
- Use cover for accurate insurance quotes
It might seem expensive, but peace of mind comes at a price. Having to hire heavy hitters to protect your crates as they make their way across the border can be a massive headache. You might want to consider insuring them anyway so that you don’t have any nasty surprises when it comes time to collect your cargo.
