How To Choose Freight Forwarder Companies?
Introduction
“How to choose freight forwarder companies?” has become a more popular discussion nowadays.
Freight forwarding includes strategies that are meant to preserve the commodities in excellent condition during their voyage.
It ensures that they are carried effectively and economically.
In order to do so, freight forwarders must possess a deep grasp of logistics.
Tariffs and customs restrictions must also be dealt with efficiently.
In this guide, we will focus on all the details of “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
Table of Contents
1. Concept Of Freight Forwarding Companies
2. Why Do You Choose To Work With Freight Forwarders
3. Top 10 Tips For How To Choose Freight Forwarder Companies?
- 3.1. Look For Prominent Freight Forwarding Companies
- 3.2. Experiences & History Of Freight Forwarding Companies
- 3.3. Networking Of The Forwarding Company
- 3.4. Transparent Pricing Of Shipping Forwarder
- 3.5. Customer Service Of Transport Forwarder
- 3.6. Search If Your Freight And Forwarding Service Offers Your Need
- 3.7. Insurance Offered By Licensed Freight Forwarder
- 3.8. Customized Shipment Option
- 3.9. Availability Of Shipment Tracking By Forwarding Company
- 3.10. Customer’s Review On Shipping And Freight Forwarding
4. Facilities And Freight Forwarding Process By Freight Providers
5. Qualifications of A Freight Forwarder
6. Benefits Of Working With The Correct Shipping And Forwarding Agent
7. Shipping Documentation Process – Forwarder vs Importer / Exporter’s Role
- 7.1. Paperwork For Global Trade Shipments
- 7.2. The Enquiry Process
- 7.2.1. Quotation Document
7.3. The Ordering Process
- 7.3.1. Purchase Order Document
- 7.3.2. Proforma Invoice Document
- 7.3.3. Order Confirmation Document
7.4. The Shipping Process
- 7.4.1. Shipper’s Letter Of Instruction
- 7.4.2. VGM Declaration
- 7.4.3. Bill Of Lading Document
- 7.4.4. Commercial Invoice Document
- 7.4.5. Packing List Document
- 7.4.6. Packing Declaration Ispm15 Document
- 7.4.7. Certificate Of Origin Or Declaration Of Origin
7.5. Arrival Documentation Process.
8. Don’t Go With The Cheapest Shipping Forwarding Company.
9. Queries You May Have For Your Freight Forwarding Shipping Company.
10. What You Need To Do To Request A Freight Forwarder Quote.
11. Top Freight Forwarding Companies.
1. Concept Of Freight Forwarding Companies
Freight forwarding is the coordination and shipping of products from one location to another.
Depending on the mode of transportation, this might be done through air, rail, maritime, or roadway.
The importance of freight forwarding in global trade was first recognized in Canada in 1948, and the industry hasn’t looked back since.
Shipping forwarders isn’t as simple as it looks at first glance.
Coordination and regulation for shipping forwarders are not enough.
They also need to be in place to ensure that commodities flow across borders and throughout the world in a timely manner.
As well as in accordance with agreed-upon norms.
Companies that handle foreign shipments are sometimes referred to as freight forwarders or forwarders.
Inexperienced international shipping forwarders may find this terminology difficult to understand.
Here, we go through these terminologies in great depth.
Shipping companies, distribution managers, and transport forwarders are all terms that freight forwarders tend to use interchangeably, which can lead to misunderstandings.
An industrial freight forwarder is really a combination of these vocations, at least on a smaller scale.
In order to make foreign business more accessible, freight forwarding companies must guide entrepreneurs through the often-confusing complexity of logistics.
Additionally, forwarding firms are businesses that specialize in coordinating the storage and shipping needs of their clients.
If you understand the basics of “how to choose freight forwarder companies?” then it will be easier for you to find one.
2. Why Do You Choose To Work With Freight Forwarders
They offer a wide range of services, including freight forwarding.
- Tracking the movement of people and goods by land.
- Shipping, importation and exportation documentation preparation
- Freight forwarding services
- Offers good location for storing goods
- Supplying warehouse space for cargo
- Keeping tabs on the expense of transportation
- In order to save money, the freight is consolidated.
- Providing insurance for cargo
- Submitting any and all claims with your insurance company
- Delivery of documents
- Deconsolidation of goods
- Collection of items
As a result, freight forwarding companies are responsible for keeping track of all items entering and leaving the nation.
The practical intricacies of overseas transportation are handled by a freight forwarding company, as previously described.
Moving your merchandise from one location to another is not the responsibility of the firm.
Basically, it serves as an intermediary between a corporation and the many modes of transportation available to it.
A freight forwarder builds a chain of transportation partners to facilitate that the items are carried at the best feasible rate.
To arrive at a cost that is both cheap and efficient, it conducts a bidding process to discover the most cost-effective solution.
It is difficult for most firms to deal with logistics on their own.
So a forwarding company takes care of it for them and guarantees that things are sent in a timely manner.
A freight forwarder acts as a go-between when exporting products, making certain that all paperwork and other export requirements are satisfied.
These professionals offer advice on the most cost-effective and efficient means of transporting the products of the company.
Exporting is made easier when companies use their extensive industry experience and know-how to comply with all applicable laws and guidelines.
Here also negotiating favorable rates and terms.
For What Purpose Does A Freight Forwarding Firm Serve?
What exactly is the purpose of freight forwarders‘ services when they aren’t in charge of transporting products from one location to another physically?
The answer to that query is found in the complicated bureaucratic processes.
And ensuring compliance that is in operation and must be followed when transporting a product over the globe.
Export and import procedures are governed by laws that vary from country to country.
Most companies rely on the logistical expertise of transport forwarders to assure the process’s success and smoothness.
The forwarding company is left with the responsibility of being well-versed in all relevant rules and documentation.
All that you have to bother about is starting to make sure your goods arrive on time at their destination when you choose a professional freight forwarding firm.
A freight forwarding business that is knowledgeable about the sector may save you time and money.
You’ll also get the best deals on practically every aspect of transportation thanks to this.
Transport forwarders’ services may help businesses of all sizes.
When it comes to international shipping, small businesses are unfamiliar with the rules and regulations.
Additionally, their in-house personnel may lack knowledge or become too busy with other projects to assist.
Larger organizations can also benefit from outsourcing this process to a shipping forwarding company, which will save them both time and money.
Other Perks of Hiring a Freight Forwarding Firm
In addition to handling the logistics, the freight and forwarding business can also handle other services like insurance and customs brokerage.
Excellent client service and contentment are the consequence of its services for both consolidated and independent shippers.
Watch this for more –
3. Top 10 Tips For How To Choose Freight Forwarder Companies?
Answering “how to choose freight forwarder companies?” can be a difficult task.
Understanding the freight and forwarding industry is essential before delving into the specifics of ‘how to choose freight forwarder companies?”.
It’s a business operation that involves carrying commodities from one location to another by sea, air, and land.
3.1. Look For Prominent Freight Forwarding Companies
In order for a freight and forwarding firm to create a solid reputation, it takes a long time.
The initial stage in your search should be to examine licensed freight forwarding providers on authorized sites.
You can find out if a firm has a good internet reputation by reading independent reviews.
Ask the firm for references if you aren’t happy with the results.
You should be able to call on the references of a trustworthy business before making a hiring decision.
3.2. Experiences & History Of Freight Forwarding Companies
There are several aspects of freight forwarding that need expertise.
Choosing a freight forwarding company for your import and export business requires a thorough understanding of the legislation and requirements of different nations.
In addition, you should deal with a firm that has relevant experience in your industry.
You need a freight forwarder who knows the best techniques for goods transportation, no matter what you are transporting.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.3. Networking Of The Forwarding Company
The freight forwarding sector relies heavily on strong working relationships with other companies in the industry.
A forwarder’s network may make all the difference in the world in determining whether or not they are a success.
Logistics companies must have the ability to take use of the connections they have.
Their prices, documentation, and navigating local and foreign authorities are all informed by this.
It’s a good idea to ask for references and contact information from freight forwarding businesses to get a better sense of their network.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.4. Transparent Pricing Of Shipping Forwarder
Choosing the correct freight forwarding firm is essential if you want a smooth working relationship with the company and the right and straightforward pricing structure.
Getting an estimate and then seeing that the value has changed after you book a space may be annoying.
In addition to PSS and GRI revisions, the lack of accountability in costs is a key contributor to these changes.
As a result, you should look for a freight forwarder that has a clear pricing structure that doesn’t leave you in the dark.
Things to keep in mind while you compare and contrast freight forwarding services.
It’s also a smart option to see if the firm you’ve chosen offers insurance for your cargo.
As a result, you’ll have less to worry about and more peace of mind.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.5. Customer Service Of Transport Forwarder
Your freight forwarding firm must be able to interact effectively with its clients.
You may get a sense of the company’s customer service quality even before you sign up for any of their services.
As an example, if you have to speak to many people or wait for a long time to get a response, these are signals that something is amiss.
When there is an issue with your shipments, don’t settle for anything less than the best service available.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.6. Search If Your Freight And Forwarding Service Offers Your Need
Identifying your business’s demands is the first step in finding the right forwarding service.
Identify the services you need, the modes of transportation, and the typical amount of shipments you expect to make before you begin the process.
For both your selection and the forwarder’s ability to determine if they can meet your needs, this information is critical.
It’s time to perform some research when you’ve worked out the specifics of your forwarding requirements internally.
You must thoroughly investigate a few suitable forwarding providers to see whether they provide the services and quality you need.
The terms and conditions, industry terminology, and legal framework must all be familiarized with prior to signing on the dotted line.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.7. Insurance Offered By Licensed Freight Forwarder
Ask licensed freight forwarders about shipping / maritime insurance coverage.
The knowledge of certain freight forwarders on this critical issue is woefully lacking.
It’s possible that a licensed freight forwarder will tell you they’re completely insured, which would be a stretch of the truth.
The industry’s trade group, BIFA, mandates that a freight forwarder have liability insurance (assuming they are a member).
This only covers them if they make mistakes, not if they get into an accident while being transported.
Good licensed freight forwarders can offer in transit insurance at a reasonable cost since they have a bulk arrangement with a respected underwriter.
They should also inform you that you are free to arrange your own insurance coverage if you like.
To evaluate a forwarder’s insurance understanding, ask them to define the word “generic average” to you.
Don’t forget to do your own research beforehand, though! You never know what you’ll find.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.8. Customized Shipment Option
A seasoned forwarder is aware that no two shipments are the same.
Consequently, each customer must be handled as an individual, with their specific demands being supplied in a personalized fashion.
Find out if the firm you’ve hired is capable of doing so.
Ask them how costs or transportation could change if your company expands into new areas or offers a wider range of items.
Your freight needs should be the first priority for the firm you choose.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
3.9. Availability Of Shipment Tracking By Forwarding Company
A good quality freight forwarder will always allow you to track your shipment real time.
When these monitoring options are available the customer may feel relaxed and tension free since he can locate his product anytime he wants.
This is a great facility that your freight forwarder should possess.
So before selecting your freight forwarder for shipment be sure that they have a shipment tracking facility.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
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3.10. Customer’s Review On Shipping And Freight Forwarding
Logistics evaluations should be the initial step for shipping and freight forwarding.
Past clients are able to share their thoughts about the shipping and freight forwarding services they obtained from shipping businesses via these online forums.
You may get a better idea of how others feel about the shipping and freight forwarding you’re considering by reading these reviews.
You should probably avoid working with them if something seems amiss.
Even if logistics reviews are helpful, you should not place too much trust in them because there will always be one person who had a poor experience and wrote a negative review.
Though the majority of their encounters were favorable, it is possible that they encountered a shipping and forwarding employee who was having a poor day.
And ended up having a negative experience of shipping and forwarding.
Look into what other customers have to say about a shipping and forwarding firm to see whether they are the correct fit for you.
If a company has been operating longer and built up a strong reputation through the years, it has a better chance of providing a consistent service and having fewer problems.
You should give priority to those who possess the above qualities for “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”
4. Facilities And Freight Forwarding Process By Freight Providers
Warehousing, packaging, freight negotiation with airline and shipping companies, and other obligations of freight providers.
Include a wide range of tasks from shipping documents through customs clearance to site conveyance.
Documentation for Shipping
When shipping items to another country, it’s important to be aware of the necessary paperwork.
This includes the shipment’s commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, shipper’s declaration, and bill of lading or airway bill.
Transportation
The freight providers must be able to convey the goods.
In order to fulfill the customs procedures and prepare the goods for shipping.
Freight providers aid in picking up the cargo from your warehouse and transporting it to a forwarder’s warehouse or a customs-bonded site.
Warehousing
Every freight forwarder must ensure that its warehouses are properly maintained.
When it comes to shipping and storage, most freight forwarders either operate their own warehouses or have an arrangement with a larger company that does.
Perishable goods, food, and hazardous cargo are kept in different warehouses (DG Cargo).
Cargo storage requirements for freight forwarders have been established by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Assortment and Labeling
Forwarders help customers understand how to package their goods for exporting in the most efficient manner possible.
The correct marking and packing of hazardous cargo and special care cargo is of the utmost importance.
Negotiating The Terms Of A Freight Contract
An important part of a forwarder’s job is negotiating shipping costs.
Freight forwarders get the greatest deals from carriers and airlines because of their large volume of business.
Shipment rates are competitively negotiated by freight forwarders.
The forwarder helps companies and individuals transport goods.
Whether personal or commercial cargo, by handling the necessary paperwork, insurance, packing, storage, and local transportation.
They also arrange for the cargo to be transported via air or sea carriers, prepare customs declarations, and track the shipment until it is delivered.
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5. Qualifications of A Freight Forwarder
The following credentials are required of the forwarder:
- An official business license is required to ship the goods.
- By becoming familiar with the customs declaration and the associated procedures
- Preference is given to the company’s own customs broker
- Facility for Storing Goods
- Facility for Packing
- Accreditation for handling hazardous cargo (DG Cargo)
- Perishable freight can be handled at this location.
- Like the IATA, FIATA, and FNC, which are all members of the Forwarder Network (Freight Network Corporation)
6. Benefits Of Working With The Correct Shipping And Forwarding Agent
As a forwarding agent, your primary duty is to facilitate the movement of goods between countries while ensuring that commerce is handled with international agreements.
However, what are the benefits of using a forwarding service instead of a typical mail forwarding service?
All advice and opinions should be explored to find a better solution to the situation.
Everything from port and customs fees to vital supporting documents to insurance and freight management is covered in this breakdown of prices.
There must be a bill of lading and any other necessary paperwork if a foreign firm is involved in the transaction.
As well as timely advice on the most cost-effective method of transportation.
When a consignment can’t fit on a certain transport vehicle, an agent’s primary task is often to combine the consignment with other cargoes to reduce transportation costs.
The door to door method can be used to book cargo space on a ship, airplane, or train freight in addition to managing the storage and/or delivery of the goods.
In other countries, customs officers may utilize it to trace down items and papers to verify if they’re in compliance with regulations.
Process and administrative processes are made easier as a result.
As a forwarding agent handles all aspects of an international consignment, it is responsible for any problems or setbacks that may occur.
International shipments benefit from the forwarding agent’s efficiency, security, economy, and simplicity, as demonstrated above.
Chartering, warehousing, customs paperwork, any mode of transportation, etc., are all included in the extensive variety of services offered to provide a full package
When it comes to freight forwarding and handling, HART Worldwide Logistics is a true expert in the field.
In a nutshell –
In what ways is it beneficial to employ freight forwarding services?
We can identify five important criteria that make freight forwarding services beneficial:
- With the help of forwarder services, you may effortlessly switch between shipping firms or forms of transportation without experiencing any difficulties.
- The ability to respond and address difficulties as soon as they emerge is essential for a good forwarder.
- Freight forwarding services might assist you in saving a significant amount of money. Shipping firms deal with large volumes of cargo, which allows them to provide reduced rates.
- There will be no customs trouble. The laws and procedures governing customs might make your delivery convoluted and difficult to navigate. The freight forwarder will make certain that you do not have to deal with any of these issues.
- Additional services are available. Purchase tracking, packing, and on-demand reporting are just a few of the choices available. When selecting a freight forwarder, it is wise to choose a firm that offers additional services that are beneficial to the customer.
If you are interested in international shipping from China, you do not need to continue your search for a reputable freight forwarder since the professionals at HART Logistics are always available to execute all of the necessary logistical chores on your behalf.
7. Shipping Documentation Process – Forwarder vs Importer / Exporter’s Role
If your international shipping documentation isn’t done correctly, they might delay or hold up your goods at customs.
In order to comply with export laws as well as local legal requirements, a range of international shipping documentation might be included in shipments.
7.1. Paperwork For Global Trade Shipments
For items to be cleared by customs and sent to their final destinations, exporters must submit shipping documentation that is compliant.
Commercial invoices, packing lists, declarations, certificates, and Bills of Lading are only a few of the documents used in international commerce.
We’ve produced an infographic to depict the normal import/export document workflow to help understand this process.
7.2. The Enquiry Process
Inquiries begin with a request for product specifications and pricing from the supplier.
New product inquiries are sent by certain Importers and Exporters who meet on trade portals like Alibaba.
7.2.1. Quotation Document
In order to get a price quote, the exporter will supply a complete document outlining the items for sale.
Information about the goods to be shipped will be included, such as
- their characteristics,
- their costs,
- their currencies,
- their dimensions,
- their payment terms,
- Incoterm,
- and the mode by which they will be shipped.
FCL, LCL, Breakbulk, Air, and Courier are some of the most common shipment methods.
7.3. The Ordering Process
It is the responsibility of the buyer to prepare complete Transaction Order documentation when making a purchase.
Details of the products being provided are confirmed by these documents.
7.3.1. Purchase Order Document
A formal Purchase Order document will be sent to the supplier by the customer.
This will serve as a confirmation of the supplier’s Quotation’s product and pricing data.
7.3.2. Proforma Invoice Document
The vendor will submit an official Proforma Invoice paperwork to reaffirm the information of the products to be delivered.
The Purchase Order and Proforma Invoice must be countersigned by both parties.
The buyer and seller have entered into a legally binding contract with the use of these documents.
In the event of a legal dispute, these documents will be used as evidence.
7.3.3. Order Confirmation Document
A supplementary Order Confirmation document may also be sent by the provider in some situations.
A reconfirmation of the order’s information is done here.
7.4. The Shipping Process
The exporter will package the items and set up the export procedure after they have been ordered and manufactured.
The following shipping papers will be generated as a result of the export.
7.4.1. Shipper’s Letter Of Instruction
One of the most significant legal documents in shipping is the Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI), or Interim Receipt (IRC).
The shipper’s instructions for the agency coordinating the export cargo are contained in this document (this is usually the freight forwarding company).
In order to properly organize the cargo’s logistics, the agent will need this paper to provide all of the necessary instructions.
7.4.2. VGM Declaration
If the items are being carried in a full container, a Verified Gross Mass document is necessary (FCL cargo).
The confirmed gross mass of the shipment, as reported by the shipper, is included in this extremely significant document.
There are strict weight restrictions on shipping containers, therefore shippers must make sure they are accurately weighed.
VGM disclosures and SOLAS regulations may be found here.
7.4.3. Bill Of Lading Document
The most critical document in the supply chain is the Bill of Lading.
It is a legal document that is issued by the shipper of the goods and serves as proof of transportation.
The shipper (exporter) will get a Bill of Lading from the shipping line once the items have been loaded onto the ship for export.
Shippers are required to provide importers with a copy of the Bill of Lading and other relevant shipping papers.
7.4.4. Commercial Invoice Document
The Commercial Invoice is a document that lays out all of the specifics of the shipment.
Shipper and consignee information, as well as product price, currency and Incoterms® are included in this section.
7.4.5. Packing List Document
When cargo arrives at its destination, it is important to have a thorough list of all the items within.
Each package’s dimensions, weight, and packing type are listed in this page.
A sea freight packing list or an air freight description of the goods can be generated based on the shipping method.
7.4.6. Packing Declaration ISPM15 Document
Describing the packaging materials used to package the items in an export packing statement ISPM15-compliant timber packaging is the goal of this regulation.
Pests and illnesses may hide in wood packing materials like pallets, crates, and dunnages, therefore this is to prevent their spread.
7.4.7. Certificate Of Origin Or Declaration Of Origin
A certificate of Origin is the manufacturer’s statement that the items were made in the nation of origin.
If there is a current Free Trade Agreement between the exporting and importing countries, it is typically not necessary.
A Declaration of Origin document can be provided by the manufacturer and authorized by the Chamber of Commerce in their area.
In the customs clearance procedure, this will be used to decrease or eliminate import duties.
7.5. Arrival Documentation Process
The shipping company or freight forwarder will submit any necessary paperwork to the importer as soon as the shipment arrives in the country of origin.
Invoices for sea freight and local handling charges might also be included in these papers.
When using Incoterms® FOB and before, the consignee/importer will be responsible for international sea or air freight.
8. Don’t Go With The Cheapest Shipping Forwarding Company
Avoid picking a shipping forwarding company only on the basis of a company’s cost.
To summarize, transporting cargo throughout the world can be a difficult task.
There are several operations that might go awry, which can have a ripple effect across the supply chain.
Choosing the most inexpensive shipping forwarding company may not provide the kind of service you require.
And their staff may lack industry expertise and understanding on how to rapidly resolve these issues.
A decent pricing and an honest connection with your freight forwarder are worth it because of this.
Your company will pay more in the long run if you go with the cheapest freight forwarding provider.
9. Queries You May Have For Your Freight Forwarding Shipping Company
There are several key things you should ask your freight forwarding shipping company before hiring them:
- Who is in control of the shipments from the beginning to the end, from start to finish?
- When it comes to customs clearance, is there a different agent for each phase of the process, from picking to delivery?
- What happens if there is a problem with cargo and no one is held responsible?
- If so, what is the best way to get in touch with them?
- Is there a requirement for an in-house customs broker?
- If you have any questions or concerns concerning HS codes, tariff classifications, or anything else, it’s vital that you contact a clearing broker right away.
- On the freight forwarding shipping company’s end, what type of tracking, servicing, and communication would you be able to anticipate? There are certain freight forwarders that are not very good at keeping their clients updated about the status of their shipments, delays, or challenges they are experiencing.
- What type of tracking system does the freight forwarding shipping company supply for you to use in order to keep track of the development of your orders?
In today’s world, various online freight forwarding companies have built tracks.
And communication technologies that enable shipments to be tracked to an extremely high degree of accuracy.
10. What You Need To Do To Request A Freight Forwarder Quote
Approximately two weeks before the package is available for collection, you should begin seeking quotes.
Allow yourself some wiggle room in your price comparisons because some freight forwarders may not respond to your inquiry.
Send commercial invoices and packing lists through email from your vendor.
Get the certificate of origin, MSDS, and disinfection certificate while you’re at it.
Once you’ve agreed on a quote, you’ll need them right away.
Nevertheless, there are document chasers out there that will do the legwork for you.
It’s important that all forwarders ask for the same basic details, including contact information for the sender and the supplier.
As well as for those responsible for pickup and delivery of the package.
This information is required if the shipment is going door-to-door.
Zipcodes may suffice at this point, but the more information you can provide, the better off you will be.
If the address is a port, you may use this airport code lookup or seaport code locator to easily get their code.
Here are a few more things to think about before you start quoting.
Requesting quotations can also benefit from this list:
| 1. | Shipment Weight | This information is contained inside the packing list. If you receive freight quotes for a weight that is different from what you expected, you should educate yourself on the concept of dimensional weight. |
| 2. | Shipment Volume | When moving goods, it’s a good idea to have it with the shipment. If the quotation request form has a total volume field, calculate the “CBM” by using a cubic meter calculator that translates from inches. |
| 3. | Ready Date of Shipment | Having this information from your supplier will allow you to figure out when you should begin soliciting quotations. |
| 4. | Mode | When filling out freight quotation forms, you must choose whether you want a figure for air freight or ocean freight, as well as if you want LCL or FCL shipping options. It’s impossible to be too certain. |
| 5. | Official Product Description | The commercial invoice includes this information. |
| 6. | Shipment Value | Cargo insurance with a forwarder necessitates this. |
| 7. | Harmonized System Code | The Importer & Customs Responsibilities section provides further information on the relevance of this code. Including the Harmonized System code (HS code) for your items on the business invoice is also a smart idea. |
| 8. | Cargo Insurance | Ensure that you obtain a price that includes a line item for cargo insurance in your request. |
| 9. | Incoterm | An “EXW” or “Fob Nanjing” is a freight word that is listed on your order or contract. |
| 10. | Delivery Date of Shipment | This aids in the weeding out of possibilities that will require an excessive amount of time. |
11. Top Freight Forwarding Companies
Here is a list of top freight forwarding companies in 2018 –
Analysis data from 2017 –
| Position | Organization | Profit | Maritime TEU’s | Air (Tons) |
| 1 | DHL | 28000 | 3300000 | 2500000 |
| 1 | Kuehne + Nagel | 23000 | 4400000 | 1600000 |
| 2 | DB Schenker | 19000 | 2200000 | 1259000 |
| 3 | Sinotrans | 10000 | 3500000 | 535000 |
| 4 | DSV | 12000 | 1400000 | 650000 |
| 5 | Expeditors | 7000 | 1081000 | 990000 |
| 6 | Panalpina | 6000 | 1531000 | 1000000 |
| 7 | Nippon Express | 17000 | 600600 | 850000 |
| 8 | UPS | 8000 | 600600 | 950000 |
| 9 | Bolloré Logistics | 5500 | 870000 | 650000 |
| 10 | Ceva Logistics | 7000 | 750000 | 500000 |
| 11 | Hellmann Worldwide Logistics | 3500 | 900000 | 660000 |
| 12 | Geodis | 6500 | 700000 | 329000 |
| 12 | Kintetsu World Express | 5000 | 670000 | 579000 |
| 13 | Yusen Logistics | 4000 | 780000 | 370000 |
| 13 | Kerry Logistics | 4000 | 1055000 | 320000 |
| 13 | Dachser | 7000 | 525000 | 340000 |
| 13 | C.H. Robinson | 15000 | 700000 | 180000 |
| 14 | Agility | 3500 | 750000 | 420000 |
| 15 | Hitachi Transport System | 6000 | 500500 | 279000 |
| 16 | Damco | 3000 | 665000 | 210000 |
| 17 | Toll Group | 5000 | 435000 | 89000 |
| 18 | Xpo Logistics | 10000 | 132000 | 75000 |
| 19 | Cj Logistics | 4500 | 311000 | 60000 |
| 20 | Nnr Global Logistics | 2000 | 145000 | 319000 |
Final Words
HART Worldwide Logistics can answer questions like “What is freight forwarding?” and “how to choose freight forwarder companies?” if you’re still unsure.
In freight forwarding, no one beats HART Worldwide Logistics’ decades of experience in the transportation sector combined with the regional knowledge of its shipping specialists.
Contact us if you need any help on “how to choose freight forwarder companies?”.