Whether you are new to the world of imports and exports, just looking for new transportation vendors, or attempting to enhance your existing processes, it is critical to managing your relationship effectively with professional freight forwarders. A well-managed freight forwarder relationship may result in faster transit time, lower expenses, and less likelihood of miscommunication and misunderstanding.
According to experts at Forbes, freight forwarding seems to be an incredibly complicated industry. It involves a sound knowledge of international regulations, customs, tariffs and duties, booking cargo space, and transport routes, managing carrier relationships, negotiating charges, or striking deals. Freight forwarders who own warehouses of their own will be covering warehousing, packing, e-commerce solutions, and stock management.
It is critical to provide accurate freight details and information. You need to be mindful of excessively heavy shipments or oversized items. Always focus on proper packaging and care of shipments to ensure security. Remember that shipping costs will be calculated according to cargo-specific factors like weight, dimensions, etc. If you do not maintain a good relationship with your freight forwarder, you may have to encounter issues like delayed containers, price fluctuations, or overlooked details. Let us explore some expert recommendations to maintain a robust relationship with your freight forwarder.
Avoid Cramming Shipments or Booking Last Moment
You should be prepared with a plan well in advance and inform your freight forwarder about your shipment details. It would be challenging to find adequate space on container vessels if you fail to book containers online well in advance. Do not rely on booking shipments last moment. It doesn’t imply that if booked late, your consignments will fail but it means that you may have to deal with the delayed container or higher shipping rates. Always focus on planning in advance for the best outcomes and a healthy working relationship with your freight forwarding partners.
Consistency Is the Way to Go
Many organizations follow a steady sailing schedule. If you require shipping consistently and frequently, you need to inform your freight forwarding partner. Focus on being informative and transparent. A professional freight forwarder will help you plan your shipments and chalk out consistent schedules for those frequent shipments. Moreover, the volume will give you an upper hand while negotiating rates. If your freight forwarder gets to know your shipping frequency and volume, he will offer far more competitive quotes.
Communication is Crucial
Communication is of utmost importance while working with a professional freight forwarder. You need to discuss all relevant future and present projects so that you can enjoy cheaper rates depending on the total volume of business. You may tell your freight forwarder about your previous negative experiences and that you are looking forward to better services and positive experiences. Be vocal to ensure a positive and healthy working relationship with your freight forwarding partner. You can maintain a robust business relationship with your freight forwarder if responsibilities, projects, and expectations are communicated clearly and well in advance.
Documentation Can Make or Break Your Shipping Experience
Despite cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence and automation within the container shipping or logistics industry, documentation still plays a crucial role in the ultimate failure or success of a shipment. Work with a professional and experienced freight forwarder and seek their assistance in managing your documentation.
Conclusion
Effective communication is essential to establishing a robust working relationship with professional freight forwarders. Remember to inform your freight forwarding partner of the reason why you have chosen them or why you have discontinued your previous freight forwarder.