FEATURE


LOGISTICS, FREIGHT & TRANSPORTATION


THE ADVANTAGES There are a number of benefits to using the services of a freight forwarder, especially if you are new to exporting. Expertise – a freight forwarder is an expert in all things


import/export. They will be familiar with the custom laws of various countries and will know which documentation is needed for every stage. They will also utilise their contacts to work out the best route in terms of cost, speed and reliability Personal touch – you will only need to liaise with one


company or individual to arrange your shipment, rather than many different haulage/freight companies Peace of mind – if something goes wrong, your freight


forwarder will be on hand to deal with the issue. If you need to make a complaint or submit an insurance claim, they can offer their guidance.


THE DISADVANTAGES Although there are many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to using a freight forwarder, and it will not be the right choice for every business. Costs – using a freight forwarder can increase the overall


cost of your shipment, and you may be able to get a better deal if you negotiate shipments and haulage yourself Lack of control – using a forwarder means relinquishing


a lot of control and leaving your shipment in the hands of your freight forwarder entirely Priority – larger and well-established forwarding


companies might not prioritise small shipments from small businesses.


THE COST In most cases, a freight forwarder will offer a quote for the entire process as determined by your needs, so you won’t have to worry about any hidden or extra costs down the road. However, it’s also important to get an itemised quote so


you can see exactly what is – and what isn’t – covered. An itemised quote might highlight some costs that you hadn’t


previously considered, such as fluctuations in the price of fuel or currency exchange rates, any product-specific costs such as refrigerated transport for perishable items, packaging for fragile items or cranes for loading heavy items, and storage. You should also do your due diligence to make sure all


quotes come from reputable forwarders that you can trust to get the job done, as it may end up costing your business time and reputation, as well as money, if you don’t work with a reliable company.


74 business network March 2020


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