International Freight Forwarders
There are a lot of confusion when it comes to the various companies offering logistics services. from International freight forwarders to 3PL, 4PL and 7PL companies in addition to the many other types of companies.
Below is a simple definition of a freight forwarder
A Firm specializing in arranging storage and shipping of merchandise on behalf of its shippers. It usually provides a full range of services including: tracking inland transportation, preparation of shipping and export documents, warehousing, booking cargo space, negotiating freight charges, freight consolidation, cargo insurance, and filing of insurance claims. Freight forwarders usually ship under their own bills of lading or air waybills (called house bill of lading or house air waybill) and their agents or associates at the destination (overseas freight forwarders) provide document delivery, deconsolidation, and freight collection services. Also called forwarder.
Many traditional freight forwarding companies are offering other services such as: warehousing, distribution, pick and pack services and transportation management.
This has given rise to what we call 3PL companies.
While the idea of moving cargo from A to B sounds simple, like importing, there are complex regulations that govern the movement of freight worldwide. Every country has its own regulations, and different products have different requirements, and keeping track of them all can be daunting for small business owners.
That’s where working with the right freight forwarding company is essential. a freight forwarder should be able to offer you personalized service and focus on compliance, you can rest easy knowing that your cargo is in good hands and that you won’t be faced with any surprise charges or delays.
International shipping is by now means easy. Shipping a container involves many activities that most people are not aware of. With more and more regulations affecting imports, international freight companies have to stay on top of all the changes in the market place.
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