What Services Are Offered by a Freight Forwarder and How Do I Know If I Need Them?

Growing your business might include using manufacturers outside of your country. As a result, you are going to be moving freight and that means making sure that all your paperwork and other importing and exporting requirements are met. However, these requirements can be complicated. You might be wondering if it is worth using a freight forwarder to help you navigate this process. Here are a few of the services that freight forwarders offer and how you can benefit from them.

What is a Freight Forwarder?

First, let’s define what a freight forwarder. They serve as an agent of the exporter for the purpose of arranging cargo transporter and the related documentation to accomplish an international shipment. Additionally, there is a licensing process that they must complete to serve as an agent and intermediary for your business.

What Can a Freight Forwarder Offer Your Business?

These freight forwarders typically function in the position of being an intermediary between the businesses that hire them, as well as handling the various transportation services responsible for getting their products to customers overseas, including the transportation carriers, the goods handlers, and the custom officials.

There services can include routing and booking cargo, arranging transportation from the point of origin to the final destination. They can also get exporting quotes, helping you to determine the best pricing for moving your goods internationally. They assist with the preparation of documentation needed for goods to move through customs from the port of origin and then receive customs clearance in the destination port.

Other services, such as the collection of funds or arranging marina insurance, can also be part of the freight forwarder’s services. The knowledge and experience that these freight forwarders provide can be invaluable as you move your goods through the global shipping lanes.

Why Should You Use a Freight Forwarder?

One of the biggest reasons that you should use a freight forwarder is because their experience and knowledge can help you to avoid costly delays and fees. Plus, they can also assist you with packaging, because depending on the final destination, the packaging may have to meet specific requirements. Not being on top of the details could negatively impact your ability to receive or ship goods in a timely fashion.

Additionally, they can walk you through the processes to manage your shipping when faced with potential weather delays. At the same time, changing tariffs can also impact your costs, so your freight forwarder can make sure that you have covered those costs and understand what your financial responsibilities will be.

Clearly, there are multiple ways that freight forwarders can assist your business, particularly when you are dealing with international shipping. Using this service can take the stress off, as they can handle the various time-consuming aspects of this exporting/importing process. If you are ready to explore the benefits of working with a freight forwarder, contact our experienced staff today.

Atlanta Customs Brokers is one of the oldest and most trusted customs brokerage and shipping firms in Atlanta. Established in 1985, our company has been a fixture in and around the Atlanta airport and Savannah port for more than 31 years. We enjoy working with our international partners and enjoy what we do. If you are a first-time importer or exporter or a large corporation, we can handle your needs.