4 Qualities of a Good Freight Forwarding Company

by Samuel C. Customs Advisor

Whether you want to export your company products to other countries or want to sell international products locally, you would surely need a freight service. The freight forwarding companies or corporations handle the transaction of goods for merchandisers. They either specialize in one particular mode of freight forwarding - through airplane, trucks or ocean vessels or accept clients of each requirement. There is another term “customs broker” but it has a different explanation. People often confuse when they want continuous import bond. You need to know the difference between both terms.

Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker

Freight forwarding companies are simply dedicated to helping clients in exporting their goods. They are connected with supply chain and logistics and notify their clients throughout the exporting process. They take charge of shipping cargo safely to its destinations and handle all pertaining documentation and paperwork.

Customs brokers have quite different roles and responsibilities. They are licensed from federal agency Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assist international and domestic importers and exporters for customs bond and other requirements of cargo clearance, duty, taxes, value, and product classification.

Brokerage firms also play a vital role of an intermediary between the owner of goods and CBP, as they help importers in preparing customs surety bond. Customs clearance is not an easy task and can be overwhelming for people who are involving in the procedure for the first time. Brokers pay required fee to the CBP and submit additional information on behalf of their clients. If you’re going to work with a freight forwarding company, you should look at these four qualities.

1 – Experience and certification

Freight forwarders work on behalf of exporters. Before they become operating as a business, they need to acquire a license from respective federal agencies such as FMC. The best part of a good freight forwarding company is never hesitating to tell you about their previous record and portfolios in the field. They provide organized services efficiently and always ensure shipment at the right location.

2 - Quality Services

They are always willing to help their client in any circumstances. They provide valuable information on the continuous import bond as well. You can opt for a company who cares for your goods and ensure a flawless transaction. They keep the deadlines and ultimately never disappoint with certain commodities.

3 - Reliable Network

Whether we talk about customs broker of freight forwarders, one common thing in these organizations is they keep the reliable network. Their contacts help new importers/exporters to get through any complicated condition. They maintain connections with key people in other countries to avert unnecessary delays at customs. Customs bond is a very important document that serves as a surety of certain obligations like paying the taxes and duties at the right time.

4 – Proper Tracking of Shipment

The tracking system of freight forwarding companies is now digitally empowered. It is more efficient now than before. They understand the related compliances and regulations and manage proper communication with the shipper. The real-time status of the shipment is what considered the main component of reliability. On your part, to avail smooth shipment, you need to arrange important documents like a customs surety bond.