Things You Need To Know About A Freight Forwarder

By Joyce Thompson


Agent forwarders are generally recognized as cargo transporters that are specialized in managing shipments for companies and specific clients. More popularly known as a freight forwarder, this NVOCC or non vessel operating common carrier can operate as an agent or as a company that serves as medium between the carrier and the customer. Additionally, a forwarder also follows a moral obligation of ensuring goods and commodities are processed with utmost priority when it is being exported or imported.

A forwarding agent plays a critical role in making sure all the goods are managed properly especially when it is about to be exported. Providing various levels of styles and services, an agent can also function as a legal counterpart by providing all the paper works required by various agencies before goods are allowed for passage. To learn more about them, the following below are roles they also share.

Port bookings including all processes it entails are managed by a certified forwarder. Because most of these packages go through different ports where the need to book a space for unloading is needed, agents ensure such space is properly arranged, reserved, and prepared. Viewing it from a different angle, an agent already acts as a legal contractor as they make the necessary arrangements for safe storing.

Processes all legal documents required for easy entry and discharge. Because the process of importing and exporting a cargo means client products will have to cross different borders, proper documentation is absolutely necessary. This process often involves documents such as transport papers, payment statements, and documents for government requirements. Forwarding agents help simplify the steps involve by supplying all the needed papers for approval.

Many private agents also include package and distribution services with well maintained warehouses. Although it can be safely assumed that only few of these agents have their own warehouse, majority of these forwarders however are still armed with contracts from various warehouse owners. Alternatively, a forwarder may also offer package and distribution services depending if the need for such service is badly needed. Ultimately though, peace of mind can definitely be enjoyed knowing that your packages will be safely stored in ports.

Forwarders can provide appropriate advice related to insurance and its clauses. Finding the most ideal cargo insurance for your goods can definitely be tricky. If it is taking you some time to find the best, immediately reach out to your agent. Most agents would immediately provide a recommendation base on your cargo, although it is still critical to remember that these agents can only offer insurance arrangement services.

You can get more accurate costing through the help of a forwarding agent. Aside from what has already been mentioned above, an agent can also provide assistance in giving you an accurate cost for the whole importing or exporting service. Normally, these charges would include state government taxes, any fees from ports that may apply, and local tax.

Options are provided to customers before booking all arrangements. To make sure customers are fully aware of their choices, forwarders would often discuss first all options available for the customer before making any arrangement. After finalizing the route, forwarders will then immediately function as the main contractor between the carrier, shipper, and customer.




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