Getting into import and export? The freight forwarding company Packair can help.
If you’re a business owner looking to get into importing and exporting goods, you may never have heard of freight forwarding, and certainly won’t know the names of any of the major players. But then, one of these companies, like the freight forwarding company Packair, might be just what you need to get your import and export business off the ground.
Freight Forwarding: The Lowdown
They might not be well-known outside of their industry, but freight forwarding is one of the most popularly used methods of transporting goods internationally, for both business and personal use. These companies facilitate and coordinate shipping with partners in the road, rail, ocean, and air freight. Your freight forwarder will arrange the entire process from beginning to end, including storage and warehousing at both ends of the journey. They can also help negotiate you a great price, as most will have an established relationship with their freight partners.
Services Your Freight Forwarder Can Provide
As well as simply getting the goods you want to ship from A to B, a good freight forwarding company will also help you clear customs, sort out all your import and export documentation, insurance, packing, and storage. Choose the right one, and you’ll barely need to do anything at all!
The Six Steps of Freight Forwarding
The freight forwarding process has six key stages. These are:
* Moving goods from their source (you) to the freight forwarder’s warehouse
* Customs clearance to leave the country of origin
* Unloading and inspection to check if the goods are as detailed on documentation
* Import customs clearance
* Destination handling and transfer to the import warehouse
* Haulage to the final destination
What Your Freight Forwarder Won’t Do
It’s important to know that while a freight forwarder can arrange every aspect of international shipping on your behalf, they’re not responsible for any delays that may occur such as bad weather, route change, or delays at international ports. Don’t lose your head if this happens – it’s out of their hands, and they’ll be doing their best to help.
Rules and Regulations of Freight Forwarding
Freight forwarding, like most things in life, has rules that can’t be broken. It’s important to know what can and can’t be shipped. Your freight forwarder won’t ship goods including:
* Dangerous products, such as toxic substances and flammable liquids
* Prescription drugs
* Recreational drugs
* Batteries
* Alcohol
* Sharp objects
Some freight forwarders can offer dangerous goods handling, but there’s usually an extra charge for this. Make sure to ask before you book any services.
Don’t Forget the Documentation
Freight forwarding can mean a lot of paperwork, but your freight forwarder should provide this for you. You’ll need:
* Bill of lading contract
* Commercial invoice
* Inspection certificate
* Certificate of origin
* Export license and packing list
* Export declaration document
It’s essential that all of these documents are provided. If they’re not, your items may not make it through customs, or you may not get paid. No one wants that. Do your research, choose the right company, and the import and export will be smooth sailing from start to finish.
