Connectivity and Innovation in the Supply Chain
Freight forwarders provide domestic and international freight services. There are many freight companies offering these services, each with its own specialization and industry relationships. So which forwarding company should you trust with your valuable cargo? The risk of making a mistake when choosing among the many carriers available could affect your supply chain and cost you time, money and lost business relationships. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when looking for a freight forwarder.
Choosing the wrong shipping method
Freight carriers can move goods by air, sea, rail or road. Each mode of transport has its own advantages and disadvantages, and selecting the best shipping method depends on your needs. When choosing the right method, consider the size of your cargo, how fast it needs to be delivered, the destination and how valuable the cargo is.
Valuing price over quality and reliability
While price is a very important factor when choosing a freight forwarder, quality and reliability matter just as much. If you pick the cheapest shipping option, your cargo may be mishandled, the forwarder may lack experience in transporting different types of goods, or delivery may take longer than promised because of inexperienced planning. Each of these scenarios could cause costly disruptions in your supply chain. It is important to research potential carriers to make sure they offer the services you need at a price that makes sense. They should also have a long-standing reputation for timely, reliable service.
Not using a freight forwarding company
Some companies may think that arranging their own freight shipping will cut shipping costs. This can be a serious mistake, especially if the volume of goods does not justify a direct agreement with carriers. Using a dedicated freight forwarder can streamline the whole shipping process. In Colombia, Econtainers also operates as a freight forwarder, with a domestic and international operating network in countries such as China, Spain, Italy, Germany, the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Panama, Ecuador and Peru, and a team with wide market experience.
A good freight forwarder can identify the fastest route and the most economical shipping method for you, offering a variety of logistics services to move your cargo efficiently to its final destination, and committing large volumes with shipping lines that make its rates very competitive. Forwarders also know international trade regulations and handle all the documentation on your behalf, which simplifies the entire freight shipping process. Outsourcing your supply chain management and logistics needs to an international freight company will likely help you ship your cargo more advantageously in terms of cost, time and peace of mind.
At Econtainers we are committed to enabling profitable, simple and sustainable global trade. Leave us your details and we will contact you.