What is Global Freight Forwarding and How to Choose the Best Freight Forwarding Agent for Your Company
A proficient freight forwarding company can help e-commerce business owners to streamline their logistics processes, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction by providing reliable and efficient shipping solutions.
Every month, millions of tons of cargo are transported between countries. According to the Department of Transportation, in 2019, 6.7 million air freight tons were shipped to the United States from foreign countries. The global cargo shipping market size was 11.09 billion tons in 2021 and is projected to grow to 13.19 billion tons by 2028.
So, what is global freight forwarding?
Global freight forwarding is the process of organizing the shipment of goods or products from one location to another anywhere in the world. Companies providing international freight forwarding services are responsible for coordinating the logistics of international trade, which includes arranging transportation, customs clearance, last mile delivery, and insurance for the shipment of goods.
Global freight forwarding companies work with various transportation providers, such as airlines, shipping lines, and trucking companies, to ensure that goods are transported safely and efficiently. They also handle the necessary paperwork and compliance requirements for exporting and importing goods across international borders.
In essence, a global forwarding agent acts as a link between importers and exporters and the various transportation providers involved in moving goods around the world. They play a crucial role in ensuring that goods are delivered on time and in compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Some of the key responsibilities of a global forwarding agent include:
- Negotiating freight rates with shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies to secure the best possible rates for clients.
- Booking cargo space with transportation providers to ensure timely delivery of goods.
- Coordinating the shipment of goods across multiple countries, including arranging for customs clearance, documentation, and insurance.
- Providing advice on import and export regulations and compliance requirements.
- Tracking the progress of shipments and keeping clients informed of any delays or issues.
- Resolving any issues that may arise during the shipping process, such as lost or damaged cargo.
Top 5 Global Freight Forwarding Companies in 2022
Below is a list of the top 5 global freight forwarding companies based on their market share and revenue as of 2022:
- DHL Supply Chain & Global Forwarding
- Kuehne + Nagel International AG
- DB Schenker
- DSV Panalpina A/S
- Expeditors International of Washington Inc.
These companies offer a range of services, including air and ocean freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and supply chain management. They have a global presence and work with a network of transportation providers to move goods around the world.
How to choose a right freight forwarding company
Choosing the right freight forwarding company is crucial to the success of your international trade operations. They have all the necessary knowledge and skills to provide your company with peace of mind when coordinating transport, 3PL warehousing, customs clearance and much more.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a freight forwarding company:
- Experience and Expertise: Look for a company that has experience and expertise in handling the types of goods you need to ship, and has knowledge of the regulations and requirements of the countries you are trading with.
- Range of Services: Ensure that the company offers the range of services you need, such as air or ocean freight forwarding, customs clearance, insurance, and warehousing.
- Network and Coverage: Choose a company that has a strong network of transportation providers, including shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies, and can offer global coverage to meet your needs.
- Technology: A modern and efficient freight forwarding company should have a user-friendly online platform or system that provides real-time shipment tracking, document management, and other features that can help you manage your supply chain more effectively.
- Reputation: Research the company’s reputation in the market, read reviews from previous customers, and check if the company has any certifications or industry recognition.
- Cost: While cost is an important factor, it shouldn’t be the only consideration. Look for a company that provides transparent and competitive pricing, without compromising on quality and reliability.
- Customer Service: Finally, choose a company that provides excellent customer service, with responsive and knowledgeable staff who can provide you with timely updates and assistance in case of any issues or concerns.
By considering these factors, you can choose a freight forwarding company that is best suited to your specific needs and can help you achieve your international trade objectives.
Here are some essential questions to ask your freight forwarder when shipping goods from China:
- What are the shipping options available for my goods, and which option is the most suitable for my shipment?
- What are the transit times and estimated delivery dates for each shipping option?
- What are the costs associated with each shipping option, including freight, insurance, customs clearance, and any other fees?
- What documents are required for customs clearance in China and the destination country? Can you provide assistance with obtaining and completing these documents?
- What are the export regulations and restrictions in the destination country, and do my goods comply with these regulations?
- Can you provide me with real-time shipment tracking, and how will you communicate updates and delays to me?
- What are the insurance options available, and do I need additional insurance to cover my goods during transit?
- What is your experience in handling shipments from China, and can you provide references from previous clients?
- What is your process for handling any issues or delays that may arise during the shipping process?
- What is your customer service policy, and how can I contact you if I have any questions or concerns?
By asking these questions, you can ensure that your freight forwarder has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle your shipment from China, and can provide you with a reliable and efficient shipping service.
Why Easy China Warehouse can be you best freight forwarder
Our international division has been operating as a global freight forwarder since 2016. We focus on supporting both small and large Ecommerce companies to move their products from China to their customers globally.
We consolidate containers on routes to all Amazon FBA warehouses in the world to provide the lowest total landed cost for our customers. In addition we have multiple containers leaving weekly so your freight never waits in China. We guarantee the lowest cost even to the most remote Amazon warehouses.
We understand our customers better than our competitors because we used to be ecommerce sellers ourselves. We can relate to the pains of selling online and tailor our services to solve those problems. Whether it be Amazon inventory limits, new FBA inbounding rules, or difficult 3PL inbound shipment requirements, we make sure your goods arrive smoothly. We can even help you split a large shipment on arrival in the US into many Amazon FBA warehouses.
We offer seamless door to door sea and air DDP shipments to save you time, so you can grow your business. Let our team of professionals know your factory address, product details, and destination address and we’ll do the rest. No more need to spend time filling out pages of documents, with countless back and forth communication to and from your shipper. We make your life easier so you can focus on the most important parts of your business.
Your supply chain is in good hands with Easy China Warehouse.