Key Considerations When Making the Choice of a Transport Company
Posted on: 6 October 2016
If you are looking to venture into supplying your goods globally, it is crucial to ensure that you find the right freight forwarder to meet your needs. Choosing a freight forward is akin to selecting a trusted partner for your business. This is because they will also be responsible for ensuring that the logistics for your supply business are met, without any inconvenience to either you or your customers. In this current economy that is significantly dependent on the optimisation of the supply chain, your freight forward should not only offer you consistency but should also be efficient as well as timely. The following are some of the key considerations that you should have when making the choice of a transport company.
Consider if they are capable of handling multiple forms of shipment
If you are just venturing into global shipping, you may have select one specific route to start with. Finding a transport company that can meet a single type of shipping needs would be easy. However, as your business expands, you may need to incorporate other types of shipping methods. For instance, you may be supplying your goods to one part of the world using ocean freight and another customer using airfreight. You need to establish from the beginning whether your freight forwarder would be capable of handling these different types of shipments when the need arises. Failure to do so may mean having to change freight forwarder at short notice, and this could be costly for your business.
Consider if they have the pertinent experience
The transport industry comprises different types of shipping methods as well as an assortment of commodities. It is not uncommon to find that some freight forwarders may choose to focus on one type of goods so as to hone in their experience. However, if your business dabbles in various types of commodities, then this would not be a suitable arrangement for you, as you would have to hire different freight forwarders for your different goods. This is why it is essential to establish from the start what the scope of expertise is. You may want to consider freight forwarders who are adept at the shipping of various commodities ranging from perishables, hazardous goods and more to give you flexibility.
Consider their scope of liability
All transport companies are supposed to offer a liability cover to their customers. However, the extent of this cover can range from one provider to the next. If you would like to rest assured your goods will be taken care of from the point of collection to the point of delivery, you should consider transport companies that will provide you with a comprehensive liability cover. This should encompass cabotage, incorrectly received commodities, misdelivery and more.
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