We are working on a guide on choosing a perfect freight forwarder. Our aim is to create an highly valuable and actionable document that will help first time importers/exporters. Thus your take on this is more than important.
That's why I am sending you this newsletter - to hear about your top tips for choosing a freight forwarder.
A short overview of our initial list:
- Referral from a friend / business associate
- Strong experience on my route
- Many positive and no (unaddressed) negative online reviews
- Membership in professional networks / associations
- Well established company
Highlights of community feedback received so far
- You need to include something about personal attention. The big companies flood the market with sales guys making promises they can't keep. Once they get some work they're gone and the customer gets stuck on a 1800#A forwarder should have a personal contact reachable 24/7 for each account in order to provide service. Freight forwarder here answering emails from Saudi Arabia and India on Sunday morning because they shouldn't have to wait for my office to open tomorrow to get what they need if I can do it today.
- I would look at smaller companies around your area. Flamethrower said it best you have multiple people handling each segment of your process. Smaller companies tend to have one or two people handling your account depending on size.
- Knowledge in the types of cargo I will be handling, and knowledgeable when spoken to about relevant routes and methods of spoken to
- Just because a company has been established for many years, does not mean that it offers the best service or rates. Some younger companies, who are more keen to grow, are able to offer good rates, and service level is often based on staff training and knowledge
- I’d advise people to consider value rather than price. If you’re just going for the lowest rate, you’re going to get low-bidder service.
- Memership with a national associations is a must.
What's your take on this?
Feel free to respond directly to this email and share with us your top tips for selecting a freight forwarder. If you have feedback on tips listed above, that's also welcome. I am sure that together we will produce something really valuable.
Looking forward to you reply.
