Shipping has been a very long element of international trade, but the industry experienced today hardly resembles its early days. With every year, shipping continued to rise with advancements in technology to its present state. Indeed, it is hard to navigate through these changes, and that is where shipping companies enter. These professionals are so committed to moving a number of cargo types in safety with efficiency, employing skilled personnel and state-of-the-art equipment.
With the many shipping options and services, there’s the need to identify the best shipping company. But then, what constitute a good freight company? The best freight company is defined by how well you manage to find a company compatible with your expectations, more so by providing customized services relating to the nature of your product.
The following are some of the factors you may use in finding your ideal shipping partner:
Make sure their service meets your needs
If you can, visit shipping companies’ centers or ask questions about all their services over the phone. What services do they offer? How are they presented? Do they have the option of door-to-door delivery or do you have to go to the center and get the goods?
There are different types of cargo shipping companies and each has different equipment and services. Ask about their loading services. Because if they do not have the equipment appropriate for your type of goods, they will definitely be damaged during loading and unloading. Also make sure the experience and training of their labor. This way you can ensure the safety of your goods during shipment.
Offer the best prices
In this thriving industry, due to high demand, many companies have emerged. So you are not going to sign a cooperation agreement with the first option. Browse the market and choose the most affordable. Because your goal is to reduce costs and increase profits. Compare their international and domestic delivery rates.
Also, ask them to give you all the exact costs. Because some shipping companies offer freight prices first. They will then give you extra costs on the final invoice.
Be able to carry special goods
Special goods can be dangerous goods, antiques, rare goods and sensitive temperature and time products. Because they need special equipment and more security. If your product falls into this category, make sure the company can carry it. Because some of them do not accept them at all and some receive additional costs.
Tracking system
Today, with the advancement of technology, everything can be easily traced, from an ant walking on the wall to a human. So you can easily track your goods at sea, land and sky. Therefore, everyone expects to be able to know the position of their product at any time. Be sure to ask about their tracking services.
Check their history and validity
Examine and compare the licenses and credentials of each. Of course, the more experience and skill they have in their work, the more credibility they have. Also make sure they follow the rules and standards. Check their certifications and safety licenses to make sure you get the goods safely.
Check their insurance policies
Providing insurance means that they care about the reputation of the customer. Insurance acts as a protector for the client’s capital and profit. So, ask about their insurance contracts. Under what circumstances can your product use insurance? Do they use the most insurance coverage for you?
How is their warehousing equipment?
One of the most important issues during transportation is the storage of goods. They may arrive sooner or later than promised. There may be delays at the origin and will have to stay in warehouse for a while. Storage days are very important. Where the goods are stored and with what facilities. If your shipment needs a refrigerator, can the company provide it? Investigate their storage facilities.
Researching and finding the right shipping companies is time consuming and costly. You can leave this to us and spend your energy on what you are doing. Thanks to our extensive relationships and familiarity with the market, Topshipping agents can find the best company at the most reasonable price for you.