Freight Forwarding Companies (FFC) are companies that specialize in moving cargo between locations. They provide services for businesses and individuals who need to move large quantities of products.
A freight forwarder, forwarder, or forwarding agent, is a person or company that organizes shipments for individuals or corporations to get goods from the manufacturer or producer to a market, customer or final point of distribution.
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They contract with a carrier or often multiple carriers to move the goods. A forwarder does not move the goods but acts as an expert in the logistics network.
Most freight forwarders have a good working knowledge of the customs regulations in the countries where they operate and can advise their clients on the best way to get their goods through customs without delays or problems.
Many freight forwarders also offer other services such as warehousing, insurance, and packaging. Some forwarders specialise in particular types of cargo, such as dangerous goods, oversize or overweight shipments, or livestock. Most companies that need to ship goods use the services of a freight forwarder.
There are several reasons for this.
- 1. Cost: They can often save a company money on shipping costs by using their relationships with carriers to get the best rates. They can also help to avoid costly mistakes in shipping, such as incorrect paperwork or failing to meet deadlines, which can result in delays and additional fees.
- 2. Time: Else they can save a company time by taking care of all the shipping details, from booking the shipment to tracking it and dealing with any problems that may arise. This allows the company to focus on their core business.
- 3. Expertise: A freight forwarder has the expertise and experience to deal with the complexities of shipping, such as customs regulations and documentation. They also have a network of contacts in the shipping industry that can be used to resolve problems or get information.
- 4. Flexibility: A freight forwarder can offer the company flexibility in shipping, such as the ability to ship using multiple carriers or to change the shipping schedule if needed. This can be important when a company needs to ship goods on a tight deadline.
- 5. Risk: A freight forwarder can help to reduce the risk of shipping by ensuring that the goods are properly packaged and insured. They can also track the shipment and provide updates on its location, which can be important in the event of a problem.
- 6. Liability: A company is usually not liable for any damage to the goods during shipping if they use a freight forwarder. The forwarder is responsible for ensuring that the goods are properly packed and insured and for any damage that occurs during shipping.
- 7. Compliance: A freight forwarder can help a company to comply with the regulations of the countries where the goods are being shipped. They can provide the necessary documentation and advise the company on the best way to get the goods through customs.
- 8. Peace of Mind: Using a freight forwarder can give a company peace of mind knowing that their shipping is in expert hands. This can be important for companies that ship high-value or time-sensitive goods.