REVIEWING THE IMPORTANCE OF FREIGHT FORWARDING AGENTS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN INDUSTRY.
Intro
In treating the subject of the role of Freight Forwarders, in the shipping industry, it is imperative to first start by describing what Freight Forwarders are? We will use SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, as an example and a point of reference in unpacking this topic. SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, is a B-BBEE level 1 international Imports and Exports Freight Forwarding and Customs Clearing Business based in the South of Johannesburg, in South Africa.
Basically, Freight Forwarders are International Traders’ shipping managing partners, and what is meant by that, is not a “business managing partner” in the strictest sense of the word in corporate terms, but rather a contracted partner responsible for managing the project of moving Traders’ consignments from one place to the other - and thus, a shipping partner.
You will find two types of Freight Forwarders in the industry and those are asset based LSP, as well as none asset based LSP, however both have the same goal and objectives, and they mostly function the same, with slight variances here and there, and both having advantages and disadvantages in their service provisions. At the end of the day, it all boils down to what is mostly important to individual clients and how satisfied clients are with the service received.
Functions Of Freight Forwarders:
SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, functions as an intermediary between international trade partners, with the sole objective of ensuring that shipments move from origin to destination as smoothly as possible and that they arrive safely and on time, without disrupting parties’ operations and or profits.
Typical activities performed by Freight Forwarders
SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd’s basic activities, involve organizing transportation for subject cargo, to and from anywhere in the world, using common modes of transport, such as: Sea freight, Air freight, Rail freight and Road freight.
Other freight forwarders in the industry, also handle pipe mode of transport as well, for commodities, such as oil and or gasses.
Freight forwarders coordinate the movement of cargo across international ports and borders, as well as handle clearance of shipments into and out of the country, on behalf of shippers (i.e. Exporters and Importers).
In arranging international transportation of cargo, SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd ensure that collection from Supplier at origin, international freight and delivery at destination is done safely and timely.
Contracts of carriage and costs are negotiated with carriers and best rates selected for clients. SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd also Handles Terminal Fees, Customs duties and vat, and ensures all dues are paid on time, to avoid unnecessary delays at ports.
This way, SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, not only moves cargo, but ensures that global operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Keeping you on top of your GAME
Prior to booking your shipment, we advise on cost efficient transportation alternatives; Carrier options available for your specific route and estimated timelines for each, so you can adjust your operational schedule accordingly.
We simply organize according to your instruction. And since the movement of cargo is associated with risks of loss and damage, we can arrange insurance on your behalf, but only if specifically requested to do so, and we submit claims on your behalf accordingly, in the event of things having gone awry with your cargo.
We do all of this and more, so you can be free to focus on your core business activities. SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, is committed to service excellence, where your convenience and peace of mind, is our paramount concern.
Advantages of using SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, as your Agent:
01
We streamline your shipping process by optimizing route alternatives, handling all customs formalities, and ensuring deliveries are made safely and timely..
02
Our network of partnerships and relationships with carriers, enable us to secure more efficient and cost-effective solutions for moving clients’ cargo from origin to destination.
03
We understand and keep ourselves up to date with the ins and outs of global trade and the impact delays have on the flow of the rest of our clients’ supply chains, as such – in managing the project of moving your cargo, we ensure to deliver your goods safely and on schedule.
04
We manage all your shipping documents and ensure that your shipments are declared correctly to Customs and applicable duties and VAT paid accordingly.
05
We manage all your shipping documents and ensure that your shipments are declared correctly to Customs and applicable duties and VAT paid accordingly.
Lastly:
The SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd organisation upholds a continuous learning culture, thereby ensuring that members' understanding of international trade and shipping laws, along with tariffs and duties is maintained, to guarantee a smooth transition through all statutory checkpoints, in the shipping process.
SmooLink Forwarding (Pty) Ltd, is committed to service excellence, where your convenience and peace of mind is our paramount concern.
For all your shipping enquiries - Please do not hesitate to contact us, through any of our communication channels below, and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible, to assist you accordingly