What To Look For When Choosing International Ocean Freight Forwarders

By Elnora McCullough


For individuals and more so first timers, overseas shipping can be a hectic and an intimidating experience. This process can be less daunting whenever the service of international ocean freight forwarders is utilized. They are often times referred to as forwarding agents as well. The aim of these companies and individuals is to ensure that peoples shipment safely leaves from one port to the next in a timely and less costly manner. These bodies have certain duties which they perform for clients which include the following: reviewing both commercial invoices as well as bill of lading. Whenever a person decides to make shipments across international ports, all information pertaining to the contractor that one may choose should be gathered.

Customs rules and regulations may vary from country to country. Therefore, the forwarding agent needs to be knowledgeable with respect to the required documents that are needed to be submitted for the different territories. This is necessary in the event that transhipment takes place. Transhipment may occur depending on the goods final destination, its port of origin or the nature of the goods to be shipped.

Apart from the processing of documents, the forwarding agents also perform all the necessary activities that international shipping involves. One may also request for the arrangement of pick-up and delivery of goods by these agents. The activities that are performed by these professional goes a far way in ensuring that one's overseas shipping needs are met.

The commercial invoice is one of the many documents that a freight forwarder is required to review whenever shipment is to be done. Information that is presented on the commercial invoice includes the following: the names of the persons involved in the business transaction, the country in which the goods to be shipped are manufactured. This document is important whenever tariff calculations are taking place by the customs department.

Other information that is included in the commercial invoice is the goods to be shipped, and the harmonised system codes relating to the goods. These system codes are developed by the world customs regulatory body and are standardised internationally. They are used for goods that are traded across borders. This document is also signed, certifying that the information provided is true and accurate.

For insurance purposes and to give validation to a shipment, a bill of laden is required by customs. This receipt is issued by the carrier and serves to confirm that the goods were legitimate cargo of that specific vessel. The bill of lading is also a document that is previewed by the forwarding agent.

Getting recommendations from relatives, friends or individuals who have utilized this type of services in the recent past will assist in the decision making process. Doing research on the internet may also prove to be useful in this endeavour as well. One has to ensure that the individual or company that is selected to carry out this important function on ones behalf is certified by the relevant regulating authority. Care should also be taken to certify that the certification is current.

Overseas shipping is an important responsibility, which will bring the desired level of satisfaction to an individual if its done professionally. With this in mind, it is of importance to seek the services of international ocean freight forwarders.




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