Engaging with a freight forwarder can feel like a big move for supply chain members who want to improve efficiencies and costs across the board.

Attempting to manage cargo stock feels like an ongoing challenge that a number of brands will struggle with, but the ability to withdraw some control and allow an outsourced party inside the tent can be a step too far for some.

This is a chance to step back and reflect on the features of their service, detailing what they bring to the table for the organisation as a whole.

We will outline 6 reasons why companies are best placed partnering with these practitioners.

1) Reducing Operational Errors

Dealing with shipping procedures, courier partners, shipping routes, customer service demands and department communication matters is a delicate balancing act to say the least. What often happens in these situations is that supply chain outlets will experience operational errors and hope to rectify the case through reverse logistics processes. By engaging a trusted freight forwarder, these errors will be reduced before they even eventuate, stripping back the practice to ensure that the basic principles are in place before expanding into other domains.

2) Complying With Industry Rules & Regulations

Hiring these industry specialists becomes essential when thinking about compliance and regulation demands placed on the business. Not only will time and money be lost for poor planning procedures, but the brand can be subjected to penalties and litigation if correct protocol is not adhered to. The choice to reach out to these contractors makes sense when it comes to filing the right paperwork forms and dealing with the right authorities on shipping parameters.

3) Saving Cash

Getting the best price on shipping and courier services is not something that is always afforded to supply chain members. This is why they will reach out to seek assistance through a freight forwarder as they ascertain which partners are best and what kind of shipping routes will be most viable for the business moving forward. Among all of the inefficiencies they will address and resolve for the enterprise, ownership and management will realise that over the medium and long-term, the brand will be saving tangible cash.

4) Flexible Planning Measures

One of the major assets that are on display for clients who use a freight forwarder is that they don’t stick to a one-size-fits-all format. From the length of contract to the type of work they engage with, they will sit down with the operation and assess what kind of service features should be included and what should remain off the table. This gives outlets a chance to customise their agreement without being tied to terms that don’t work for their short or long-term interests.

5) Passing Over Industry Knowledge

Why hire a freight forwarder for these operational tasks? Well one of the main drivers behind these projects will be the improvements made in-house for the long-term. Given the variety of roles and responsibilities that a freight forwarder oversees day to day, it is beneficial to have them on the ground with other key staff members to walk them through best practice measures. As well as the resources they provide, their industry insights will be passed over to the enterprise as they navigate importing and exporting demands.

6) More Resources for Other Departments

While the use of a freight forwarder will be essential for importing and exporting officials across departments, supply chain enterprises recognise that there are other participants who need attention with their commercial needs. By outsourcing particular tasks in this setting to address shortcomings and make tangible gains, those areas of concern suddenly earn more focus. This will make for a better business operation, enabling staff to lean on resources and expertise for core duties.