November 10, 2021 | Fork Freight
Freight brokers are the unsung heroes in international trade. It is not just because they provide a valuable service, but also because they help you do business when your network does not have global reach. That alone makes them invaluable to SMEs who cannot afford an in-house sales force or representative abroad.
When you are working with a freight broker, you are doing business on a more personal level. Despite the fact that they are not making any sales themselves, their influence on your relationship with the carrier is vital. That’s why it is important to understand what they can do for you and how you can work effectively together.
Below are ten best practices for working with freight brokers.
1. Treat them like an extension of your business
Freight brokers are not just working for their own benefit. They are working for you. The same way your employees want you to succeed, so do freight brokers. That is why it is important to make sure they understand what success looks like in your eyes and how they can help you accomplish your goals.
You need to know what you want from a freight broker before you can do business with them. Most of it will be included in the contract you sign, but some things should be discussed over the phone. You should find out how they prefer to communicate and if their office is close by or not.
2. Get multiple quotes
It is a good idea to get quotes from several brokers. They give you the opportunity to find out if their rates are competitive or not. You can even compare them side by side and decide which broker offers the best service for a fair price.
When you ask for a quote, you should be as specific as possible about what you need. It is better to provide brokers with detailed information, even if you think it may be too much. This way they will know exactly what your expectations are and how they can best meet them.
3. Give clear instructions
Once you have chosen a broker, make sure the relationship works by giving them clear instructions about what you expect from them in each situation. When you are in the driver’s seat, it can be hard to always see things from their perspective. That is why it is good to explain how they can help you out every step of the way.
You need to make sure your freight broker understands your shipping needs before they start providing quotes for carriers on their own. They should know how many shipping containers you need and what they are going to be filled with. They also need to know any limitations related to your shipment like:
– If it is dangerous cargo
– If it is not allowed in the country of arrival
With clear instructions, they can make sure your shipment arrives on time and without hassle.
4. Put them on your team
Freight brokers know a lot of people and they can be an invaluable resource for you and your company. You should always take into account their expertise and experience when working together to solve problems.
5. Act as a liaison
If you do not have regular contact with customers, it may be difficult for you to resolve problems with them. Freight brokers are the perfect go-between when communication gets difficult.
6. Stay up-to-date on changes in your industry or company
It is not uncommon for freight broker fees to increase due to changes in the market. That is why you should be aware of any new regulations that may affect the cost of your shipment.
7. Know when to say no
Freight brokers can be a good addition to your business, but they should not become the only resource you use for importing and exporting goods. You need to know when their services are not needed and how to handle requests that may conflict with your company vision.
8. Get certified
Working with the right people can help you to become more efficient and save money. That is why it is a good idea to get certified as soon as possible.
9. Meet your deadlines
As your importer or exporter, freight brokers are responsible for getting your goods where they need to go on time. You should expect them to meet your deadlines.
10. Keep yourself informed
Knowing what is going on in the world of shipping is good for you, your business and your freight broker. You can help them by staying up-to-date on new tariffs or changes with the carriers they work with. That way, they will always have access to accurate information, which saves everyone time and money.
Finding a freight broker that works well with you and your company is crucial for importing and exporting goods. It is important to put effort into this relationship, because it can help your business grow and prosper. Working with the right people at the start means you will avoid problems down the road.
In conclusion, knowing the right tips and tricks for finding a reputable freight broker will help you make educated decisions about your company’s bottom line. If you follow these ten best practices, your business will be better off in the long run.
For more information contact our team of experts at [email protected]
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