Transport aircraft
International transport
7 min

Choosing the right forwarder: our guide

Choosing the right international shipping company for your business is paramount. The efficiency, cost and reliability of your delivery solutions are key to your customers/partners' satisfaction and your company's profitability. But what are the criteria to consider when choosing the right forwarder for your needs?

It is crucial to understand that each industry has different transportation expectations. Therefore, the selection of a freight forwarder must be made according to your specific needs. 

The criteria for selecting a forwarder

Choosing the right forwarder, or commission agent, for your international shipments can be complex, but it's important to take several criteria into account to make the optimum choice.

Carrier specialization

First of all, it's important to consider the carrier's specialization. The commissionaire's job is not exactly the same in every sector. Some carriers have particular skills in transporting certain types of goods, while some specialize in sea freight and others in air freight.

For example, if you are shipping perishable products, you will need to find a carrier that specializes in this field and has developed a product line adapted to this type of transportation. Similarly, if you are shipping dangerous goods, it is important to find a carrier that has specific certifications for this type of transport.

At Stracker, we have decided to specialize in critical transportation. Our processes are adapted to industries with regular urgent needs. This is the case for the aviation industry, for example during AOG (Aircraft on Ground), or for the Haute-Couture houses, which need to send looks every day to Los Angeles, New York etc. during different events.

Flexibility and reactivity

The flexibility and responsiveness of your transportation partner is important, especially if you have critical needs. First, you want to be sure that your carrier is able to accommodate each of your needs in terms of delivery times, frequency and volume. Second, you want to be sure that they can respond quickly to last-minute changes.

At Stracker, because of our experience in the critical, we pride ourselves on our flexibility and responsiveness. We are used to the unexpected happening at any time, and we strive to respond to these situations with agility and speed. Our dedicated agents and partners are available 24/7 to ensure that we find the best solution at the best price. Our non-commissioned business model means that our clients do not pay extra for these unexpected events.

The cost of transportation

As you can imagine, it's vital to choose a forwarder with attractive rates, adapted to your budget and your needs. Don't pay for features that don't serve your business! The key is to find the right service for your business, at the right price. Compare several commission agents to make sure your final decision meets these two criteria.

To address this issue, Stracker has developed the first commission-free freight service. We offer our customers to pay a monthly subscription for a limited number of deliveries. This way, you don't pay more for urgent deliveries!

Geographic coverage and quality of the carrier network

world map graphic with a plane flying over it

The geographic coverage of a freight forwarding company is a criterion that should not be overlooked when making your decision. Make sure that the forwarder you choose is able to deliver to countries where you have business partners, customers and general delivery needs. 

At Stracker, we have developed a solid and reliable network of partners that allows us to deliver anywhere in the world, with a specialization in the United States and the United Kingdom. Indeed, for these countries, our agreements with Air France allow us to guarantee late pick-ups, overnight document preparation, as well as a guaranteed departure on the first flight of the following day.

Management of customs formalities

customs clearance

Yes, that's part of the freight forwarding business too. Import/export logistics for international goods involve customs formalities that can vary from country to country. So it's important to check your service provider's expertise in handling customs formalities for the countries you need to ship to. This will help you to make faster, more efficient deliveries.

If you have any questions in this regard, we can advise you on the customs regulations in force in each country, and we can guide you accordingly.

So how do you find the right forwarder?

Now that you know the criteria for selecting a freight forwarder, it's time to take action and make a choice.

Do your research

First, start by doing some research. Use online directories, specialized forums and professional networks to find carriers that match your needs. You can also ask for recommendations from companies similar to yours.

Evaluate the carriers

Once you have found a few carriers that might meet your needs, you need to evaluate them. Contact them, ask for brochures and detailed quotes. Compare them according to the criteria listed above.

Check backgrounds, references and certifications

IATA

If you are still unsure, you can look at which forwarder is the most established in your area by checking their references. You can also check their certifications(e.g.IATA) and their safety record, so that you can be sure of the reliability of your carrier. 

Test the chosen forwarder

Finally, it is important to test the carrier before entrusting him with a large quantity of goods. You can start with small quantities and then increase them little by little, in order to test the service and the quality of the carrier.

Choosing the right freight carrier for your business is an important process that can have a significant impact on your customer service and profitability. By using the selection criteria listed in this article, you can find a carrier that meets your needs and offers quality service at a competitive price. 

If you want to know more about the offer of Strackerplease contact us. Our team of experts is at your disposal for any information.