How to Select the Best UK Based Freight Forwarder?

By Ken Jackson, freelance writer.

Finding the best freight forwarding company for your business lets you outsource the logistics and supply chain management to experts. This allows you to get on with the day-to-day running of your business. But with so many companies claiming to be the best, how do you know which one to choose?

Here we’ll discuss what kinds of questions you should ask yourself when selecting the right freight forwarder UK based company.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder

There are so many vital processes involved in getting goods to the customer. Freight forwarders have access to a comprehensive network of logistic providers along the supply network. This enables them to connect services using combined methods of transport, e.g., road, rail, air, and sea.

You need to develop a long-term, business partner relationship with the freight forwarding you choose. Therefore, you must select a company that understands your precise requirements and offers the level of services your business needs.

Bear in mind that large freight forwarders are inclined to focus on offering a better service to large shippers, as opposed to smaller shippers. In contrast, a smaller forwarding company may not have access to the resources and networks necessary to handle large volume shippers.

How to Choose the Best Freight Forwarder?

Here are five questions that will help you decide which freight forwarding company offers the best fit for your business:

1. Can They Meet My Business Needs?

First, you’ll need to be clear on the needs of your business. Next, research companies that offer the services that meet those requirements. Find out if they cover services like fulfilment and warehousing, the average volume of their shipment, and modes of transport, for example. Knowing the details are key when choosing the right company.

2. What Experience Do They Have?

When you’ve found the right forwarding company, you’ll need to verify that they can deliver on their promises. The things to consider include experience in working with your cargo type, if they have knowledge of importing and exporting goods from the countries you work with, and whether they’re a long-standing and successful forwarding company. If you’re satisfied with the answers to questions like these, it will help you decide whether you can develop a long-term relationship with the company in question.

3. What Do Their Customers Say?

Before you commit to working with them, make sure that they are responsive, clued-up, and look after their customers’ best interests. What is their customer service track record like? You’ll need assurances that you’ll receive quick and effective support whenever you have a problem or question regarding a shipment.

4. What Technology Do They Use?

Can they offer cutting-edge services to provide you with real-time visibility of your supply chain? It’s better to choose a freight forwarder UK company that offers access to the information you need regarding your shipments via an online tracking system. As well as having access to your booking details, other information may include shipment arrival dates and proof of delivery to clients.

5. What Are Their Rates Like?

It might be tempting to go with the freight forwarder offering the lowest rates, but look into why this may be the case. Saving on upfront costs may seem like a good idea at first. However, you may end up paying in additional charges, delays to deliveries, and unhelpful customer service, etc.

When something appears to be too good to be true, it often is! To be on the safe side, find a forwarding company that offers the services you require at reasonable rates.

Finding a Freight Forwarder That Fits

When looking for the right freight forwarder UK-based company, you’ll need to do your due diligence. Be sure to take your time before making a commitment.

In selecting a forwarder that ticks all the right boxes, find out whether they offer the services and support you need to run your business efficiently. What experience do they have? Are they an established company? Be wary of the companies offering the cheapest deals, as you may end up paying in other ways that may jeopardise your reputation.