Monday, April 1, 2013

Shipping Companies in Singapore: Qualities Worth Noting

By Catheryn Szewc


A freight forwarder essentially functions as an agent between the logistics service company and the client company. This is also true for Singapore freight forwarders, and it is their job to help oversee the shipping of their clients goods, making sure that shipments are organized, shipping documents are prepared and processed, and that all shipping regulations and procedures are properly followed.

With a Singapore freight forwarder, clients are ensured that their products will arrive at the intended destination safely and promptly. The services they provide takes advantage of the relationship they have established among respected logistics provider, be it air freight, rail freight, trucking, and sea freight as well. They can help clients negotiate with shipping companies in order to get the best balance between freight cost and reliability.

Client companies can be given consultation services by Singapore freight forwarders regarding all related documentation on shipments, as well as customs requirements and other regulations of the country of destination. It is up to them to ensure that clients are constantly updated on the status of their shipment. In some occasions, they may act as both freight forwarder and carrier.

Regular activities of a Singapore freight forwarder also include constant communication with their clients, and this also includes keeping a close watch on their international warehouses as well. Besides making sure that shipments arrive safely and on time in the destination country, they also must organize the shipment for delivery to the final recipient, usually the place of business of a consignee. A typical Singapore freight forwarder will take into consideration factors that affect shipping costs, such as shipping origin/destination, nature of shipment, and any special requirements a client may have. In addition to the service they provide, the freight forwarder also performs warehousing and risk assessment and management services for their clients.

In ensuring that freight costs are kept at the minimum, the Singapore freight forwarder also carefully identifies and analyzes important factors such as the nature of the goods, shipping origin/destination, and special requirements of clients. They must also take into account risk and weather factors before proceeding with the shipment. The preparation and processing of important shipping documents such as bill of lading, shipper's export declaration, and commercial invoices is their responsibility too.

It is the responsibility of the Singapore freight forwarder to accurately prepare and submit important shipping documents such as bill of lading, shipper's export declaration, commercial invoice, customs-related papers, and insurance as well. They must make sure that these papers are correct and in order so that no delays in shipment will be experienced.




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