A freight forwarder’s job is complicated. Throughout the entire shipping journey of their products, these professionals have to undertake various tasks. From providing optimal routes to finding the best possible rates for their clients – these professionals undertake various responsibilities.
The tasks are even more complicated for freight forwarders who are involved in international. Coordinating with all parties to transport goods across international waters is not easy. There are many risks involved. So, freight forwarders can’t always guarantee that their clients’ cargo arrives on time or with 100% safety.
While managing these risks, freight forwarders also have to deal with administrative tasks such as –
- Dealing with customs clearance procedures at multiple points throughout the cargo’s journey.
- Have necessary documentation ready at all times.
- Organizing the pick-ups.
- Overseeing the final delivery process.
- Tracking the shipment.
- Providing timely updates regarding shipment status to clients.
- Securing space on the shipping company’s vessels
Carrying out so many tasks while working solo can be very challenging. That’s where alliance freight groups can help.
What are Freight Alliances?
In any field of life, cooperation triggers mutual development. When you are part of an alliance or a network, every member benefits from sharing their limited resources and expertise. Freight alliances are large groups of professional freight forwarders. These alliances can be local or international.
Each member of the alliance has to meet certain standards of quality and reliability. They work together to serve their individual commercial needs. Collaboration with other freight forwarders makes the overall process much easier. Freight forwarders with strong networks of connections on an international scale enjoy various advantages.
Freight forwarders gain indirect contacts in multiple countries through their memberships. Members of such alliances also get access to integrated communication channels. On these digital channels and platforms, they can communicate, collaborate, and maintain financial transparency.
While different types of freight alliances have different sets of standards, forwarders who join such groups benefit in similar ways. Of course, the larger your network of freight alliances, the better for your business. But, it’s clear that these alliances are here to stay and potentially dominate the global freight forwarding industry.
Why Freight Alliances Matter – The Financial Impacts
Shipping costs are rising astronomically. Did you know 28% of all abandoned carts are caused because of excessive shipping fees? Operating as a freight forwarder in such an expensive environment is very risky. Most freight forwarders have to put up their own money to get their shipments across the line.
Even a few hours of delay could lead to a long list of unsatisfied customers. Thankfully, members of freight forwarding alliances receive insurance coverage on all their orders. It’s the main perk of their memberships. With this insurance, freight forwarders are covered – even when shipments fall through.
Part of a Wider Family
In addition to financial security, members of freight forwarding alliances receive several other perks. Shipping will always be complicated – local or international. Members of freight forwarding alliances get to collaborate with their peers. In an industry full of uncertainties, their alliances help them with information, global coverage, and financial protection.
