Overseas shipments are such a daunting process that causes a lot of concerns among businesses. Shipping costs are expensive, and any damages to goods may require you to shoulder additional expenses to cover the cost.
Luckily, Sea Freight Services offers effective solutions to handle any kind of shipment. From small parcels to bulky cargo shipments, availing of sea freight services are reliable and affordable to transport your goods.
To help you pick the ideal freight forwarding service incline for your business, here are factors you should look for.
Understand Your Shipping Requirements
Before diving into the sea freight market, you must clearly understand your shipping requirements. The things you can consider are:
- Size and weight of your shipments
- Frequency of shipments
- Destinations you need to reach
Reputation and Reliability
Research should be one of your main priorities in deciding which sea freight service to choose. Remember, you are entrusting your shipments that will be delivered to your clients. Hence, you need to know if your prospective sea freight service is reputable and reliable enough.
You can start by googling the company’s background, industry experience, and good track record in delivering goods. If the company has a website, browse each page, but do not rely only on testimonials you may read there. It is better to look at other reviews online for unbiased references.
Another thing you should check is proper certifications, licenses, and affiliations to ensure compliance with international shipping standards. That way, you can avoid problems, such as delays, especially from customs.
Network and Coverage
You should also consider the reach and coverage of the sea freight service provider’s network. Is the sea freight company you choose operating in regions and ports relevant to your business’ shipping requirements?
Consider if the sea freight service has expertise in your market. That way, they can work with you long-term, especially when you plan for business expansion. The industry relationship that your prospect shipping service has can also impact your business.
With the right connections, you can avail of better shipping rates and seamless paperwork processing. In addition, a sea freight service with a wider network can provide more destinations to ensure your goods can be transported efficiently to your desired locations.
Container Options
The most crucial responsibility of sea freight services is to ensure the safety and security of every shipment. Shipping companies use containers to keep the goods in shape during transportation. Also, these sea freight services should have the right containers to accommodate perishable and hazardous items.
To give you an idea, here are container options that sea freight companies should have depending on the shipping service they offer:
1. Dry Containers
This container option can carry general cargo that does not require specific temperature control or special handling. Dry containers come in standard sizes and are suitable for transporting electronic goods, clothing, machinery, and package products.
2. Reefer Containers
Also called refrigerated containers, reefer containers have temperature control systems. This container type is ideal for transporting perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, pharmaceuticals, and certain chemicals. Reefer containers maintain specific temperature ranges to preserve the freshness and quality of the cargo throughout the voyage.
3. Flat Rack Containers
The flat rack ones are the best for oversized cargo or goods that exceed standard containers. These containers have collapsible sides, making them versatile for shipping items such as heavy machinery, vehicles, pipes, or large equipment. Flat rack containers are available in different lengths and can be loaded from the top or sides.
4. Open-top Containers
As its name implies, open-top containers have a removable covered roof to cater to tall, oversized, bulky cargo or goods that exceed standard fitting. Most goods in open-top containers are industrial equipment, large construction materials, and machinery. If your business supplies to related industries, look for a sea freight service with these containers available.
5. Tank Containers
Chemicals, such as petroleum products, food-grade liquids, and liquefied gases, have specialized containers to protect them during shipments. And these are called tank containers. These containers come in various sizes with cylindrical reinforced walls ideal for keeping hazardous and non-hazardous liquids and gases safe.
6. Ventilated Containers
If you transport goods that require good airflow, you should look for sea freight companies with well-ventilated containers. Most agricultural products, such as coffee or tobacco, should be kept in ventilated containers that allow air circulation to ensure freshness.
7. Specialized Containers
Apart from the abovementioned containers, various specialized containers are tailored to specific cargo requirements. For example, insulated containers are for temperature-sensitive goods.
If you are in the retail business, garment-on-hanger containers are ideal for transporting clothing. On the other hand, car carriers are good vehicle transportation and flatbed containers for oversized or irregularly shaped cargo.
Cost and Pricing Structure
While cost should not be the sole determining factor when choosing the right sea freight services, it is essential. To understand the cost and pricing structure, ask for a quotation from different sea freight service providers and make comparisons.
Ensure you look for transparency in their pricing, including any additional charges or surcharges that may apply. But remember, do not choose the bare minimum. Those that offer cheaper pricing may not always guarantee the best service quality.
Customer Service and Communication
Effective communication is vital for a successful shipping experience. Consider the responsiveness and accessibility of the sea freight service provider's customer service team. A reliable provider should offer clear lines of communication and provide a dedicated point of contact to address any concerns or issues that may arise during transit.
Tracking and Technology
In today's digital era, tracking and technology ensure transparency throughout shipping. Evaluate the sea freight service provider's tracking capabilities, such as real-time tracking system, streamline documentation, customs clearance, and other relevant administrative procedure.
Sail Your Business With the Best Sea Freight Services
Choosing the right sea freight services for your shipping needs requires careful consideration of several key factors. Always remember the right provider should meet your logistical needs and offers a seamless and reliable shipping experience. That way, you can ensure your goods reach their destination safely and on time.