The number of logistics companies is constantly increasing due to the globalisation and the continuous forwarding of cargos and goods.
The quest for finding a reliable forwarder who has sufficient experience in using the new technologies for the forwarding services in the necessary deadlines and terms of delivery is not easy. Based on the experience of the member companies of the European network for transportation, we will offer you the following advice to help you make the right choice:
The company has to have sufficient experience
First of all, in order to provide you with reliable services, the company needs to have sufficient experience. The logistics industry is a sector in which experience is crucial for the safe transportation of goods and cargo, for keeping them in good condition and for observing deadlines. It is necessary to gather enough information for the logistics company in order to be able to determine whether the experience of its employees is good enough. Information can be obtained from the Twig Logistics Network system, where you can download presentations of the different logistics companies.
The financial condition of the logistics company should be stable
The logistics company is reliable when it is in good financial condition. This will prevent you being unpleasantly surprised, in cases in which they cannot pay a carrier, which can happen in companies with financial problems.
Reliable companies are members of logistics services networks
Member companies of networks such as European network for logistics services are definitely reliable. Partnership with other companies in the network ensures that the company complies with all requirements and offers services at a contemporary level.
Check the feedback for the customer service provided
Customer service is an important part of the logistics services. It includes quick answers to the questions from customers regarding the services, as well as a rapid response if questions arise or any changes need to be implemented during the shipping
The timely provision of updated information on consignments during the shipping is also part of the good customer service. You need to gather information about these aspects of customer service before making a choice of a freight forwarding company.
Look for freight forwarders specialised in the forwarding of goods similar to yours
A large number of the European logistics companies offer the forwarding of different types of goods and cargo. But some freight forwarders are specialised in the shipping of specific types of products, so they can offer you a better service. For example, for the forwarding of frozen foods pick a logistics company which specialises in this type of transport, because it will have the necessary vehicles and their employees will have experience in forwarding such goods.
Look for a freight forwarder who offers the type of transport you need
Various clients have different freight forwarding needs. Forwarders throughout Europe also offer various types of transport. Look for logistics companies which offer car transport or intermodal transport (combining different types of transport), depending on the kind of transport you need and prefer.
Also, depending on your needs or lack of needs for distribution or regular transport services for small shipments, look for logistics companies which offer distribution logistics or groupage transport service.
When you need storage services
If you need storage services, check whether the freight forwarders offer such services, their conditions, and whether they have storage spaces in the main destinations that you need.