Q: What is a freight forwarder?
A: A freight forwarder is a company used by businesses to arrange and handle the movement of domestic and international air, ocean or ground shipments from point of origin to point of destination, as well as, to assist importers and exporters to transport their commercial goods from one international location to another.
While the freight forwarder may not actually move the freight itself, it acts as an intermediary between the client and various transportation services. TCG ensures that goods arrive at the right location, on-time and on budget, by acting as an intermediary to ensure cooperation between the customer and all involved airlines or carriers. Core responsibilities are to identify the best routes, advise on various modes of transport, as well as, to negotiate freight rates with the airlines and carriers to move cargo economically, via the best shipment points.
Q: Why are the shipping rates so changeable?
A: While there are several factors involved, the primary is market demand. On a “slow season”, Where the retail market slows down, we can expect lower rates than in the “peak season”, where there is a big demand for cargo moving so the Carriers raise the rates.
Another factor is fuel, or what is called the Bunker Fuel factor. This is a floating surcharge that the carriers can change when the oil prices rise or fall. It is called the BAF.
Another factor is the increase of terminal costs or rail costs. This is where the carrier can add in new surcharges, which have happened in the past, and eventually get absorbed into the “all in” rate quoted.
Q: What are the usual methods of freight payment?
A: Most freight payments are made with a company bank transfer. Usually, payment is expected prior to freight being released or delivered.
Q: What can I do to prevent delays and ensure a smooth process of the shipment?
A: Make sure your supplier overseas (on imports), or if you are the supplier for an export shipment, creates all of the necessary documents correctly (Packing Lists, Commercial Invoice, Original Bill of Lading- B/L) and in-time, so that all documents are provided with the necessary certifications and are sent to you (the importer) or your buyer- consignee on the Original B/L (if you are the exporter), at least one week before the cargo arrives at its destination.
This ensures everything can be processed through customs ahead of schedule and freight can be paid along with showing the Original B/L. A factor that usually slows down the process is discrepancies between the buyer and the supplier. And since the goods are not yet paid for, the Original B/L has not been released by the supplier to the consignee (the buyer).
Q: Can you offer customs clearance?
A: Yes, we can custom clear your goods for all types of cargoes, whether by air, ocean or land freight. Ask us about our customs clearance services.
Q: Does size matter for air shipment?
A: Yes, air freight is based on both the actual weight and changeable weight of the cargo.
Q: How is changeable weight calculated?
A: Just give us all three dimensions and we will calculate the changeable weight for you.
Q: What is the maximum size or weight?
A: This varies depending on the airline so please ask us. As a rule of thumb, maximum normal cargo dimensions are 120x80x60in. As the size and weight increases, so will the cost. If your cargo is oversized or requires special handling, ask us about special rates.
Q: Can you handle pickups at origin?
A: Yes. We require your full pickup address and contact information at origin in order to make arrangements for freight pickup.
Q: Do you have a warehouse where I can drop off the cargo?
A: Yes, we have receiving warehouse near all major airports.
Please let us know your cargo location and we will advise you the closest receiving warehouse.
Q: Do you have an office at the point of destination that can help us?
A: Yes, we have a lot of agents who we work with at different location.
Please check with us, they will be able to help you for any destination services
Q: Can you handle door delivery at destination?
A: Yes, please help to provide us with the address, and we will check the cost for you
Q: We have hazardous materials. Is Jinzhe Logistics certified to handle dangerous goods?
A: Yes, Jinzhe Logistics is fully certified to offer hazardous cargoes to carriers. Please contact us with your inquiry.