6 Signs that it’s Time for you to Find a New Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker (Infographic)
Many businesses resist changes because they overestimate the value of what they have and underestimate the value of what they might gain by giving that up, including finding a new freight forwarder and customs broker. Yes, finding a new and better one may cost a lot of time and effort, but it’s still not enough reason to settle for a partnership that doesn’t work anymore. Here are six signs that it’s time for you to find a new freight forwarder and customs broker:
Your business is growing
As your business grows, your service needs also increase that’s why you need a freight forwarder that can provide you with a complete range of services.
Your freight forwarder must also be stable and established so that you won’t have to jump from one freight forwarder to another all over again, considering that your business is on the verge of developing and expanding.
If your current freight forwarder is not stable and established, you can’t guarantee whether they will last in the business or not. One day, it might even get dissolved while you’re caught unprepared and have adverse effects on your business. It’s best to look for a freight forwarder that you can grow and succeed with.
Poor customer service
In every business transaction, effective communication skills are highly essential because it fosters efficient service provision and a healthy business relationship between two (or more) parties.
If you are having a hard time communicating with your current freight forwarder and customs broker, if it’s not because of poor communication skills perhaps you’re dealing with another contact person every time.
If you don’t make a move as early as now, it won’t only make you uncomfortable with the business relationship; it might also affect the productivity and profitability of your business.
Outdated technology
Using modern technology doesn’t only help a business save time and avoid hassles, it also helps in keeping ahead of the competition.
Most freight forwarders now use online tracking, electronic proof of delivery, and electronic billing among others to make sure that the products will reach its destination intact and on time.
However, there are still some freight forwarders who refuse to keep up with the trends, thinking that it works just the same or it’s too expensive. What about your freight forwarder? Are they helping you keep ahead or are you falling behind your competitors?
Recurring service failures
Although occasional problems are unavoidable in the freight forwarding business due to factors like weather, calamities, strikes, and transportation problems, it shouldn’t be used as an excuse for recurring service failures because it’s probably caused by lack of knowledge and experience, poor customer service, or outdated technologies as mentioned above.
Uncompetitive rates
Is your current freight forwarder charging you a reasonable rate? Do the quality of service that they provide match its price? If you think that you’re paying more than how much you should, why not canvass on other freight forwarders and compare the amounts? Who knows, you might even find a freight forwarder with cheaper yet better services or one that you can bid with for a lower rate.
Is it a partnership?
Last but not the least, you should assess whether your freight forwarder and customs broker treats you like a partner. Are they committed to providing you with the best services? Do they care about your success?
In the end, it’s not just the skills and knowledge that counts. It’s the business ethics that make transactions smooth and business partnerships last.
Here at Excelsior Worldwide Freight Logistics, we treat our clients as partners. We also conduct free orientation for those who are willing to learn about importation & exportation. It is our advocacy to share our knowledge & experience for 17 years in the business.
Contact us today at (063) 525-9775 or visit our website www.excelsior.ph
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