Freight shipping. In theory it doesn’t sound thrilling, but in fact, it can actually be really exciting to move goods around the world, creating something thousands of miles away and delivering it to happy customers.
However, freight shipping can be complicated. That means you can run into snags that end up costing you time and money, making the whole experience so much more frustrating than it needs to be.
Luckily, there are ways to get ahead of the game. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common freight shipping pitfalls- and how to avoid them.
How To Prevent Shipping Errors
Shipping Mistake #1: Not booking with enough lead time
When you book your first shipment, you might expect it to take a similar amount of time to sending something by UPS or Fedex. But here’s what you need to know: freight shipping has many more steps than courier shipping – which means both that transit takes longer from the outset, and that there are more opportunities for delays.
Watch to learn more:
Shipping Mistake #2: Letting your supplier ship your goods
Your supplier may offer to take care of shipping for you, and to many new shippers, that offer is music to overwhelmed ears.
So why not do it?
Not because your supplier is out to get you. Because with an experienced freight forwarder, you’ll almost certainly have better pricing and more control.
Watch to learn more:
Shipping Mistake #3: Not understanding the full costs
It’s not uncommon for new shippers to feel blindsided, and even cheated by the full cost of their shipment.
Why does this happen?
Usually because some costs are initially overlooked, and when they crop up, they feel unexpected.
Watch to learn what these costs are and how to budget for them:
Shipping Mistake #4: Not packaging your shipment correctly
If you’ve ever moved, you know how stressful packing the good dishes can be. This is all the more important when it comes to international shipping- just think of all the bumping around your shipment has to survive as it goes from factory to port to vessel to truck to warehouse.
The truth is, not packaging correctly is the primary cause for shipping damage- and all the cost and headaches it can lead to.
Watch for tips to ensure your package is as secure as possible:
Shipping Mistake #5: Not playing it safe with insurance
Unfortunately, cargo theft and loss happen. And sure, ocean liners and airlines provide basic insurance. But usually, it won’t cover your goods.
Watch to learn more:
