What are Independent Forwarding Services and How Do They Benefit Your Business?

If you are in the business of shipping goods, then you know how important it is to have a reliable and efficient forwarding service. Independent forwarding services can be a great option for businesses that want more control over their shipments and need a personalized approach to their logistics needs.

What Are Independent Forwarding Services?

Independent forwarding services are third-party logistics providers that specialize in managing the transportation of goods from one location to another. Unlike larger freight companies, independent forwarders offer a more personalized approach to logistics management, allowing businesses greater control over their shipments.

These independent forwarders work with a variety of carriers, including air, sea, and land transport providers. They also handle all aspects of logistics management, including customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution.

The Benefits of Using Independent Forwarding Services

There are several benefits to using an independent forwarding service for your business:

  • Personalized Service: Unlike larger freight companies that may treat your shipment as just another number, independent forwarders offer personalized service tailored to your specific needs.
  • Faster Transit Times: Independent forwarders often have established relationships with carriers that allow them to secure faster transit times for your shipments.
  • Better Communication: With an independent forwarder, you have direct communication with the person handling your shipment. This allows for better communication and quicker problem resolution if any issues arise during transit.
  • Cost Savings: Because independent forwarders work with multiple carriers, they can often negotiate better rates on your behalf than you could on your own.

The Products and Services Offered by Independent Forwarding Services

Independent forwarding services offer a wide range of products and services to meet your logistics needs:

  • Air Freight: Independent forwarders can handle all aspects of air freight, from booking space on the plane to arranging for customs clearance.
  • Ocean Freight: If you need to ship goods overseas, independent forwarders can arrange for ocean freight transportation and handle all necessary documentation.
  • Road Freight: Independent forwarders can also manage your domestic transportation needs, including trucking and rail transport.
  • Customs Clearance: Independent forwarders are experts in navigating the complex world of customs regulations, ensuring that your shipments clear customs quickly and smoothly.
  • Warehousing and Distribution: Many independent forwarders offer warehousing and distribution services to help streamline your supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Independent Forwarding Services

What sets independent forwarding services apart from larger freight companies?

Independent forwarding services offer a more personalized approach to logistics management. They work closely with their clients to understand their specific needs and tailor their services accordingly. This level of personalized service is often lacking with larger freight companies.

How do I choose an independent forwarding service?

The best way to choose an independent forwarding service is to look for a company that has experience in your industry and offers the specific services you need. You should also look for a company that has a proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.

Can independent forwarding services save my business money?

Absolutely! Because independent forwarders work with multiple carriers, they can often negotiate better rates on your behalf than you could on your own. They can also help you identify areas where you can streamline your supply chain to reduce costs.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a more personalized approach to logistics management, then independent forwarding services may be the right choice for your business. These third-party logistics providers offer a wide range of products and services that can help streamline your supply chain and save you money in the process.

When choosing an independent forwarding service, look for a company with experience in your industry and a proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction. With the right partner, you can take control of your shipments and ensure that they arrive at their destination quickly and efficiently.



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IDI has been known as a leading freight forwarding company that moves freight better than anyone. Behind our respectable reputation are the people who put us ... A Freight Forwarding Company That Puts People First For decades IDI has been known as a leading freight forwarding company that moves freight better than anyone. Behind our respectable reputation are the people who put us on the map. IDI is founded on the belief that people come first — we work together as a family and do what needs to be done for our customers. A Long History of Serving Our Community with Integrity In 1980 Independent Dispatch (IDI) was founded on the principle of putting people first. Mike Gilbert and Stu Johnson had worked together at freight companies for several decades. They saw an opportunity to do things differently…move truck freight onto trains and deliver personalized intermodal and over-the-road services. Recognized as one of the most respected freight forwarding companies in the country, the IDI legacy lives on as a family-owned and operated business that prides itself on building lasting, trusted relationships and unmatched, professional transportation experiences. “For over 25 years Lynden has enjoyed excellent service from Independent Dispatch, and we know we can trust them to do whatever it takes to get the job done. I appreciate the peace of mind their team provides – if any issues come up, I know their team will communicate with me immediately and already be working on a solution.” Drivers of growth and profitability, builders of teamwork and community…the IDI leadership team delivers long-term value to our customers and our organization with enthusiasm.




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Jan 3, 2024 ... 2024 will witness substantial investments and a heightened focus on the future across key domains, including digitalization, sustainability, last-mile delivery. 363 Agents · 136 Countries · 32493 Employees NewsBlogNewsletterIndustry NewsPartnerships What to expect in 2024: Insights for independent freight forwarders In the dynamic realm of shipping and logistics, constant change is the only certainty. The past four years have been marked by significant shifts, from the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic to the subsequent economic recovery and supply chain crisis. These events have not only exposed the vulnerability of the global supply chain to disruptions but have also spurred innovation. As we welcome the new year, we are going highlight six key trends that are poised to influence the independent freight forwarders in the coming year and beyond. Shipping and logistics trends in 2024 Logistics industry trends independent freight forwarders should be aware of More Capacity, Greater Volatility in Demand The independent freight forwarders currently grapples with a challenging juxtaposition of declining demand for freight and a simultaneous surge in capacity. According to estimates from the international shipping association, BIMCO, global container volumes are expected to witness a modest increase of just 3% to 4% in 2024. In parallel, the global ocean fleet is poised to grow by a substantial 7.8%, reaching an unprecedented 2.7 million TEU. This disparity is mirrored in the air freight forwarding sector, where capacity expanded by up to 9% in 2023, even as demand for air freight remains lukewarm. For independent freight forwarders, this scenario ushers in a new era of heightened competition. With customer loyalty potentially wavering, freight forwarders must intensify efforts to set themselves apart in the market. This could involve a strategic focus on customer service excellence and the provision of value-adding services. Operational efficiency will be paramount in maximizing profitability amid these challenging conditions. Simultaneously, rates are expected to face continued impact as carriers vie for a diminished pool of cargo.