| This article is a guide to help you make a proper | | | | companies might offer you a very low estimate, but |
| decision regarding the hiring of an International Freight | | | | they may not be honest about all the fees. Last thing |
| Forwarder. Before trusting your cargo to an | | | | you want is for your cargo to arrive and then be |
| International Shipping Company, there are a few | | | | held hostage at double or triple the price from your |
| basic things you should know. Read this article to | | | | original shipping estimate. Believe it or not, this |
| protect yourself and/or your company from a | | | | happens quite often. Freight forwarders may entice |
| possible nightmare scenario. | | | | you with a good price but fail to mention additional |
| 1. All international shipping companies need to be | | | | fees such as port charges, fuel, documentation, |
| licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission in order | | | | security, loading, etc. The customer is responsible for |
| to ship cargo overseas. Prior to making a decision to | | | | all these charges and an honest company should |
| ship your cargo or move your personal effects | | | | inform you before the shipment sails. |
| overseas, make sure the company you choose is | | | | If you don't pay your full invoice after you cargo is |
| licensed and bonded by the FMC for international | | | | picked up, you will be charged storage fees and your |
| shipping. Whether you are moving or shipping freight | | | | freight may eventually be salvaged and destroyed. |
| to another country, you should value the importance | | | | Furthermore, the company can put you into |
| of a good partnership with an International Shipping | | | | collections for failing to pay your invoice. I hope this |
| Agent. | | | | helps guide and educate some people to make an |
| 2. What out for low ball shipping quotes. If it sounds | | | | informed decision on your next international shipment. |
| to good to be true, it probably is! Many shipping | | | | |