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Contract Signing
Both parties sign a formal contract that specifies the scope of services, mode of transportation, origin and destination, schedule, fees and other additional services (e.g., warehousing, tracking, etc.). This step ensures that there is a consistent understanding of responsibilities, obligations and expectations between the customer and the freight forwarder.
Preparation of Documents
Based on the contractual requirements, the freight forwarder starts to prepare all the necessary documents, including customs declarations, insurance certificates, bills of lading, etc. These documents not only safeguard the legal compliance of the shipment, but also lay the foundation for subsequent operations.
Cargo Pickup
A third party carrier is usually responsible for picking up the cargo from the customer's designated location. The freight forwarder coordinates with the carrier to ensure that the cargo is inspected before loading, packed and labelled in accordance with the requirements, and that the necessary transport documents (e.g. bill of lading) are provided.
Cargo transport
Depending on the characteristics of the goods and the distance to be travelled, the most suitable mode of transport (sea, air, road or rail) is selected and the transport arrangements are coordinated. During the whole process, the freight forwarder is responsible for tracking the status of the goods and ensuring the smooth connection of the various links in the transport process.
Customs clearance
Upon arrival in the destination country or region, the freight forwarder assists with all necessary customs clearance procedures, including submission of relevant documents, payment of customs duties and handling of quarantine requirements. This step ensures that the goods can legally enter the destination market.
Distribution at Destination
Upon completion of customs clearance, the cargo will be delivered by the carrier or local logistics partner for last-mile delivery to the customer's designated location in a safe and efficient manner, while maintaining real-time communication and tracking.
Follow-up and Service Completion
After the goods are delivered, the freight forwarder confirms the receipt of the goods with the customer and collects feedback. This stage is not only the completion of the acceptance service, but also a key part of building trust between both parties for future co-operation.