The international shipping business is an important and a large industry. There are thousands or even millions of players out there that compose the whole industry- from the regular shippers and consumers to the shipping companies and the freight forwarders. And don’t forget the shipping agents that act as the intermediary between the shippers or the consumers and the shipping companies. All these players including the regulatory agencies all make the shipping industry one of the bigger movers of the global economy. All these players have a role to play in the industry. The sea shipping companies are the entities that make sure that the packages and the cargoes are sent, and the regulatory agencies on the other hand are those entities that make sure that all transactions are above-board. And then there are the shipping agents- these are the professionals that can actually make the lives of consumers and shippers easier. The shipping agents are the ones that make sure that the packages and cargoes are properly arranged and labeled and sent to the desired destination at the appointed time and they set the shipping rates.
But more than these roles, it should be kept in mind that these agents can also help in other capacities. For example, you can count on these agents in securing customs clearance, in export documentation and in the processing of the insurance. Simply put, these agents are important players in the industry and a good pick if you really want to have a stress-free life in overseas shipping. With these things in mind, it is just proper that when you are looking for agents then you have to make sure that you have exhausted all means. Remember that these agents can spell the difference between success and failure in the shipping industry. Here are some recommendations on how you can find the best match for your needs.
- One recommendation is to network with like-minded individuals. If you are an exporter then you can network with other exporters as well in order to find the best agents in the business. And it pays if you can network with businessmen and exporters coming from the same niche market. For example, if you are into hand-crafted bags, then it’s wise to ask other providers and manufacturers for tips since there is a big chance that your needs are similar.
- Network with professional groups and organizations. Exporters and businessmen also form their groups, and this can be a source of advice for your next shipping agents.
By networking, you can collect a few names that can be chosen as your agent in the industry. And the moment that the list is already in your hands, then that is the time to screen the list and find the most viable candidate. In order to weed out the best from the worst, make sure that you check their credentials, their performance history and their number of years in experience. Are there complaints against them? Through screening and networking, you can bet that you can hire the best shipping agents in your region.