Entering the world of international freight forwarding can be overwhelming for beginners. With complex procedures and unfamiliar terminology, newcomers often struggle to navigate this intricate industry. This guide provides essential insights into key operational aspects—from client management and factory communication to certificate processing and bill of lading handling—to help professionals quickly adapt to their roles.
Client Management and Factory Communication
Securing client assignments from supervisors serves as an effective way to gain experience. Proactively visiting factories to understand production processes and product specifications, though demanding, significantly enhances professional expertise. Thorough preparation before factory visits ensures maximum efficiency during these engagements.
Certificate of Origin Processing
The Certificate of Origin represents a critical component in international trade documentation. Standard applications typically require only a packing list and commercial invoice. For commercial certification documents, applicants must provide a copy of their business license along with electronic file versions, with processing usually completed within one to two business days.
Indonesia maintains particularly stringent requirements, mandating submission of the bill of lading and business license copies in addition to standard documents. Standard Certificates of Origin generally accept either packing lists/commercial invoices or completion of CO forms, while International Commercial Certificates simply require submission of relevant documents.
Bill of Lading Discrepancies
Immediate contact with the shipping company at the port of origin becomes necessary when discovering inconsistencies between container and seal numbers. Such discrepancies prevent normal bill of lading issuance. While operational practice shows these issues might not cause problems without customs inspection, timely correction remains imperative to mitigate potential risks.
Port Information Queries
Platforms like Vesseltracker provide access to port contact information, facilitating efficient communication and problem resolution. The Ningbo branch information, for instance, offers particularly reliable reference data.
Booking Procedures
The booking process follows consistent patterns across most operations, involving key stages: space reservation, container release, terminal entry, customs clearance, and vessel loading. Specific operational responsibilities depend on the applicable trade terms.
Industry Collaboration
Both shippers and freight forwarders encountering operational challenges may seek assistance from industry peers. By providing basic booking information, professionals can delegate subsequent processes like space reservations to experienced counterparts.