International freight forwarding, as an economic activity, is entrusted by clients to provide transportation and related services for import and export goods. It encompasses various transportation modes to adapt to global trade development. Due to changes in the market economy, individuals and businesses increasingly rely on freight forwarders for professional handling of specific matters to facilitate trade.
International freight forwarders play a vital role in cargo transportation, providing shippers and consignees with services like carrier selection, customs clearance, cargo pickup, and freight payment. They also act as multimodal transport operators, offering end-to-end solutions. Value-added services include shipment supervision and special cargo handling, ensuring logistics safety and efficiency - making them indispensable in global trade.
This article explores the foundational sales knowledge and principles in the international freight forwarding industry, including the cost structure of air transport, commonly used terms, and sales techniques. It emphasizes the importance of independent learning, facing challenges bravely, maintaining integrity, and courageously taking responsibility for enhancing sales abilities. These knowledge and skills are crucial for the success of every freight forwarding professional.
This article examines the relationship between international freight forwarding and logistics, highlighting freight forwarding as a key component of global logistics. Logistics encompasses not only domestic express and transportation but also broader functions like warehousing and distribution. It also introduces WIFFA, the International Freight Forwarders Alliance, which promotes credit cooperation and information sharing within the industry to foster healthy development.
The article explores the main differences between booking agents and operational agents in international freight forwarding. Booking agents are responsible for directly booking cargo with carriers, while operational agents handle the comprehensive execution of transportation business. It also discusses situations in FOB transactions where the buyer can designate a freight forwarder, emphasizing the importance of both types of agents in the industry.
SWB allows consignees to claim goods with copies post-departure (shipper loses control), while telex release requires shipper's LOI to carriers, retaining cargo control. Choice impacts costs and release procedures based on payment status.
This article examines the "self-haulage, self-declaration, self-delivery to port" model in ocean freight. Shippers delegate these tasks to specialized partners to streamline costs and enhance service. Under FOB terms, they prefer their own forwarders or carriers over consignee-nominated agents, avoiding premium charges and subpar service.
Obtaining accurate quotes is crucial in international freight forwarding. Effective communication can be achieved by asking clients key questions, including transportation modes, departure ports, types of goods, packaging details, and destination information. By focusing on essential information rather than getting bogged down by trivial details, it becomes easier to meet client needs and establish a solid working relationship.
Since the launch of the Lanzhou International Freight train on July 5, four successful shipments have occurred, generating an export value of over 70 million yuan. The service to Hamburg has been established, highlighting Lanzhou's significance in the Belt and Road Initiative. By connecting Central Asia, South Asia, and European markets, Lanzhou is poised to enhance its status as an international logistics hub and boost China’s manufacturing global competitiveness.
The Zhengzhou Europe Railway Express successfully completed its first imported grain shipment, marking the successful testing of Zhengzhou's designated port for imported grain. A total of 136 tons of wheat were imported from Kazakhstan, showcasing efficient international logistics capabilities. With more batches of grain set for import, Zhengzhou provides significant support for international trade under the Belt and Road Initiative.
