What to Look For in a Shipping Company

When you start a new company that is sourcing overseas, one of the most exciting new aspects is choosing a shipping partner you can trust.

This isn’t a decision you can do lightly. An inappropriate collaborator could damage your merchandise, delay shipments and leave customers unsatisfied. On the other hand, the right one drives your business forward.

So, how do you find a shipper you can feel confident leaving with? Here are some tips.

Size Matters

First things first - you need a shipping company that can actually handle the type and volume of cargo you'll be sending.

If you're exporting hefty stuff like machinery or vehicles, you need heavy lift shipping capabilities. Delicate goods like electronics require proper handling so they don't get damaged.

Perishable foods and pharmaceuticals need climate controlled containers and quick transit times. You get the idea.

Don't assume a company that ships small boxes can handle a full container load. Do your research to find the right fit.

Oh and definitely make sure they ship to your client's country. Not all areas are created equal when it comes to logistics.

Mode Matters

There are so many ways to ship stuff overseas - air freight, ocean freight, rail, trucking. Each has pros and cons.

Air freight is speedy but expensive. Ocean is economical but slower. Intermodal rail and trucking offers flexibility.

A good shipping partner will look at your specific needs like budget, timeline, and cargo type to suggest the ideal mode or mix of transport modes.

More options means more ways to provide an optimal solution for every shipment you throw their way.

Tech is Top Priority

The best shipping companies load up their operations with the latest logistics technology to make the impossible possible.

I'm talking next level visibility from GPS satellite tracking, barcode scanning, sensor monitoring. This gives you up-to-the-minute updates on your shipment's location and condition.

Just as important is technology that optimizes routes, rates, scheduling, and networks. This is what sets the pros apart from average Joes.

Efficiency means money saved. Make sure whoever you partner with is tech-focused, not tech-phobic.

Speed Thrills

Time is money, and delays cost big time. Find a shipping company with a stellar on-time performance record.

We're talking consistent 95%+ on-time delivery rates. Anything less and you're playing with fire.

Double check why past shipments were late. Weather and port congestion happens. But repeated delays from poor planning or incompetence? Red flag.

A truly reliable partner respects your (and their own) reputation too much to let that slide. Settle for nothing less.

Paperwork

Shipping involves a ton of paperwork. And forms. And docs. And did I mention the oversea tax document?

A pro shipping company lives and breathes this stuff. They know every regulation on the books and have all the right credentials dialed in.

That means your cargo clears customs without headaches or hidden hang ups. Don't learn the paperwork ropes the hard way.

Money Matters

What good is a rock bottom rate if hidden fees creep up or your stuff shows up damaged? Not all cheap is created equal.

Do serious rate comparisons - surcharges, accessorial, everything. Get real day-to-day support costs. Read the fine print.

An experienced shipper provides value, not just lowball prices. Prioritize service reputation and cargo care over pennies saved.

Oh and make sure that cheap company will actually be in business next month. Check financials. Consistency matters.

People Power

Even the biggest hot shots are only as good as their people behind the scenes.

Make sure your account manager isn't phoning it in. You need someone who knows your business and cares about your success.

Don't settle for less than crazy amounts of expertise and top-notch customer service. Your account team can make or break the whole experience.

Reputation Rescue

At the end of the day, the proof is in the reviews. A company can talk a big game but you better verify.

Do your due diligence checking out current customer satisfaction and old school word of mouth referrals. Get the real scoop.

A shipper can boast all day about reliability but if past clients sing a different tune, listen up. Don't become another negative review.

Time to Ship Out

CSA Ship provides international shipping services tailored to business clients of all sizes. Their capabilities range from air freight to ocean containers to trucking and more. Whatever your cargo, they have a solution to get it where it needs to go.