Freight forwarders, or third-party logistics providers, are the single most effective way to transport goods. Many top companies, such as United Parcel Service and FedEx, act as freight forwarders. U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk says, More than a quarter of a million U.S. firms export goods. Ninety-seven percent of those firms are small to medium-sized businesses with fewer than 500 employees, and more than two-thirds have fewer than 20 employees. These are homegrown enterprises. They exist in cities and towns all across America, and they have an incredible amount of potential.
Instructions
1. Freight forwarders are a person or company who dispatches shipments on behalf of other companies or individuals domestically or internationally. Start small with a few contacts in the beginning. Contact the local chamber of commerce for distribution companies who are members and contact them about setting up with your company. Let them know that keeping the shipping contacts within your area guarantees that the local economy will benefit.
2. Keep up with changes in the transport market. World Trade magazines, newspapers, and reports supply you with current information about the world market. Study where the demand for different goods are needed and you will be able to determine the profitable transports. Finding a market that profits is as important as making the right connections.
3. Contact an attorney to prepare a written contract to bind agreements with other companies. You may use this agreement with all companies you do business with in that field. This contract will be between you and the manufacturer. You will be paid by the manufacturer with the quoted price on top of the price of the goods. You will agree to make contacts and transport the goods in foreign territories. Make sure all of the ends are tied together with the contract such as how long the contract is for, cancellation process, or the termination of contract by either party.
Tips Warnings
Contact your local city hall to make sure you have everything you need to start your business. This eliminates the chance that you may have legal troubles for transport not being regulated. Word of mouth is essential, Always do what you say, pay on time, and charge the amount you quote. Once you have established your business you may want to grow the company. Contact the American embassy about forwarding out of the country. The embassy may have valuable contacts.
Tags: freight, forwarder, fewer than, fewer than employees, other companies, than employees, transport goods, your business
