10 Logistics Check-Boxes for the Top Freight Forwarding Companies

10 Logistics Check-Boxes for the Top Freight Forwarding Companies 10 Logistics Check-Boxes for the Top Freight Forwarding Companies Image Source: unsplash / Bench AccountingREPRESENTING a  business at a global  trade exhibition is a major opportunity to grow the  company. But first-timers to exhibitions should be aware of the  full logistical implications of having your firm showcased at a trade fair. From reading up on the world’s top freight forwarding companies, you’ll see that exhibiting is  about so much more than simply turning up. You are going to require expert help if you have a sizeable display stand.The most significant set of decisions relate to exhibition logistics: the transportation of your displays and other materials  for the show. Often, the best choice is to contact one of the top freight forwarding companies. You’re going to find that  making the right transportation decisions for your materials will save you time, money and a lot of heartache.The right decisions could make the difference between an exhibition success, and a serious credibility-damaging failure. Here are the 10 things th at you need to know about exhibition logistics and the top freight forwarding companies. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); 10 Logistics Check-Boxes  the Top Freight Forwarding Companies (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); 1.  PlanLeave  plenty of time to arrange transportation. Time is the crucial factor in exhibition logistics; maximising  the time  also maximises your options, while reducing costs and  creating the space to choose the options that best fit your specific requirements.2.  Choose the Right PartnerThe four main exhibition logistics options are:• Specialist exhibition freight forwarder;• General freight forwarder;• Air freight; and• Courier service.Choosing the best options requires you to consider factors such as: packaging; origin and destination of shipment; time required for transportation; international customs; official build-up and breakdown dates for the exhibition; and pick-up and delivery requirements, i.e. packaging or special handling needs. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); 3. Exhibition Logistics   Advantages…• Specialist forwarders offer the most personalised point-to-point service. They can handle crated or blanket-wrapped pieces, the same driver loads and unloads shipments, and trucks operate with ‘air-ride suspension’ (extra cushioning). Specialist forwarders have experience and knowledge of trade fair logistics, and understand international customs procedures.• General freight forwarders  are less expensive, as they use regular routes.• Air freight  offers the swiftest means of transportation to the destination or show site. The service is normally available through your exhibition freight forwarder.• A  courier service  is a swift means of transportation. It operates best when your materials are couriered to  the advance receiving warehouse or drayage yard, if available.4. … and Disadvantages• General  freight forwarders  often make several transfer s, increasing the possibility of shipment damage. Little direct contact is made with the exhibitor, the load may not be able to tolerate normal road shock (not good for sensitive equipment), and these companies accept only crated or palletised materials.• Air freight  entails high costs. It can be limited to certain sized pieces, and international freight is subject to customers clearance, meaning that your paperwork and permits must be meticulousâ€"mistakes here can cause significant delays and add costs.• One drawback of the  courier service  is expense and the lack of knowledge when delivering to a venue. Also couriers will often deliver multiple piece consignments in batches. If you are facing an imminent deadline for delivery to a show, this can cause problems or, worst case, failed delivery. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); 5. Do Your HomeworkResearch a global exhibition logistics agency  with dedicated exhibition services, 24-hour tracking capability an d drivers experienced in delivering to show sites. Check references, and research their procedures for support, before, during and after the move.6. Check for Official CarriersManagement at the exhibition will advise on whether an official carrier has been designated for the event. Recommended carriers are likely to offer special prices as an incentive to use their services. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); 7. Leverage Volume DiscountsTo get the best pricing from your logistical partner, consider an annual agreement or consolidating all your corporate shipping needs.8. Insure ShipmentsThere are several insurance options available: corporate insurance policies, common carrier insurance, and extended or enhanced liability coverage. Carriers will advise on what insurance coverage they have for individual shipments, whether they offer an exhibition insurance policy (that covers the display for the duration of  show), and what their damage claims procedure is. Every re putable carrier has a minimum liability cover under their trading terms and conditions. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); 9. Label CorrectlyLabel every box, carton or crate with the show name and booth number you are shipping, even if you are creating a pallet of boxes. Ensure that all shipping labels are securely attached on top of old labels. Take pre-printed labels with the return address to replace inbound ones for the homeward journey.10. International ExhibitingWhen exhibiting internationally, use  a shipper that has an established logistical network. The International Exhibition Logistics Association (IELA) members meet the highest standards for exhibition freight forwarding. Check what help they will give you with customs, documentation procedures, temporary import bonds, warehousing and consolidation. Ask for guarantees for quick customs clearance and the shortest, least expensive delivery route.