In an ideal world without hurdles or obstacles, freight forwarders would be able to focus solely on their core task: handling the details of international shipments. Unfortunately, however, current conditions are far from ideal. Challenges include port congestion, container shortages, cargo reroutes, changing regulations, staff deficits, volatile shipping rates, unexpected delays, … Which makes it even more important to choose the right freight carrier.
The importance of the right freight carrier
More than ever, freight carriers play a profound role in managing and mitigating unforeseen circumstances. To ensure the success of your organisation, you need a freight forwarder who is reliable, thinks ahead and always puts the customer first. A suboptimal service can have far-reaching consequences and lead to increased costs, delayed shipments, resentful customers. Shipping issues can harm your reputation and cause you to lose potential business deals.
Multi-modal transportation services
Contrary to what many people think, the freight forwarder does not actually move the cargo itself. However, a lot of effort is required to organise international transport. Think about negotiating freight rates, booking cargo space, consolidating goods, preparing transport and custom documentation, insurance, storage, and warehousing, booking onward inland transport, …
Some freight carriers prefer to focus on a single form of transportation. However, Levaco, operates as a global freight forwarder offering multimodal transportation services. This allows them to take charge of your shipments from their departure to their destination. Covering different modes of transportation such as rail carriers, cargo freight, air freight or road hauliers, both domestic and internationally.
How to find the right partner?
Our global economy relies heavily on international shipping. Consequently, there are numerous players competing for contracts to ship goods across the world. But that is not to say they are all equally reliable or customer focused. When looking for the right partner, several qualities are indispensable, such as flexibility, service level, reliability, and experience.
Flexibility
Flexibility is extremely important to ensure that your goods can be transported whenever you need them to be transported. Not only in the case of delays, but also to mitigate unforeseen situations, such as accidents, or industrial actions. Levaco has a vast network of reliable partners that work year-round, including public holidays, and are equipped to provide solutions that ensure the efficient passage of your cargo.
Service level
In the fast-paced and buoyant industry of international shipping, a customer-centric approach is a major asset. Carriers should offer a high level of service and keep an open line of communication. It’s important to not only share regular updates about the shipment, but also respond quickly and efficiently to questions or issues, in addition to offering solutions, to avoid delays and minimise costs, so that operations remain on track. Levaco is a family business that values building strong relationships with its clients. We familiarise ourselves with the needs and expectations of each client: “We build trust and make sure clients remain informed during every step of the way”.
Reliability and trust
Be sure to partner with an AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) accredited freight carrier, such as Levaco. This internationally recognised accreditation, issued by customs, ensures that the company upholds secure and efficient supply chain security standards, complies with local legal requirements, and operates in an ethical way. Because of this trust mark, certified organisations can also benefit from straightforward custom procedures.
Experience and knowledge
International shipping is very complex and highly regulated. Only experienced and reputable freight carriers are equipped to deal with the myriad of issues that can arise on a daily basis and ensure that the products reach their destination safely and on time. In addition, skilled freight carriers are experts in understanding the existing laws and customs. They provide the correct advice on which Incoterms or commodity codes to use, or which documentation to complete for each specific shipment.
Levaco is a family business with more than 50 years’ experience. Levaco has a track record of successful projects and positive client experiences. The long-lasting partnerships attest to a high service level. You can rest assured that your products and reputation are in good hands. Contact us for more information.
