3 Advantages Of Using Independent Freight Forwarders

If you’re looking for good freight forwarders, a great place to look is on an online freight exchange network. But why would you choose independent freight forwarders over the more famous global brands? The following are just three good reasons why you are actually in an advantageous position to strike a great deal with smaller, independent freight forwarders.

Greater Flexibility

An independent freight forwarder not yet saddled by the weight massive growth usually has the flexibility to forge its own connections and network of trusted suppliers and partners. Often they are also able to negotiate with their partners to further ensure cost flexibility. This is not usually possible with the bigger companies, which are tied to a small number of partners on long-term, mass quantity contracts designed to protect their profits and tend to leave the customer at a slight disadvantage. Independent freight forwarders, which are usually the ones you can find on an online freight exchange, are quite often able to adjust their prices to adapt to the daily changes in local economic factors - such as fuel prices, road tariffs and other incidentals.

Lower Cost

Logistics companies with international operations have one thing in common: large overheads. They pay millions of pounds for multiple media advertisements and marketing campaigns, they maintain large-scale call centres to handle their international clientele, and they can employ hundreds, if not thousands of employees. What it means for the end-customer is that they end up shouldering (whether they are aware of it or not) excessive charges arising from such large overheads. On the other hand, the kind of independent freight forwarders you may find on a freight exchange network may not have the same large overheads, which means the fee for their services is not bloated with excessive or unnecessary charges. What’s more, clients can often request a custom service that specifically matches their exact needs, which may even drive down the price or at least infuse more value into the deal.

More Personal, Quicker Service

A small, independent freight forwarding company found on a freight exchange system will fight with whatever it has to retain the business of every single customer. This, of course, means they will usually focus on providing you the highest quality service and support, walking the extra mile to ensure you’re satisfied on a professional and personal level. For instance, when you call up the office of an independent freight forwarder you're most likely speaking with the owner or manager, not a machine or outsourced customer service representative. Dealing with a small company also means if you have concerns, they will be responded to in a direct, straightforward and efficient manner.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for haulage work in the express freight exchange industry. Over 4,000 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.