Do you want to start exporting international markets? Don’t you know where to start? Are you not familiar with the logistical procedures?
In fact, it’s not easy to build a business from scratch! As well as developing the best product, a solid marketing strategy and efficient customer service, you also need to ensure effective delivery.
At Olicargo, we have a thorough understanding of all the procedures involved in shipping cargo for the first time, which is why we work closely with our customers and partners to simplify all the red tape involved in exporting goods for the first time.
With so many things to consider, today’s post will help you answer some key questions you might have when you start to ship.
What Cargo Will Go Into the Container?
– Firstly, you need to define the type of goods you are sending, whether they require refrigeration, are perishable, urgent or have high added value.
What are the Quantity and Dimensions?
– Total weight
– Total size (m3)
– Number of boxes or pallets
The weight and size of the load will affect the overall cost of freight. For example, larger, longer and heavier loads require more space.
But did you know that if you don’t need a full container, you can always combine your cargo with others and only pay for the space your cargo takes up?
Where Do You Send From and To?
The origin and destination of your goods will affect the total cost of freight.
At this stage, it is also important to understand Incoterms, which define the terms used to sell goods around the world. If you are familiar with them, you will be in a better position to import and export goods from anywhere in the world.
What is the Delivery Time?
How can you choose a mode of transport if you do not know the deadlines you have to meet? This is particularly important if you are shipping perishable or urgent goods.
Find out when your products should arrive at their destination. This is because factors such as the time of year, the type of transport and even the route can all have an impact on transit times and delivery times. To ensure they arrive on time, develop a contingency plan to avoid delays or unexpected problems.
What Type of Transportation?
Once you’ve decided when you want your goods to be delivered, you’ll be able to decide how to transport it. By ocean? By air? By road? Combine all of the above? Does it need to be stored before shipping? And what happens when your cargo arrives at its destination? All these questions need to be answered in order to develop a solution that meets your needs.
How is your supply chain?
Supply chains vary in complexity and size. For your transport to be a success, it’s also important to know your supply chain in detail: Who are the key players, what are the potential problem areas… It’s important to remember that the longer and more complex the supply chain is, the longer the delivery time will be.
Should you take out insurance?
Cargo insurance is the method used to mitigate potential damage and avoid the risk of losing a sale. You should consider the cost of shipping insurance as an additional cost to the freight price.
Sources:
Corporate Vision. (2022). First Time to Ship Your Products and Good? 5 Tips for a Seamless Process. Consulted on November 08, 2023, at: https://www.corporatevision-news.com/first-time-to-ship-your-products-and-good-5-tips-for-a-seamless-process/
Maersk. (2023). 5 things you need to consider before shipping containers for the first time. Consulted on November 08, 2023, at: https://www.maersk.com/logistics-explained/transportation-and-freight/2023/08/27/5-things-you-need-to-consider-before-shipping-for-the-first-time
WTA Group. (2005). 5 Things You Need to Know Before You Ship. Consulted November 08, 2023, at: https://www.wtagroup.com/resources-and-insights/blogs/5-things-you-need-to-know-before-you-ship
