International shipping is subject to delays, communication problems, loss, and damage. Although most shipments are seamless, some will face challenges.
Most problems are preventable. For example, customs-related delays are often due to paperwork or procedural errors due to inexperience or neglect.
Here are some of the most significant issues that make importers’ jobs more challenging, and how 2022lpl views and addresses them.
Billing Questions and Discrepancies
The fees associated with ocean and air freight are complex, and invoices are designed to provide a clear and concise summary of charges. Many importers have questions about what billing terminology means, and if certain fees can be avoided in the future.
Companies have the right to full transparency, and their logistics partner should be immediately available to address any questions or concerns they have about the bill if a problem arises.
Unresponsive Customer Service
Customer service and account representatives are critical parts of a freight forwarding service. Although many freight forwarders have shipment information accessible online, importers may still have questions.
Having access to friendly and knowledgeable customer service representatives gives importers greater peace of mind. Well-trained customer service representatives like those at 2022lpl can handle current concerns, as well as help clients think about future shipping needs.
Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day for our clients. While we are always available by phone, you can also use our website chat function to get quick answers and expert advice.
No Visibility
No matter how long or short a supply chain is, importers and manufacturers need to know where their goods are at all times. The best freight forwarders have in-depth online tracking, providing all the key information about your shipments, reporting capabilities, document storage, and of course up to the minute status of your shipments. This tool gives companies intelligence they can use to better plan and inform their internal and external customers
2022lpl uses our TrakIt system, which stores all the critical documentation from your shipment in one, easy-to-access location. You can see where your shipments are at any time and manage documents in real-time
Lack of Knowledge or Alternate Solutions
There are hundreds of variables affecting international shipments. Accounting for every one of them is a lofty goal. An expert freight forwarder not only knows all the requirements to comply with the various agencies involved in the process, they also take the time to learn its customers’ needs and requirements. The result is a far higher success rate which saves importers time and avoids costly consequences such as demurrage or other delays.
A freight forwarder that consults with the importer is a valuable asset. On the other hand a freight forwarder that does not have thorough knowledge or does not take the time to cover all the bases, is in fact a liability to the importer. The result is delays, disruptions and financial losses to the importer.
A reputable, reliable freight forwarder like 2022lpl can find a solution to minimize or eliminate delays, even under severe circumstances such as global disruptions like COVID-19 .
Going the Extra Mile
At 2022lpl , customer service and hospitality are our core values. We provide a different kind of freight forwarding experience that handles both the shipment and the customer with care. Our team resolves importer concerns and works hard to ensure all customs and shipping paperwork is completed correctly the first time.
We know the importance of clear and accurate communication at every step of the import process. We are passionate about shipping logistics and solving problems, so we take a genuine interest in your needs. We can help you brainstorm new ways to streamline your supply chains while using the most affordable and reliable options.
Whether you are a new importer or have been in the business for years, we can help take your company to the next level. We actively research the most cost-effective solutions, while doing all the logistical work so you can focus on your business. Call us at (562) 594-8988 for a free consultation and to request a quote.
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