Know The Importance Of Freight Forwarders to Import-Export Business

Freight forwarders are looked upon as the key for businesses to attain promising supply systems. To survive in the rapidly altering economic parameters, it is mandatory for companies to build an effectual logistics system. In this Competitive niche, having an updated system for supplying goods can help a business to achieve the peak of success. 

Hiring freight forwarders can be the best solution to fill missing gaps and contribute the best when the prospects are thinking of hiring the services you provide. In today's write-up, we have compiled a list of evidence that depicts the immense capability of freight forwarders to make your business process standardized and even more dynamic.

1. Sound Knowledge in Logistics 

The national or international shipping agents have extensive knowledge about the logistics field and its processes. They readily guide one through customs clearance and provide ideas about what should be done to ensure smooth and successful transport. They not only present you with the best solutions but also handle the risks efficiently that you may face along the path.

2. Advanced Resources

Another advantage of relying on freight forwarders is, they are updated about the latest technological trends that help in the optimization of your organization's logistics matters. The online tracking outlets assure that your items are being handled in the safest condition within the stipulated time. 

3. Global Reach

Companies need to have visibility through partnerships and contacts to reach out to the global market. The professional forwarders are indeed the active part of these networks. Such platforms promote interaction between international business generation and forwarders, facilitating for the companies in the case, some solutions are needed overseas. 

4. Professional Certification

Freight forwarders must meet the global quality certification standards. The professionals are mostly part of many organizations, awards, and programs that certifies how professional and competent they are. Analyze their background to have an idea about their experience this market, reliability, responsibility and sustainability. 

If you're looking for Freight Forwarding Services in Sheffield, you need to conduct proper research. It can become daunting for you to choose the trusted one among the myriad of options. Browse through the Internet and shortlist the names of companies that have earned the best ratings for providing quality freight forwarding solutions at affordable prices. Make sure that the company you choose has years of experience in this field. Look whether or not the professionals you're considering have the license to conduct the delivery of goods on the national and international level. 

What Is A Freight Service And How You Must Choose

Doing a business of import and export is quite exciting, but sometimes can become difficult. That is the reason why transportation of goods with the help of shipping service has been one of the most practical solutions for all major companies.

International shipping agents care for their customers and their major concern is to deliver the goods safely within the given time frame. These kinds of services are also used to ensure door to door delivery. The interesting part is they have their offices and warehouses in almost all major commercial places. This is the reason why the cargos get a smooth clearance without suffering any damage. International shipping services upgrade themselves over time and they have a core commitment to satisfy their clients. No matter what is the type and size of the material, a shipping agent delivers your goods with ease. Moreover, they are insured so that their clients do not face any harm in case of loss due a natural calamity or an accident. However, they have advanced technology of detecting probable storms and other issues in the mid-sea. They have the necessary manpower who are highly specialised to get your job done. Even if you want a customised schedule, or an extra-large consignment they will perform its delivery the same way as they do the basics.

Choosing the right shipping company

Before choosing any freight service, determine the goods that you want to send. If the company has all three media of transport (air, sea and road) then you do not have to have to think much about it. But if you want to choose specified service then you have consider the company based on your goods. Your moving cost depends on the distance travelled and the cubic footage. If you have a fair idea on the cubic footage of the items then you can probably figure out an estimation of the entire shipping cost. Even the extra costs of the delayed process by you (in case) depends upon the size of the goods. The extra warehousing expense is basically the rent paid for the space taken by your goods in the warehouses. It would be best if the freight company is insured. It can save you from a lot of problems related to loss, for example, fire damage, shipping damage, misplaced goods etc.

No matter what specified mode of transport you choose, these are the basic concepts of choosing a freight service for your business. It will be always an expert’s choice if you select a company which has all three modes of shipping solutions.

Shipping Industry To Use Cleaner Fuels By 2020

Recently, a confirmed proposal has come into circulation that the shipping industry will begin using cleaner fuels and nothing else by 2020. Although it is great news for environment conservationists, the switch can put a lot at stake for old oil refineries and literally wipe out the businesses of those who supply wrong crude. However, advanced refineries with state-of-the-art equipment can expect their profits to double up.

During the next 4 years, ships all over the world must cut down on their sulphur emissions from the current 3.5% to 0.5%. The on-target deadline has caused quite a pandemonium among some refiners and ship owners. This is because right now, nearly 3 million barrels of sulphur laden oil are used every day for powering tens of thousands of ships. And countries like Iraq, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Venezuela, which produce ship fuel with high concentration of sulphur, are feeling threatened.

The advanced refineries are, of course, considering this a windfall, since they are producing more and more fuel with very low sulphur for an increasing number of ships. But for ship owners who still utilise sulphur-laden fuel for their vessels, there are several avenues open in order to follow the new standards. The easiest solution is burning middle distillates, which, although expensive, are low in sulphur. According to expert estimates, the new rules can shift around 700,000 barrels every day of demand to distillates from fuel oil by 2020.

As per the calculations of international shipping agents, the fuel oil utilised by today’s marine sector accounts for 4% of refined product demand of the world. At less complicated and older units in Asia, Mediterranean and developing nations, fuel oil containing sulphur accounts for almost 40% of the total output.

Some professionals are suggesting investing in various upgrades, but it may not be as simple as it seems. Using a residual hydrocracker that removes sulphur from fuel costs about $1 billion. Besides that, the overall procedure can take a long period of time, perhaps even a decade.

However, as oil markets begin preparing for the brand new rules, the shipping sector can crush their well laid plans. For instance, scrubbers costing around $3 to $10 million are quickly becoming standard on the newer ships. This can cause the expected rapid decline in fuel prices to make that investment worthwhile. But if the marine sector is quick in investing, it can bring back the demand for oil.

A Few Things About UK Customs Regulations

The final hurdle before entering UK is making it through the HM Customs & Excise. Although it is not as complicated as most people assume it to be, there are certain things that one ought to take care of. All EU (European Union) countries utilise 3 particular ‘channels’ for the purpose of customs processing - Red, Green and Blue. And being a part of the EU, UK follows the same honour system.

Let’s have a look at some important things pertaining to UK customs regulations:

Things You Can Bring In Duty Free

As per the current Duty Free Allowances, the following things can be brought into UK without paying any tax -

• tobacco products such as 250g loose tobacco or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 200 cigarettes
• 4 litres of wine
• 1 litre of strong liquors having about 22% alcohol or spirits, or 2 litres of sparkling wine, fortified wine or any other liquor.
• 16 litres of beer
• £390 worth of other goods such as souvenirs or gifts, or £270 if you arrive by boat or plane

Items That Are Allowed To Be Brought In After Inspection

There are certain things which can draw the attention of the UK Customs & Excise staff, if you are carrying them. The officers would only allow you to pass if they are assured that the items with you are for personal use. These items include -

• Cigarettes - 3200 units
• Cigars - 200
• Cigarillos - 400
• Smoking Tobacco - 3kg
• Spirits - 10 litres
• Fortified wine - 20 litres
• Wine - 90 litres
• Beer - 110 litres

Banned & Restricted Items

There are some goods which are banned or restricted under the regulations of UK Customs & Excise.

1. Banned goods -

• Unlicensed drugs
• Child pornography
• Pirated and counterfeit goods
• Offensive weapons
• Pornographic material
• Milk, meat or other animal products

2. Restricted goods that require licenses -

• firearms
• ammunition and explosives
• endangered species
• live animals
• radio transmitters
• certains plants as well as their produce

For imports and exports, the HM Customs & Excise has got standard duty fees and allowances. In order to make sure that they make it through safely, it is better to hire the customs clearance services of any reputed shipping company. Customs clearance agents generally take care of everything including preparation of documentations, representing clients at the time of customs examination, duty payment and receiving of delivery after clearance with documents from the customs. In other words, they act on behalf of their clients. 

Things to Consider Before Exporting Goods From UK

Although exports play a very important role in supporting the economy of UK, the industry is deep waters for people who have no experience in the field. There are a number of factors that you must take care of like deciding a lucrative international market, ensuring successful payments, and so on before making attempts to ship goods overseas.

Basically, you will have to ask yourself 3 questions prior to making your plans:

• am I aware of all the important things related to exporting? 
• whom should I talk to?
• which export agents can help me?

Shipping overseas from UK is not at all a tough nut to crack. According to the ONS (Office for National Statistics), the revenue generated by UK exports went from £300.5 billion in 2012 to £304.3 billion in 2013. Besides that, the British government is encouraging 100,000 businesses for “internationalising” by the year 2020.

The first step towards exporting goods outside UK successfully is doing careful and methodical research. Bear in mind that determining an appropriate overseas location is one of the most important tasks. Though Europe is still the most preferable destination by British exporters, countries like Russia, India, China and Brazil are also increasing rapidly in terms of popularity. Assess the type of support being provided by the governments. Analyse the market meticulously by visiting it in person, if possible and obtaining information about the accredited businesses out there. Alternatively, you can even seek help from the Internet and enter an international market virtually.

While entering a new market for the sole purpose of exporting your goods, you must search for some business to partner with in advance. Because finding suitable distributors or agents is often regarded as an overwhelming task by experts. There are many reputed companies in UK who can provide efficient and cost-effective freight forwarding services, such as MNS Freight Services Ltd. Assess the legitimacy and credibility of the firm you consider before opting for their services.

Next, familiarise yourself with the details of the overall process. Knowing about your market is not the only thing you need to handle. It is imperative that you also take the procedures and paperworks into account simultaneously. Consider and comprehend issues like local tariffs and duties, VAT exemptions, customs obligations and responsibilities and documentation.

Finally, determine properly how your goods will successfully reach their destination and be absolutely clear about your finance. Understand your funding requirements and payment processes carefully.

Why Choose MNS Freight For Shipping Your Goods

Located in the city of Sheffield within South Yorkshire, MNS Freight is one of the leading providers of freight forwarding services in UK. The firm has been around for years and gained adequate volume of experience during the time about the shipping needs of British customers. Not only does this competent international shipping agent provide top notch services at cost-effective rates, but also tailor them as per individual shipping requirements by working closely with exporters as well as importers. 

There are several reasons why choosing MNS Freight for shipping your goods can prove to be highly beneficial. 

Let’s see what those reasons are:

Economical & Safe :

According to what clients have to say, MNS Freight is one company who never compromises with safety of goods and punctuality. The company offers a variety of container shipping to international ports and deliver cargo safely to its destination at the right time. Besides that, their charges are reasonable as well as economical.

Competitiveness :

The firm hires competent and skilled people who are adept at providing exemplary air, sea and road freight, complete customs clearance and courier services to its customers. It serves the general public, exporters, importers and also other freight service providing companies.

One Point of Contact :

Throughout your process of freight forwarding, you will be dealing with only one representative of the company. That individual alone will have detailed information about your cargo, business and requirements. If that person is not available due to unavoidable circumstances, a backup person will assume his role and provide you assistance in every step.

Flexible & Amiable :

As has been mentioned already, MNS Freight can customise its services according to the needs of their customers. Whether you wish to send vital documents via courier or incorporate container loads from some other country, MNS freight can get it done efficiently.

Teamwork :

Apart from building long-term relations with customers, the staff members of MNS Freight always work as a team for ensuring successful shipment of goods. They support each other for achieving 100 percent customer satisfaction.

There are certain objectives that MNS plans to achieve as a part of their mission. These include creating benchmarks of quality, commitment and consistency within the international business of integrated logistics, exceeding client expectations by providing quality global transportation and freight forwarding solutions, and simplifying the lives of customers by establishing long term relations with them through honesty and commitment for delivering goods punctually.