International Shipping: Secrets to Improved Logistics Efficiency
The term logistics means the detailed coordination of a complex operation involving many facilities, supplies, or people. While that applies to many industries, it’s critical for the shipping industry. This is why the best international logistics companies adopted some strategies to help meet customer satisfaction.
There’s no question that providers of international logistics services have stiff competition. Then, when you add in all the coordinating factors of getting a load from one location to another, things become more difficult. To build and maintain their customer base, these organizations need to run a seamless operation.
Innovative Solutions Provided by International Shipping Companies
Some of the top-rated international shipping companies recognized the need for change. So, they began to look at the freight transportation industry differently. This involved improving logistics efficiency, especially for those that provided cross-border shipping services. Below are a few examples of how logistics services are now better than ever.
Consolidation
One change entailed combining smaller shipments into a single large unit. With this, shipping companies had to work out some issues. For instance, this wasn’t a service offered by all international logistics companies, and for the ones that did, it was subpar.
So, they devised a plan that involved placing multiple orders within the same carton. Other acceptable options included banding several cartons together, using a full truck, or palletizing the shipments. For an international shipping company using consolidation, it benefits in many ways, including.
- Improved shipping and logistics efficiency
- Time savings going through procedures at the border
- Reduction in overall cost by as much as 10 percent
Non-asset-based 3PL
This is another solution that has helped many trusted international shipping companies improve logistics efficiency. Rather than taking a cookie-cutter approach, these companies customize schedules and transportation services. This is advantageous to many end-users, especially the retail industry.
This industry experiences a lot of pressure. They need to get products into stores faster, offer more flexibility, and reduce costs. Well, the best international logistics companies have a solution to alleviate some of that pressure. They use non-asset-based 3PL.
This type of provider works as a negotiator and then comes up with a customized solution for the customer. Considering a 3PL has a lot of flexibility, they have ways to get more creative with the solutions they provide. One example involves international logistics companies dropping loads late in the afternoon. That doesn’t give employees adequate time to process them. A 3PL can offer a schedule that works for the shipper and accommodates the customer.
Reduce or Eliminate Duty Assessments
Today, reputable providers of international logistics services now have ways to reduce or eliminate duty obligations. For instance, they can apply for tariff classification codes, take advantage of government programs, and more. Ultimately, this saves significant money, which shippers can then pass on to their customers.
We Work Hard for the Customer
MGA International Logistics is a highly regarded international shipping company. We have adopted several strategies that make our logistics efficiency even better. For a free quote, contact us today.