Over our last couple of blogs, we focused on going through each and every step in the how goods are internationally shipped from the shipper all the way up to the point of the Destination Port. In This blog, we look at the last few processes involved in the last leg of our guide to sending international shipments.
In our previous blogs, “Guide to International Shipping”, and “International Export Shipping”, we took you through the Shipper, International Shipping Company, Origin Agent, Freight Forwarder, Consolidating Warehouse, Export Port, Shipping Line, Container Line, and the Destination Port. In the final leg to our Guide to Sending International Shipments, we look at the Customs Bonded Warehouse, and the Destination Agent to clarify how these processes, procedures, and players play a role in the grand scheme of sending international shipments. Furthermore, we look at how some countries, “Brokers” are evident and may attempt to swindle you, especially in small shipments.
The Customs Bonded Warehouse
This is the destination warehouse in which the goods imported into the destination country is stored awaiting customs clearance. The processes and procedures of each country vary and you are able to find out what they are via the freight forwarder you opt for. You should be aware about the time that customs clearance takes as well as any other charges associated.
The Destination Agent
This entails the company in the destination country that will handle the customs clearing procedures, along with port transactions, and delivery of the cargo to the destination address. Often, the international shipping company or freight forwarder will handle the proceeding, especially as there may be different import laws and regulations that need to be settled.
The Broker
A Broker is essentially a person who manages sending international shipments but does nothing else. You must not confuse a Broker with the likes of a Freight Forwarder who may subcontract the Origin Agent or Destination Agent as they are carrying out vital shipping procedures. In many countries, brokers who manage small shipments such as this are considered illegal but there are no means of regulating them. It’s very important to know that a broker has no financial stability and even if they quote you to manage the shipment and whilst the quote may appear to be the lowest out there, you may end up paying higher due to costs that have not been accounted for which may lead to your goods not being released/cleared.