What is a freight forwarder?
A freight forwarder is a professional who assists in the movement of goods for import/export. They ensure correct documentation and procedures are adhered to and manage everything from door-to-door.
Do you offer refrigerated transport/shipping?
EES can offer both domestic and international refrigerated transport. Throughout Australia and overseas, we can provide pallet and reefer container transport, loading at our depot, and holding refrigerated goods. We can also provide chilled transport for beverages and other products and international shipping using reefer containers loaded at your site or our depot.
Can I send CHEP pallets?
CHEP pallets can be used Australia-wide only. We can provide alternative pallets for use for international shipping, meeting all requirements.
What is airline chargeable weight?
Air freight is calculated based on the actual weight or airline chargeable weight (ACW). Airline chargeable weight is based on the size of your consignment in cubic metres x 167kgs. So, for every 1m3 of freight, the airline allow 167kgs. If your actual weight exceeds this, the airline will charge whichever is higher.
For example, for 1m3 at 200kgs, the airline charges 200kgs. For 1m3 at 150kgs, the airline will charge 167kgs.
Will you guarantee transit/sailing times?
All transit times are estimated only based on information provided by shipping lines, airlines and third-party transport. EES Shipping will do everything possible to maintain transit times, and where this is not possible, we will continue to monitor and update you as the freight moves.
What’s the difference between a freight forwarder and a customs broker?
A freight forwarder organises, coordinates, and facilitates the movement of goods from the shipper to the consignee. A freight forwarder may handle various responsibilities such as transportation arrangements, route optimisation, cargo consolidation, and documentation.
On the other hand, a customs broker specialises in clearing goods through customs, assisting importers and exporters in navigating the complexities of customs regulations and tariffs – ensuring the smooth movement of goods across international borders. Some international freight forwarders offer customs brokerage services; however, they are distinct entities with different functions.
How do freight forwarders differ from other logistics providers?
Freight forwarders deal specifically with the transportation and handling of goods for clients, whereas other logistics providers can offer a wider range of services. For example, third-party logistics (3PL) providers may offer warehousing, transportation, inventory management, and order fulfilment services; fourth-party logistics (4PL) providers are more involved in strategic planning and oversee the entire supply chain management process, including recommending and managing 3PL providers. Freight forwarders, while primarily focused on transportation and shipment handling, can still be part of a larger logistics or import and export team, ensuring the efficient movement of goods from the manufacturer to the end customer.
What charges am I liable for?
EES Shipping will provide you with a detailed quotation, but some of the common charges that you may need to cover include freight and transport costs (payable to the freight forwarder), import and customs duties/taxes (payable to customs authorities), insurance costs, warehousing and storage fees, documentation fees, and any additional service fees, such as fumigation, inspections, or handling of hazardous materials.
How much does a freight forwarder cost in Sydney?
Freight forwarder costs in New South Wales can vary significantly depending on factors such as shipment size and weight, origin and destination, and the chosen mode of transport (air, sea, or road). Additionally, specialised services such as temperature-controlled shipments, hazardous goods handling or expedited services will also affect the total cost.
How do Incoterms affect freight forwarding?
Incoterms, short for International Commercial Terms, are internationally accepted standard trade definitions that outline the responsibilities and obligations of buyers and sellers in a transaction. They help to define the allocation of risks, costs, and responsibilities related to shipping and may significantly impact the freight forwarding process. For instance, some Incoterms dictate that the exporter is responsible for arranging and paying for transportation and insurance up to a specific point or location, while others place these responsibilities on the importer. Agreeing on the correct Incoterms with your trading partner can help avoid misunderstandings, delays, and unexpected costs during the freight forwarding process.
What regulatory and compliance concerns should I have?
Both domestic and international freight forwarding are subject to numerous regulations and compliance requirements that businesses should be aware of. Some of the key concerns include:
- Customs regulations and import/export restrictions
- Quarantine and biosecurity requirements
- Trade sanctions and embargoes
- Industry-specific regulations (e.g. hazardous materials, food products)
- Country of origin and preferential trade agreements.
An experienced freight forwarder can help you navigate these regulations and ensure your shipments remain compliant. However, as the importer or exporter, the ultimate responsibility lies with you, so keeping abreast of relevant regulations and requirements is crucial for your business.
What documents do I need to provide when importing to Australia?
Certain documentation is required for your shipment to clear Australian customs. These documents may include:
- Import declaration
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading
- Certificate of origin
- Product-specific documentation, such as permits or licenses.
What’s the difference between a customs broker and a freight forwarder?
Freight forwarding is more related to transporting goods and negotiating shipping rates, whereas a licensed customs broker in Sydney will handle the clearance, taxes, and documentation for import. In essence, a customs broker (aka customs clearance agent) ensures your goods enter the country in accordance with local laws and regulations, while a freight forwarder arranges transportation from one place to another.
What charges am I liable for?
When importing goods to Australia, you are liable for various charges, which may include:
- Customs duties
- GST
- Phytosanitary, quarantine, or inspection fees
- Customs broker fees
- Freight charges
- Warehousing fees.
Your customs broker can help you understand and calculate these charges accurately, ensuring you know the exact cost of your shipment.
What happens if my cargo is held by customs?
If your shipment is held, customs will notify you, highlighting the reason for the hold and the steps needed to resolve the issue. Common reasons for customs holding your cargo include:
- Incomplete or incorrect paperwork
- Non-compliant or prohibited items
- Undervalued declarations.
Customs may also hold your cargo if the shipment violates sea freight and/or air freight regulations. Moreover, depending on the port and international trade regulations, your cargo may be subject to quarantine.
How much does a customs broker cost in Australia?
Fees will vary depending on the required customs clearance service, so it's essential to request a quote from your broker. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best – opting for a more experienced broker with a higher fee can save you time and money in the long run through efficient and accurate customs clearance procedures.
What are the regulatory and compliance considerations for freight forwarding?
When engaging in domestic or international freight forwarding in Australia, it is essential to be aware of various regulatory and compliance factors. These include:
- Customs regulations and import/export restrictions
- Quarantine and biosecurity requirements
- Trade sanctions and embargoes
- Industry-specific regulations
- Country of origin and preferential trade agreements
While an experienced freight forwarder can assist in navigating these regulations and ensuring compliance, it is ultimately the responsibility of the importer or exporter to stay informed and compliant. Keeping up-to-date with relevant regulations and requirements is essential for the smooth operation of your business.
What sets apart a freight forwarder from a customs broker in Australia?
In Australia, a freight forwarder plays a crucial role in the organisation, coordination, and facilitation of the movement of goods from the shipper to the consignee. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including arranging transportation, optimising routes, consolidating cargo, and managing documentation.
In contrast, a customs broker specialises in the clearance of goods through customs. Their expertise lies in assisting importers and exporters in navigating the intricacies of customs regulations and tariffs, ensuring a seamless flow of goods across international borders. While it's worth noting that some international freight forwarders offer customs brokerage services, it's important to recognise that freight forwarders and customs brokers are distinct entities with different functions.
How do freight forwarders differ from other logistics providers?
Freight forwarders in Australia specialise in the transportation and handling of goods for clients, whereas other logistics providers offer a broader range of services. For instance, third-party logistics (3PL) providers may provide warehousing, transportation, inventory management, and order fulfilment services. On the other hand, fourth-party logistics (4PL) providers are more involved in strategic planning and oversee the entire supply chain management process, including recommending and managing 3PL providers. While freight forwarders primarily focus on transportation and shipment handling, they can still be part of a larger logistics or import and export team, ensuring the efficient movement of goods from the manufacturer to the end customer.
What are the charges I need to be aware of in Australia?
EES Shipping can give you a detailed quote, but common charges you might have to pay include freight and transport costs (to the freight forwarder), import and customs duties/taxes (to customs authorities), insurance costs, warehousing and storage fees, documentation fees, and additional service fees like fumigation, inspections, or handling hazardous materials.
What are the typical costs associated with hiring a freight forwarder in Australia?
When it comes to the cost of hiring a freight forwarder in Australia, it's significant to understand that the expenses can vary significantly. Several factors influence the total cost, including the size and weight of the shipment, the origin and destination locations, and the chosen mode of transport (air, sea, or road). Specialised services, such as handling temperature-controlled shipments, hazardous goods, or expedited deliveries, can also impact the overall expenses. To determine the specific costs for your shipment, it's advisable to contact freight forwarders directly and obtain tailored quotes based on your specific requirements and circumstances.
How do Incomers impact freight forwarding?
Incoterms, or International Commercial Terms, play a crucial role in freight forwarding processes in Australia. These standardised trade definitions establish the rights and obligations of both buyers and sellers in a transaction. Understanding the specific Incoterms agreed upon is vital as they determine the allocation of risks, costs, and responsibilities related to shipping. Different Incoterms may specify whether the exporter or the importer is responsible for arranging and covering the costs of transportation and insurance up to a particular point or location. Selecting the appropriate Incoterms with your trading partner is essential to avoid misunderstandings, delays, and unexpected expenses during the freight forwarding process.
What are the regulatory and compliance considerations for freight forwarding?
When engaging in domestic or international freight forwarding in Australia, it is essential to be aware of various regulatory and compliance factors. These include:
- Customs regulations and import/export restrictions
- Quarantine and biosecurity requirements
- Trade sanctions and embargoes
- Industry-specific regulations
- Country of origin and preferential trade agreements
While an experienced freight forwarder can assist in navigating these regulations and ensuring compliance, it is ultimately the responsibility of the importer or exporter to stay informed and compliant. Keeping up-to-date with relevant regulations and requirements is essential for the smooth operation of your business.
