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When it comes to enlisting a shipping service to transport cargo, there are many people involved the task of making sure that the cargo reaches its destination on-time and intact. Air Freight Agents are one particular group of people who play a major role in transporting freight. Air freight agents are responsible for the import and export of cargo by means of an airplane. They act on behalf of the airlines that pay them a fee for their service. Some air freight agents specialize within certain countries and others specialize in shipping items all over the world.

Duties of Air Freight Agent can include:

Directing inbound and outbound air freight shipments to their prearranged destinations Assembling cargo according to their destination that includes arranging space for the shipment. Receiving bookings from customers for shipments and arranging for pickup of the freight and delivery to the cargo airplane Weighing the cargo and calculating the shipment costs. They put freight bills in order and accept shipping payments from the customers. Assembling appropriate documents and prepares and processes the documents and includes the information with the shipments Notifying shippers of departure delays Unloading inbound freight and contacting customers when the cargo arrives, as well as arranging for delivery. Arranging cargo movement to an international destination. Prepares international documentation that includes: commercial invoice, shipper’s export declaration, bill of lading, and other documents required by the carrier or country they are shipping to

Some air freight agents specialize in certain cargo such as clothing. All air freight agent services have their own specific rules and regulations for transporting cargo. One of these regulations is not permitting the import and export of illegal and prohibited goods. They will also have certain weight limitations. If a customer’s cargo surpasses the maximum allowed weight, there are usually added shipping costs

Most air freight agents will arrange for pick up cargo from the customer’s location and deliver the cargo right to the recipient’s door step. Sometimes there is an additional price associated with door-to-door delivery. The agent can also arrange for discounts for a large volume of cargo.

For shipments that are time-sensitive or destined to an isolated location, air freight shipping is the most effective and quickest way of shipping. Air freight agents are there to meet customer needs as well as ensuring airline transportation runs smoothly.

Air freight agents are able to ensure an efficient and easy transport of cargo by bringing all shipping processes together so that the cargo arrives at its destination on time and in the same condition as when it was shipped. Agents are knowledgeable about the shipping process and can answer such inquiries as: if the item can be picked up and delivered to the destination, shipping insurance prices, when the item will arrive, and the methods they use to track an item. When calling an agent, make sure you have the measurements and weight of the cargo.

Individuals and businesses that have used the services of an air freight agent have enjoyed the benefits of hassle-free freight shipment. Using a highly regarded air freight agent who understands the air transport procedure ensures a stress free, easy, and safe delivery of your air freight cargo.

The overseas marketplace can be a highly lucrative business market. Many small businesses tend to stay clear of the overseas market because they are not familiar with the shipping process. When a business acquires knowledge about shipping products overseas, they will find it is much easier to tap into a huge market.

Shipping product overseas has a number of different features then regular domestic shipping. In order to take advantage of the overseas market, one has to be to be aware of the aspects involved with shipping products overseas. The key to finding the best overseas shipment method is to do your homework. There are number of ways one can ship their products overseas such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, and companies that specialize in shipping items overseas. Because some companies are cheaper than others, it is important to compare shipping prices and how each company transports their products. You may be able to negotiate volume discounts with a shipping service for certain types of shipments.

When packaging a product for shipment, it is important that the package is packed properly in order to minimize damage. When shipping items overseas, packages pass through many hands so a well packed item will help avoid damage. The package should have the correct labeling to help avoid disruption in shipment or a lost shipment. You must also have the proper documentation that meets your countrys requirements as well as the receiving countrys requirements. Typical documentation includes air waybills, bill of lading, commercial invoice, consular invoice, certificate of origin, NAFTA certificate of origin, inspection certification, dock receipt and a warehouse receipt, destination control statement, and shipper’s export declaration. You should also make sure that the item is insured against damage and loss. When packing the item, conceal the identity of the content and make sure the item is in compliance with environmental and safety standards.

Because of the large number of considerations and steps involved in physically shipping products overseas, most people enlist an international shipping company to perform these services. International shippers are knowledgeable about the overseas port systems, so they will know details such as packaging and the required documentation. Shipping overseas normally involves a number parties that can include shipper, consignee, (usually the client or importer representing client) notify party, (client or a third party), freight forwarder, (shipping agent coordinating the process) and the Customs broker (helps clear Customs for the imported products)

If one does not want to use a shipping company, they should prepare their shipment utilizing the following guidelines:

- Pack in strong and well-sealed containers. Label the boxes clearly. – The weight should be uniformly distributed to provide secure bracing in the container – Packaging should be moisture resistant. – Do not pack any materials that are on a countries import prohibited list. This can include such items as weapons, pesticides, flammable products..etc. Each country has a list of prohibited items. Make sure that you check the list before you ship your package.

Basically, you should hire a specialized company to ship your products. Shipping rates and services can vary from company to company. For instance, some companies may use different shipment routes. When looking for a company to send your products overseas, shop around and dont hesitate to ask a lot of questions. A little knowledge and research can open up a huge new market for your business.