Want to act as an agent for ozone export, but unsure where to start due to ozone being a hazardous chemical. Seeking specific steps, including document preparation, procedures, and precautions. The best answer suggests understanding product information, preparing documents like commercial invoices, obtaining a hazardous goods transport packaging appraisal certificate, customs declaration, seeking assistance from freight forwarders like Zhongmaoda, and paying attention to packaging and destination regulations.
Want to Become an Export Freight Forwarder but Don't Know How to Start? Ask Me Now!
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I have always been quite interested in the export freight forwarding industry, and recently I've been planning to get involved in this field. However, I am completely new to it and don't know where to start. Could any experienced professionals tell me how exactly to become an export freight forwarder? What qualifications or skills are needed? I hope to receive detailed and practical advice. Thank you all!
Trade Expert Insights Answers
To become an export freight forwarder, you must first understand industry knowledge, including international trade terms, and the characteristics and procedures of various transportation methods such as sea freight and air freight. For example, terms like FOB and CIF involve different divisions of responsibilities between buyers and sellers, which will affect freight forwarding operations.
Secondly, establishing a good supplier network is crucial, such as cooperating with shipping companies and airlines to secure advantageous freight rates and cargo space.
Furthermore, mastering professional freight forwarding software is necessary for efficiently handling tasks such as booking and cargo tracking.
You also need excellent customer service skills to promptly respond to client needs and handle unexpected issues during transportation. At the same time, be familiar with customs declaration and inspection procedures, assisting clients in preparing relevant documents to ensure smooth customs clearance. Finally, operate legally and obtain necessary qualification certificates, such as a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) business qualification registration certificate.
Learning foreign languages is very important, as export freight forwarders often deal with international clients and partners. English, at a minimum, should be spoken fluently, and you should be able to read various English documents.
It is essential to pay attention to market dynamics, understand freight rate fluctuations on different routes, and changes in national policies, etc., in order to provide accurate information and formulate suitable solutions for clients.
You can attend more industry exhibitions and seminars, connect with peers and potential clients, and expand your professional network, which will greatly assist in developing your business.
Mastering certain knowledge of logistics cost accounting allows you to provide accurate quotes to clients, ensure your own profits, and remain competitive.
Establish your own brand image, build word-of-mouth through high-quality service, and establish a good reputation within the industry, which is beneficial for long-term development.
You should also have some knowledge of cargo packaging and warehousing to ensure proper handling of goods before transportation.
Strengthen teamwork skills, because freight forwarding involves multiple stages, and close cooperation with colleagues is essential to complete tasks efficiently.
Learn risk control, proactively assess potential risks during transportation, such as severe weather, port congestion, etc., and formulate corresponding countermeasures.