Freight Quotes & Cargo Shipping Companies

Freight quotes from a variety of companies are needed in order for you to obtain a clear picture of what you can expect to pay for your shipment. Be sure you have all the details of your shipment ready so that the freight forwarders and companies can accurately provide you with their quotes. Use our forms to enter the relevant data and receive up to 5 free quotes in no time!

Many people can give you freight quotes, from freight brokers to forwarders to air carriers. Be sure you get an itemised bill so that you can review all the separate charges. Charges to move cargo will vary based on the weight of the consignment, the distance it will travel and the transportation method used. Perhaps you will get an inclusive rate known as a Joint Rate, which is one fee for transporting cargo between two or more air freight companies or between air and ocean, sea, road or rail companies. International freight forwarders can offer valuable advice and guidance regarding packing fees, port fees, handling fees, insurance costs, storage fees, Customs and duties, etc. With so many variables to consider when looking for freight quotes, you should do plenty of research before selecting the final company.

How you ship your goods will affect the price. Perhaps you will want to use the most environmentally safe method of transporting goods. Then ocean or sea freight is the answer for you. On average, one container ship will emit approximately 40 times less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than a cargo plane. Moving goods via waterbourne vessels is slower than via airplanes, but it's also cheaper. Road and rail transport also offer good value but a slower delivery time.

Some companies will be able to offer freight quotes via their websites. You can fill in a form that contains all the details of your shipment and based on this information, the company will calculate an estimated fee. It's best to speak to a company representative too, because their initial quote can change after they learn more about your needs or wishes. You might be able to obtain a Negotiated Rate or Contract Rate for large consignments or frequent moves, enabling you to save some money and establish loyalty with your new shipping partner.

If you choose a freight forwarding company that has been in business for many years, it's a good sign that they have a solid network and strong reputation of reliability and timely results. Given their history in the industry, they might be able to offer you extremely competitive freight quotes. It also means they have the expertise to administer and navigate the paperwork mazes one will encounter in this shipping process. Once consignors have selected their freight forwarders or shipping companies and agreed on fair freight quotes, they will need to assemble the documentation like the bill of lading (or air waybill), insurance and reporting. If they are exporting goods worth over $1500 from the United States, then a Shipper's Exportation Declaration (SED) is needed.

To be sure you're receiving competitive rates, it would be wise for you to look at a few reports such as the Review of Maritime Transport Report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, which lists the average freight rates on major routes.