Finding the right freight brokerage company is a crucial decision for the success of your business and knowing the right questions to ask can be the difference between a seamless shipping experience and a logistical nightmare. From understanding their experience and capabilities to ensuring compliance and financial stability, these questions are designed to uncover key aspects of a freight brokerage company’s operation and if they are the right fit for your operations.
1. What is your brokerage authority, and can you provide proof? A reputable logistics company should readily provide proof of their brokerage authority and any necessary certifications, ensuring legal compliance and trustworthiness.
2. How long have you been in the freight brokerage business? They should have a robust history in the freight brokerage business, highlighting their experience and expertise in the industry. For example, Lync Logistics has over 25 years of industry knowledge and expertise in the freight industry.
3. What types of cargo do you specialize in handling? The company should clearly state their areas of specialization, whether they handle specific types of cargo, and how they manage various shipment requirements.
4. Can you handle shipments of the specific size or type your company requires? They should confidently affirm their ability to handle shipments of specific sizes or types, detailing their capacity and resources for the freight services you are looking for.
5. What is the size and diversity of your carrier network? A quality logistics firm will have access to a large and diverse carrier network, emphasizing their ability to provide flexible and efficient shipping solutions.
6. How do you ensure the reliability and safety of carriers in your network? The company should explain their vetting process for carriers, ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with standards.
7. What are your rates and how are they calculated? Transparent communication about rates and their calculation method is essential, helping clients understand the value and cost-effectiveness of their services.
8. Can you provide a detailed breakdown of your pricing, including any hidden or additional fees? Full disclosure of all pricing elements, including any potential additional fees, is a sign of a trustworthy logistics provider.
9. What kind of insurance coverage do you offer and what are the limits? It’s essential to obtain a copy of the freight broker’s surety bond and insurance certificates before initiating a business relationship. Freight brokers should have a minimum $75,000 surety bond to safeguard carriers against unpaid freight charges. Reputable brokers will offer contingent cargo insurance that offers extra protection on top of the carrier’s cargo insurance and provide auto liability coverage.
10. How do you track shipments and how often do you provide updates? The company should offer tracking services and be able to provide cargo location upon request.
11. What is your process for handling lost, damaged, or delayed shipments? A clear policy on how they handle incidents like lost, damaged, or delayed shipments, including compensation and resolution procedures, is vital.
12. Can you handle expedited or emergency shipments? Inquire about their capacity to handle urgent shipments and the processes in place for expedited services should the need arise.
13. Do you offer warehousing and distribution services? If they offer these services, details on warehousing facilities, distribution capabilities, and additional logistics services should be provided.
14. How do you handle disputes or issues that arise during shipping? A quality logistics firm should have a fair and efficient process for handling disputes or issues, prioritizing client satisfaction.
15. Can you provide references from clients with similar shipping needs? Providing references, especially from clients with similar shipping needs, reflects confidence in their service quality.
16. How do you manage payment terms with your carriers? A responsible logistics company should be transparent about their payment practices with carriers. It is advisable to conduct your own credit checks to verify the brokerage company’s financial stability.
17. Can you provide shipper and carrier references? An experienced brokerage company should provide a diverse range of contacts, highlighting their successful track record. They should encourage you to inquire about positive and challenging experiences, demonstrating their commitment to problem-solving and consistent customer satisfaction.
18. Do you offer any value-added services, such as over-dimensional or cross-docking? If they offer additional services like over-dimensional or cross-docking, these should be clearly explained, showcasing their comprehensive service offerings.
19. How can I contact you in case of an emergency or urgent query regarding my shipment? A quality freight brokerage service provider should offer 24-7 phone support for emergencies or urgent queries.
20. What types of freight services do you offer? Offering multiple transportation modes such as Full Truckload (FTL), Less than Truckload (LTL), refrigerated, drop-trailer, and over-dimensional is crucial for freight brokers to cater to diverse customer needs, enhance cost-effectiveness for their clients, and provide more flexibility.
The Lync logistics Advantage
At Lync Logistics, we bring over 25 years of shipping experience to our clients. By joining the Lync Logistics family, you will benefit from our deep-rooted industry knowledge and our unwavering commitment to efficiency and transparency. At Lync Logistics, it’s more than moving freight—it’s about moving forward together, ensuring each step of your journey is supported by a team that values your success as much as our own. Contact us today to become a part of the Lync Logistics family.