1. COMMUNICATE DEADLINES

Communicate your deadline/s clearly with your supplier. We recommend that both parties agree well in advance on the steps that are to be taken (who will be liable and for how much) in the event that production runs over time.  Should this happen it is much easier to resolve issues swiftly and with less stress if both parties already know what is expected. Get this is writing.

2.ADD A BUFFER

To production times & to shipping transit times.  Shipping lines often over book vessels, there is the possibility that the container which you goods are travelling in may be bumped to the next vessel.  Commercial aircraft give preference to passengers and their luggage, if their load is full there is a chance your cargo may be re-allocated to the next flight.

3.ENSURE YOUR CARGO IS RECEIVED EARLY

Your cargo should be delivered to the container freight station / wharf / airport in advance of the vessel or flight cut off time. Cut off times may vary during peak season or even close early if the vessel or flight is at capacity.

4. ADVISE YOUR FREIGHT FORWARDER

Tell us about your order. We can communicate with our agents and keep in touch with your supplier to receive updates on the cargo readiness.  We will also communicate with the shipping lines and airlines and  we will make your booking in far in advance as possible and keep you updated regarding space situations and back logs.

5.ENSURE YOUR PAPERWORK IS IN ORDER

Check that you have all the required paperwork needed for your import customs clearance (if you are not sure please ask us) & submit it to your customs broker well in advance of the shipment arrival date.