Freight companies are an integral part of the transportation industry. They are involved in the smooth transporting of the valuable goods of businesses, making sure that they are delivered expeditiously and accurately.
However, as the sender of the goods, it can be challenging to know whether the freight company carrying your precious cargo is legal or not.
While brokers must be licensed to operate legally, there are other ways to ensure freight companies Adelaide work in your best interests.
Before hiring them, be sure to follow the advice below to protect your business, customers and shipping from start to finish.
Registration and Licensing
All operating freight companies Adelaide must be licensed and actively registered with the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS).
The law requires that anyone who assists in the transportation of goods in exchange for compensation has a valid license. A quick check of brokerage information can be completed on the NHVAS website.
If a broker cannot provide the details needed to check his registration, keep up with your search and find another company.
Insurance and Bond Details
In addition to registration and licensing guidelines, freight companies Adelaide must also have appropriate credentials to operate legally.
Check with NHVAS for compliance.
Never confuse bonds with insurance coverage; they have some differences.
Shipping bonds are a form of credit given to brokers, and every claim made to those who are legitimate must be paid back within a given period.
The insurance covers other risks, such as damage to goods or liabilities arising from accidents or legal problems.
Cargo brokers can have a combination of bonds and insurance to help protect customers, and brokers who have these financial tools tend to be trustworthy.
Business References
Finally, one of the best ways to find out whether a freight company is licensed is by checking their business references.
Most goods transporters have a long history in the industry, and accordingly, they have worked with many other companies in the trade.
A freighter must be able and willing to provide a list of satisfied customers they have worked with in the past, upon request. Those who cannot only indicate, therefore, that they do not have a good standing in the business.
Hiring a freight company can be very useful in managing the logistics of your transportation needs; however, trusting a company with your precious cargo demands that you work only with a legitimate outfit.
Be sure to do your homework by researching licensing and registration through NHVAS and make sure they have the appropriate bonds and insurance.
Follow up with certification checks and training, and always ask for business references before recruiting.
For more valuable tips and learning about freight companies, go to this website.