The feature to expect in freight forwarding software
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What Are The Features Of Freight Forwarding Software?

Freight forwarding is an important process in the global supply chain industry because it allows businesses to transport goods across borders and around the world. However, freight forwarders may find it difficult to manage and coordinate all aspects of this complex process. Fortunately, the advent of freight forwarding software has made this process easier and more efficient. In this article, we will analyze the benefits and features of freight forwarding software, as well as how it can change the way freight forwarding is done.

DocShipper is a global shipping and logistics provider that offers end-to-end solutions for businesses of all sizes. They specialize in international freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and e-commerce fulfillment services.

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What Are The Features To Expect In Freight Forwarding Software
/ By / Logistics/ • • • • / 0 Comments

What Are The Features To Expect In Freight Forwarding Software?

Freight forwarding is an important process in the global supply chain industry because it allows businesses to transport goods across borders and around the world. However, freight forwarders may find it difficult to manage and coordinate all aspects of this complex process. Fortunately, the advent of freight forwarding software has made this process easier and more efficient. In this article, we will analyze the benefits and features of freight forwarding software, as well as how it can change the way freight forwarding is done.

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ChatGPT
/ By / Logistics/ • • • • / 0 Comments

Exploring Business Opportunities with Chat GPT: applied to the Supply Chain Management

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) are technologies that are certified to improve their supply chain management processes. 

The most promising system for its usage rate is AI ChatGPT, for its hyper artificial language model by OpenAI. With ChatGPT, the technology system will be explored in the improvement of companies' supply chain management, but also supplier information.

At DocShipper we help companies manage their supply chain through our various shipping and logistics services! Get more details about the use of AI ChatGPT in supply Chain through our article. Let's dive in ! 

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What is the documentation you need in the export shipping process
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What is the documentation you need in the export shipping process?

There’s always a hectic documentation process for export shipping, and it’s even harder when you don’t have an idea of what to do and how to get started with it, what documents are needed, and how to get them. This article will provide you with all the necessary information regarding the topic.

Receiving the inquiry for the shipping services.

shipping processIf someone is intrigued by your shipping services, you will receive an inquiry by mail or post which will be outlining all the necessities, conditions, and terms of the future customer along with an exact or rough quote.

Verifying the country and potential user

After receiving the inquiry letter, the first step will be to make sure that it’s a legitimate inquiry and that both parties are eligible to get to engage in the trade. This means verifying them against all kinds of legal factors which will restrict you to make a deal. You also need to check if you can ship it to the customer’s country, you might even require an export license in some cases, so it’s advisable to apply for it prior.

Present a pro forma invoice

documentsAfter verifying all the information about the buyer and their country, you might need to present the customer with a pro forma invoice it’s a gesture of goodwill to provide them with a pro forma invoice. It’s useful in sorting the finances. It’s similar to a commercial invoice. Furthermore, it also works as a proposal of quotation.

Costs and quotations are identical in pro forma invoice and commercial invoice if an order is the result of the pro forma invoice. Certain countries do require pro forma invoices as per their strict guidelines and rules.

Seal the trade

The next step post pro forma will be a decision to be made by the buyer whether to accept or reject the offer made by the contractor. This might lead to negotiations and which will result in the formation of a verbal or written contract agreed upon by both parties.

Negotiations should include :

  • The terms of the payment
  • Terms and rules of the sales
  • Method of shipment of goods
  • Responsibility for the shipment of goods
  • Responsibility for filing the electronic export information
  • Payment of transaction
  • List of documents required by both parties

 

Prefacing the goods and necessary documents

After the trade between both parties is agreed upon and sealed, you need to prepare the goods for departure/export and even the preparation of a few documents might be necessary, specifically these five.

Packing list

packing listIn some cases, you might need to provide the packing list/details for the reference of the freight forwarder, consignee, and other involved parties. This will give the responsible parties the reference no. on the boxes and details about the goods/items and other necessary information.

This list will also be used by the importing country for cross-checking the elements of the shipment for the security and customs authorities. This can also be used to claim insurance in future situations of loss/damage to goods.

DocShipper Info: Docshipper provides you with all the information you need to manage perfectly your packing list and carry out your export smoothly. If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact the very capable sourcing teams, and they’ll be ready to help H24. 

Certificate of origin

certificate of originThe certificate of origin is a necessary document that works as evidence for proving the origin of the goods is from the declared country. The country of origin is declared on the certificate of origin, commercial invoice, and packing list.

Most countries do accept the country of origin as stated on the commercial invoice, but few countries do require specifically the certificate of origin.

Docshipper Tip: You must also prepare and keep copies of all your related documents. All the processes should be documented. To help you with these hectic documentation processes and customs clearance, contact DocShipper as they are keen on saving you time and money.

 

Commercial invoice

commercial invoice

The commercial invoice is a necessary and important document that must be added to the list of documents.

It is used by numerous parties and also used by customs and border protection may even have a look at it for export review purposes. It is also used for the clearance of imported goods by the respected authorities of the receiving country. It might also work as a guarantee for the buyer to transfer funds from his account to the seller’s account safely. It might also be helpful for exporters to claim insurance in case of any damage or loss.

Generally, there are three copies of the document (commercial invoice) sent, one of which is an original signed with blue ink for identification purposes. The commercial invoice also contains these necessary data information/titles.

Shipper’s Letter of Instruction

There will be a need for the shipper’s letter of instruction or the buyer’s after you have discussed and agreed on the terms mutually. A shipper’s letter of instruction works as a written proof/record mentioning certain details like the person receiving the shipping documents, your contact person for any sort of queries, and the person responsible for the necessary documents required for the export.

If you are hiring an agent for the export, you must provide them with the SLI and the power of attorney for filing it through AES if it is the case.

There is always a requirement of at least one bill of lading, but you might require multiple bills of lading depending on the export.

You might need different bills of lading to accompany your domestic and international export. In such case of transferring your goods from a port to an airport and then from the airport to another country internationally, you will have to get different bills of lading for each purpose.

RE restricted party checking

The second last step would be to recheck or reanalyze that everything is the same. All the details and goods are not changed. There is automated software used for this purpose to do your screening, which you can easily find on the internet. This step is sort of a double-check to ensure that everything is in line and ready to be exported and nothing else is in need.

Additional documents and finalizing the shipment of goods.

You might find yourself in need of other miscellaneous documents which might be needed for the export to be done smoothly. You might find this document in your contract or might be labeled as terms of credit, forms demanded by the freight forwarder, etc. These forms may also include a draft from the bank or an ATA carnet.

Conclusion

To conclude, the most important documents for the export of goods are the pro forma invoice, the packing list, the certificate of conformity, the commercial invoice, and the Shipper’s Letter of Instruction

If you have difficulties in understanding and using all the necessary documents we have listed for the export shipping process, do not hesitate to use our shipping services. Contact our experts, and you will be taken care of in less than 24 hours!

FAQ | What is the documentation you need in the export shipping process?

What is the export shipping documentation process?

The export shipping documentation process is basically the process of arranging all the necessary documents related to your export. Which also concerns the legitimacy and the accordance with all the rules and regulations.

How do I get all the goods and documents prepared?

Preparation of goods and documents can be a hectic and lengthy process. You should consult a professional team like Docshipper to prepare it for you. As they have a wide range of networks and a competent staff all your processes will be carried out professionally with precision.

Which guideline should I follow while exporting the goods?

The guideline is basically the rules and regulations of the respected country. Different countries have different regulations and if you are exporting goods internationally in that case you need to respect all the guidelines of both countries.

How do I prepare the packing list?

Packing list is an essential document and to be prepared carefully. It should precisely mention all the goods and list of documents as it is necessary for claiming the insurance and even use of the reference of the authorities if necessary.

DocShipper Advise : We help you with the entire sourcing process so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

  • Having trouble finding the appropriate product? Enjoy our sourcing services, we directly find the right suppliers for you!
  • You don’t trust your supplier? Ask our experts to do quality control to guarantee the condition of your goods!
  • Do you need help with the logistics? Our international freight department supports you with door to door services!
  • You don’t want to handle distribution? Our 3PL department will handle the storage, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery!

DocShipper | Procurement – Quality control – Logistics

 

Alibaba, Dhgate, made-in-china… Many know of websites to get supplies in Asia, but how many have come across a scam ?! It is very risky to pay an Asian supplier halfway around the world based only on promises! DocShipper offers you complete procurement services integrating logistics needs: purchasing, quality control, customization, licensing, transport…

Communication is important, which is why we strive to discuss in the most suitable way for you!

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The Benefits and Drawbacks of Overseas Manufacturing

Manufacturing is usually the mass production and making of goods by hand or machinery. Manufacturing usually requires a large scale of machinery and workforce to transform raw materials into finalized products, which are then sold to large distributors. This article will discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of using overseas manufacturers.  

What are the Advantages and Setbacks of Overseas Production?

productionFor a variety of reasons, many start-ups and product-focused enterprises prefer to manufacture their products overseas. The benefits of outsourcing production are thoroughly documented, but there can also be some disadvantages. This article will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of manufacturing overseas, allowing you to make an informed choice about whether it’s suitable for you or your company.   

It is essential to have a manufacturer who can produce high-quality items swiftly, affordably, and consistently. Companies must also be certain that manufacturers can deliver goods as well as mass production with high quality, which is difficult to find. Due to difficulty, experts are frequently required to not only locate the best manufacturer for your goods, but also to act as your advocate.

 5 Benefits of Overseas Manufacturers

Many start-ups and well-known establishments use overseas manufacturers for their products. There are 5 common reasons why product-focused enterprises, entrepreneurs, and E-commerce sellers use overseas manufacturers:

DocShipper Advice : DocShipper’s headquarters is based in Hong Kong, China, and has a variety of contacts with trustworthy Chinese Manufacturers. Please contact Docshipper’s customer service team for more information on manufacturers in China or manufacturers in other parts of the world such as in Africa, Europe, and Asia. 

A wide variety of manufacturers

Many foreign countries have a big number of manufacturers, providing product innovators with numerous options. For example, China accounts for 35% of global industrial production. Not only do they have countless producers, but many of them also manufacture large quantities of merchandise, which leads us to the following benefit. Websites such as Alibaba connect developers with a network of overseas manufacturers. However, verification of the manufacturer’s credibility is required before the partnership. 

Docshipper Alert: Alibaba is a huge Chinese e-commerce giant, and one of its many features allows companies to find manufacturers in their network. However, there are many scams on Alibaba, therefore it is highly recommended to use DocShipper’s sourcing services to find trustworthy manufacturers which will save you and your company both time and money. For more information, please contact DocShipper’s customer service team. 

Cheaper labor costs

Cheaper CostsThe United States has among the world’s highest labor wages, approximately four times that of Chinese wages. Manufacturing overseas can result in much lower labor costs. Lower labor costs lead to lower production costs, allowing you to generate larger profit margins or sell your goods for less than if they were created in the United States or another country with high labor wages.

Increased Volume Capacity 

One of the major benefits of manufacturing overseas is increased production capacity. Overseas producers may frequently produce big volumes of goods in a short period of time. Volume discounts can help you save money depending on your production needs. In reality, many manufacturers have minimum numbers or orders in place to keep prices under control.

Proximity to raw material providers

Raw MaterialsUS manufacturers have typically located some distance from where raw materials are sourced, which can significantly increase time-to-market and prices. Unlike Asian countries, where supply chains are robust and easily accessible to any type of raw material. If your product requires raw materials, you will most certainly suffer delays if it is made in the United States, especially if raw materials are to be shipped to the USA from foreign countries. In addition to all-time high shipping prices and delays as a result of Covid-19. According to the National Retail Association, 98 percent of businesses have been negatively affected by transportation and port delays, while costs are soaring.

Highly skilled workforces  

Many countries have higher skilled individuals levels than the United States, due to the fact that American employees choose to avoid manufacturing occupations. Consequently, this results in a skills gap in the United States. The greatest demand in the US is for those with computer, digital, and technology expertise, as well as programming skills for automation and robotics, all of which are available in other nations. There were 508,000 open manufacturing jobs in 2018. Many countries heavily invest in manufacturer training programs to support their nation’s most profitable sector: manufacturing. To meet the demand for qualified labor, Indonesia, for example, established the Polytechnic Education Development Project.

5 Drawbacks of Overseas Manufacturers

Despite the major benefits, here are some obstacles that overseas manufacturing faces: 

Higher shipping costs and longer consumption time

One of the major disadvantages is that transportation costs in nations such as China are frequently higher, making some products more expensive than in other parts of the world. It is substantially more expensive both ways if goods are imported because overseas manufacturers frequently demand an additional price (import fees) for delivery outside their country. In fact, these expenditures frequently outweigh the financial benefits of manufacturing abroad. The lack of proximity to where products are manufactured has certain difficulties. Compared to domestic shipping and manufacturing, it requires a long time to transport commodities from abroad back into the US in order to meet domestic demand. National holidays must be taken into consideration. For example, the Chinese New Year can span a month or more, during which factories shut down completely.

DocShipper Advice: Please take into consideration that each country has different shipping charges and regulations differ depending on the country and national holidays that can delay your order. Therefore, it is recommended to use DocShipper which they will assist you with the shipping procedures and charges. For more information, please contact DocShipper’s customer service team. 

Lack of supervision

It will be difficult to hold numerous in-person meetings to negotiate terms and verify production standards with international manufacturing. Since many countries prioritize face-to-face interactions, it is more difficult to form a relationship without being present. Due to Covid, travel restrictions (especially in China) have made traveling difficult, and even if possible, traveling costs are more expensive than before. DocShipper’s solution is to work with a product development firm that can appoint a local representative to your account. The representative will act as your substitute, at whichever factory is selected, and perform quality assurance work as if you were there yourself. 

DocShipper Info: DocShipper can provide trustworthy local representatives to your account to act on your behalf, attentively report everything back to you, and solve both language and cultural issues. For more information, please contact DocShipper’s customer service team. 

Cultural and Language Barriers 

Language BarriersWhen working with an international manufacturer, you will almost certainly encounter linguistic and cultural obstacles. This can make it difficult to negotiate contracts and prices, respect procedures and ethics, and accept other cultural differences. Then again, DocShipper can assign you a local representative, who speaks the language and understands the culture, guarantees that no information is lost in translation, and can speak in your best interests. 

 Customer Service Issues 

Bad Customer ReviewsLarge shipments have the possibility of going wrong or failing to fulfill expectations, leaving all those clients who had waited patiently for their merchandise dissatisfied. If a consumer complains about delays or poor quality, you are stuck in a pickle. Since you are the face of your brand, consumers will hold you accountable for all unsatisfactory outcomes and issues regardless of whether it was out of your jurisdiction such as manufacturer issues. 

Safety Hazards 

Safe Working EnvironmentEmployee and environmental safety should always be a priority. Not every country can follow the US in providing a physically and mentally safe working environment. Finding manufacturing partners who are known for good labor practices, safety measures, and environmental stewardship should be a priority. Collaborate with a product development firm that has ties with pre-screened manufacturing. They will help you find the most trustworthy ones, which saves you both time and money from possibly working with a high-risk manufacturer. 

Conclusion

To summarize, this article has discussed the advantages and disadvantages of using overseas manufacturers. Many product-focused enterprises, entrepreneurs, and E-commerce sellers prefer to manufacture their products overseas because of the five benefits of overseas manufacturers, such as a wide variety of manufacturers, cheaper labor costs, increased volume capacity, proximity to raw material providers, and highly skilled workforces. However, there are also five drawbacks of overseas manufacturers, including higher shipping costs and longer consumption time, lack of supervision, cultural and language barriers, customer service issues, and safety hazards. It is important to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks before making an informed choice about whether manufacturing overseas is suitable for a particular company or individual.

DocShipper helps you along the entire supply chain. If you have made the decision to source from abroad, we will manage the transportation using the type of transport that suits you best, such as sea freight. We will also manage the search for suppliers through our large network. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information!

FAQ | The Benefits and Drawbacks of Overseas Manufacturing

What is manufacturing?

Manufacturing is the mass production and making of goods by hand or machinery. It usually requires a large scale of machinery and workforce to transform raw materials into finalized products, which are then sold to large distributors.

What are the advantages of overseas manufacturing?

Overseas manufacturing has several advantages. These include a wide variety of manufacturers, cheaper labor costs, increased volume capacity, proximity to raw material providers, and highly skilled workforces.

What are the disadvantages of overseas manufacturing?

The disadvantages of overseas manufacturing include higher shipping costs and longer consumption time, lack of supervision, cultural and language barriers, customer service issues, and safety hazards.

Why do some start-ups and product-focused enterprises prefer to manufacture their products overseas?

Many start-ups and well-known establishments use overseas manufacturers for their products because it is cheaper and allows for increased production capacity. Overseas manufacturing also provides a wide variety of manufacturers, proximity to raw material providers, and highly skilled workforces.

How can I find trustworthy overseas manufacturers?

Finding trustworthy overseas manufacturers can be challenging. Websites such as Alibaba can connect developers with a network of overseas manufacturers, but verification of the manufacturer’s credibility is required before the partnership. DocShipper offers sourcing services to find trustworthy manufacturers, which can save you time and money.

DocShipper Advise : We help you with the entire sourcing process so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

  • Having trouble finding the appropriate product? Enjoy our sourcing services, we directly find the right suppliers for you!
  • You don’t trust your supplier? Ask our experts to do quality control to guarantee the condition of your goods!
  • Do you need help with the logistics? Our international freight department supports you with door to door services!
  • You don’t want to handle distribution? Our 3PL department will handle the storage, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery!

DocShipper | Procurement – Quality control – Logistics

 

Alibaba, Dhgate, made-in-china… Many know of websites to get supplies in Asia, but how many have come across a scam ?! It is very risky to pay an Asian supplier halfway around the world based only on promises! DocShipper offers you complete procurement services integrating logistics needs: purchasing, quality control, customization, licensing, transport…

Communication is important, which is why we strive to discuss in the most suitable way for you!

A full guide to freight forwarding; definition, services, reasons and FAQ
/ By / Shipping/ • • • / 0 Comments

A full guide to freight forwarding: definition, services, reasons and FAQ

With the explosion of online sales, many people are embarking on this emotionally rich adventure. However, they only think that a website will be enough to manage everything. However, it is necessary to know and understand the field of freight forwarding, which is not so simple! Indeed, it is often complicated to manage the supply chain of its products : through the several phases of sourcing, shipping and 3PL. Especially while keeping the control of your goods on several thousand kilometers. It is also necessary to find out the type of incoterms to use according to the type of goods shipped.

Fortunately, DocShipper, the international logistics specialist, takes care of everything from A to Z. A good freight forwarder is essential for the success of your business. Imagine being overwhelmed with requests, with sales growing rapidly but your goods not arriving on time, this would be a disaster for customer satisfaction.

DocShipper's shipping service is one of the most complete and trustworthy business partners in the market. You get real-time, customizable tracking. So with that in mind, we want to teach you a little more about freight forwarding, the benefits of it and how it works.

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How to create a more sustainable supply chain? Your full guide
/ By / Shipping/ • • • / 0 Comments

How to create a more sustainable supply chain? Your full guide

In a context of growing environmental awareness, companies are seeking to create more sustainable supply chains. Indeed, the environmental and social impact of product production and distribution has become a major issue for consumers, businesses and governments. 

The environmental impact of supply chains cannot be underestimated, accounting for over 80% of a consumer company's emissions. Current supply chain models are no longer sustainable, not only because of their impact on the environment, but also because of the growing economic disadvantages. With this in mind, this article outlines the different steps to creating a more sustainable supply chain and the benefits it can bring to business and the environment.

That's why you need a service provider committed to a sustainable supply chain, such as DocShipper, that takes into account the environmental, social and economic impacts of every step in its supply chain.

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Fares FI workplace
/ By / Logistics/ • • • • / 0 Comments

Increasing the scale of AI in the supply chain to boost intelligence

The supply chain disruption is a global phenomenon that compels businesses to restructure their manufacturing and supply networks in order to promote resilience, relevance, and accountability. In order to build a connected and truly intelligent supply chain, such efforts depend on placing data at the center of the supply chain and applying AI to it at scale.The proper personnel, cloud technology, and an AI strategy and roadmap are essential for overcoming the barriers to expanding AI and enabling it to create real business value.

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Blockchain-based Digitalization of ImportExport Process
/ By / Logistics/ • • • • / 0 Comments

Blockchain-based Digitalization of Import/Export Process

The Covid-19 period has been very difficult for the logistics import-export companies, in procurement for the other companies. During 2 years, freight shipping has been the most challenging in monetary cost but also the contract of sale between the logistics professionals. The contractual document B/L, been important between the freight carrier and the shipper keep as evidence, in case of lost goods and of professional fault during the transport and of transaction. I would say Docshipper by its expertise in the logistics filed can help you manage the whole transport process beside guiding you through a dedicated collaboration.  

The integration  of digitalization can be a source of advantages, but also disadvantages. The advantages may include the best manufacturing process for the blockchain, delivery in faster time and economic gain to customers. 

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/ By / Sourcing/ • • • • / 0 Comments

A full guide to MOQ [definition , formula , benefits and tips]

A minimum order quantity (MOQ) may be required when ordering from a particular manufacturer or wholesaler. This means that manufacturers, suppliers, and wholesalers may reject certain customers if they cannot or will not meet the minimum order quantity. 

 It may seem counterintuitive that rejecting a customer could increase profits, but how minimum order quantity works and some suppliers are particularly low margin or highly profitable orders. It is important to understand what to use for custom orders. With careful management, the minimum order quantity can increase your profit.

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