Have you ever wondered how we do our Freight, Packaging and Delivery here at Fabric8 Membrane Services? In this blog post, we run through the most important things to consider during the process to ensure our products are well protected and delivered safely.
4 FACTORS WE LOOK FOR IN OUR FREIGHT FORWARDER
Finding the best freight forwarder to deal with might be difficult, but we've put together a simple process for how we consider our forwarder company:
#1: They must have significant experience.
What distinguishes exceptional freight forwarders from ordinary ones is their level of expertise, particularly in more difficult sectors of the profession. Freight forwarders, like most areas of the economy, are subject to logistical hiccups and delays that could throw deliveries off track. Logistical hurdles such as cargo reroute, customs, warehousing, and port blackouts will be handled more efficiently and effectively with the help of an expert freight forwarder.
#2: They must have a worldwide reliable network.
Freight forwarding is a job that transcends several jurisdictions and accountabilities, making it critical to deal with a forwarder who has a worldwide service network. Because the service provider will manage our overseas shipments from start to end, having a network of global brokers is important to take into account.

#3: They should have a range of services and relevant qualifications and licenses.
Freight forwarders are often susceptible to the idea that having more credentials, certifications, and services demonstrates a better level of proficiency in the field. A freight forwarder that we consider working with will typically offer a broad array of services that can be used to suit our client’s requirements and smoothly handle international shipments. Preparation of exports and imports documents, incoming and outbound logistics, warehousing, customs clearance, insurance, and freight consolidation are among the services offered.
On either side, the potential freight forwarding firm should have a specified list of qualifications and credentials that will support their capacity to apply specialized training and comply with security criteria. The majority of skillful freight forwarders frequently have ISO certifications, which aid in demonstrating their ability to meet customer expectations while improving quality of work.
#4: Price and Partnership Rates
In this type of business, delivery is always a component of the process, thus it's a good idea to choose a partner freight forwarder. Some forwarder companies have partnership pricing that are beneficial to all parties involved.
Our top priority is to find a reputable and trustworthy forwarder who is willing to provide a discount while maintaining a high quality delivery that helps our clients achieve their objectives.
DIFFERENT TYPE OF PACKAGING

Wood Packaging (Plywood and Laminated Veneer Lumber)
Wooden packing is a very durable and reliable sort of packaging, even though it is steadily being displaced by newer materials. Because they are not heavy and can handle a wide range of packages, they are perfect for air freight services.
It is crucial to ensure that the material is ready and suitable for air freight when it comes to wooden packaging. This entails going through a series of steps to get it ready for delivery. One of the most dangerous aspects of utilizing wood for deliveries is that it is susceptible to fire, which is why it must be treated to give it a layer of protection that protects it from wear and tear.
In addition to wood treatment, the proper amount of materials should be used to secure the cargo and prevent it from being impacted by vibrations and severe movement.
The wood materials we use at Fabric8 are veneer lumber which complies with the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) Standard.


Plastic Packaging
Plastic packaging, which is perhaps the most prevalent form of packaging used in small and medium boxes, has become increasingly popular due to its light weight and lengthy properties. Plastic packaging has improved tremendously throughout time, becoming a more durable and sturdy kind of packing that may be utilized for a variety of freight distribution methods. Plastic boxes, freight pallets, and even liquid containers are examples of this sort of packing.
Plastic packaging is also a wonderful way to save money because you can reuse it several times, making it ideal for transporting large quantities of goods. Because the packing is so light, you won't have to pay extra for it because it's heavier, and you'll be able to transport multiple products at once.


Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes are another major kind of cargo packaging used with a wide range of deliveries because they are the most cost-effective and freely accessible. Cardboard packaging is light and flexible, and it comes in a wide variety of sizes, allowing you to fit a variety of items while keeping them safe. Because cardboard boxes are so inexpensive, you can easily buy boxes in bulk and have plenty on hand for forthcoming deliveries.
When it comes to cargo protection, boxes come in a range of sizes to match your requirements. Start by adding cushion and foam to your container, which is quite good at preventing your objects from shifting or vibrating. Using packing tape all around the box is a good way to secure the package outside. A lot of tape and other adhesives must be used with cardboard packaging to keep the cargo from breaking open. The best freight packing is one that is both robust and easy to use, and that is exactly what cardboard boxes can provide.

Metal Pallet
Despite the fact that it is rarely used for delivery due to its high cost, we still use metal pallets for heavier freight shipments to guarantee that the foundation of the shipping crates is strong enough to hold the freight until it reaches the final destination. Metal pallet manufacturing is done in-house at Fabric8, but if you outsource it, it will also add to your cost estimates.
PROCESS & DUE DILIGENCE
Step 1: Dimension of Package (Weight, Length, Height, Width)
After all of the materials needed by the customer have been fabricated, our staff will begin to carefully fold and pack everything in order to achieve the suitable freight size. This is crucial because it will give you an idea of the best material to use for packing.
Step 2: Wait for Shipping Instructions and Pickup Schedule
We consider the time period of delivery for each freight, taking into account the capabilities of land and sea forwarders (since it differs from air freight) to ensure that projects are delivered on time.
Step 3: Documents Preparation
Various states have different freight delivery documentation. Some are comparable based on the kind of delivery, but some simply have additional documents. To avoid any complications along the course, all relevant paperwork must be received and properly filed.
Step 4: Loading of Freight Delivery
Now, we must ensure that the loading of Freight delivery to our containers is complete and correct. We keep in mind that certain clients have special packing preferences and container placements based on how they receive their freight. Our team complies to specifications agreed with the client to make it simpler for the client, as a receiver, to coordinate with their on-the-ground team.
Step 5: Monitor the Shipment
Monitoring the freight is also critical. Technological advances and application development now allow developers to incorporate GPS on real-time delivery reports, providing forwarders with a relatively accurate idea of where their freights are.
Step 6: Receiving of Shipment Freight
Receiving shipment freight on the client's end is the final step in the process. We will provide an email update to our clients, especially if it is a sea freight delivery. For land and air deliveries, we supply clients with the tracking number so they may monitor it from their end as well.

Jonah Gocela, Fabric8's Logistic Officer, coordinates with freight forwarders, brokers, and clients to ensure that projects are completed and delivered on schedule.
The information presented above is based on our experience at Fabric8. You may use this information as a guideline for your business, but they will vary depending on the products you sell/deliver and the business/people you serve.