Many businesses hire freight brokers to save cost and time and make the transportation of their freight hassle-free.

Freight forwarders provide expertise, cost-effective solutions, risk management, time-saving benefits, and a global network to businesses involved in international trade. Using a freight forwarder can help businesses streamline their supply chain, reduce costs, and manage the risks associated with international trade.

Your freight forwarder should keep you updated on the shipment’s status once it has been dispatched and let you know if there are any modifications or delays along the route.

Shipping errors can be expensive and cause significant delays in the delivery of products. So, although it may seem like you are paying more initially, a freight forwarder will save you money in the long run. A good freight forwarder will source the most efficient shipping rates through their extensive network of carriers thus saving you time and money.

Over the last twenty five years, IFS have worked closely and built up trusted relationships with all the major international carriers and shipping companies, importing and exporting from all corners of the globe.

The answer is yes, provided that the paperwork and documentation is correct. Our team have much experience in organising shipments and can help with this.

The quickest and easiest way is to complete our online Freight Quote. From there our team can advise the next steps.

This will depend on the size of freight, the destination and how quickly (or slowly) you want to get it there. Our dedicated team of knowledgeable staff will be able to advice on the appropriate mode of transport to suit your requirements.

For full details of the new Customs Declaration System (CDS) please visit our Freight Resources page >

IFS has invested much time and development in creating a Commercial Invoice template (white label) for our customers. Our experienced staff can provide guidance on how to complete these.

A Harmonized System code is a unique identifier to classify the exact type of goods being shipped. This can also known as a Commodity Code. The system is internationally recognized; the customs department of a country defines different regulations based on different classifications.

When you fill out a waybill (commercial invoice) for your international shipment, you will be required to enter the HS code(s) of the goods. Customs authorities will use this code to understand what is being shipped and apply the correct taxes and duties. If you include the incorrect code, you could end up paying the wrong rate – or worse, have your shipment rejected by the destination country. So it is very important to get it right. Here’s a dedicated HS code guide to help you.