Factors that Influence Freight Rates In India

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People who wish to transport a certain kind of merchandise must know the things that influence the freight charges in India.

Cost of Merchandise:

Freight rates largely affect the cost of merchandise that is being transported from one place to another. Importers and exporters have to be oriented about the factors that can influence freight rates in India so they can formulate a better business plan. It is also crucial to be informed that freight rates are regulated by a certain organization that ensures every freight forwarded charges only accordingly. Nevertheless, there could be slight deviations which also are explainable on the part of the freight forwarder. Importers and exports may ask for freight quotes so they can evaluate the overall cost of every shipment. These reports can also be helpful in consolidating for better charges.

Fuel Charge:

Fuel cost is the primary determinant of freight rates. In order to move commodities from one place to another, freight forwards need to fuel up vehicles. Unfortunately, with the high fuel cost fluctuations, prospect freight rates have become difficult to calculate. Freight forwarders must cover the fuel expenses and the maintenance of their vehicles. Additionally, their charges should also swathe the salary of everybody in the company. Huge freight forwarders can still generate revenue even with a small profit margin per package. This is due to the accrued freight charges.

Weight of merchandise:

The weight of the merchandise is another major determinant of the charges that importers and exporters are bound to shell out. Prior to shipping the merchandise will be weighed in order to calculate the accurate freight cost. Most shippers today post a guide on the approximate freight rate for various weight rates. By just visiting their websites, importers and exporters will have an idea on the amount that they will have to bring out for the shipping. Logically, a heavier shipment means higher freight rates. It is going to take up more space in the vehicle and this space should be paid for. Moreover, freight companies need to get the weight of the merchandise that will be transported so they would know if they had exceeded the limit already. For everybody’s knowledge, trucks, ships and airplanes have a maximum capacity to strictly follow. Going above their capacity can be dangerous. If the regulatory body finds out that they are deviating from the rules, the freight forwarding company might be suspended and required for pay a huge penalty. They must also follow the approved freight rates in India in order to secure fair competition.

Size of merchandise:

The size of the merchandise or cargo also influences the rates that importers and importers should pay. Some things may need more space so some freight forwarding companies include the size in the calculation. A guide is normally provided by the freight forwarding companies. If a merchandise or cargo exceeds the maximum size, the client may be asked to divide it. Consequently, they will have to pay for two separate cargos. The distance from point A to point B is another vital factor. Freight forwarding companies will calculate the cost of transporting cargos from one place to another and use it basis for freight charges. Logically, those that will be delivered in farther destinations will use up more fuel. Thus, the transportation rates are higher. In some cases, deliveries that will cover short distances are pricey because the vehicle will have to travel further will lesser cargo. Freight rates in India may vary due to various conditions.

Delivery Time:

The time of arrival is another dynamic to be taken into consideration. Commodities that will not expire or perish quickly can be transported using ships. It will take days before cargos reach their destination if they travel by sea (still depending on the distance of course). A number of freight forwarding companies use enormous ships which means they can transport more cargos on one trip. They are able to make the most out of the fuel expenses, handling and checking so sea freight charges are often cheaper. But there are restrictions though. There is a list of goods that should not be stored for a long time. If the cargo needs to be transported right away, clients must opt for air transport. Some types of commodities require being stored in certain conditions during transportation. Perishable goods can be preserved for a certain period of time, given that it will be stored in controlled temperatures. The freight rates of these types of commodities are higher because the freight forwarding companies must utilize refrigerators.

Mode of Shipment:

Air shipping prices is regulated by the International Air Transport Association. They regularly provide Official Rates Policy for air shippers to follow while considering the The Air Cargo Tariff. Air Freight Costs are calculated based on the consultation between International Air Transport Association and Local Contract Price Committees. These are inclined to inter-governmental pact of various countries. Any air shipping company that wishes to change their prices must get an authorization from International Air Transport Association and of the government to which it resides. A set of requirements will have to file before getting the approval.

People who wish to transport a certain kind of merchandise must know the things that influence the freight charges in India. It is best to be oriented about these things especially if they engaged on a business that transports commodities around and outside the country. Integrating with reputable freight forwarding companies can be an advantage for it can provide a higher level of customer confidence and better pricing. Furthermore, they can be assured that their cargos will be handled correctly. One such software which allows you to integrate your website with upto 5 courier companies (Fedex, Bluedart, FirstFlight, Aramex, Delhivery) at the same time and help you process your orders automatically is Shiprocket.

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