Choosing the right freight forwarder can make or break your import/export experience. A good forwarder saves you time, money, and headaches. A bad one costs you all three. Here's how to evaluate your options.
8 Things to Look For
1. SARS Registration & Licensing
Your forwarder must be a registered customs clearing agent with SARS. This means they can submit customs entries via EDI and are authorised to represent you at customs. Ask for their SARS agent code.
2. Experience With Your Cargo Type
Different cargo requires different expertise:
- Perishables need cold chain knowledge
- Pharmaceuticals need GDP compliance
- Vehicles need RoRo expertise
- Mining equipment needs heavy-lift capabilities
- Electronics need NRCS compliance knowledge
3. Route Knowledge
Do they specialise in your trade lanes?
- China imports — Specific knowledge of Chinese shipping practices
- Cross-border Africa — Understanding of border procedures
- European trade — EU EPA documentation
4. Both Clearing AND Forwarding
Using a company that handles both clearing and freight forwarding means one point of contact and smoother coordination. Understand the difference →
5. Local Presence at Key Ports
Proximity to Durban Port or King Shaka Airport matters. When there's a CBCU stop or urgent documentation issue, a local agent can attend within hours, not days.
6. Transparent Pricing
A trustworthy forwarder provides:
- Clear, itemised quotes
- No hidden fees
- Honest estimates of customs duty and VAT
- Explanation of all charges
7. Communication
The best forwarders:
- Provide regular shipment updates
- Alert you proactively about delays
- Are accessible when you call
- Explain processes in plain language
8. References & Track Record
Ask for references from clients in your industry. Check online reviews. A company that's been operating for years (V & S Freight since 2007) has proven reliability.
Red Flags to Watch For
- 🚩 No SARS registration — They can't legally clear your goods
- 🚩 Unusually low quotes — Hidden fees will appear later
- 🚩 No physical office — Hard to resolve issues
- 🚩 Poor communication — If they're unresponsive before you're a client, it'll only get worse
- 🚩 No insurance — They should carry professional indemnity
Questions to Ask
- "Are you a registered clearing agent with SARS?"
- "Have you handled my type of cargo before?"
- "Can you provide an all-inclusive quote?"
- "What are your clearance times at Durban Port?"
- "How will you keep me updated on my shipment?"
- "What happens if there's a CBCU stop?"
Why V & S Freight
- ✅ SARS registered clearing agent since 2007
- ✅ Located in Durban CBD, minutes from the port
- ✅ Combined clearing and forwarding services
- ✅ Transparent, all-inclusive quoting
- ✅ Personal service from Vivian and Shevana