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How to Prepare Your Shipment for Freight Forwarding

An aerial view of a shipping boat carrying freight in the ocean.

Do you need shipments transported to different carriers? Are you unsure how to properly prepare those shipments for transportation? Here, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to prepare your shipments for freight forwarding in El Paso.

At Cordova Brokerage International in El Paso, TX, we offer various services, including freight forwarding, cross-docking, and warehousing. If you need a shipment transported to another location, we’re the team to work with. For more information, call us at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

Steps to Follow

There is more to freight forwarding than simply placing the product on a truck and sending it off. You need to make sure that every preparation step is followed accurately to avoid any costly delays. If you want to ensure everything goes smoothly with your freight forwarding shipment, there are a few crucial steps to follow. 

  • Prep the Package- Loose articles can result in damage during transpor, so make sure everything is tied down tightly. We recommend placing the cargo on pallets to prevent any damage. 
  • Stack the Cargo- There is a proper way to stack your cargo to make the freight forwarding more efficient. Stacking the product on pallets requires geometric design and equal weight distribution. If there is an imbalance of weight or any overhang off the pallet, the product will likely be damaged. 
  • Ensure Proper Labeling- For handling and shipping purposes, make sure each product is labeled correctly. The labels need to be clear and visible for the freight forwarding workers to see. 
  • Bill of Lading- The Bill of Lading is an important document required when transporting shipments. It includes details of the shipment, the destination, and the origins and can also act as a receipt. Because this is a contractual agreement, it’s vital that everything is filled out correctly. 
  • Track the Shipment- Just because the product has left your facility does not mean it’s out of your hands just yet. It’s important to track the shipment as it moves through El Paso freight forwarding. This way, you can intervene if there’s an issue along the way to its destination. 

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer trustworthy freight forwarding services. When you put your shipment in our hands, we can guarantee you your products will get to their destination in perfect condition. For more information, call (915) 595-8774 today!

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Top Mistakes Importers Make and How Customs Brokers Can Help

A customs broker in a white hard hat taking notes on a tablet in El Paso.

Are you the owner of an importing company and have come into a few issues while transporting goods across borders? Here, we will discuss common mistakes importers run into and how a customs broker can help avoid them. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, our experienced customs brokers can help make importing and exporting goods easier for you. We are dedicated to providing our clients with personalized services and can guarantee quality work. For more information, call us at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today.

What to Avoid

If you’re new to the business of importing, then it’s not uncommon for you to make a few mistakes along the way. However, those mistakes could get you into trouble, cause a delay in shipping, and create unhappy customers. Hiring an El Paso customs broker can help you avoid these mistakes. Read below for a list of common errors a customs broker can help you avoid. 

  • Forgetting a Compliant Commercial Invoice- Without a proper invoice, the goods will not receive a stamp of approval for passage. Some invoice requirements are as follows: invoice must be in English, names of the buyers/sellers, what currency is being used, and the weights/quantities. 
  • Not Having Incoterms- These are the internationally accepted rules for most commercial terms. Proper incoterms must be assigned to your products to ensure the proper definitions of the goods. 
  • No COO (Country of Origin)- You must always include where your products are coming from. A customs broker will make sure your products are properly labeled before reaching customs. 
  • Lack of Details- In addition to the COO, you must also have where the products were manufactured, what is the quantity, and what is the product made out of. Our customs brokers will deal with all the details of importing so you won’t have to worry about missing something.  
  • Not Having Correct Rate- Imports typically have either a tax or tariff rate you have to pay for imports. A customs broker in El Paso will make sure you’re using the correct rate. 
  • Incomplete Paperwork- Some required paperwork includes an arrival notice, a commercial invoice, a bill of lading, and a packing list. 

Customs Broker in El Paso

Cordova Brokerage International, a customs broker located in El Paso, TX, offers unparalleled assistance when it comes to the importing and exporting of goods. Our services can be customized to adhere to specific company requirements and regulations. If you’re interested in working with us, call (915) 595-8774 today for more information.

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Navigating Customs Warehousing: Benefits and Best Practices for Businesses

A man in a hard hat looking at a computer in an El Paso customs warehouse.

Are you the owner of a business and are interested in working with a customs warehouse? If so, you’ll need to know what kind of benefits this business practices provides; here, we will explain just that. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer customs warehouse services that include security, logistical management, and inventory control. Our services are low-cost and convenient for all businesses. For more information, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today!

Understanding the Benefits

An El Paso customs warehouse can make any business’s life a lot easier. However, if you’ve never worked with one in the past, you might not be aware of the benefits and practices that come with a customs warehouse. Read below for a list of those benefits. 

  • Long-Term Storage- A customs warehouse is the most ideal form of storage for long-term handling. Importing businesses can save time and money by utilizing a customs warehouse for long-term storage because it allows for fewer trips between suppliers. 

 

  • Better Cash Flow- Customs warehouses allow businesses to store their product in a secure location before paying the import tariffs. This can help improve the cash flow of the business. 

 

  • Protection of Restricted Goods- When using our customs warehouse, you’re entrusting the protection of your restricted goods to our hands. There is typically a short window of time for the proper paperwork to be issued before storing your products. However, when storing in a customs warehouse, you can keep your goods stocked and protected while you take your time in obtaining the proper paperwork. 

 

  • Flexible Stock Management- You’re able to streamline stock management procedures by enabling you to store old products or unnecessary goods; this comes in handy when you need to store seasonal items. 

 

  • Safety- Customs warehouses provide more strict security than a standard warehouse. Customs agents strictly monitor and guard these facilities to ensure the products stored inside are safe and secure. In addition to the security, some of these warehouses are climate-controlled for temperature-sensitive items as well as properly storing hazardous products. 

Customs Warehouse in El Paso

Here at Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, we offer plenty of security and space in our customs warehouse for your products. With our warehouse being over 80,000 square feet, we can offer plenty of clean and secure storage space. For more information about our customs warehouse, call (915) 595-8774 today.

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Navigating Customs Regulations: How a Freight Forwarder Can Help

A man looking at storage units for international shipping in El Paso.

Do you own an El Paso that is shipping goods and products overseas and requires assistance navigating through the customs process? Here, we will discuss how a freight forwarding company can help you with customs clearance. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer freight forwarding services for your imported and exported goods. We have advanced knowledge of the industry and know our way around customs. If you need a freight forwarder, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today!

Assisting With Customs Clearance

The process of going through customs can be a stressful situation, especially if you’re trying to manage the exporting of your products. An El Paso freight forwarding company can handle customs on your behalf. Read below for a list of things a freight forwarder will do for you when your products reach customs. 

  • Imports Documents- Customs laws vary from country to country; however, the importing documentation you will need regardless is information about each individual shipment that is being passed through. Our team will handle all the customs agents and paperwork filing. 
  • Exports Documents- The documents required for exporting are any invoices, the certificate of origin, the packing list, the bill of shipment, the bill of lading, and any other documentation required by the country. 
  • Container Loading- If the contents within the shipping container are not properly loaded, extra fees can occur, and your entire shipment may be delayed. We will make sure your products are properly loaded to avoid any issues. 
  • Time and Cost-Efficient Shipping- It’s beneficial to hire a freight forwarding company to help you through customs because if your shipment doesn’t pass inspection, you will have to pay for temporary storage, and the delay may negatively impact your business. Make sure you find a freight forwarder that has years of customs experience under their belt. 
  • Accurate and Appropriate Documents- There is an overabundant amount of paperwork that goes into freight forwarding, but it’s vital that all of it is up to date and what the customs agents require. Double-check your paperwork!

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

Here at Cordova Brokerage, located in El Paso, we are a trusted El Paso freight forwarding company with expert experience in the world of customs. If your shipment requires a pitstop through customs, we’re the team to contact. Call (915) 595-8774 today.

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Implementing Cross Docking: A Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses

A blue and yellow graphic of the cross-docking process with “CROSS-DOCKING’ written in white in El Paso.

Are you an El Paso business that needs a better handle on your inventory management? Have cross-docking services been recommended to you? Here, we will discuss what cross-docking is and how it can benefit you and your business. 

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, TX, we offer cross-docking services to businesses who are looking to keep their inventory logistics more organized, If you’re interested in hearing more about what we can do for you, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

Diving into Cross Docking

Cross-docking services in El Paso are processes in which inbound goods are delivered, unloaded, and then transferred directly to the next outbound truck; the goods are not stored in a warehouse between truckloads. This efficient process requires organization and a lot of coordination between all involved parties. Regardless of whether the goods are perishable, time-sensitive, or high-turnover products, cross-docking services can benefit them all. 

If you’re thinking of obtaining El Paso cross-docking services for your business products, you should understand the kind of benefits it brings. Read below to see how these services can help. 

  • Improved Customer Satisfaction- Cross-docking can improve order accuracy and increase lead times. Customers will appreciate getting their orders in a more timely manner and with little to no errors.

 

  • Less Risk of Damage- Because products aren’t stored in a warehouse, they aren’t getting moved around as much. Because of this minimal handling, there is a decreased risk of damage to the products. 

 

  • Can Save on Costs- Cross-docking services can save money in a multitude of ways. Since the products don’t need to be stored, this reduces inventory costs and the labor costs to handle the stored inventory. Shipping and transportation costs can also be reduced by minimizing mile usage and wasted time. 

 

  • Shorter Transit Times- Transit times can be reduced because of the elimination of warehouse storage. This is because cross docking skips over the inventory storage process and instead ships directly to their final destination. 

Cross Docking Services in El Paso

At Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, we offer cross-docking services to anyone interested in receiving the benefits listed previously. By trusting our team with your products, you are reducing any and all risks associated with standard shipping and delivery services. If you’re interested in seeking our services, call (915) 595-8774 today.

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The Role of Customs Warehouses in International Trade

Three people reviewing inventory at a customs warehouse in El Paso.

Are you thinking about doing international trade for your El Paso company but aren’t sure what you’re getting into? Here, we will explain the role of custom warehouses and what they can do for your company. 

At Cordova Brokerage International Inc., located in El Paso, TX, we offer customs warehouses to our clients who need a place to store their goods while going through customs. If this is something you are interested in, or you want to hear more about our services, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

What is a Customs Warehouse?

A customs warehouse in El Paso is a secure location that has a connection to customs where you can store, import, and export goods. Before the goods are sent out to their destination, they must be inspected by a customs agent. A customs agent will come to the customs warehouse where your goods are stored until the inspection is complete. This makes both your life and the customs agent’s life a lot easier. 

International Benefits

Though there are quite a few benefits of using an El Paso customs warehouse to store your goods, the most significant benefit of them all is how convenient international shipping is. When you import your goods to a customs warehouse anywhere in the world, you can store them there until they are ready to be exported, and you won’t have to pay an additional fee to do it. There are two routes to using a customs warehouse for international needs: importing and exporting. 

  • Importing- If you’re selling goods that go into seasonal demands, you can hold them at a customs warehouse until they are ready to be sold. The importer can then pay duties on their products as they are being delivered to their destination inside the country where they were held. 
  • Exporting- Importers can store the goods at a customs warehouse in order to save costs before being exported again. When the products are exported out of the country, the importer will not be charged a duty fee because the products are under the surveillance of customs. 

Customs Warehouses in El Paso

Cordova Brokerage International Inc., located in El Paso, offers plenty of space, security, and support at our customs warehouses, no matter what kind of products you’re bringing in. Whether you’re importing or exporting goods, we have a place to keep them. Call (915) 595-8774 for more information.

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Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder for Your Business: Key Considerations

Packaged cargo in front of an airplane in El Paso.

As a business, you want to choose a company that will handle your products and goods with care. This is why it is essential to choose the right freight forwarding business. 

At Cordova Brokerage, located in El Paso, we offer international freight forwarding to provide the utmost convenience to our clients. We take into consideration the type of product you’re transporting as well as the best routes that meet your preferences. If you’re interested in hearing more about our services, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today!

Making the Right Decision

When transporting your products across international borders, it’s ideal that you utilize freight forwarding professionals. There is nothing wrong with handling the specifics yourself, but understand that this is a very complex process. Read below for a list of tips on how to choose the right freight forwarding company. 

  • What shipping requirements do you need?
    • Depending on what kind of goods you need transported will depend on how you want them to be transported. This could be either air, water, or if within North America, by truck. 
  • See who are experts on your shipping route.
    • A freight forwarder needs to be familiar with your geographic needs. Be sure to ask them if they have strong connections in the pick-up and destination areas. 
  • Get a detailed freight forwarding quote.
    • Ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs of working with them. A few things that go into the final cost are the types of goods, the weight or volume, and the mode of transportation. 
  • What services does the freight forwarder provide?
    • All El Paso freight forwarding companies offer the standard services of transportation, delivery, and distribution. However, if your products require special treatment, be sure to ask the company if they can accommodate the service you require.
  • What is their reputation?
    • Much like checking the reviews for any business, make sure you check what kind of reputation they have. How satisfied were their clients? Did they have any issues during transport? If so, how was it resolved?
  • Make sure to compare multiple freight forwarders. 
    • After gathering service options, reviews, and quotes, the next thing to do is compare the freight forwarding companies with your needs. 

Freight Forwarding in El Paso

If you need a freight forwarding company to transport your products, look no further at Cordova Brokerage. We have served the El Paso area for over 20 years and are dedicated to providing personalized service. For more information, call (915) 595-8774!

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Streamlining Supply Chains with Cross Docking

A white semi-truck with the back open in El Paso.

Are you curious about cross docking but aren’t sure how it will benefit you and your El Paso business? Here, we will explain how cross docking services can improve overall efficiency for your business. 

Cordova Brokerage International, located in El Paso, offers cross docking services that increase the speed and delivery of goods. If you want to learn more about our cross docking services, give us a call at (915) 595-8774 or contact us online today. 

The Benefits of Cross Docking Services in El Paso

Cross docking is when workers unload incoming deliveries and load the materials directly onto outbound delivery vehicles. Because there is no space or gap in time between unloading and loading, the process is very fast-paced, which in turn means potentially dangerous. It’s vital to have a skilled manager monitoring the process for any hazards or mistakes. 

With how fast-paced our society has been and still is becoming, efficiency is the best way to stay ahead of your competitors. This is why using cross docking services in El Paso is the way to go in the shipping and handling industry. Read below for a list of why cross docking services are beneficial. 

  • Flexibility- Inbound products can be sorted based on demand, ensuring product availability for your customers. 
  • Visibility- By reducing the number of touch points, your supply chains become more visible. Cross docking services can reduce potential delays or inefficiencies in the shipping and delivery process. 
  • Inventory Management- Cross docking reduces inventory holding costs. It can also help avoid under and overstocking products due to the fast-paced procedure. 
  • Transit Times- Through cross docking services, products are sorted quicker, consolidated, and immediately shipped to their final destinations. This reduces the time between ordering, receiving, and shipping which in turn gets the products to the customer faster. 
  • Handling Costs- Cross docking services can also reduce handling costs by minimizing the need for warehouse storage and labor. 

Cross Docking Services in El Paso

Cordova Brokerage provides thorough cross docking services that will leave your customers happy. Our brokers can help you get your cross docking services started in order to help you streamline your El Paso supply chain. Call (915) 595-8774 for more information.

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What to Look For in a Customs Broker

A customs broker shaking hands with another person in El Paso.

Are you looking to import or export products but aren’t sure about the requirements that go along with the process? We are here to explain a few things to consider when looking for an El Paso customs broker. 

At Cordova Brokerage International Inc. in El Paso, we are a dedicated customs broker that helps provide importers and exporters with effective and personalized services. If you’re interested in our services, call us at (915) 595-8774 or fill out our contact us online today!

Things to Consider

A customs broker is a person or organization that acts as a go-between for businesses in handling customs formalities for importing and exporting goods. An El Paso customs broker will help you understand certain requirements for importing and exporting, get the necessary clearances, and will submit the paperwork and payments on your behalf. When it comes to hiring a customs broker to handle your goods and products, you want to make sure they are up to your standards in professionalism. Read below for a list of things to look for when researching customs brokers in El Paso. 

 

  • Their Capabilities Match Your Expectations- In handling goods, you want a customs broker that will be in constant communication with you. They also need to have the appropriate technology to support their products the way you need them to be handled. Great customer service should also be a must. 

 

  • They’re Experienced With Your Type of Industry- Each industry has certain regulations when it comes to cross-border shipping. When you choose an El Paso customs broker that is industry-focused, you can trust that they keep up with any change in policies or regulations. Be sure to ask them about their experience in the industry and if they can manage your shipment volumes. 

 

  • Make Sure Their Offices Are in Line With Your Ports- If your shipment has to go through multiple ports, then this factor is especially important. The customs broker should have an office in or near the ports you ship through. It’s also best to make sure they offer 24/7 service since products don’t stop moving when we sleep. 

 

  • They Have a Good Reputation and Are Licensed- A customs broker that has strong relationships with location authorities can potentially allow for an easier border crossing. Going with a customs broker that is licensed and registered is also very important. See Cordova Brokerage’s full list of certifications here. 

 

  • Single Carrier Relationship or LTL- If you want to save time and potentially money, using an LTL customs broker gives you a single point of contact, one invoice, and an expert resource for cross-border paperwork.

 

El Paso Customs Broker

Cordova Brokerage has a great working relationship with many shipment agencies. If you’re looking for a customs broker in El Paso that delivers quality service, you’ve come to the right place. We have extensive experience in this industry with a variety of different services. When you choose us, you’re choosing a reliable team that will make your trading simple and stress-free. 

To hear more about our services, call (915) 595-8774 or fill out our contact us online today.