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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

What you should know about freight forwarding

Two professional freight brokers speaking in front of large freight units.

Does your business require the importation of goods? Do you stress about your product being delivered on time? If so,  you should consider working with a freight forwarding company. At Cordova Brokerage, based in El Paso, we offer trustworthy freight forwarding and logistic services. 

Give us a call at (915) 595 8774 or contact us online for a consultation today!

What is Freight Forwarding?

An El Paso freight forwarding company is an organization that moves goods and products all over the world on behalf of the person or company requesting it. They don’t physically move the goods themselves; they establish relationships with the companies that do the moving. In doing this, they plan out the entire shipment process on behalf of the client. To make things even more convenient for you, Cordova Brokerage will also ensure you get the lowest cost possible in terms of service. Let us do the hard work; you have a business to run!

What a Freight Forwarder Does

The experts at Cordova Brokerage in El Paso have a broad understanding of the international market. We take into consideration the condition of your goods, if they are perishable, hazardous, high in value, etc. Based on the kind of product you are transporting will depend on what kind of route we organize for the delivery. As mentioned before, we strive to keep the cost low for you. In order to do this, we negotiate the contracts, the transportation methods, and the handling with the company (or companies) moving your products. 

To have a deeper understanding of the freight forwarding process, here are the steps involved in the forwarding process:

  • Export Haulage- This may be the most familiar step in the process. This step involves the transportation of your product to the freight forwarders’ warehouse. Like most shipments, this transportation could range from a few hours to a few days. Depending on the distance and the value of the shipment will also depend on which mode of transportation is needed. 
  • Export Customs Clearance- Before any international shipping can occur, the country’s customs agents must approve the product departure. The agents will go through the paperwork and the details of the shipment to make sure it is safe and legal to ship. 
  • Products Checkpoint- This is the middleman part of the process. This is when the receiving team unpacks the products in their warehouse. They make sure none of the shipments were damaged during the transport. The freight forwarders will also make sure that the delivery location will accept the products. Certain items may have restrictions, like drugs, flammable liquids, and perishable items. 
  • Import Customs Clearance- Similar to the export customs, once your products arrive in the destination country, they will be checked to make sure they meet the legal requirements of the country. The import customs will sometimes charge fees that the freight forwarding company will temporarily cover. 
  • Destination Handling- Once the shipment is cleared from import customs, the freight forwarders will handle the transportation for the product to be delivered to its final destination. 
  • Import Haulage- This is the last stage of the process. Much like in the export haulage step, this is when the transportation method is chosen for the final delivery location. As mentioned previously, the mode of transportation is determined by how far the drop-off location is from the warehouse and what kind of goods are being transported. 

Why Choose Cordova Brokerage?

When it comes to the transfer of delicate goods, you want a skilled El Paso freight forwarding business you can trust. When you place the job of handling your product in our hands, understand that we will deliver results. 

Call us today at (915) 595 8774 or contact us online to learn more about our freight forwarding services. 

When Do You Need a Customs Warehouse?

A worker walking through a customs warehouse in El Paso.

When importing and exporting goods, an El Paso customs warehouse can be a valuable asset. Whether you’re an importer, exporter, or twin plant operator, a customs warehouse can help you manage customs processes and paperwork more effectively. 

At Cordova Brokerage, we understand the importance of having a reliable and knowledgeable Customs Warehouse partner. We offer dedicated customs brokerage services to help you navigate the complexities of international trade. We’ll discuss when you need to utilize a Customs Warehouse and how Cordova Brokerage can help.

If you require the services of a customs warehouse in El Paso, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us online or call (915) 595-8774 to learn more.

Understanding Customs Warehouses

A customs warehouse is a secure facility licensed by the government that allows for storing imported goods that are not yet subject to import duties or taxes. These warehouses offer businesses an opportunity to delay the payment of these fees until the goods are sold or removed from the warehouse.

When goods arrive at an El Paso customs warehouse, they are placed under customs supervision. This means that they are subject to government inspections and regulations. However, the goods can be stored without paying any import taxes or duties until they are either sold or removed from the warehouse.

What Are the Different Types of El Paso Customs Warehouses

There are three different types of customs warehouses. Each type of warehouse has its unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different types of businesses and situations.

  • Public warehouses are operated by third-party logistics companies and offer space for storing goods that are waiting for clearance by customs. They typically provide a range of services, such as receiving, handling, and loading of goods, as well as documentation and customs clearance assistance.
  • Private warehouses are owned and operated by individual companies and are used for storing their own goods. They offer greater control and security over the storage of goods and more flexibility in handling and storage requirements.
  • Bonded warehouses are specialized facilities that are authorized by customs authorities to store goods that have not yet been cleared for import or export. They are subject to strict regulations and must comply with a range of customs procedures and security requirements. 

When Is a Customs Bonded Warehouse Recommended?

A customs-bonded warehouse is recommended for businesses that import goods and need to defer payment of import duties and taxes until the goods are sold or otherwise removed from the warehouse. This can provide significant cash flow benefits, as businesses can delay payment of these fees for an extended period of time.

Customs-bonded warehouses can also be beneficial for businesses that need to store goods for an extended period of time or that require additional security for their inventory. By storing goods in a customs-bonded warehouse, businesses can ensure that their inventory is protected from theft or damage, as well as from customs penalties for non-compliance.

Experience Personalized Customs Brokerage Services with Cordova Brokerage

Cordova Brokerage in El Paso offers a comprehensive and tailored service for all your Customs Warehouse requirements. With our dedication to excellence and personalized approach, they strive to ensure that our client’s needs are met efficiently and effectively. With Cordova Brokerage by your side, you can be confident that your customs brokerage needs are in good hands.

Contact us online or call (915) 595-8774 today to experience our exceptional service and personalized approach to customs brokerage.

What is Freight Forwarding?

Shipping containers being moved by a forklift with a plane transporting freight in the background in El Paso.

Freight forwarding is an essential service in the realm of international shipping. Whether you are using transport services by sea or air, it is always best to have the guidance and knowledge of a professional. We outline the important facts and details about freight forwarding that you should know. 

If you need assistance with freight forwarding or want to learn more, Cordova Brokerage in El Paso can help. Contact us online or call (915) 595-8774 today.

Freight Forwarders vs. Freight Brokers

While the two may sound similar, they both have different responsibilities. A freight broker works as a middleman, connecting carriers and shippers. Freight forwarders organize shipping for domestic and international trade, arranging logistics for moving and storing goods during transit.

A Range of Services 

Considering freight forwarders have many responsibilities, they provide numerous services, including:

  • International import/export documentation
  • Customs
  • Packaging
  • Storage of goods
  • Insurance of loads 
  • Management of the inventory

If you are looking for a freight forwarder who handles specific tasks, this is something to ask immediately when getting in touch with professionals.

Shipping Restrictions Apply to Certain Products 

There are some items or goods that companies cannot legally ship to other countries. Many of these restricted items include but are not limited to:

  • Toxic substances
  • Flammable materials
  • Drugs and/or alcohol
  • Batteries
  • Sharp objects
  • Perishables

If you have any questions regarding the legality of your items or shipment, you can speak to an El Paso freight forwarder to advise you. 

Six Main Stages of Freight Forwarding   

Many steps are taken in freight forwarding, but six key stages make up the process. 

Export Haulage

The first main step consists of transporting goods from the warehouse or manufacturer to the freight forwarder’s warehouse. 

Export Customs Clearance 

The next step is taken when the shipment receives clearance to leave the country of origin. 

Origin Handling

After the ship arrives in the country of destination, officials then unload and check the booking documents regarding what is in the delivery.

Import Customs Clearance

Port authorities will proceed by checking customs documents.

Destination Handling

After authorities look at the documents, the cargo is then transferred to the import warehouse. 

Import Haulage 

The process is finalized once the shipment travels from the import warehouse to the final destination. 

Documentation

An El Paso freight forwarder provides documentation, which is part of several steps in the process, solely to ensure shipment security and prevent possible legal issues down the road. 

Some documents you can expect from a freight forwarder include the following:

  • Invoice
  • A bill of lading
  • Certificate of origin statement
  • Inspection certificate 

Labeling and Packaging

In addition to packaging and storing goods, a freight forward may (upon request) provide accurate labeling for products. This can also include weight designations or if the goods are deemed dangerous or not. 

Storage

In addition to labeling and packaging, a professional freight forwarder can provide clients with warehouse space in the country of origin and in the destination. You can rest assured that your goods will be covered by insurance and properly housed and stored in a climate-controlled, secure area. 

Legality 

One of the major benefits of hiring a freight forwarder is that they are in full understanding of legal details in specific countries. Even if your company is based in North America, it is essential to know the laws if you are shipping goods across borders. 

Hire The Right Freight Forwarders  

Whatever your shipping needs consist of, you can always rely on El Paso freight forwarders to ensure you are on the right path. Hire a freight professional from Cordova today and contact us online or call (915) 595-8774 to get started. 

How to Hire a Customs Broker in El Paso

Ship transporting imports and exports to El Paso.

If you’re an importer and exporter, you understand that customs laws are stricter than ever. As a result, it’s possible, even for those experienced in the business, to run into customs issues with their goods. 

If you want to avoid these issues and stay on the right side of the law in El Paso, then you should hire a customs broker. Contact us or call (915) 595-8774 today!

What are the Responsibilities of a Customs Broker? 

Essentially, a customs broker’s job is to make your life easier. They’re responsible for knowing the various laws and restrictions surrounding importing and exporting goods into and out of the United States. And, because of El Paso’s proximity to Mexico, it holds an important place in the world of importing and exporting goods. 

In addition to understanding the laws about importing and exporting, there are various forms to fill out and hoops to jump through. A customs broker will understand these hoops and documents and ensure that they’re filled out correctly. 

What to Look for in a Customs Broker? 

If you’re looking to hire a customs broker for your business, here are some of the top things and skills to look for. 

Experience 

One of the main things to look for in a customs broker is experience. Experience is essential in many industries, but none more so than in importing and exporting. An El Paso customs broker should know all the rules and regulations about the goods you’re importing or exporting. And, no matter how much training they have, only experience can fully prepare a customs broker for the obstacles they’ll face. A good customs brokerage will have many professional and experienced customs brokers to assist you.

Respectable Reviews 

As with all professions, checking online and word-of-mouth reviews is important. Reviews from other people, preferably previous clients, will tell you everything you need to know about whether a customs brokerage knows what they’re doing. 

Versatility 

When hiring a customs broker, you want a company that can do it all. Importing and exporting is a big part of the process, but customs brokerage also involves warehousing, docking, and forwarding. 

Communication 

One of the most critical components of being a successful El Paso customs broker is their communication ability. If your customs broker can’t maintain communication between you and the various government entities they’ll have to deal with, they won’t be successful. 

It’s vital for you, as a customer, to have ready and easy communication with your broker so that you know where your goods are and what you need to do. It’s also important for them to maintain communication with the government to get your goods where they need to go on schedule. 

Problem-Solving Skills 

Problems will inevitably arise throughout the process of importing and exporting. Therefore, having an El Paso customs broker who can solve these problems without bothering you is a huge plus. There are many moving parts in customs brokerage, and having someone who can solve these problems and handle the moving parts for you is massive. 

Ability to Use Technology

While hands-on communication remains vital in customs brokerage, much of the work is done with technology. The ability to use modern tools like websites, Google Suites, supply chain software, and other online tools and technology is paramount. The days of doing everything on paper and hard copy are gone, and the days of technology and online workability are here. 

How to Hire The Top Customs Broker in El Paso

If you want to hire a customs broker in El Paso who meets all these requirements and more, contact us or call (915) 595-8774 today. Cordova is CTPAT-certified, and an industry leader in customs brokerage, importing, exporting, forwarding, and warehousing needs. We’ve been in the business a long time and know everything there is to know about importing and exporting your goods.

Is Cross-Docking Right for Your El Paso Business?

A cross-docking worker preparing for a new shipment at the shipyard.The importance of the supply chain industry in modern business is due to many reasons. A successful business needs a fast, productive, and effective delivery of goods. If the supply chain is followed correctly, it increases the business efficiency and significantly reduces the time taken in transportation.

Click here to know more about cross-docking for your El Paso business

Before we dive deeper, let’s take a look at what cross-docking is.

What is Cross-docking?

Cross-docking is a supply chain model that immediately transfers goods from suitable suppliers to retailers or whole sellers directly with little or no storage.

This practice promotes faster replenishment and reduces shipping costs as it positions the inventory closer to the customer, which it has to supply.

It is done in docking terminals. The goods are unloaded from suppliers and loaded onto trucks that are headed to the customer or end-user.

Why is Cross-Docking Right for Your El Paso Business?

These are a few advantages of cross-docking that is highly beneficial for your El Paso business.

  • You can save a significant amount, as it means you don’t need more space for storage. In cross-docking, warehouse space is used to store for less time as it can be sent to the end customer quickly.
  • You can eliminate expenses like storing goods, handling and counting these goods, and insurance of inventory costs money. The best thing about it is the immediate transfer to the end customer with minimum holding time.
  • It edges the risk of your goods getting spoiled or damaged because of the immediate transportation facility, which leads to retaining the quality of products.
  • This has altered the idea of transportation. Now it is easy to manage large packaging as they break down large packages into smaller ones which are easy to handle and load in trucks. This exercise also edges the damage risk of the goods.
  • It provides a central site to handle products. The goods that will be transported at dock locations are sorted and loaded onto multiple carriers or transporters based on the shipment’s final destination.
  • When done correctly, it improves productivity quite well as you will be aware that your goods are in safe hands and will be transported quickly without any loss.
  • With the right cross-docking company, you can improve customer relationships because the proper packaging and on-time delivery are what a customer looks for. 
  • If you are dealing in the business of frozen items or products that need a specific temperature to be stored or transported at the right time, then it is better to go for a cross-docking company that fulfills all your requirements. 

Why Do You Need Cross-Docking?

To run a business successfully, cross-docking can work quite well and gives you a number of benefits. They can handle your transport problems and loading and unloading procedures, and now they are equipped with advanced technologies and machinery that effectively do things. 

Now, the companies that provide these services have forklifts, pallet trucks, conveyor belts, and more equipment that ensure faster loading and unloading processes. They can handle multiple deliveries in a single day without any difficulty and mismanagement. 

Cross-Docking in El Paso

We hope now you understand why it is essential to have a reliable cross-docking service for your business in El Paso. If you are looking for expert cross-docking services, then contact Cordova Brokerage and let us transport your goods with care.