We know that doing business with other countries, understanding fees and red tape can seem complicated and bring up a certain amount of doubt. This aprehension prevents many competent companies from taking the first step towards entering international markets. What if there were an option to eliminate this uncertainty and helped you to import and export? This solution exists, and it is called integrated logistics.

What is integrated logistics?

As the name indicates, integrated logistics is the combination of all the logistical stages of the import-export process. But what does that mean in practice? That the whole process, starting with pickup from the supplier all the way to the final destination, is accompanied by a single customs official. This function is known as a door to door process, where a single agent accompanies every step of a supply chain.

With the appropriate technological support, integrated logistics enables the official to  accompany every process in real time. There is no need for your company to develop a sector to deal with foreign trade. You can outsource integrated logistics to another company, and there will be an agent to carry out the logistical planning for all your cargo.

Now you can import and export without having to worry about all the red tape. We at TCW do the worrying for you, and offer the intergrated logistics services that will follow up your whole logistical process.

How does integrated logistics work?

Integrated logistics allows you to anticipate and control obstacles which can hinder your import-export process. This whole integration of the logistical system works in the following manner:

  • Cargo pickup – pickup takes place at the cargo’s location of origin;
  • Logistics with different modals – the negotiation is carried out on different modals at all stages of the logistical procedure. In other words, the cargo will go through all  modals necessary for transportation;
  • Preparation of customs documentation – the customs official will take care of all the necessary documentation, preventing hitches during the cargo’s transit between countries;
  • Providing cargo insurance – comprehensive coverage for air, maritime and road shipments;
  • Customs clearance – clearance for the goods at the customs point, whether importing or exporting the cargo;
  • Finally, delivery at the final point of destination.

Since integrated logistics is a process coordinated by a single customs official, it is possible to negotiate better freight fees. Not to mention saving time on the whole logistical procedure. As the information flow is faster, the integrated logistics stages are checked in advanced. Customs bureaucracy is assessed prior to shipping, as well as the appropriate classification for all the cargo, thus avoiding problems with customs.

Are you still fearful of imports and exports? We at TCW ensure that with integrated logistics this apprehension can be totally forgotten. We count on qualified professionals who administrate all the formalities, respecting current rules and laws for each country, thus avoiding unnecessary costs and delays.