Al-Basha Shipping Services | International and Domestic Shipping in Jordan | Freight Shipping | Customs Clearance
Al-Basha Shipping Services | International and Domestic Shipping in Jordan | Freight Shipping | Customs Clearance
- By: admin
- 06 September, 2025
Freight Shipping Basics
Freight Shipping Basics | A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Logistics
Introduction
Freight shipping is one of the core elements of supply chains and global trade. If you are starting any kind of business, it’s essential to understand how the shipping and logistics sector works.
In this article, we’ll explore the fundamental concepts of freight shipping, transportation methods, process steps, and the challenges you may face along the way.
What Is Freight Shipping?
Freight shipping is the process of transporting products or raw materials from the point of origin to the desired destination using different transportation methods, including sea, air, land, or rail.
In international trade, shipments may involve multimodal transport, meaning goods are moved using more than one transportation method.
Key Stakeholders in the Shipping Process
- Shipper – The person or company sending the goods.
- Carrier – The company responsible for transporting the goods, such as shipping lines or freight companies.
- Freight Forwarder – A specialized agent coordinating the shipping process between the shipper and carrier. They don’t transport goods themselves but manage logistics and delivery arrangements.
- Customs Broker – An expert in customs regulations who facilitates import and export clearance, ensuring compliance and smooth communication with customs authorities.
- Consignee (Importer) – The person or company receiving the goods at the destination.
Types of Freight Transportation
1. Sea Freight
- Ideal for large, heavy shipments.
- Cost-effective but slower compared to other methods.
- Uses standard shipping containers for efficient cargo handling.
2. Air Freight
- Best for high-value, time-sensitive, or fragile goods.
- More expensive compared to sea and land transport.
- Less suitable for bulky or oversized shipments.
3. Land Freight (Trucking)
- Suitable for domestic shipments or transportation within the same continent.
- Flexible and capable of reaching destinations without direct access to seaports or airports.
4. Rail Freight
- Cost-effective for long-distance shipments within continents.
- Mainly used for transporting heavy goods like metals, minerals, and raw materials.
Steps of the Freight Shipping Process
1. Planning and Preparation
- Identify the type of cargo (hazardous goods, food products, raw materials, etc.).
- Choose the most suitable transportation method based on cargo type, budget, and destination.
2. Preparing Documentation
- Commercial Invoice: Includes shipment details like quantity, price, product description, and seller/buyer info. Used to calculate customs duties.
- Certificate of Origin: Issued by the local chamber of commerce to confirm the country of origin, required for customs compliance and trade agreements.
- Packing List: Contains details about packaging, dimensions, weights, and contents to simplify handling and clearance.
- Bill of Lading: Issued by the carrier confirming receipt of goods and serving as a shipping contract.
3. Packaging and Labeling
- Use proper packaging materials to protect cargo during transit.
- Label shipments with details like fragile, perishable, or hazardous if applicable.
- Ensure packaging complies with customs and carrier requirements.
4. Customs Clearance
- Submit required documents to customs authorities, including export/import declarations, shipping permits, and tax exemption certificates.
- Pay applicable customs duties and taxes.
5. Transportation and Shipping
- Handover cargo to the carrier for delivery.
- Use real-time tracking systems to monitor shipment progress.
- Ensure goods are insured against risks such as damage, theft, or natural disasters.
6. Final Delivery
Once customs clearance and transportation are complete, goods are delivered to the consignee.
Freight Shipping Costs
- Transportation Fees: Depend on the shipping method, cargo type, and distance.
- Insurance Costs: To protect against risks like damage, theft, or natural disasters.
- Customs Duties: For both imports and exports when applicable.
- Packaging and Handling Costs: To ensure safe cargo delivery.
Common Challenges in Freight Shipping
- Shipping Delays – Caused by weather issues, port congestion, or logistical complications.
- Cargo Damage or Loss – Due to poor handling, accidents, or inadequate packaging.
- Customs Complications – Missing documents or delayed clearance.
- High Costs – Especially when using express shipping or handling sensitive goods.
Essential Tips for Beginners in Freight Shipping
- Choose the Right Transport Mode – Based on cargo type, delivery time, and budget.
- Work with Trusted Freight Forwarders – To simplify operations and reduce risks.
- Verify Documentation Accuracy – To avoid clearance delays or penalties.
- Insure Your Cargo – To safeguard against financial loss.
- Use Real-Time Tracking Systems – To stay updated on shipment status and location.
Conclusion
Understanding the basics of freight shipping is the first step to ensuring successful transportation and trade operations. With proper planning, the right partners, and compliance with legal requirements, beginners can manage shipping processes effectively and achieve seamless logistics operations.