What a freight forwarder does
The forwarder works between the shipper and the carriers, securing the right space, rate and documents for each shipment.
- Ocean (FCL and LCL) and air freight quotes and negotiation
- Space booking and coordination with origin
- Issuing or checking bills of lading and air waybills
- Consolidation of less-than-container loads
- Follow-up of departure, transshipments and arrival
Freight forwarding vs. customs clearance
Forwarding handles transport; customs clearance handles the release of goods with the Brazilian customs authority.
They are complementary steps. When they are coordinated together, transport and customs documents stay aligned, reducing rework and the risk of discrepancies when the cargo arrives.
International agent network
Vision Log works with a network of partner agents in more than 100 countries.
This network allows pick-up, loading and delivery to be coordinated with local partners at origin and destination, while the client keeps a single point of contact in Brazil.
How it works
- QuoteCargo details, origin, destination, Incoterm and target date.
- BookingSpace reservation and alignment with supplier or buyer.
- DocumentsCheck of B/L or AWB, invoice and packing list.
- Follow-upMonitoring of departure, transshipments and ETA.
- ArrivalArrival notice and handover to clearance and delivery.
Typical use cases
- Importers with suppliers abroad
- Exporters selling to customers in other countries
- LCL and consolidated cargo
- Urgent air shipments
Points to check
- Correct weight and volume
- Free time and demurrage agreed before shipping
- Cargo and document cut-off dates
- B/L or AWB checked before final issue
