The Role of Freight Forwarders in Import and Export to Kenya: Does Price Depend on Cargo Packaging?

Freight forwarders play a pivotal role in the import and export industry, particularly when dealing with destinations like Kenya. Their responsibilities encompass various tasks, from handling logistics to ensuring smooth transportation of goods. When considering the cost of shipping, many factors are taken into account, and one such factor is the packaging of the goods.

In this article, we will explore the relationship between cargo packaging and freight costs in the context of importing and exporting to Kenya through the lens of freight forwarders.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the type of packaging used for goods has a direct impact on the overall cost of shipping. The packaging must ensure safety of the product during transportation, as well as compliance with international shipping standards and regulations. Kenya, being a key trade partner, has its own set of customs regulations and standards that must be adhered to.

Different types of packaging materials, such as wood, plastic, or cardboard, have different costs associated with them. Moreover, the level of protection provided by the packaging also contributes to the overall cost. For instance, if a product requires extra padding or cushioning materials to ensure safe transportation, this will add to the cost of packaging and consequently the freight cost.

Additionally, the size and weight of the packaged goods are also crucial factors that influence freight costs. Larger and heavier packages require more space on ships or aircrafts, thus increasing the overall cost per unit. Freight forwarders take into account these factors when calculating the final cost of shipping.

Moreover, certain products require special handling during transportation due to their sensitivity or fragility. These products need to be packaged in a way that ensures their safety during long-distance travel, which often leads to higher packaging costs and subsequently higher freight costs.

On the other hand, if proper packaging is not done, it can lead to several issues during transit such as damage to goods or even loss of goods. Such incidents can result in additional costs for the importer or exporter, which could have been avoided with proper packaging.

Therefore, it becomes evident that the cost of shipping goods to Kenya through freight forwarders is indeed influenced by the way the goods are packaged. It is important for both importers and exporters to ensure that they work with reliable packaging providers who understand the intricacies of shipping to Kenya and other international destinations. This ensures not only safe transportation but also cost-effective shipping, which is crucial in today's competitive global market.