What are the benefits of networking in the logistics and freight forwarding sectors?
Have you ever worried that your goods might get stuck on the other side of the world, whilst you’re unfamiliar with the local procedures and have no one there to help? Not having trusted contacts on the ground is a nightmare. Fortunately, you can meet them. Where and how? Today we’ll explain how networking works in logistics and how networks can make transporting your cargo easier.
Why does a trusted partner make international freight transport easier?
When you send goods to the other side of the world, unfamiliar customs procedures and language barriers can really raise your blood pressure. Trying to organise such a shipment on your own and look for subcontractors is like wandering through a dense forest without a map or compass.
Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. Networking within the logistics industry can help you, specifically networks bringing together independent freight forwarders and logistics companies from around the world. By joining such an association, you gain access to logistics partners in every corner of the globe.
Where can you find networking groups for logistics professionals?
There are specialised networks operating on the global market, bringing together transport companies from various countries. Thanks to them, even small and medium-sized freight forwarding companies can have their own trusted agents all over the world, without having to set up their own offices in every port. Networking in logistics is based on membership of such associations. Let’s talk about them.
1. Hi Tech Forwarder Network (HTFN)
This is one of the longest-standing global logistics networks. It builds lasting partnerships and provides freight management and contract logistics services.
HTFN has a network of 350 offices located in 82 countries. It employs over 13,000 staff, generating $2 billion annually. It helps to offer door-to-door services worldwide.
2. World Cargo Alliance (WCAworld)
Founded in 1998, this organisation is the world’s largest network of independent freight forwarders. It has 13,065 member offices located in 196 countries! This networking within the logistics industry immediately opens up new, powerful business opportunities for us.
WCAworld conferences attract up to 4,700 participants. We regularly take part in these events to serve our customers even better. Every week, these conferences generate millions of dollars in profit.
3. Twig Network
This is a business platform founded in 2013, focusing on the Latin American market. It connects 390 members from 100 countries. Quality verification requires each candidate to achieve a minimum of 3 stars in a rigorous system.
As many as 98% of member companies renew their membership without hesitation. No wonder, given that as much as 75% of the lucrative business for some of them comes precisely from reliable partners within the network!
4. Premier Bulk Liquids Alliance (PBLA)
The only organisation dedicated exclusively to the logistics of bulk liquids. It brings together certified operators handling specialist flexitanks and isotanks.
The organisation’s headquarters are in Canada, whilst its dynamic operational branch is based in Spain, enabling PBLA to guarantee multilingual support. By joining this network in 2024, we have gained powerful support in international transport.
What services do logistics networking platforms offer?
Effective networking in logistics is based on smart technology. Networks provide their members with technological tools that enhance the security and speed of order processing.
Twig, for example, offers Twig Chat for instant quote requests and the Twig Analytics module for creating detailed business reports. This ensures that the flow of information between countries is instantaneous.
Furthermore, this platform successfully employs an incentive system based on awarding virtual points (Twig Coins) for high levels of commitment and activity, which drives reliable cooperation and motivates action.
Strict protection of your interests is also crucial here. PBLA offers a Payment Protection Plan, i.e. a programme securing transactions between network members. And what does this mean for you? Your goods are handled exclusively by reliable and proven operators. You avoid the risk of losing funds.
Why is it worth working with freight forwarders with a global reach?
Networking in the logistics industry offers greater opportunities and freedom of operation. Your international logistics partner is familiar with local customs procedures, which reduces the risk of delays and downtime.
As noted in an article on the GoFreight blog, thanks to such support systems, smaller freight forwarders can compete with larger ones. This is confirmed by analyses from 7CON Network, which demonstrate that membership of networks is the foundation of efficient operations. Pangea Network, meanwhile, points out that joining a network enhances a freight forwarder’s market credibility.
The benefits for you are:
- faster order quotations by bypassing intermediaries,
- minimal risk of weeks-long delays at customs in a foreign country,
- a guarantee of a personalised approach to your cargo.
This means continuity across the entire supply chain. This is exactly what networking in logistics offers you.
Best networking practices for freight forwarders in Poland
And what do we do as part of networking in the logistics industry? Let’s now list the benefits of networking for logistics companies:
- Regular participation in global gatherings: We meet in person to build trust and renew contracts with agents from around the world.
- Instant system-based communication: We use dedicated messaging platforms (such as Twig Chat), which streamlines our communication.
- Mutual protection of interests: We use payment protection programmes that guarantee the financial security of every transaction.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about networking in logistics
How does a good network of contacts help reduce transport costs?
Working with agents at foreign ports allows you to bypass intermediaries. Your Polish freight forwarder agrees terms with a local expert, who selects the cheapest transport routes. Additionally, the local partner’s knowledge helps avoid penalties for goods being held up at customs.
How are partners in logistics networks verified?
Networks apply strict rules to their members. For example, Twig requires candidates to have an impeccable reputation and to achieve a minimum of 3 stars in the quality rating system. Specialist organisations (such as PBLA), on the other hand, require specific certifications.
Thanks to our membership of organisations such as HTFN, WCA, Twig and PBLA, we can fulfil your orders much more effectively. Effective networking within the logistics industry is our superpower, which will protect your cargo in any situation. Get in touch and secure a reliable international supply chain.