How to Calculate the Cost of Freight Forwarder Services in Toronto

See, there are a lot of factors that go into the cost of freight forwarding services. The cost structure will typically include the following:

• Cargo type – Oversized items, perishables, and any hazardous goods will cost more because they require special containers and handling. There are also certain products that require an FD filing fee (makeup, drugs, etc.)

• Weight and volume – Whichever is greater between the actual weight and the volumetric weight of the cargo will determine the chargeable amount. For illustration, a light item that takes a lot of space will cost more than a heavy item that takes up little space.

• Container costs – There are 2 types of containers: 20-foot equivalent (TEU) and 40-foot equivalent (FEU). If you don’t need a full container, you only pay for the space you occupy in a container – called less-than container load (LCL).

• Carrier Costs – Based on the mode of transport used to ship your goods. Distance traveled and route popularity are also considered.

• Documentation Fees – Usually already included in the initial quote.

• Insurance – Some companies offer additional coverage for an extra cost.

There are also other potential hidden charges you must look out for, including:

• Customs Examination Fees
• General Rate Increase (GRI)
• Customs Duties
• Inland Delivery Charges
• Demurrage
• Pallet Fee
• Overweight Containers
• Container Management Fee

1. Fast Freight Forwarding

Scope of services	★★★★★ (5/5)
Volume handling capacity	★★★★★ (5/5)
Haulers	★★★★★ (5/5)
Global agent network	★★★★★ (5/5)
Industry expertise	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Client communication	★★★★★ (5/5)
Freight updates	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Conditions and policies	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer service	★★★★★ (5/5)
Cost-effective solutions	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer satisfaction	★★★★★ (5/5)

Fast Freight Forwarding has services that not only big businesses can enjoy but also small individual clients. This is because they don’t only specialize in the logistics of goods transportation – they deal with household moving systems as well.

So if you’re moving to another country and don’t want to leave any large items behind, consider checking them out. Plus, as our survey showed, the majority of the respondents reported that the rates were affordable and the delivery times were fast.

To give you an idea, you can generally expect your items within 2 to 5 weeks. Heads up though, it will still depend on the volume and number of boxes you have (considering the median delivery times, however, we still think they’re fast).

On the business side, we can say that they’re an advantageous partner for those who want to export to a global market. The company has ties to 125 countries and 500 cities, so tapping into local markets is relatively convenient.

Additionally, updates on the freight are always sent on time, mostly via email on a daily basis. You can even discuss your contract with them through the same channel, which we consider a convenient option for all business owners.

With 45 years of experience on their book, a wide range of services, and a solid global network, we reckon that they’re a good choice for commercial logistics. The only thing missing was a more accessible tracking system (preferably an online portal/site) but we’re happy regardless.

Customer Reviews

Worth every penny

Leon is incredible. I have now used his services for multiple overseas shipments and his support is worth every penny. I used his company specifically because of all the great customer service reviews as I needed someone who can communicate well and take care of things. I don’t anticipate ever using another FF. – Tommy Caldwell

Hassle-free experience

I had a great experience working with Leon on an international relocation. It was a hassle-free experience with a door to door service using air freight. Everything was handled through email. I had quick and clear communication from Leon.  Over-all I would highly recommend his service! – Krishnakumar Sabapathy

2. Ridgewood International Freight Inc.

Scope of services	★★★★★ (5/5)
Volume handling capacity	★★★★★ (5/5)
Haulers	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Global agent network	★★★★★ (5/5)
Industry expertise	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Client communication	★★★★★ (5/5)
Freight updates	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Conditions and policies	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer service	★★★★★ (5/5)
Cost-effective solutions	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer satisfaction	★★★★★ (5/5)

As we can infer based on Ridgewood International Freight’s range of services, they’re more suited for commercial clients. In fact, we think that their range of solutions makes them a sensible choice as a 3PL partner.

Why? Well, they basically have all the essentials required in a full-service supply chain management in a global network. They have agents in 125 countries, allowing their partners to get into diverse markets around the world.

Additionally, they also specialize in warehousing and distribution as well as order fulfillment services. Basically, they have all the makings of a potential e-commerce partner, in case you want to transition to that business model.

Our favorite among their offerings is their customs brokerage services – a definite plus for import-export dealings. They have a team of experts who specifically deal with compliance issues as well as prevent costly delays in the process.

Finally, they also provide cargo insurance services that protect clients in case of any logistics issues. If you want that extra layer of care on your freight, it’s something to keep in mind for the future.

Freight tracking may be lacking compared to the competition but at least they always reach their deadlines. We always value timely deliveries at reasonable rates, so we’re happy with what the company currently offers.

Customer Reviews

A terrific company

I’ve been using Ridgewood for a few years now for all of my freight. Not one negative thing to say about their service. Always meeting their deadlines, always easy to reach. Can’t say enough good things about Ridgewood, terrific company! – Ashlan Macdonald

Truly customer-oriented

Great team with amazing service! I’ve used Ridgewood for my last few shipments and was impressed each time. They always ship my stuff in the most cost-effective way, they pay attention to details and are truly customer-oriented. I will definitely continue to use their service and highly recommend this company to everyone with shipping needs, you won’t be disappointed. – Sylviah M

3. Sealion Cargo

Scope of services	★★★★★ (5/5)
Volume handling capacity	★★★★★ (5/5)
Haulers	★★★★★ (5/5)
Global agent network	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Industry expertise	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Client communication	★★★★★ (5/5)
Freight updates	★★★★★ (5/5)
Conditions and policies	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Customer service	★★★★★ (5/5)
Cost-effective solutions	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Customer satisfaction	★★★★☆ (4/5)

Although younger than its competitors, Sealion Cargo has a lot in store that impressed us. They have freight ports all over Canada and certain networks around the globe, allowing for both nationwide and global supply chain services.

We believe that great services come from professional expertise, so we truly appreciate their trained team of specialists. What makes each of them stand out are their specific experiences in operations, sales, accounting, and trade that completes the logistics skill set.

Another telling sign of their great global reach is that their offices speak about 18 different languages. And of course, language proficiency is essential to localizing business efforts, so we see this as a plus for business owners.

Additionally, it’s very convenient and easy to track your freight here because their website has a dedicated portal for it. No need to scroll through hundreds of emails every day just to receive updates on your freight’s whereabouts.

With their company structure, we see them as a viable choice for those who are also starting up in the ecommerce industry. Their shipping rates are favorable even for small companies so you may want to check them out if you fit that profile.

Finally, we see that their import-export dealings are among the most competent with their timely deliveries and great communication. There is also continuous support before and after freight has been delivered, which we like. 

Customer Reviews

Stupendous offerings

Sealion Cargo has been offering our company stupendous offerings, whether it be freight quotes, pre BL and post BL service. Jose and Darrel in conjunction with Sealion tender their best professional support and as a result they have our accounts for more than 5 years. – Tarun Sabherwal

Accurate quotes and timely updates

I relied on the Sealion team to import tiles from Spain. Their service was professional, their quotes accurate, their updates timely, and the end result was exactly what they promised. Very reliable, thank you!!! – Patrick Peters

4. RoadLINX Inc.

Scope of services	★★★★★ (5/5)
Volume handling capacity	★★★★★ (5/5)
Haulers	★★★★★ (5/5)
Global agent network	★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Industry expertise	★★★★★ (5/5)
Client communication	★★★★★ (5/5)
Freight updates	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Conditions and policies	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer service	★★★★★ (5/5)
Cost-effective solutions	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer satisfaction	★★★★★ (5/5)

Freight forwarding services don’t always have to be concerned with international shipping. That’s why we also looked for a firm that specializes in local logistics and found RoadLINX Inc. among the best ones.

The company’s experience is best reflected on their list of 300 million clients all over the world. Plus, they have all the vehicles and equipment for a seamless transportation of goods within Canada or  to the United States and vice versa.

Among their fleet of trucking options are truckloads best for fast and affordable shipping as well as flatbed trailers which are the best haulers for oversized items. The best part is, they always have 2 drivers to ensure straight 24 hours of transportation.

Apart from standard goods transportation, the company also offers warehousing and distribution services. They provide customized long-term and short-term warehousing solutions, ensuring flexible options for all clients.

With this in store, we see them as a potential 3PL partner for mid-sized companies seeking to expand on a nationwide scale. They may even work for micro and small businesses because they also have mobile units that you can store in your property. 

Overall, with high-capacity haulers, fast delivery times, and flexible warehousing options, RoadLINX is a promising company. It may not be the best choice for international logistics but it excels in what it focuses on.

Customer Reviews

Fast service at a great price

This was my first time using Roadlinx and had the best and easiest time from start to finish. Ian was super helpful, accommodating and professional. They were able to get my shipment picked up and to me faster than I expected! Amazing Service and great price. – Robin Truppe

Great service over the years

Very competent team. Our account manager, Edan, consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our needs are met.  Logistics companies often get your account and then stop caring – we’ve used RoadLINX now for several years and service has maintained and even improved. – David Grbic

5. International Freight Forwarders

Scope of services	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Volume handling capacity	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Haulers	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Global agent network	★★★★★ (5/5)
Industry expertise	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Client communication	★★★★★ (5/5)
Freight updates	★★★★☆ (4/5)
Conditions and policies	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer service	★★★★★ (5/5)
Cost-effective solutions	★★★★★ (5/5)
Customer satisfaction	★★★★☆ (4/5)

International Freight Forwarders is a good example of a small company that does big things. Despite their small company size, the firm is able to handle enormous jobs, similar to those of large companies.

One of their best offerings is their door-to-door courier services to no less than 180,000 cities around the globe. With such a network, we can see them as a potential shipping partner for those getting into e-commerce.

Other than that, they also specialize in cross border shipment to and from the US for trade shows and exhibitions. You may want to consider them among your choices if this is one of your priorities.

Adding to this list of advantages are their custom clearance services in Canada. This involves phases such as preparation, releasing of goods, examination, and tax & duties.

With this range of expertise on their hands, we can tell that they’ll be a good option for import-export contracts. Plus, their rates are fair, communication is easy, and the service is personalized to client needs.

Although the delivery times are a bit lacking in our opinion, the company still offers strong services that clients can rely on. We just only have minor concerns about how they handle paperwork but beyond that, we’re satisfied.

Customer Reviews

Satisfied customer

Excellent company. Guided me through my first international air shipment with clear concise instructions. Quoted cost  was very close to the actual cost. I am happy and will do business with these folks again. – John Roppel

Stress-free delivery 

Such a professional and hard-working team. Thank you for making my experience one of the easiest in terms of moving.  They made transferring my luggage one less thing to worry about because they took full responsibility to deliver safely everything safely back home! – Rahma Farag

FAQs About Freight Forwarders in Toronto 

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Hiring freight forwarders is one solution to introduce your product to the global market. For more business-related reviews, start with our list of the best design agencies in Toronto to tap into your market strategies as well.