Shipping companies are exploring ways to leverage on new technologies and tapping on digitization to improve efficiency and productivity.

From history, other industries have been affected by digitizing their operations time before shipping industry started feeling the effects.

There is an increasing need for seamless flow of goods in the global supply chain and digitization is the key enabler to shipping companies.

Currently, the shipping industry is facing challenges brought about by new regulations from the regulatory bodies in Kenya.

The impact of these changes have been felt by the consumer in the form of higher freight charges, slower shipping process and delays, as well as a backlog in the port.

As a result, many customers are opting out of shipping as the costs are no longer manageable.

However, some shipping companies are making major moves to cushion the customer through digitization and consolidation method of shipping.

One of these, is Skyway Cargo; a leader in the segment and one that is taking matters into their own hands.

Small businesses can now ship their cargo and pay for it bit by bit as they continue to sell it.

Skyway cargo is able to pay for cargo on behalf of businesses who in turn can get the goods they pay for.

Additionally, small businesses or individuals can ship their goods through cargo consolidation method whereby smaller shipments/goods are bundled together within one container thereby allowing them to share shipping, storage and even delivery costs.

This leads to minimized shipping costs, as well as decreased wait time which all contribute to increased efficiency.

Another major pain point felt by customers is when their goods get lost or damaged.

This is often experienced during the process of loading goods on tracks, ships and aeroplanes.

When you engage a premium cargo company such as Skyway Cargo, such experiences are hardly felt.

They use a tracking system to handle the logistics, carefully labeling, logging and tracking assets as they go their separate ways, always keeping their shippers and recipients updated on the progress of the project.

The most innovative solution has been the ability to customers of calculating cost digitally.

This is meant to support greater customer- centricity including digital transformation, security growth and new business models.

Shipping industry continues to expand and be a solution to many businesses and individuals.

The secret to ensuring that your international shipping goes smoothly is to engage a cargo company that has significant experience in getting goods to their foreign destinations.

An ideal cargo company will help you with everything from securing packaging your items, to filling out the paperwork, to tracking your shipment every step of the way.

It is therefore solid to say, our Kenyan economy is heavily dependent on the shipping industry.

Every small or big importation done for businesses and even individuals is a factor to the thriving factors.

Shipping companies are exploring ways to leverage new technologies to improve efficiency and revenue after the government pushed costs.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) recently directed small traders to pay taxes based on the value of their product and not their weight, disrupting consolidation.

The directive which came into effect on March 1 removed the general charge on a kilo of cargo from Sh200 to price per value in accordance with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreement on tariff and trade.

The impact of these changes has been felt by the consumer in the form of higher freight charges, slower shipping process and delays, as well as a backlog in the port.

As a result, many customers are opting out of shipping as the costs are no longer manageable.

“Currently, the shipping industry is facing challenges brought about by new regulations in Kenya,” Skyway Cargo CEO Dahiye Mumin Yakub told the Star.

His sentiments are shared by a Nairobi-based importer Catherine Wairimu who says the changes have significantly affected her business.

“Unfortunately, this has made me add on the selling cost in order to meet the profit margins,” Catherine Wairimu, a Nairobi-based importer said.

Even so, some shipping companies are making major moves to cushion the customer through digitisation and consolidation methods of shipping.

For instance, Skyway Cargo is making it easier for small traders to ship their cargo and pay for it bit by bit as they continue to sell. The firm pays for cargo on behalf of businesses who in turn can get the goods they pay for.

Additionally, small businesses or individuals can ship their goods through the cargo consolidation method whereby smaller shipments are bundled together within one container thereby allowing them to share shipping, storage and even delivery costs.

This leads to minimized shipping costs, as well as decreased wait time which all contribute to increased efficiency.

They are also using a tracking system to handle the logistics, carefully labeling, logging and tracking assets to prevent damage and losing cargo.

“Customers can also calculate costs digitally. This is meant to support greater customer-centricity including digital transformation, security growth and new business models,” Skyway Cargo chief said.

He adds that the secret to ensuring that your international shipping goes smoothly is to engage a cargo company that has significant experience.

According to him, an ideal cargo company will help you with everything from securing packaging your items, to filling out the paperwork, to tracking your shipment every step of the way.

As one of the world’s most powerful economies, China has had a major impact on the global economy. Its economic rise has been particularly beneficial to Kenya, as the African nation has become an important market for Chinese goods and services. In fact, China is now the largest foreign investor in Kenya, with investments in various sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, and technology.
China is one of the largest global markets, and it is continuing to grow. For businesses looking to expand their presence and grow their customer base, a Chinese market is a great option. Here are some important facts about the Chinese market that businesses should know:

1. China is now the biggest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Kenya, accounting for over half of all FDI in the country. It has enabled Kenyan companies to access more capital, technology, and expertise from China, as well as access to new markets.
2. Chinese companies have invested heavily in infrastructure projects in Kenya, such as roads, railways, ports, and airports, helping to improve the country’s transportation networks.
3. Chinese investment has also enabled Kenya to develop its industrial sector, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
4. Chinese companies have also set up factories and production facilities in Kenya, providing employment opportunities and generating much-needed revenue.
5. Chinese tourists are increasingly visiting Kenya in large numbers, bringing in much-needed foreign currency and helping to boost the local tourism industry.
6. Kenyan exports to China have increased significantly in recent years, with tea, coffee, horticultural products, and other commodities faring particularly well.
7. Kenya has also benefited from the increasing number of Chinese companies looking to establish a presence in the country, creating more jobs and investment opportunities.
8. Chinese companies have helped to create thousands of jobs in Kenya, with a large number of Chinese nationals moving to the country to work in Chinese-owned companies.
9. Kenya is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Chinese investments, with the country ranked as the third most attractive destination for Chinese FDI.
   The China market has been a great benefit to the Kenyan market. The Chinese have invested heavily in the country as a result of their strong economic ties, and this has led to the creation of jobs and improved economic growth. The Chinese have also played a major role in the development of infrastructure in Kenya, including the construction of the largest airport in East Africa, and the expansion of the railway network. Additionally, the Chinese have helped to increase the level of foreign direct investment in the country, which has opened up new opportunities for Kenyan businesses. All in all, the China market has been a great boon to the Kenyan economy, and Skyway Forwarders is committed to helping Kenyan businesses take advantage of this economic opportunity by providing efficient and reliable services for shipping products to and from China. Skyway Forwarders is proud to be part of this success story.

Fluctuating freight rates can be a major challenge for a manufacturing business, as it can drastically affect its bottom line. These are more challenging for Manufactures as they typically inbound and outbound large volumes of freight. Reducing costs and controlling risk have become top operational objectives for 2023. To protect your business from these volatile rates and ensure that shipments reach their destinations on time and on budget. MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS. Manufacturing operations follow many existing freights needs for high-volume shippers. That means you’re working within a system that can meet some of your needs immediately, but there are areas to negotiate based on your unique orders and customers. If contending with fluctuating rates is becoming a burden, consider these methods for cost control

1. Negotiate long-term contracts
2. Utilize freight management software
3. Shop Around
4. Leverage technology
5. Utilize volume discounts and promotions
6. Use fuel surcharges

1. NEGOTIATE LONG-TERM CONTRACTS. Long-term contracts with freight carriers can help your manufacturing business to lock in freight rates for an extended period of time, protecting you from the fluctuations of the market. This will also provide you with the ability to plan your budgeting and shipping needs more effectively. 2. USE FREIGHT FORWARDERS. Consider using a freight forwarder to help you find the best rates. A freight forwarder will have access to multiple carriers and can help you find the best deal for your business. 3. SHOP AROUND. Don’t be afraid to shop around for the best rates. It can be beneficial to compare rates between different carriers, as they offer different rates for different lanes, as well as to look for discounts or special promotions that may be available. 4. LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY. Technology can be a powerful tool for reducing freight costs. Use technology to automate processes such as freight tracking software and automated shipping systems to help them manage their shipments and costs. 5. UTILIZE VOLUME DISCOUNTS AND PROMOTIONS. Many freight carriers offer discounts and promotions to their customers in order to increase their business. It can be beneficial to take advantage of these promotions in order to lower your freight rates. 6. UTILIZE FREIGHT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE. Freight management software can help you to track and monitor freight rates in real time, giving you the advantage to take advantage of lower rates when they are available. This will help you to stay on top of the market and make informed decisions about your shipping needs. 7. USE FUEL SURCHARGES. Carriers will often add a fuel surcharge to shipments. Companies should use this to their advantage by negotiating a fuel surcharge that is low

Importing and exporting are critical components for many lucrative businesses. International shipping offers numerous opportunities for companies to expand. However, the complexities of shipping might hold your company back from expanding globally. Working with a freight forwarder can make shipping easier for you.

They will take on many of the burdens involved in shipping your goods worldwide, including tracking, sorting our documentation, and more. Partnering with an air freight forwarder will create new opportunities for your business without investing significant time and resources into understanding the global logistics industry.

This is the best guide that will take you through what a freight forwarder does, why you should work with one, and the benefits of working with one.

WHAT DOES A FREIGHT FORWARDER DO?

A freight forwarder is a company that specializes in arranging the transportation of goods from one place to another. They act as an intermediary between the shipper and the carrier and provide services such as packing, storage, documentation, and customs clearance. Freight forwarders will also arrange for insurance and tracking of the goods throughout the shipment process.

Whether or not you need a freight forwarder depends on the type of goods being shipped and the destination. If you are shipping goods to a foreign destination, you may need a freight forwarder to arrange the shipment, as they will be familiar with the customs regulations of that particular country. If you are shipping within your own country, you may be able to arrange the shipment yourself. However, a freight forwarder can provide added convenience and security for the shipment, as well as deal with any unexpected delays or issues.

If you are considering using a freight forwarder, it is important to do your research and make sure you are working with a reliable and experienced company. It is also important to make sure that you understand all the fees associated with the shipment and that you are comfortable with the terms of the contract.

WHY SHOULD I WORK WITH A FREIGHT FORWARDER?

When it comes to shipping goods, many businesses choose to work with a freight forwarder. A freight forwarder can provide a number of benefits to businesses that want to send their goods overseas. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider working with a freight forwarder.

1. Cost Savings:

Working with a freight forwarder can help businesses save money on their shipping costs. A freight forwarder can negotiate with different carriers and find the most cost-effective shipping solution for your business. This can mean significant savings for businesses that need to ship goods overseas.

•  Time-efficiency:

Freight forwarders can help you get your shipments delivered faster. They are experts in the logistics industry and can help you navigate the complex web of shipping regulations, customs clearance, and other processes that can cause delays.

•  Expertise:

Freight forwarders are experts in the areas of international transportation and customs regulations. They can help you understand the complexities of international shipping and can help you navigate the legal and regulatory requirements associated with it. This can help you save time and money by avoiding costly mistakes.

• Flexibility:

Freight forwarders can offer flexible services to meet the needs of your business. They can tailor services to meet the specific needs of each shipment, such as shipping to multiple destinations or providing special handling for certain types of goods.

• Safety and security:

Freight forwarders can help ensure your shipments are delivered safely and securely. They can provide tracking services, which can help you keep an eye on your shipment and ensure it gets to its destination on time.

• Customization:

Working with a freight forwarder can provide you with the opportunity to customize your shipping process and create a tailored solution that meets your specific needs.

• Risk Mitigation:

Freight forwarders can help you protect your goods from damage, theft, or delays and help you get your shipment to its destination safely and securely.

• Transparency:

Freight forwarders can provide you with real-time tracking and updates on your shipment, so you can stay informed about the status of your order.