Freight forwarders face an array of challenges that can make or break their business. Expanding your client base, optimizing operational efficiency, managing procurement costs, and navigating the intricacies of global trade can all present significant hurdles. One of the most effective ways to overcome these challenges and set your business on the path to success is by joining a global freight forwarder network.
In this blog, we'll explore why becoming part of a network like 7ConNetwork is critical to the success of any freight forwarding business. From global coverage and cutting-edge tools to centralized procurement and marketing support, here’s how a global freight network can be the game-changer you need.
Expanding Your Reach Across the Globe
One of the key advantages of joining a freight forwarder network is global coverage. In a field like freight forwarding, your ability to serve clients across international borders is often tied directly to the range of your connections. Being a member of 7ConNetwork allows you to leverage an extensive network of freight forwarders, agents, and partners worldwide.
For example, 7ConNetwork’s Booking Platform & Quotation System provides an all-encompassing online tool that simplifies the entire shipping process. From generating instant quotations to handling invoices and payments, this platform is accessible to all members at no additional cost. Access to this kind of comprehensive platform can drastically reduce the time it takes to execute shipping processes, making your business more efficient and your clients more satisfied.
Additionally, the digital forwarding platform facilitates shipment booking, cargo tracking, and carrier scheduling—all crucial for freight forwarders managing time-sensitive shipments. It’s this level of operational support that makes joining a global network indispensable.
The Power of Networking
In logistics, who you know can be as important as what you know. A global freight forwarder network offers the unique opportunity to build relationships with industry peers, expand your partnerships, and connect with trusted agents worldwide.
Digital Networking for the Modern Forwarder
Through 7ConNetwork's Agent Finder tool, finding the right business partner becomes a seamless experience. This tool is regularly updated in real-time and provides a comprehensive search function to locate agents based on categories such as modality, activity, area, port, or even specific specialties. These direct connections to fellow members can make all the difference when you're looking to expand your services into new regions or need specialized handling for specific types of cargo.
Whether you need to find a partner to handle a particular leg of a journey or are looking for an expert in a niche area of logistics, the 7ConNetwork Agent Finder ensures that help is always just a few clicks away.
Networking at Events
A global network doesn't just offer immediate business benefits—it also provides ongoing opportunities for collaboration and growth. One of the highlights for members of 7ConNetwork is the Annual Networking Conference and other regional meet-ups.
These events are an invaluable opportunity to connect with fellow members, industry experts, and strategic partners in real time. By attending, you can discuss industry trends, form new partnerships, and deepen your knowledge of best practices. In an industry that relies on trust and relationships, these networking opportunities are an excellent way to strengthen connections and build community.
Leverage Buying Power through Centralized Procurement
Procurement is a major concern for freight forwarders, especially as competition continues to drive down margins. One of the most strategic benefits of joining a global network is the ability to leverage centralized procurement to your advantage. By pooling volumes and resources across the network, 7ConNetwork members enjoy significant buying power.
This combined buying power allows you to become more competitive in the market, increasing your margins and profitability. Centralized procurement can also provide stability in volatile markets by securing better deals, lower rates, and preferential terms from suppliers and service providers. This level of access to preferential rates and volume-based discounts can provide a significant edge over competitors operating outside such a network.
Unlocking Exclusive Benefits With Partnerships
Partnering with the right companies, especially in a field as specialized as logistics, can make a huge difference to your success, that's why 7ConNetwork does that for you!
7ConNetwork’s Partnership Programme focuses on securing partnerships with logistics tech companies, carriers, and other key players in the industry to deliver exclusive benefits to network members.
Whether it’s discounted access to innovative logistics software, or partnerships with carriers that provide faster or cheaper shipping options, the programme offers tailored advantages that keep you at the forefront of the industry. As a member of 7ConNetwork, you also gain access to deals and tools that are not available to the general public, further improving your service offerings and client satisfaction.
These partnerships help level the playing field, especially for small and medium-sized freight forwarders, enabling them to compete with larger companies.
Marketing to Reach a Global Audience
As freight forwarders know, the logistics business isn’t just about moving cargo—it’s also about attracting clients. Unfortunately, marketing is often an area where many small and medium-sized freight forwarders struggle. That's where 7ConNetwork’s Media Package comes in.
When you become a member, 7ConNetwork promotes your business through its established global marketing channels, helping you increase brand awareness and generate leads. By leveraging the network's media presence, your business can reach new audiences without the burden of managing complex marketing campaigns on your own.
For premium members, there are additional customized marketing solutions that offer even more targeted exposure. This service lets you focus on what you do best—delivering exceptional logistics solutions—while the 7ConNetwork team handles the promotion of your services and updates to a global audience.
Improving Efficiency with Technology
The logistics industry is rapidly evolving, with technology playing a pivotal role in shaping its future. By joining a global network like 7ConNetwork, you gain access to state-of-the-art e-forwarding tools that can dramatically improve the efficiency and accuracy of your operations.
The 7ConNetwork Booking Platform & Quotation System gives you a powerful digital toolset that covers the entire shipping process from start to finish. Whether it's quoting, booking, or tracking shipments, this digital solution is integrated into the membership fee, ensuring that you and your clients benefit from a seamless and transparent forwarding experience.
7ConNetwork is A Network for Success
In the world of freight forwarding, the old adage "strength in numbers" rings true. By joining a global freight forwarder network like 7ConNetwork, you equip your business with the tools, partnerships, and connections needed to thrive in a competitive and fast-paced environment. From centralized procurement to marketing support and the use of cutting-edge technology, the benefits of joining such a network extend well beyond mere logistics.
For freight forwarders looking to grow their business, win new clients, and improve service offerings, the decision to join a global network is a critical one. With 7ConNetwork, you're not just joining a network; you're joining a community that will help you reach your business goals and achieve long-term success in the logistics industry