International FreightForwarding Services
With over 20 years of freight forwarding experience, our team of logistics experts will be able to find the right international freight services solution for you.
Advanced Supply Chain is a leading UK freight forwarder dedicated to moving your goods across borders efficiently and reliably. Our customer-first approach means we work closely with you to tailor cost-effective solutions that meet your exact requirements.
Whether you need to ship by air, sea, road or rail, we have the expertise and carrier network to ensure your cargo reaches its destination safely, on time, and within budget.
Our Freight Forwarding Services
Rapid and secure delivery for your urgent shipments worldwide
Flexible FCL & LCL shipping solutions, global carrier network, BIFA-member assurance.
Efficient trucking across the UK & Europe. Full loads, part loads, and express delivery.
Safe and sound cargo transportation to the construction site for a specific construction project
Comprehensive End-to-End Logistics
We manage the entire freight journey from origin to final destination. This includes selecting the optimal mode of transport (or multimodal combination), handling all documentation and customs clearance procedures, and providing risk management throughout transit. As one of the UK’s leading freight forwarding companies, we can even integrate pre-retail and warehousing services to offer a true end-to-end solution. Our independent status allows us to source the best shipping rates across trusted carriers, and we pass those preferential rates on to you.
Why Choose ASCG as Your Freight Partner?
Expertise & Accreditation
We are proud members of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and hold Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, demonstrating our commitment to compliance, security, and professional service. You can trust that your shipments are handled with the highest industry standards in mind.
Global Network & Carrier Relationships
Our longstanding relationships with airlines, shipping lines, and transport providers worldwide give you access to a far-reaching network. Coupled with local expertise, this allows us to navigate port regulations and customs rules with ease.
Tailored Multimodal Solutions
As a comprehensive freight forwarder, we offer air, sea, road, and rail freight options, as well as any combination needed, to craft the ideal solution for your cargo. For example, we might combine sea and air shipping (SEA-AIR) or switch to rail or road for part of the route to overcome delays and save on costs.
Speed & Reliability
Time-critical shipment? We’ve got you covered with expedited services like air freight or dedicated road transport. Large volume with a tighter budget? Our economical sea freight or rail freight solutions can reliably move bulk cargo. Whether you are looking for speed or savings, we ensure reliable handling and keep your supply chain moving smoothly.
End-to-End Visibility
Stay informed and in control with full track-and-trace visibility of your goods in transit. ASC provides real-time updates at every milestone, giving you peace of mind. You’ll know exactly where your shipment is and receive proactive notifications of any events, ensuring you’re never in the dark about your logistics.
Flexible & Customer Focused Service
Our freight forwarding services are designed to be flexible and responsive. We adapt quickly. We assign you a dedicated freight specialist, ensuring communication is seamless and personalised. At every step, your needs come first, and we take pride in friendly, proactive customer service that makes your job easier.
International FreightForwarding Services
With over 20 years of freight forwarding experience, our team of logistics experts will be able to find the right international freight services solution for you.
Why use international freight forwarding services?
With over 20 years of freight forwarding experience, our team of logistics experts will be able to find the right international freight services solution for you.
Our Global Freight division is dedicated to providing the most time-efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions to our customers’ international transport requirements, with vast experience in air freight, sea freight and international road transport.
We offer customers a comprehensive end-to-end logistics solution with international freight forwarding, encompassing: the management of transportation by sea, air, road and rail; customs clearance procedures and documentation; and risk management. Advanced Supply Chain Group also has the ability to offer full end-to-end logistics support services from the origin to the end destination, including pre-retail and warehousing solutions – e.g. cross dock and storage.
As one of the UK’s best freight and logistics companies, ASCG has helped companies of all sizes ship goods around the globe with our international freight forwarding services. We are more than just a freight forwarder and customs broker; ASCG are leaders in freight and transportation, and we work closely with our customers to offer tailored global supply chain solutions based on their requirements.
Our independent status enables us to source the very best rates from across the market. However, as an experienced cargo forwarder and trusted shipping partner, we have established relationships with many of the leading carriers, resulting in preferential rates that we pass on to our customers.
- Sea freight: efficient and secure transport of cargo across major ports and trade routes worldwide.
- Air freight: covering the entire air freight process and ensuring timely and secure transportation of goods.
- Road freight: tailored and economic solutions based on weight and volume of goods to get from A to B with full visibility.
With ASCG international freight forwarding services your company will benefit from our experience and global network to benefit your supply chain.
FAQs
Why are freight rates changing all the time?
Freight rates fluctuate due to factors such as supply and demand, fuel prices, port congestion, geopolitical tensions, seasonal trends, and capacity management by shipping lines/airlines. External events like global trade disruptions or weather conditions can also impact pricing.
How can I reduce my shipping costs?
- Book in advance to secure better rates
- Use FCL instead of LCL, if volume allows
- Optimise container space and packaging
- Work with multiple freight forwarders to compare quotes
- Plan shipments during off-peak seasons
Why are container shortages still an issue?
Container shortages arise due to imbalances in global trade, disruptions from port congestion, and extended turnaround times for containers. Sudden spikes in demand, like those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and most recently the red sea crisis resulting in vessels diverting round Africa also contribute to shortages.
How do geopolitical issues affect shipping?
Conflicts, trade wars, sanctions, and piracy risks can disrupt shipping routes, cause delays, and increase freight rates due to higher insurance and rerouting costs.
What are demurrage and detention charges?
- Demurrage: Fees charged when cargo stays at the port linger than the free period allowed.
- Detention: Charges applied when a container is kept beyond the allowed free time outside
the port before being returned.
How is the Red Sea crisis affecting global shipping?
Attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, particularly near the Suez Canal, have forced shipping lines to reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks to transit times and increasing fuel costs. This has caused higher shipping rates and supply chain delays.
I need my goods to be moved urgently and the current transit times do not meet my target ETA, what other solutions do I have?
Alternative options would be moving goods via air, which can be more expensive than moving via ocean freight, however the transit times are a lot quicker on average 3 – 5 days. Another alternative depending on country of origin would be moving goods by either rail or road; in some instances you can even look at a SEA-AIR option to improve transit times.
What are the latest environmental regulations affecting shipping?
- The IMO 2023 carbon intensity measures require ships to reduce emissions, leading to
increased costs due to slower sailing speeds and investments in eco-friendly fuel. - The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) now applies to shipping, meaning carriers must
pay for CO₂ emissions, likely increasing freight costs.
What are the current trends in freight forwarding and shipping?
- Digitalisation: Increased adoption of digital platforms for booking, tracking, and managing
shipments. - Sustainability: Growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions through eco-friendly
practices and alternative fuels. - Nearshoring Companies are shifting supply chains closer to home to reduce risks and lead
times. - E-commerce Growth: Rising demand for faster and more efficient last-mile delivery solutions.
- Port Congestion: Ongoing challenges with port delays, especially in major hubs, due to high
demand and labour shortages.
What is a freight forwarder and what do they do?
A freight forwarder is a company that arranges the transportation of goods on behalf of shippers. They handle logistics, documentation, customs clearance, and coordination with carriers to ensure shipments reach their destinations efficiently.
How do I choose the right freight forwarder?
Consider factors like:
- Experience in your industry
- Global network and partnerships
- Services offered (e.g. air, sea, road, customs clearance, warehousing)
- Customer service and communication
- Pricing and transparency
What Incoterms should I use for my shipment?
Incoterms define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international trade.
Some common ones include:
- EXW (Ex Works): Buyer handles all transport costs
- FOB (Free on Board): Seller covers costs until goods are loaded on the vessel
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Seller covers costs up to the destination port
- DAP (Delivered at Place):
Choosing the right Incoterm depends on your level of control over shipping costs
and risks.
What documents are required for international shipping?
Typical shipping documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (BOL) or Airway Bill (AWB)
- Certificate of Origin
- Import/Export Licenses (if required)
- Customs Declaration Documents
The exact documents depend on the destination country and type of goods.
How do I calculate freight costs?
Freight costs depend on:
- Weight and volume of cargo
- Mode of transport (air, sea, road, rail)
- Distance and route
- Fuel surcharges, customs duties, and port fees
- Additional services (e.g., insurance, warehousing)
For sea freight, LCL (less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load)
pricing structures apply.
How long does international shipping take?
Transit times depend on the shipping mode:
- Air freight: 1-7 days
- Sea freight: 20-45 days (depending on the route)
- Rail freight: 10-25 days (for long-distance routes like China to Europe)
Delays occur due to customs clearance, port congestion, or weather conditions.
What is the difference between LCL and FCL shipping?
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Your cargo is shared with other shipments in one
container. Cost-effective for smaller shipments but may take longer due to
consolidation.
- FCL (Full Container Load): You book an entire container (20ft or 40ft). Faster and
more secure but costs more.
What are the most common shipping delays, and what can I do to avoid them?
- Port congestion
- Customs clearance issues
- Weather disruptions
- Incorrect or missing documentation
- Strikes or labour shortages
What is customs clearance, and how does it work?
Customs clearance is the process of getting goods approved for import or export.
It involves:
- Submitting required documents
- Paying duties and taxes
- Inspection by customs officials (if necessary)
A freight forwarder or customs broker can help navigate this process.
Should I get cargo insurance for my shipment?
Yes, cargo insurance protects your shipment against loss, theft, or damage during
transit. Many forwarders offer All-Risk or Total Loss insurance depending on your needs.
Without insurance, compensation from carriers is often limited.
How can I track my shipment?
Most freight forwarders provide tracking through online portals or tracking numbers.
Shipping lines, airlines, and couriers also offer real-time tracking via their websites.
Benefits & Features
Experts with global coverage & local Knowledge
International Network
Tailormade solutions
Total end to end visibility of goods in transit
Our International Freight Forwarding Services clients
Testimonial
Roxor Group
Working with Advanced Supply Chain has been a real game-changer for our business. They manage the logistics from five international factories with efficiency and care, and their overseas teams stay in close contact with our suppliers to keep everything on track.
Their in-house customs team make sure our goods clear quickly, and deliveries are made right across the UK – even direct to our customers when needed. The weekly catch-ups with our dedicated account manager help keep everyone aligned and proactive.
Real-time shipment tracking has given us much better visibility, and the fixed annual rates across multiple carriers have added real value and flexibility. We’ve been genuinely impressed by the level of service and support.
A Lacoste success story
Lacoste
Learn how ASC’s range of Value Added Services (VAS), underpinned by Vector, helped Lacoste establish a UK warehouse and fulfilment centre to overcome UK-Europe border delays.
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