FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Below is the answers to our most frequently asked questions. However, if you can't find what you're looking for or have any further questions then please contact us on email the 01932 562169 or via email info@etl-logistics.com

---

Q1. What Is ETL's Approach To Covid 19?

Here at ETL Logistics, we are constantly monitoring the status of the COVID-19 outbreak and are fully aware of the serious concerns from all customers and suppliers about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on businesses worldwide.

We are regularly monitoring the latest information regarding the virus through the NHS and government websites. Due to the nature of our business, we are focusing heavily on maintaining the clean and sanitary nature of our office and transport vehicles. This means that we are still contactable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week over the phone and through emails.

We wish good health to all of our customers, as minimal effect to your lives as possible and that we can continue to work with you through harsher times and into the future.

---

Q2. What Impact Will Brexit Have On ETL's Services?

At ETL Logistics we are constantly assessing the potential impacts of Brexit on our customers business and how it will affect international trade. Since the Brexit vote in 2016, our team have been working on plans for the various outcomes and preparing for every eventuality, whilst ensuring that our customers are given the right information and support.

Important Brexit information for your Company:

In the event of a ‘No-Deal’ Brexit, all goods being transported to and from the UK & Europe will require customs clearance. ETL can offer your Company direct import & export customs declarations and documentation support using our in-house customs software and highly trained operational staff.

Your Brexit Checklist:

EORI Numbers An EORI number will be needed for Customs Clearance. If your Company hasn’t already got an EORI it’s free to apply, the application takes only a few minutes. Find your EORI number at: www.gov.uk/EORI.

Commodity Codes – do you know where to find them? You will need to establish the correct commodity code for your goods. This will allow you to apply the correct rate & amount of Duty to enable you to be compliant with HMRC. It also allows your goods to be correctly declared for customs clearance. Commodity Codes can be found at: www.gov.uk/trade-tariff

Paperwork & Information Checklist:

The following paperwork will be required with all shipments.

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing list

We will also require the following information:

• Importer
• Exporter
• Goods Description
• Weight of Goods (Gross & Nett)
• Sales Value & Currency
• Incoterm
• Country of Origin
• EORI Number
• Commodity Codes

For further Brexit and Customs information please contact info@etl-logistics.com

---

Q3. What is a Freight Forwarder?

A freight forwarder assists companies in the process of transporting goods from one place to another. They use the most cost-effective methods with a suitable shipping company to ensure that every point of the journey goes smoothly.

ETL Cargo Logistics contract with a number of companies covering sea, air or road to transport goods on behalf of our clients and lead on the logistics and arrangements that will enable a smooth process giving companies piece of mind that their goods will be delivered.

Freight forwarders are seen as a necessary extension to many businesses. Mistakes made in shipping processes can be costly and delay goods getting to the places they need to go.

The wealth of knowledge and expertise we have on the process of importing and exporting is invaluable to companies and saves them both time and money

---

Q4. What is Event Logistics?

ETL Event Logistics is an specialised service that we provide, which includes experienced agents, a global network, personal 24/7/365 one-on-one agent contact and creative solutions for your most complicated shipments for Live Events, Exhibitions, Trade Shows. Film & TV productions. We guide you every step of the way -- shipment options, document preparation, customs clearance, local pickup and delivery -- everything door-to-door.

---

Q5. What Are The Important Questions When Finding a Freight Forwarder?

With the freight forwarding Industry growing at an increasing rate, there is a lot of options for businesses to choose from. Many of these options will have varying experience levels and offer different services. It is important for companies to consider exactly what it is they want their freight forwarding company to do for them and to trust that this will be done correctly. With this in mind, it may benefit businesses to find out the following information when looking for a reputable freight forwarder:

Accreditation – Trustworthy firms such as ETL Logistics belong to at least one trade association such as the British International Freight Association (BIFA). Members of BIFA trade to a collective set of trading standards that are backed by the insurance sector. Going with a company that is a member of one of these trade associations will give you peace of mind that your goods will be in the right hands.

Clarification of Services Offered – Different shipments require different services. It is important that you clarify with your potential freight forwarder that your goods will be transported the way that you require them to be. If you are unsure of the services that you will need it may be helpful to ask other businesses for advice. A good freight forwarder will give you a run down of the services that they offer and will be able to advise on the best course of action for your shipment.

Experience – Freight forwarding is a complicated and intricate business. Experience in the industry is key to ensure that everything runs smoothly. It may be even more pertinent to ask about experience if you are transporting cargo that requires additional needs such as specialist transport.

Shipping Process – A good freight forwarder should give you a run down of their shipping process with a clear explanation of how your shipment will reach its final destination, costs and transport plans.

Insurance – Checking a freight forwarder’s insurance policy is imperative. It is important to ensure that your goods will be insured for all of their journey, particularly if they are of high value.

Paperwork – It is important to know upfront what is expected of you and what the freight forwarder will handle in terms of paperwork, particularly with regards to customs. Mistakes with customs paperwork can lead to long and expensive delays.

Shipping Network – Good freight forwarding companies will have an extensive shipping network. An extensive network means good relationships with partners and demonstrates that they have local expertise in the places that you want to ship to. It is important to check that your destination is a place that they cover.

---