Freight Forwarder vs Prep Center
The difference between moving goods internationally and preparing inventory domestically.
Freight forwarders and prep centers solve two different problems, and sellers new to importing sometimes expect one to cover the other.
A freight forwarder moves goods from origin to destination - arranging ocean or air transport, coordinating with a customs broker, and getting the shipment released and delivered domestically. A prep center takes it from there: receiving, inspecting, labeling, packaging, and forwarding inventory to FBA or another fulfillment destination. Freight forwarders generally don't do prep work, and prep centers generally don't handle international transportation or customs clearance.
Freight forwarder handles
- International transportation
- Customs coordination
- Delivery to the domestic receiving point
Prep center handles
- Receiving and inspection
- Labeling and packaging
- Bundling and kitting
- Forwarding to FBA or another destination
Scenario
A seller asks their prep center why a shipment hasn't arrived yet, but the prep center has no visibility into it - the shipment is still with the freight forwarder, working through customs. The prep center's job only starts once the freight forwarder hands the goods off at final delivery. Knowing which party owns which leg avoids sellers chasing the wrong company for a status update.
More in International Shipment Prep
Domestic vs International Shipment Prep
How delivery method, documentation, and inspection needs differ between domestic and international shipments.
Customs Clearance for International Shipments
What sellers should prepare, who's responsible, and what causes clearance delays before goods reach a prep center.
Domestic vs International Supplier Shipments
How prep needs differ when inventory comes from a local distributor versus overseas manufacturer.
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