Hourbour Logistics is your premier global logistics partner, offering comprehensive freight forwarding and supply chain solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Freight forwarding specifically focuses on organizing shipments for individuals or companies to get goods from the manufacturer or producer to a market, customer, or final point of distribution. Logistics, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses the entire flow of goods, including transportation, inventory, warehousing, material handling, packaging, and sometimes security. At Hourbour Logistics, we provide comprehensive solutions covering both freight forwarding and complete logistics management.
Tracking your international shipment with Hourbour Logistics is simple and convenient. Once your shipment is processed, you'll receive a unique tracking number. You can enter this number on our website's tracking portal or contact our customer service team directly. Our advanced tracking system provides real-time updates on your shipment's location, estimated delivery time, and current status. We also offer optional SMS and email notifications for important shipment milestones.
International shipping typically requires several key documents: a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading (for ocean freight) or airway bill (for air freight), and customs declaration forms. Depending on the nature of your goods and destination country, you may also need special permits, certificates, or licenses. Our customs clearance experts at Hourbour Logistics handle all documentation requirements and ensure compliance with international trade regulations to prevent delays or customs issues.
Choosing between air freight and ocean freight depends on several factors: urgency, budget, shipment size, and type of goods. Air freight is significantly faster (typically 5-7 days for international shipments) but more expensive, making it ideal for high-value, time-sensitive, or perishable goods. Ocean freight is more cost-effective for larger shipments and non-urgent deliveries, though transit times can range from 15-60 days depending on the route. Our logistics consultants can analyze your specific needs and recommend the most efficient shipping method for your business.
Customs clearance is the process of getting your goods through customs when entering a foreign country. This involves preparing and submitting documentation, calculating and paying duties and taxes, and ensuring compliance with import/export regulations. The process typically includes: document verification, inspection of goods (if required), assessment of duties and taxes, payment processing, and release of goods. Hourbour Logistics provides expert customs clearance services with licensed customs brokers who understand international trade regulations and can efficiently navigate the complexities of customs procedures.
Supply chain optimization can significantly reduce logistics costs through several strategies: consolidating shipments to maximize container utilization, optimizing transportation routes to reduce fuel consumption and transit times, implementing just-in-time inventory management to reduce warehousing costs, leveraging technology for better demand forecasting and planning, and negotiating volume-based rates with carriers. At Hourbour Logistics, our supply chain consultants analyze your entire logistics operation to identify inefficiencies and implement cost-saving solutions while maintaining or improving service levels.