Six Reasons to Outsource Export Documentation
Dealing with export documentation can be a time-consuming and costly process for exporters or anyone else responsible for the exportation process. Additionally, errors can be overlooked and mistakes easily made when preparing documents for shipping, especially when time is of the essence. This can result in expensive delays and even shipment rejection, plus other adverse consequences, from customs penalties to contractual disputes.
Below we look at the multiple benefits of outsourcing export documentation, and how using a documentation service provider can help exporters save time and reduce costs and uncertainty, helping to synchronise and streamline shipping processes.
1. Fast turnaround times
Outsourcing export documentation and taking advantage of the wealth of resources and working partnerships of a specialist documentation service provider can significantly speed up the preparation of the documentation needed for any type or size of shipment.
When it comes to fast turnaround times, Blair Consular Services boasts speedy standard and express services for a wide range of shipping documents. As the designated agent of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), we have the capability to process a large amount of export documentation the same day, helping to expedite the necessary legalities and formalities in creating documents fit for purpose to meet client needs.2. Significant costs savings
In addition to time savings, significant cost savings can also be made when outsourcing export documentation. By using a specialist service provider, one with the technical capabilities and dedicated teams to create the documents needed, clients can significantly cut back on operational costs. This could include the costs associated with buying, upgrading, and maintaining expensive export software. It could also include the costs to a business in terms of hours spent on in-house training and document preparation itself.
By utilising the range of services on offer by Blair, where we have the necessary resources to swiftly and efficiently get the job done, sizable financial savings can be made. We are also able to customise the services offered to clients, tailored to the needs of different exporters, so our customers pay only for the services required. This flexibility, combined with our ability to deliver—and to do so quickly—is an effective way to save a business money.3. Experience and expertise
As well as labour and other associated costs savings, outsourcing export documentation can help to ensure that each of the documents needed are complete and correct, and that shipments are not delayed or rejected because of oversights or inaccuracies. Relying on the experience and expertise of a specialist provider can give exporters the time and peace of mind to focus on other essential aspects of their business.
As the European market leader in providing specialist export documentation services, here at Blair we will deliver the documents needed quickly, without compromising on quality. We have a wealth of expertise, with experienced staff able to prepare the necessary paperwork to facilitate the successful shipment of goods. In this way, clients can minimise the risk of costly, time-consuming delays and other consequences caused by documentation errors.4. Access to the right personnel
When it comes to time and costs savings, not to mention minimising any risk of error, being able to easily access the right personnel for authentication and certification purposes can be key. This includes the London Chamber of Commerce, as well as the wide range of embassies, consulates, and notaries public in the UK.
Clients who outsource their export documentation and use Blair to meet these requirements will benefit from well-established partnerships and networks of professionals to assist in the preparation of their documents. Working in partnership with the LCCI, which provides our head office in London with an exclusive in-house certification department, together with longstanding relationships with embassies, consulates, and a UK-wide network of notaries, Blair offers a complete service.5. Access to time-saving technology
With the export documentation process becoming digital by default, outsourcing the preparation of documentation to a specialist service provider can enable exporters to take advantage of world-class software tools for faster and more efficient output. Exporters, both large and small, can also benefit from the technical background and know-how of their chosen provider, rather than risking digitisation without specialist assistance and support.
At Blair, our wide range of export documentation services includes Quickcert, our unique software platform designed for secure online document creation and certification. This platform allows clients to create, submit, and receive a range of checked, authorised, and certified export documents, in many cases in a matter of hours or even minutes.6. Support and customer service
In addition to accessing time-saving technology and the right personnel, it is important for exporters to have access to the necessary support and know-how when it comes to what documents are needed in the context of different export scenarios. It is also essential to adopt the right processes required to make these documents regulatory-compliant.
As Europe’s oldest and largest export documentation provider, Blair can assist with a wide range of requirements when it comes to international trade documents. This includes providing tailored advice on the types of shipping documents and legal paperwork that an exporter must prepare, together with the preparation and delivery of that documentation. In a bid to deliver the best possible customer service for our clients, we also have dedicated couriers for extensive collection and delivery service across the UK.To contact us with enquiries about outsourcing your export documentation, call us on +44 (0)1784 254123 or complete our online contact form.
Legal disclaimer
The matters contained within this article are intended to be for general information purposes only. This blog does not constitute legal advice, nor is it a complete or authoritative statement of the law in England and Wales and should not be treated as such. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information is correct, no warranty, either express or implied, is given as to the accuracy of the blog contents, and no liability is accepted for any errors or omissions. Before acting on any of the information contained herein, expert advice should be sought.