Tips for Avoiding International Shipping Scams
When seeking door to door service for your international shipping needs, be sure to ship with a company that is reputable, well-established, and ethical. This form of transportation reduces both connection time and the risk of damaged goods, but can also open opportunities for international scammers. When working with international purchasing agents and cargo companies, there are specific measures you can take to ensure that you are not falling victim to a scam.
- Research the Company
Before committing to a shipping company, be sure to briefly search the web for clues of the company’s validity. Look at their website, social media pages, contact information, and presence on other referral websites. Pay attention to anything that raises a red flag, such as a negative news article about the company. If the company has previously been outed for a scam, it will likely be evident when you search their name. For a specific rating, search the company’s name on the Better Business Bureau website.
- Check Prior Customer Experience
As with most products and services, if a customer had a bad experience, they will be more inclined to write an online review of the company. You should be able find testimonials on business review websites. Scanning the comment sections of social media posts, online videos, and the company’s blog is also a great way to spot customers who have been scammed. While communication with the agent, also ask for a purchasing agent resume sample
- Don’t Base Your Decision on Price Alone
If the company’s price is too good to be true, it is probably because it is. Scams are often hidden behind prices that are far below the industry rate. There could also be hidden fees packaged within the deal as well. To avoid falling for a scam because of a price, be skeptical and do your research.
- Check the Purchasing Agent’s Employment
While working with a purchasing agent to assist in your door to door service, ensure that they are employed by a legitimate company. If you have any doubts, contact the HR representative of the company itself. Cross check their phone number with the phone number available on the company website, as a scammer could try to use an actual employee’s identity to trick customers.
If you have fallen victim to a scam while shipping air and ocean cargo internationally, be sure to report it right away to the Federal Trade Commission.
