FORWARD THINKING
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• "Hello is that Commercial Motor? I did some work for a freight forwarder recently and now he won't pay me ... can you help?"
Hardly a week goes by at CM without a haulier ringing to complain about a freight forwarder that won't cough up the readies. Maybe that's why many hauliers regard forwarders as parasites — sucking you dry and leaving you broke.
Clearly some freight forwarders want to change that image. And the British International Freight Association's plan to introduce a bond to safeguard operators who work for its members is a welcome move — although it will initially apply only to those companies hauling air freight.
But if the BIFA really wants to earn some respect it shouldn't waste any time extending the scheme to general haulage — where the worst freight forwarding cowboys are to be found. Meanwhile blacklisting dodgy forwarders, like the Transport Users Group has done, will also help prevent operators getting stung.
But doesn't the real solution lie with hauliers? If more were selective about who they worked for then we probably wouldn't be getting so many depressing calls. Perhaps the real answer is to say no more often.
Never mind: "Well here's some trip money ... just do this other job and I'll make sure you get all your money when you get back." If you don't get your money, get tough, get the law, but above all else, get out.
GET STUCK IN
• We've been receiving calls from operators who want extra Say No to 50 stickers. If you want some more stickers, or a petition form, call Jackie Richer on 081-661 3681.