Question 1

What is a freight forwarder and what do you do?

Accepted Answer

A freight forwarder coordinates the movement of goods on behalf of shippers. Meridian Cargo arranges transportation by air, ocean, road and rail; handles export and import documentation; manages customs clearance; and provides warehousing and distribution across 128 countries.

Question 2

How do I get a freight quote?

Accepted Answer

Request a quote through our Contact page or call +1 (800) 555-0142. We need origin, destination, cargo dimensions and weight, commodity type, preferred transport mode, and target delivery date. We respond within one business day.

Question 3

How do I track my shipment?

Accepted Answer

Every Meridian Cargo shipment has a unique tracking ID starting with MC followed by 8 digits (e.g. MC48213907). Enter it on our Track N Cargo page for real-time status updates including location, origin, destination, and estimated arrival.

Question 4

What is the difference between FCL and LCL ocean freight?

Accepted Answer

FCL (Full Container Load) means you book an entire container exclusively for your cargo — typically more cost-effective above 15 CBM and faster with less handling risk. LCL (Less than Container Load) means your cargo shares space with other shippers, which is more economical for smaller volumes under 15 CBM but adds consolidation time.

Question 5

How long does air freight typically take?

Accepted Answer

Most international air freight shipments are delivered within 1–5 business days door-to-door. Express next-flight-out services deliver within 24–48 hours on major routes. Transit times depend on the route, flight frequency, and customs clearance at destination.

Question 6

What documents are required to ship internationally?

Accepted Answer

The minimum required documents are a Commercial Invoice, a Packing List, and a Bill of Lading (ocean) or Airway Bill (air). Depending on the cargo and destination you may also need a Certificate of Origin, Phytosanitary Certificate, Import/Export Licence, or Dangerous Goods Declaration. Meridian Cargo advises on all required documentation when booking.

Question 7

Do you handle customs clearance on my behalf?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Meridian Cargo provides in-house customs brokerage for both import and export clearance. We prepare and lodge customs entries, advise on duty liabilities, liaise with customs authorities, and manage any holds or inspections.

Question 8

Do you offer temperature-controlled storage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Portland facility includes climate-controlled zones for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and other temperature-sensitive cargo, with full cold-chain documentation including temperature logs and chain-of-custody records.

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