Lightering is the process of transferring cargo from one vessel to the other in case the first vessel is overloaded to the capacity a port facility cannot allow. Transferring your goads to another vessel requires proper handling of the goods to avoid damage. Therefore, you must make sure the company you have hired for your Lightering services have good experience with this kind of assignment, and it has the right equipment and vessels to do the task. As you think of these qualifications you need to know there are so many companies that provide lightering services and this can make it hard for you to choose the best company to serve you. However, if you consider these tips here you can be sure to settle on the company that has the best lightering services.
The first thing you should consider is the quality of the vessels used by the company. You should look for a lightering company that has the best vessels to hold your cargo. You must check the size of the vessel to be sure your goods will be accommodated by the vessel. Also, check the status of the vessels since you need a vessel that will not in any way risk your goods due to its poor conditions. When the company invests in the most recent vessels that are well maintained then it means they are serious with their business and this is the best lightering company to hire.
Secondly consider the availability of the company. It will be good if you will be served by this company in every port that you need lightering services. That means you should look for a lightering company that is available in almost all the US ports so that you can be using their services. That way, you are assured of the reliability of the company and quality lightering services.
The other tip for consideration is the qualification of the crews. Before you choose a lightering company for this task make sure the people that are trusted to do it are qualified. The crews must have the best experience in handling your specific cargo and be committed to surpassing clients’ expectations. Anyone hired by the company should have the right documents to prove their qualifications to handle your cargo.
The next factor to consider is the reputation of the company. Before you are sure to hire any company, make sure it’s known to provide the best lightering services. You will get that if you check on the company testimonial page and review sites. Also, you can involve your colleagues to ask them which lightering company do they use and how pleasing is their services. Requesting the company for reference contacts can also give you an idea of the type of company you are dealing with.
The pricing of the services is the other thing to consider. You should make sure you have chosen a company that is unbeatable in its pricing. However, you should be careful when falling for cheaper lightering services because most of them charge cheaply because they are not the best to choose.