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Ship Broker Companies and their Importance in Shipping Trade

Ship Broker Companies and their Importance in Shipping Trade

  • November 22, 2014

The shipping industry, with its complicated deals, is considered a multi-billion dollar entity. Brokers for selling and purchasing ships are sought after by professionals to ensure a successful transaction. Hence the first step to buy or sell a ship is to look for an efficient ship broking company. Hiring a ship broker can help in smoothing out a critical part of ship sale business. Companies involved in ship broking act as intermediaries between the owners of the vessels and those who are interested  in buying one. The job of a ship broker might range from finding a ship to obtaining cargo or employment for it. Besides the sell and purchase of the vessels, he also makes arrangements for everything associated with transporting commodities or other goods on the sea.

Ship Broker Companies

Is a Ship Broking Company Essential?

This is a big question that one might ask. If you are planning to buy or sell a ship why not contact the interested party directly. Shipping deals are not a child’s play. These are complicated deals involving vessels that are quite expensive. The ship broker will know the market value of the ships and can guide their clients to the best deals. When you are closing a deal it is important that there are no loopholes. This is where such companies help you out. For instance, if you are planning to buy a ferry ship in Norway, how will you proceed? The ship broking companies in Norway will have all the details about a suitable ferry vessel. Besides providing you the necessary information they will help you with everything. This include obtaining inspection permits and even making arrangements for positioning the vessel to buyers new home port when buyer take delivery of the vessel.

They are experts in their own field

Unless you are cruise or ferry vessel expert, you would not know about all the ships that will suit your purpose. With several hundred cruise and ferry vessels sailing across the globe it will be difficult to narrow down the choices. This is where such companies prove immensely helpful. Moreover, someone living in Canada might plan to invest in Norway. It is always advisable to opt for a local ship broking company as they will be able to provide you thorough details.

Therefore, these companies are involved in every part of the deal. They will market the business to the interested buyers, negotiate the terms in the shipping contract and seal the deal till the charter or sale is concluded. There are various such broking companies who provide professional counseling for the aspiring buyers.

Ship Broking Firm or an Individual Broker

There might be varied opinions on this. A good ship broking company is preferable as they will provide you with an unbiased assessment. These are registered companies and you can perform a quick background check before proceeding. The same applies for individual brokers. It is important to find out whether you are dealing with right kind of people. As a buyer it is important that you know what to expect when you are onboard. A well reputed ship broking firm can leverage their good rapport with the cruise lines to conclude with the best prices and amenities.

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