How to Vet a Freight Forwarder in 2026: 21-Point Checklist for Amazon FBA Sellers
As we kick off 2026, ocean freight rates from Asia to the US West Coast have spiked 22% week-over-week to around $2,617 per FEU amid pre-Lunar New Year demand, while Red Sea disruptions linger-keeping the market fragile with potential premium charges. Add in the full elimination of de minimis exemptions for Chinese goods (every low-value shipment now faces duties and formal entry) and rising EU ETS carbon surcharges hitting full stride, and one thing is clear: partnering with the wrong freight forwarder can crush your margins or delay inventory for weeks.
If you’re already comparing providers, start here: how to choose the best freight forwarder for Amazon FBA in 2026 (with clear criteria and red flags).
Vetting isn’t optional-it’s your best defense against hidden fees, customs seizures, and Amazon prep nightmares.
This brutally practical guide gives you a 21-point checklist tailored for Amazon FBA sellers, real red flags to watch for, must-ask questions, and Unicargo client stories. Use it to find a forwarder who actually understands FBA in this volatile year.
TL;DR
Top 5 Non-Negotiable Points
- FBA specialization
- Valid licensing
- Real-time tracking
- Transparent pricing
- Client references
Quick Decision Framework
Score <35? Switch now. 35-45? Monitor closely. 45+? Solid partner.
Why Vetting Your Freight Forwarder Matters More Than Ever in 2026
Rising Rates and Disruptions Overview
Early 2026 rates are volatile: Transpacific lanes up 20–30% month-over-month in some cases, with Red Sea risks still forcing reroutes and adding uncertainty. Forwarders without strong carrier relationships can’t secure space or competitive pricing.
Common Horror Stories from FBA Sellers
We’ve heard it all at Unicargo: Sellers stuck with $5k+ surprise bills from “all-in” quotes, containers held at customs due to poor HS code classification, or FBA shipments rejected over improper labeling—costing thousands in storage fees.
Red Flags: Signs of a Bad Freight Forwarder to Avoid
No Specialized Amazon FBA Experience
If they can’t speak fluently about FBA prep, direct injection, or Amazon’s routing requirements—run.
Hidden Fees and Poor Transparency
Quotes that explode with “accessorials” like PSS (Peak Season Surcharge) or unclear ETS pass-throughs.
Licensing and Insurance Gaps
No valid FMC license (US), inadequate cargo insurance, or evasive answers about bonds.
If any of these red flags sound familiar, use this guide to shortlist a reliable Amazon FBA forwarder before you go deeper into the checklist.
The 21-Point Checklist: What to Verify Before Signing
Key Questions to Ask During Your Forwarder Interviews
Top 10 Must-Ask Questions
- How many FBA containers do you handle monthly?
- How do you handle post-de minimis formal entries for low-value shipments?
- What’s your process for EU ETS carbon surcharges?
- Can you share recent client savings amid 2026 rate spikes?
- How do you secure space during Red Sea disruptions?
- What’s your on-time delivery rate to Amazon warehouses?
- Do you have in-house brokerage for tariff optimization?
- How transparent are your quotes on additional fees?
- Can I speak to 2–3 current FBA clients?
- What digital tools do you provide for tracking?
How to Score Their Answers
Rate 1–5 per question; aim for 40+ total. Red flags if evasive on licensing or references.
Real Unicargo Case Studies: Vetting in Action
Case 1: Seller Escapes Hidden Fee Trap
A 7-figure electronics seller switched from a “cheap” forwarder charging surprise $2k+ PSS fees-Unicargo’s transparent quotes saved them 18% ($22k/year).
Case 2: Avoiding Customs Delays in Tariff Era
Apparel importer faced repeated holds post-de minimis change; our brokerage expertise cut clearance time from 10 days to 3, preventing stockouts.
Average Savings for Clients Who Switched
Unicargo clients switching in 2025–2026 report 15–28% lower landed costs, thanks to better rates and zero surprises.
Why Unicargo Passes Every Point on This Checklist
Want the full framework we use to evaluate providers end-to-end? Here’s what separates a top FBA freight partner like Unicargo from generic forwarders.
Our FBA-Specific Guarantees
100% Amazon-compliant prep, direct warehouse injection, and on-time guarantees.
2026-Ready Expertise (Tariffs, Carbon, Tracking)
In-house brokers optimize duties, transparent ETS handling, and real-time portal-even during disruptions.
Think your current forwarder passes? Get a free Unicargo vetting consultation – we’ll score them against this checklist for you.
FAQ
How Long Should Vetting Take?
2–4 weeks for thorough checks-worth it to avoid months of pain.
Can Small FBA Sellers Get Good Forwarders?
Yes! Unicargo works with sellers from 1 container/month up-no minimums.
What Licenses Are Mandatory in 2026?
FMC for ocean, customs bond, adequate insurance.
How Do I Switch Forwarders Mid-Year?
Easy-start with next orders. We handle transitions seamlessly.
Does Unicargo Offer a Free Vetting Consultation?
Absolutely, book here and bring your current quotes.
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