KARACHI, June 21: The Union of Small and Medium Enterprises (Unisame) has advised the SME exporters to consult trade body or Unisame before nominating freight forwarders as their agents.

The president of the Unisame Zulfikar Thaver pointed out that SME exporters had lodged complains against the harassment by freight forwarders with the shipping companies.

To reduce such incidents, SME exporters have been advised to approach Unisame for the verification of freight forwarders who would assist them in nominating reputed freight forwarders.

Afzal Hussain, convener freight committee of Unisame, said that when freight forwarders quote lower rates than the shipping companies exporters were attracted to them but once the cargo was despatched they increased the rates.

He said that they also fleece new comers by giving them high rates under different heads which are not to be borne by exporter and are already included under the term ‘ALL IN’ used by the shipping company.

Mr Hussain said that freight forwarders acted in connivance with the clearing agent and the staff of the shipping company and gave the impression to SME exporter that they had no space because of slots already reserved for the freight forwarders hence the exporter was left with no choice.

The president, Unisame, asked the director general ports and shipping to direct the shipping companies to prepare a list of their freight forwarders on their panel.

He also said that shipping company or their agents should collect cheques or pay orders in their own names and not allow freight forwarders to collect freight on their behalf.