
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), navigating the world of international shipping can be overwhelming. Limited budgets, unpredictable freight costs, and a lack of in-house logistics expertise often create barriers that feel impossible to overcome. At ISS Shipping, we understand these challenges—and more importantly, we’ve designed our services to meet SMEs where they are and grow with them over time.
Why SMEs Need a Freight Forwarder Who Understands Them
Large freight companies often focus their resources on big-volume clients, leaving smaller businesses to fend for themselves. But the reality is that SMEs make up a huge portion of the Australian and global economy. They need just as much care and expertise—often more. We work with companies of all sizes, but some of our most rewarding partnerships have been with smaller businesses that have gone from testing their first overseas supplier to becoming seasoned global shippers.
Scalable Services for Growing Businesses
One of the main things that sets ISS apart is our ability to scale. Whether you’re importing your first pallet of products or preparing to send your 50th container, our team tailors your freight plan to your current needs—with an eye on your future growth.
We offer:
- Flexible freight options – LCL, FCL, air freight, sea freight, or even our new hybrid air-sea model.
- No minimum volume requirements – Ideal for businesses testing new suppliers or markets.
- Customised timelines – We help you plan your shipments to suit your budget, sales cycles, and launch dates.
It’s not about forcing you into a rigid system. It’s about making your logistics work for your business.
Personalised Support from a Real Team
What many SMEs value most is our personalised, people-first approach. You’re not just another number in a queue. With ISS, you get:
- A dedicated point of contact who learns your business and goals.
- Honest advice about cost-saving opportunities or risk factors.
- Fast, friendly communication—without the red tape.
We take the time to explain every step of the process and answer every question, no matter how small. That’s how trust is built.
Helping You Compete on a Global Scale
Shipping and logistics can make or break your ability to scale. We help SMEs bridge the gap between their business goals and what’s realistically achievable in a competitive market. How?
- By offering cost-effective freight consolidation, allowing you to share container space with other clients and reduce your per-unit shipping cost.
- Through smart route planning and port selection that reduces transit times and avoids unnecessary delays.
- With value-add services like customs clearance, warehousing, and last-mile transport, so you’re not juggling multiple vendors or invoices.
Our goal is to help you feel confident in expanding your reach—whether that means importing from Asia, exporting to Europe, or testing new trade routes altogether.
Logistics That Don’t Drain Your Time
Many SMEs operate with lean teams. You may not have a full-time logistics manager, and that’s okay. Our team acts as an extension of yours. From documentation and compliance to ETA updates and delivery coordination, we take care of the details so you can focus on growing your business.
We’re also available to help troubleshoot and problem-solve when things don’t go to plan. Delays, disruptions, customs hold-ups—these are part of the shipping world, but you won’t face them alone with ISS by your side.
Building Long-Term Relationships
Some of our longest-standing clients began with a single small shipment. What’s kept them with us is the partnership we’ve built along the way. We know their products, their peak seasons, their preferred ports, and their quirks. That kind of knowledge can’t be bought—it’s earned through years of consistent, reliable service.
Final Thoughts
For SMEs, choosing the right freight forwarder is about more than just finding the lowest quote. It’s about finding a partner who understands your journey, adapts with your needs, and genuinely wants to see your business succeed.
At ISS Shipping, we don’t just move cargo—we move businesses forward.