Confusion, delay, and extra costs.
I chose Baxter Freight over a cheaper alternative on a recommendation from our 3PL. I assumed their higher fee would mean expertise and peace of mind. Instead, my first US shipment has been beset with problems that any competent forwarder should have anticipated. For a first-time import into the US, it is standard knowledge that the shipment will need EIN validation, a Power of Attorney, supporting incorporation documents, and a clear bond strategy. None of this was flagged before departure – the first I heard of it was after my goods were stuck in clearance in Cincinnati.
What followed was days of chasing DHL directly, speaking to senior clearance managers myself, filling out POA paperwork, dealing with IRS hold-ups, and being told by Baxter that they “couldn’t intervene.” DHL eventually confirmed the freight could be cleared but only with a customs bond adding confusion, delay, and extra costs.
For a forwarder charging a premium, I expected them to take responsibility, anticipate requirements, and guide me through the process – not leave me firefighting with DHL. My experience has been stressful, time-consuming, and costly. If you are considering Baxter Freight for US imports, I would urge you to ask exactly what support they will provide, because in my case I ended up doing their job for them.








