FAQ + Answers
What is the SGSA?
The Sporting Goods Shippers Association (SGSA) is a nonprofit organization that has evolved from working solely with the bicycle industry to its current mission of providing dedicated services for exercise equipment and sporting goods importers and distributors. The SGSA's main function is to negotiate ocean freight rates and contracts with steamship carriers and conferences that are favorable to our customers. The SGSA offers substantial cost savings and many services for its customers' transportation needs.
Why Should I Join the SGSA?
The SGSA will save you time and money. The SGSA is specifically dedicated to serving the sporting goods and exercise equipment industries. It was initially formed in response to a common interest among sporting goods industry companies to control ocean freight costs and stay as competitive as possible against other “leisure dollar” industries. Therefore, the goal of the SGSA was, and is, to provide the lowest possible transportation rates for the highest quality transportation services to its members.
What Kind of Savings Can I Expect?
Because the SGSA has negotiated ocean freight contracts with several major steamship carriers, it can offer reduced rates for full containers up to 20% cost savings on ocean freight.
Can the SGSA Select Carriers for Us?
The SGSA will not select carriers for you. Through its contracts, the SGSA provides its customers with a wider range of carriers than the selection available through NVOCC arrangements or individual carrier contracts. Your contact with carriers—including the selection process, payment process, and information flow—remains intact. The SGSA has shipping contracts with premium carriers like Evergreen®, and APL®. These rate and service contracts cover all sporting goods commodities and accessories.
Who Runs the SGSA?
The Sporting Goods Shippers Association, Inc. is comprised of a Board of Directors. Ms. Angela Munson is the SGSA Managing Director and handles the day-to-day activities and contract negotiations for the SGSA, all in accordance with the 1998 Shipping Reform Act and Antitrust laws.
Will the Information I Provide be held Confidential?
Yes. All information provided by your business or organization (application forms, etc.) will be treated as strictly confidential. Only the SGSA Executive Director will have access to your information.
How Do I Join the SGSA?
To be eligible to ship under the SGSA contracts, you must be an importer/exporter of sporting goods, and/or related products (i.e., parts and accessories for these commodities) in accordance with the bylaws of the association. Instructions on joining the SGSA, and a downloadable application and survey form can be found by clicking below