Who is a freight forwarder?
A freight forwarder is a professional logistics agent who acts on behalf of importers, exporters, or other companies. They have organizational skills and use their knowledge of transportation tactics to coordinate the safe, efficient, and cost-effective movement of goods.
Moreover, a freight forwarder uses computer systems to arrange the most suitable means of transport, taking into account the type of goods and delivery requirements of the customer.
Expertise
Freight Forwarders provide third-party logistics and supply chain services on behalf of their client. Their expertise are as follows:
- They manage freight costs
- Handle port charges
- Deal with costs of any special document
- Terminal fees handling
- Take care of insurance costs
Their main focus is on the supply chain working. They are also pro at handling and monitoring the transportation of the shipment and cargo from one place to another. Additionally, they tie all the loose ends of the supply chain that require coordination. A freight forwarder is a multi-purpose agent who handles the logistics on behalf of the owner and also gives advice and consultancy services.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities mostly depend on the type and size of the employer but generally include:
- Planning and investigating the most suitable route for shipment, taking into consideration the nature of the goods, cost, security, and transit time
- Taking into account the delivery and warehousing of the goods at their final destination
- Handling costs, transportation, and negotiating contracts
- Getting, checking, and preparing documentation to meet the requirements of the customs and insurance
- Arranging insurance and assisting clients in the event of a claim
- Offering secure solutions to small shippers who do not have sufficient cargo
- Arranging air transport for high-value and urgent freight
- Acting as a broker in customs negotiations worldwide
- Offering customized IT solutions and electronic data interchange connections
- Arranging payment of freight or collection of payment on behalf of the client
- Utilizing satellite systems and internet technology to enable real-time tracking of goods
At more senior levels, the responsibilities may include managing staff and overseeing various activities within a department or a particular specialized area such as sea freight or air freight.
Benefits of using a freight forwarding service
- Letting a professional service handle the transportation process can not only improve the overall process but also reduce stress on company’s employees’, resources, and workflows.
- It also helps in improving the shipping time and freight forwarders know the best routes and methods for transporting goods to the final destination.
- When you choose a freight forwarding service, you are choosing high-quality and efficient shipping method. It promotes undamaged and quick delivery of goods hence leading to satisfied customers.