Freight Forwarder
Definition

Also known as a forwarding agent, a freight forwarder is an individual or company that organizes and facilitates cargo import and export. They arrange for the movement of goods from the manufacturer to the market or distributor and ultimately to the final customer. While a forwarder might not be responsible for the actual cargo shipping, they are the logistics experts organizing storage and freight shipping for the shipping companies.

A freight forwarder is not directly responsible for the cargo shipping process. They are intermediaries between various shippers and hauling services such as ocean transportation on cargo ships and moving goods by air, road, or rail. Other functions include:

Advising and Guiding the Shipper - A freight forwarder is vastly knowledgeable of shipping regulations, freight costs, banking options, and various challenges affecting the hauling process. They will advise their clients (the shipper) on various ways of easing the hauling process while negotiating with transportation agents on the transportation costs.

Securing The Freight Spaces On the Various Modes of Transportation - A freight forwarder plays a crucial role in helping the clients secure cargo spaces on ships, airplanes, trains, and trucks.

Enhances Packaging, Storage (Warehousing), And Distribution - A freight company arranges for packaging and sometimes provides packaging materials for efficient shipping. They also organize for warehousing and supply of freight to their different destinations.