Freight forwarding involves arranging for goods to be transported internationally on behalf of importers or exporters, taking care of paperwork, customs coordination, and transportation logistics. Freight forwarders streamline the import/export process by serving as a single point of contact for clients, although they don't physically move goods themselves. They often collaborate with customs brokers for customs clearances and charge variable fees based on the services provided.

1. What is freight forwarding?
It’s the term given to arranging for goods to get from point A to point B, on behalf of an importer or
exporter. A freight forwarder takes the stress out of international shipping. There’s a lot that goes on
behind the scenes that they can assist with – including preparing paperwork, coordinating with
customs authorities and booking the truck, train, ship or aircraft that the goods travel on.
How does freight forwarding work?
Freight forwarders navigate the worldwide movement of cargo on behalf of their clients. Their role
would include handling the admin that comes with transporting cargo, and would use their contacts
and connections to subcontracting any specific tasks to be done. By using a freight forwarder you
can also avoid any unforeseen costs that can sometimes arise with international shipping.
What is a freight forwarder responsible for?
A freight forwarder makes the whole import/ export process as simple as possible from end-to-end.
There’s usually a lot of third parties involved at both the point of origin and delivery, but if a business
is using a freight forwarder, it means they only have one point of contact throughout the process.
Plus, they have peace of mind that all arrangements have been made for the paperwork,
negotiations and bookings.
How does freight forwarding fit within the logistics sector?
Freight forwarders are specialists in the logistics sector – though they do not physically move any
goods themselves. Instead, a reliable individual or agency will utilise their networks and know-how
to arrange for seamless international shopping.

2. What’s the difference between a freight forwarder and a customs broker?
A freight forwarder facilitates the whole process when it comes to the worldwide movement of cargo
– in most cases, they will deal with customs clearances as part of the service they provide. On the
other hand, customs brokers typically only deal with one part of the process – customs clearances
at the point of delivery (e.g., the port or airport of import).
Do freight forwarders use customs brokers?
Yes – while in in most cases, freight forwarders will deal with customs clearances as part of the
service they provide. They’ll either do it themselves, or subcontract it to a customs broker.
What do freight forwarders charge?
There’s no set charge for using a freight forwarder. Most will provide itemized quotes and contracts
which cover the costs of international shipping, as well as the fees for their services.
Do freight forwarders own ships?
No, freight forwarders do not typically own their own modes of cargo transport.