Freight Forwarder

Freight forwarders are responsible for organising the movement of goods. Using sophisticated computer systems, they research and plan the most appropriate and economical route for a shipment, considering factors such as the perishable or hazardous nature of the goods, cost, transit time and security.

Daily duties include:

• booking transport, cargo space and storage, and arranging packing
• negotiating transport rates, insurance and schedules
• making calculations by weight, volume and cost
• using a computer to input freight details, trace shipments and exchange data
• preparing quotations and invoices, and arranging payments
• drafting contracts and customs documentation
• liaising with carriers and customers.

Freight forwarders normally work office hours from Monday to Friday, but they may have to work outside normal office hours, including Saturdays, on a rota. Freight forwarding offices are usually modern, open-plan offices full of computer workstations.

Trainee freight forwarders may earn £10,000 a year. Senior freight forwarders may earn up to £30,000.

Freight forwarders need:

• good spoken and written communication skills
• good numeracy skills
• good computer skills
• the ability to solve problems and think on their feet
• an interest in geography and transport.

Most freight is handled by over 3,000 third-party logistics (3PL) firms. These include small local companies, national companies with offices in large industrial towns, major ports and airports, and international companies with offices in the UK and overseas. London, the north-west, the West Midlands, the south-east and Scotland are main centres of UK logistics.

There are no minimum entry requirements, but employers often require GCSEs (A*-C) or equivalent qualifications and many entrants have higher qualifications. It is possible to do a traffic office Apprenticeship. Previous commercial or related experience is useful.

Freight forwarders may work towards NVQs or qualifications from the British International Freight Association (BIFA) or other professional bodies.

Promotion to supervisory, managerial or sales and marketing roles may be available, and there are increasing opportunities to work overseas.

Further details