Freight Forwarder
Tasks & duties
Freight forwarders may do some or all of the following:
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find the most appropriate and cost-effective way of moving goods
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prepare goods for dispatch
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communicate with carriers such as road, rail, air and sea companies
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book transport cargo space and prepare quotations and invoices
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confirm transport arrangements
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complete export documentation such as Bills of Lading
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liaise with international freight forwarders to arrange pick up and delivery of goods
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advise clients of the costs of transporting goods and of the arrangements that have been made
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record movement and placement of goods while they are in transit
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check incoming goods against documents
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keep records of goods dispatched and received
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clear goods through customs
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arrange insurance for goods, and the payment of duties and taxes
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organise the delivery of goods for export or to an importer's premises
Skills & knowledge
Freight forwarders need to have:
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knowledge of international laws and standards regarding the transport of goods such as those set down by the International Air Transport Association (IATA)
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knowledge of shipping terms and United Nations port codes
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knowledge of carriage of goods laws, including dangerous goods regulations
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knowledge of transport systems
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knowledge of methods of packing and stowing goods
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excellent people and customer service skills
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good oral and written communication skills
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record-keeping skills
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problem-solving skills
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numeracy skills
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basic computer skills
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fork-lift operating skills
Knowledge of a foreign language may also be useful.
Entry Requirements
There are no specific entry requirements to become a freight forwarder. However, a current driver's licence with a good driving record and no criminal convictions is preferred by employers.
Secondary Education
Completion of secondary education such as year 12 Certificate of Education or Higher School Certificate preferred. On the job training may be required.
Tertiary Education
Training on the job
Skills such as dangerous goods handling, cargo stowage, cargo classification and dealing with hazardous substances are learned on the job.
People often work as trainee freight forwarders completing short courses, correspondence courses or part-time courses while they work.
Useful Experience
Useful experience for freight forwarders includes:
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working for a shipping line or importer/exporter
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work in customs
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courier work
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office or accounts work
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warehouse and stores work
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grocery or retail work
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work in sales.
Related courses
International Business
Purchasing, Warehousing and Distribution
For more information, please refer to myfuture.
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