A freight forwarder is the professional who organises, in practical terms, the transport of goods entrusted to them by an owner. They carry out the administrative or commercial procedures involved in the shipment, depending on the circumstances and the mode of transport used (ship, lorry, barge, train, etc.). They ensure that the goods arrive safely, as quickly as possible and at the best possible cost at the intended destination.

Qualities and skills

• Attention to detail and organisational skills
• Responsiveness
• Diplomacy
• A flair for negotiation and the ability to persuade
• Interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in English and IT software
• Organising and securing freight operations
• Organising the international movement of goods
• Informing and advising clients on the formalities relating to the international movement of goods
• Preparing and checking documents relating to the service
• Booking and monitoring resources with various service providers (companies, carriers)
• Monitor the progress of the service regularly and systematically
• Record incidents and prevent and manage complaints or disputes within a defined scope
• Check, verify and allocate supplier invoices

Education and training requirements

Requires at least two years’ further education following: General A-levels Vocational A-levels in logistics / freight transport organisation

Two years’ further education leading to a BTS in transport management and associated logistics A BTS in international trade is also highly regarded by recruiters.

Three-year degree (Bac + 3) in Logistics and Transport Management (BUT), specialising in Mobility and Supply Chain; Professional Bachelor’s degree (Licence pro) with a specialisation in Logistics and International Transport

Sectors and organisations

This role is carried out within a company’s freight forwarding department, or within an organisation comprising freight forwarders and transport operators specialising in international trade. In the latter case, the freight forwarder offers their services to various companies that need to ship goods. Some experienced freight forwarders work on a self-employed basis.

Source: LH PORT CENTER – Further information at www.lhportcenter.com