Thinking about starting a career world of freight forwarding & logistics? So, what does a Freight Forwarder actually do?
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to digest & hopefully show you what a great diverse, challenging & rewarding industry this is to start and build a career in.
What’s a Freight Forwarder?
Think of a freight forwarder as the ultimate organiser for moving goods. They act as the middle person between companies that need to ship stuff and the companies who actually transport it. Their job is to make sure products get from point A to point B in the safest, most efficient, and cost-effective way possible.
Key Responsibilities:
- Route Planning: Figuring out the best path for shipments, considering factors like cost, speed, and the nature of the goods.
- Booking Transport: Arranging transportation via road, rail, air, or sea, depending on what’s most suitable.
- Documentation: Handling all the necessary paperwork to meet customs and insurance requirements.
- Customs Clearance: Completing Customs clearances / entries, in order to pay the relevant Duty & VAT, declare the goods for audit purposes & checking and so the cargo is free to move from the port or across the boarder.
- Negotiation: Working out the best deals for transportation and handling costs.
- Tracking Shipments: Keeping an eye on goods throughout their journey and providing updates to clients.
- Problem-Solving: Addressing any issues that pop up during transit to ensure timely delivery.
Skills You’ll Need:
- Communication: You’ll be talking to a lot of people, from clients to transport providers, so being clear and effective is key.
- Organisation: Juggling multiple shipments and deadlines requires top-notch organizational skills.
- Attention to Detail: Small errors can lead to big problems, especially with documentation.
- Problem-Solving: Things don’t always go as planned; being able to think on your feet is crucial.
- IT Skills: Familiarity with logistics software and tracking systems will be a big plus. But as a trainee, you won’t know these, but the ability to use various mainstream software packages and programmes will demonstrate your ease using various software & systems.
Getting Started:
Many companies will hire at a trainee level, so you can start in a more admin based role and get exposed to the Customs, operations & transport side, building experience and learning all the time. Alternatively, apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn and BIFA the industry body for the industry offer Apprenticeships in Freight Forwarding.
At Blue Rocket, we offer a FREE service to shipping, freight forwarding & logistics companies looking to hire at entry level, so do register your interest in such roles by emailing the team at hi@bluerocketrec.co.uk
Career Progression:
Starting as a freight forwarder can lead to roles like senior forwarder, shipping manager, supply chain manager & senior management / director level. The industry offers plenty of opportunities for those willing to put in the effort.
Typical Salaries:
Starting as a freight forwarder can earn around £21K, and once you progress into a more senior forwarding role you will earn around £32K-£35K with managerial roles paying around £60K. Salaries really do depend on level of responsibility and from company to company.
Final Thoughts:
Freight forwarding is a dynamic and rewarding field, perfect for those who enjoy logistics and problem-solving. If you’re organised, communicative, and up for a challenge, this could be the career path for you. The team here at Blue Rocket certainly love the industry.