They can also track the real-time transit of the goods and troubleshoot if required. They can liaise with overseas customs agents to ensure that the goods and documents comply with local customs regulations. The freight forwarder can act as a common carrier and prepare documents such as the bill of lading, airway bill, etc. They oversee the transportation of the cargo and its packing and loading into the carrier. They coordinate the insurance of the goods and do the necessary follow-up in case of an accident. They arrange the booking of cargo space on ship, plane, train, or truck. They consider the perishable nature of the goods, transit cost, time, and safety of the goods to suggest the best possible route for the shipment to the exporter. Here are some inputs to help you in understanding the role of the freight forwarder.Ī Freight forwarder can offer expert advice to the exporter on various logistics-related expenses (such as freight expenses, port expenses, consular fees, documentation costs, insurance fees, cost of merchandise, custom clearance and charges) incurred during the process of exports. That said, even the freight forwarding activity involves several important functions.Īn exporter may need a freight forwarder to make some vital decisions during the movement of the goods. The roles and responsibilities of a freight forwarding agent can be quite versatile and crucial to international trade. In other instances, exporters may hire a separate clearing agent for meeting regulatory requirements or prefer freight forwarding companies. The duties and responsibilities of a freight forwarder are often carried out by a clearing and forwarding (C&F) agent. This responsibility can start from the time the goods are picked up from the seller until they are delivered at the buyer’s specified location. In simple terms, a freight forwarder is an agent responsible for the movement of goods on behalf of the cargo owner. In this guide, we have explained his role in logistics of an Export Business, and how an exporter can choose a freight forwarder who is suitable for his needs. A freight forwarder is an important link in the chain of international trade.