Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: TMS (Transportation Management System) • Cross-docking • Inventory Management

Freight Forwarding

Term from Logistics Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Freight Forwarding is a service that helps companies move goods from one place to another, especially across international borders. Think of freight forwarders as travel agents for cargo - they don't own trucks or ships, but they arrange and coordinate the journey of goods using various transportation methods (sea, air, road, or rail). They handle all the complex paperwork, customs clearance, and negotiations with shipping companies to ensure products arrive safely and on time. This is crucial for businesses that import or export goods but don't have the expertise or resources to manage international shipping themselves.

Examples in Resumes

Managed key client accounts generating $2M annually in Freight Forwarding revenue

Coordinated international Freight Forwarding operations across 15 countries

Led a team of 10 Freight Forwarding specialists handling Asia-Pacific shipping routes

Typical job title: "Freight Forwarders"

Also try searching for:

Freight Forwarding Specialist Logistics Coordinator International Shipping Specialist Global Logistics Manager Import/Export Coordinator Freight Operations Manager

Where to Find Freight Forwarders

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a client's shipment is delayed due to customs issues?

Expected Answer: A senior freight forwarding professional should explain their process for preventing customs delays through proper documentation, their network of customs contacts, and their escalation procedures. They should also discuss how they would communicate with the client and propose alternative solutions.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to improve operational efficiency in freight forwarding?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience with optimizing shipping routes, negotiating with carriers, implementing tracking systems, and managing teams across different time zones. They should also mention cost-saving initiatives and process improvements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What documents are required for international shipping and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain key shipping documents like Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Certificate of Origin, and customs declarations, along with their purpose and importance in the shipping process.

Q: How do you choose between air freight and ocean freight for a client?

Expected Answer: Should discuss factors like cost, urgency, cargo type, volume, destination, and client budget. Should demonstrate understanding of trade-offs between different shipping methods.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are Incoterms and why are they important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that Incoterms are standardized international trade terms that define responsibilities between buyers and sellers, including who pays for shipping, insurance, and handles customs clearance.

Q: How do you track and communicate shipment status to clients?

Expected Answer: Should mention using tracking systems, regular client updates, and basic problem-solving when shipments face minor delays. Should emphasize importance of proactive communication.