Forwarding

Term from Courier Services industry explained for recruiters

Forwarding is a key service in the shipping and logistics industry where professionals organize the movement of goods from one place to another. A forwarding service handles all the steps needed to move items, including paperwork, choosing transportation methods, and making sure shipments follow rules and regulations. Think of it like a travel agent, but for packages and cargo instead of people. These services can handle both local deliveries and international shipping. When someone mentions forwarding on their resume, they're typically talking about managing the logistics of moving goods by road, air, sea, or a combination of these methods.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Forwarding operations for international shipments across 12 countries

Coordinated Freight Forwarding services for major retail clients

Supervised Cargo Forwarding activities handling over 1000 shipments monthly

Typical job title: "Freight Forwarders"

Also try searching for:

Freight Forwarding Agent Logistics Coordinator Shipping Coordinator Forwarding Agent International Freight Forwarder Cargo Agent Transport Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle a situation where multiple clients have urgent shipments but limited cargo space is available?

Expected Answer: A senior forwarder should explain their prioritization process, considering factors like client agreements, shipment urgency, and maintaining good relationships with all clients while maximizing available space.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to reduce shipping costs while maintaining service quality?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with route optimization, carrier negotiations, consolidation of shipments, and understanding of various transportation modes' cost-benefit analysis.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure compliance with international shipping regulations?

Expected Answer: Should explain their knowledge of customs requirements, documentation procedures, and experience with different country regulations and restricted items.

Q: Describe your experience with tracking systems and how you handle shipment delays.

Expected Answer: Should discuss familiarity with tracking tools, communication procedures with clients, and problem-solving approaches for common shipping delays.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic documents required for international shipping?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and explain basic shipping documents like bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations.

Q: How do you calculate shipping rates for a client?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic rate calculation including weight, dimensions, destination, and type of service considerations.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic shipping documentation
  • Customer service
  • Basic rate calculations
  • Understanding of shipping terms

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Route planning
  • Customs procedures
  • Carrier negotiations
  • Problem resolution

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic planning
  • Team management
  • Complex logistics solutions
  • International trade expertise

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic shipping documents
  • Lack of attention to detail in documentation
  • Poor understanding of customs regulations
  • Limited computer skills with logistics software