Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Stevedoring • Pilotage • Customs Clearance

Freight Forwarding

Term from Marine Travel 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 ships or planes, but they arrange and coordinate all aspects of shipping. They handle paperwork, customs clearance, and choose the best shipping routes and methods. This role is essential in international trade, helping businesses navigate the complex world of global shipping without having to be experts themselves.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Freight Forwarding operations for 200+ international shipments monthly

Coordinated Freight Forwarding and customs clearance for time-sensitive medical supplies

Led a team of 5 Freight Forwarding specialists handling Asian-Pacific trade routes

Typical job title: "Freight Forwarding Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Freight Forwarder Logistics Coordinator International Shipping Specialist Customs Broker Shipping Operations Manager Global Logistics Specialist Import/Export Coordinator

Where to Find Freight Forwarding Specialists

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a client's cargo is stuck in customs?

Expected Answer: A senior freight forwarder should explain their process for resolving customs issues, including liaison with customs authorities, documentation review, and client communication strategies. They should mention past experiences and preventive measures for future shipments.

Q: What strategies would you use to optimize shipping costs for clients?

Expected Answer: Should discuss consolidation of shipments, negotiating with carriers, choosing alternative routes, considering different transport modes, and balancing cost versus transit time based on client needs.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What documentation is required for international shipping?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and explain key documents like Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and customs declarations, explaining the purpose of each.

Q: How do you handle time-sensitive shipments?

Expected Answer: Should explain prioritization processes, alternative routing options, carrier relationships, and communication protocols with clients and partners.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main modes of transportation in freight forwarding?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic differences between sea, air, road, and rail freight, including typical transit times and cost considerations.

Q: What is a Bill of Lading and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a crucial shipping document that serves as a receipt of goods, contract of carriage, and document of title.