IATA
IATA (International Air Transport Association) is the main organization that sets rules and standards for air shipping worldwide. Think of it as the authority that helps make sure air cargo moves smoothly between different countries. When you see IATA mentioned in freight forwarding jobs, it usually means the person has knowledge of air cargo rules, can handle shipping documents correctly, and understands international shipping codes and regulations. It's similar to how a driver needs to know traffic rules - freight forwarders need to know IATA rules to move cargo by air.
Examples in Resumes
Processed international shipments following IATA dangerous goods regulations
Certified IATA professional handling air freight documentation and booking
Managed air cargo operations in compliance with IATA standards and procedures
Typical job title: "IATA Certified Professionals"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find IATA Certified Professionals
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a complex dangerous goods shipment that requires multiple IATA regulations compliance?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the process of checking dangerous goods regulations, proper documentation, packaging requirements, and coordination between different parties while ensuring safety and compliance.
Q: How do you stay updated with IATA regulation changes and implement them in operations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods of keeping current with IATA updates, training team members, updating procedures, and ensuring compliance across the organization.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key components of an air waybill and why are they important?
Expected Answer: Should explain the main parts of an air waybill, including shipper/consignee information, description of goods, handling codes, and how they ensure proper shipping.
Q: Explain the IATA dangerous goods classification system.
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic dangerous goods classes, explain how to identify them, and discuss basic handling requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is IATA and why is it important in air freight?
Expected Answer: Should explain that IATA is the trade association for airlines that sets industry standards and rules for safe air transport of cargo and passengers.
Q: What are IATA airport codes and why are they used?
Expected Answer: Should explain that these are three-letter codes (like JFK, LAX) used to identify airports worldwide, making shipping documentation clearer and more standardized.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of air waybills
- Knowledge of IATA airport codes
- Basic cargo documentation
- Understanding of shipping terms
Mid (2-5 years)
- Dangerous goods handling
- Rate calculations and quotations
- Complex routing solutions
- Customs documentation
Senior (5+ years)
- Team management and training
- Advanced dangerous goods expertise
- Strategic route planning
- Regulatory compliance management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic air cargo documentation
- Unfamiliarity with dangerous goods regulations
- Lack of required IATA certifications
- Poor understanding of international shipping terms
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