Freight forwarder

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Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://fiata.org

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Definition & Explanation

A freight forwarder is a logistics intermediary who organises the movement of goods on behalf of shippers without owning or operating transport assets. The forwarder books cargo space with carriers – shipping lines, airlines, or trucking companies – prepares the required shipping and customs documents, and manages clearance at origin and destination. Unlike a carrier, the freight forwarder does not physically move the cargo but bears contractual responsibility towards the shipper for the overall execution. In international trade, forwarders are the practical experts navigating complex routing, multimodal combinations, and regulatory requirements that most shippers cannot handle efficiently in-house. The profession is represented globally by FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations.

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Related Terms

Forward Reefer Booking Systems

Frontloading

Derivative Contracts Freight Risk Management

Peak Season

Freight Volume Forecasting

High Freight Season

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