Transport & Logistics

Freight Forwarder

Railways
Sea Transport
Supply Chain

Air Transport
Freight Forwarder
Postal Operation

A freight forwarder acts on behalf of importers/exporters, organising the delivery of goods efficiently and economically by all modes of transport depending on the size and nature of goods such as road, rail, air or sea.

Companies differ greatly in size, ranging from small organisations specialising in specific goods within a restricted geographical area, to large businesses operating in a global market.

The freight forwarder has to liaise closely with clients to organise such things as appropriate packaging for all types of goods, adequate insurance, and ensuring all documentation is in line with legal requirements. Much of the work is office based and situated in convenient locations for seaports, airports, or close to industrial units with efficient motorway links for which Yorkshire's location is prime. The ability to speak more than one language is beneficial as there are many opportunities to work abroad.

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has over 1,250 member firms, accounting for over 85% of all the freight forwarding business in the UK. In addition there are approximately a further 1,000 companies, ranging from local companies operating in their immediate local area, to international companies with offices worldwide.

Useful links:

British International Freight Association (BIFA)

A source of information on a wide range of subjects related to the business of freight forwarding.

Freight Transport Association

Includes information on key issues within the sector.

The Road Haulage Association

Includes information on industry matters.