In the transport and logistics industry, every shipment relies on precise organisation to meet deadlines and comply with regulations.
The freight forwarder plays a key role in the shipment of goods, by coordinating their transport via several modes: sea, road, air or rail.
The freight forwarder is often considered the conductor of the logistics orchestra.
Commissioned by the shipper or the payer, this professional's mission is to organise and supervise the transport of goods between a sender and a recipient. The freight forwarder does not just coordinate the transport: they assume full legal responsibility for it. This includes handling the goods, selecting carriers, managing administrative formalities and final delivery.
The freight forwarder acts in their own name, but always on behalf of their clients. One of the main features is their freedom in choosing carriers and operators, which allows them to offer optimal solutions adapted to each transport mission.
The freight forwarder carries out several missions which vary according to the specific needs of the shippers. Here is an overview of the main functions that a freight forwarder can perform:
It is easy to confuse the role of the freight forwarder with that of a freight broker. What then are the main differences between these two service providers?
The freight broker’s mission is to organize the transport by orchestrating the collaboration between the different players in the logistics process: carriers, customs officers, shippers, etc. Their role is to coordinate and facilitate each step, ensuring that everything takes place in accordance with your requirements and current regulations.
Although they simplify your operations, they act as an intermediary, without taking direct legal responsibility for your goods in transit in the event of a problem.
| Aspect | Freight Forwarder | Freight broker |
| Main role | Organises and supervises transport on behalf of a client | Facilitates customs formalities for import/export |
| Responsibility | Responsible as a carrier for the proper execution of the contract | Responsible only for their own faults |
| Scope of action | Transport on all types of modes (road, sea, etc.) | Especially in international multimodal transport |
The operation of the freight forwarder is based on its ability to orchestrate each logistical stage. In practice, this is how they act:
1. Customer-needs analysis des besoins du client
The freight forwarder begins by studying the particularities of the goods and the requirements of the payer (time limits, budget, special conditions).
2. Planning and choice of service providers
They select carriers and other participants (insurers, customs) by relying on their network to offer the most suitable solution.
3. Coordination and monitoring of operations
Once the logistics are planned, they coordinate shipments, supervise key steps and ensure compliance with commitments made. In the case of an unforeseen event, they take the necessary measures to minimise the impacts.
The profession of freight forwarder is strictly governed by national and international laws that aim to protect both customers and carriers.
1. Legal responsibilities
The freight forwarder is legally responsible for the proper execution of the transport contract. In case of damage or loss of goods, they are required to compensate the client.
2. Safety standards
When dealing with dangerous goods, the freight forwarder must follow strict safety protocols to ensure safe and compliant transport. This includes, for example, proper training of the team and the use of appropriate equipment.
3. Customs regulations
Failure to comply with customs regulations may cause delays and additional costs. An experienced freight forwarder therefore anticipates these issues by ensuring that all the documents required for customs clearance are complete and comply with current regulations, in advance of shipment.
It is this vigilance that prevents blockages at the border and guarantees you smooth, hassle-free logistics.
| Aspect | Advantages of freight forwarders | Limitations of freight forwarders |
|---|---|---|
| Expertise | In-depth logistics expertise thanks to a detailed knowledge of supply chains and regulations. | Advanced services may result in a high cost depending on needs. |
| Global management | Full support: carrier selection, tracking shipments, and resolving unforeseen events. | An increased dependency on a single provider may limit your flexibility. |
| Responsibility | Takes responsibility in case of problems: delays, damage, losses. | Less suitable for small businesses with limited or simple needs. |
| Time savings | A single point of contact simplifies the logistics management and optimizes the time spent by internal teams. | Additional costs for personalised or specific services. |
Although many companies choose to use a freight forwarder, digital solutions may also meet your logistics needs.
The Upply Connect platform, for example, simplifies the direct connection of shippers with carriers while optimising the management of transport operations.
With digitalisation, digital logistics solutions such as Upply Connect complement or replace the role of traditional freight forwarders. These platforms allow simplified and direct management of shipments.
The answer depends mainly on the complexity of your logistics needs.
For example, a freight forwarder may be relevant if you have complex needs, particularly in terms of international transport or dangerous goods.
Their expertise will allow you to delegate all of your logistics operations with complete confidence, while benefiting from their network and their ability to resolve unforeseen events.
On the other hand, for simpler needs, digital solutions such as Upply Connect can offer a good compromise, reducing costs while optimising deadlines