What is a Freight Forwarder?
An international freight forwarder is an agent for the exporter and can move cargo from “dock-to-door,” providing several significant services such as:
 | Advising on exporting costs including freight costs, port charges, consular fees, costs of special documentation, insurance costs and freight handling fees; |
| Preparing and filing required export documentation such as the bill of lading and routing appropriate documents to the seller, the buyer or a paying bank; |
| Advising on the most appropriate mode of cargo transport and making arrangements to pack and load the cargo; |
| Reserving the necessary cargo space on a vessel, aircraft, train, or truck. |
| Making arrangements with overseas customs brokers to ensure that the goods and documents comply with customs regulations. |
Export freight forwarders are licensed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to handle airfreight and the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean freight.
How can I find freight forwarder?
Freight forwarders are located in most metropolitan areas. Local business telephone listings often feature a freight forwarder or transportation heading. Additionally, the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America will provide exporters with information on their members. They can be reached at:
1200 18th Street, NW,
Suite 901
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: (202) 466-0222
Privately operated forwarder listing services, such as those below, can help to identify a local forwarder.
Directory of Freight Forwarding Services
Agricultural Freight Forwarders
An extensive, detailed database of Agricultural Freight Forwarders, including their experience shipping agricultural products.