A freight forwarder is an agent responsible for the movement of goods on behalf of the cargo owner. They act as an intermediary between the shipper and transportation service providers. They liaise with various carriers to negotiate price & transit time, and handle coordination of the entire process, both logistically & administratively. This typically involves a variety of supply chain services such as ocean and air import & export transportation, inland transportation/drayage, document preparation, warehousing/storage, cargo insurance and customs clearance/compliance.
The service begins from the time the goods are picked up from the seller and continues until they are delivered to the buyer’s specified location. Freight forwarders take the stress of their clients by providing these key services & associated expertise.
Freight Forwarding
A freight forwarder is an agent responsible for the movement of goods on behalf of the cargo owner. They act as an intermediary between the shipper and transportation services, liaising with various carriers to negotiate on price and decide on the most economical, reliable, and fastest shipping route. They arrange the whole process for their shippers, from the storage to the shipping of their merchandise.
That involves a variety of supply chain services like ocean or air freight transportation, inland transport, document preparation, warehousing/storage services, consolidation, cargo insurance, and customs compliance.
The service begins from the time the goods are picked up from the seller until they are delivered to the buyer’s specified location. Freight forwarders take the stress off their customers by providing this expertise.
The Difference Between Freight Forwarding and Logistics
When comparing the difference between freight forwarding and logistics management, understand that those forwarding freight have a narrower focus on the transportation side of the supply chain, whereas third-party logistics companies have a broader focus.
Logistics management is a wider and all-inclusive term and covers important stages of the complete transportation process comprising planning, operational, and strategic tasks. It syncs activities and integrates all parts of the supply chain process.
Should You Use a Freight Forwarder?
Whether your company is looking for a freight forwarder or a 3PL provider, Nexterus has the services and resources to find the most cost-effective and reliable options for your company.
Since 1946, Nexterus has been the leader in the supply chain management industry. We remain today a fourth-generation family-owned and operated organization that values, above all else, relationships and customer service. Our business was built through long-term relationships.
Whether it’s global, national, or regional, we know the heavy hitters in transportation. Our working relationships with LTL, truckload, air, ocean, and parcel companies span decades. The Nexterus team creates innovative supply chain strategies that are forward-thinking.
If your company is facing a business challenge, fill out and submit this contact form, and let’s see how we can help.
