Freight Forwarders
Research rates, routings, or modes of transport for shipment of products. Maintain awareness of regulations affecting the international movement of cargo. Make arrangements for additional services, such as storage or inland transportation.
Common Job Titles
- Air Export Agent
- Air Export Coordinator
- Freight Forwarder
- GSA Coordinator (General Services Administration Coordinator)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate compliance with international cargo regulations and customs requirements across multiple jurisdictions to ensure legal shipment of goods.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess cargo documentation accuracy and completeness including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and export declarations to prevent shipping delays.Proficient
- MindsetReconcile conflicting client priorities with carrier constraints and regulatory requirements when negotiating shipping arrangements under time-sensitive conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize multi-modal shipment schedules and ancillary services including warehousing, inland transport, and insurance using enterprise logistics systems.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret tariff classifications and trade agreement provisions to advise clients on duty implications and optimize landed costs.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze international shipping rates, routings, and transport modes using freight management software and industry databases to determine optimal solutions.Developing
- KnowledgeCompare transportation service providers and logistics options by analyzing cost, transit time, and reliability factors to meet client needs.Developing
- MindsetEngage with clients, carriers, and customs brokers to coordinate complex international shipments and resolve service issues.Developing
- KnowledgeCalculate freight charges, duties, and total landed costs using multiple currency conversions and variable rate structures.Developing
- MindsetSupport client service expectations through proactive communication and problem resolution while managing multiple shipments across global supply chains.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of geography, trade routes, and port operations to design efficient logistics networks and contingency plans.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Freight Forwarders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
97,800
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,240. 25th percentile: U.S. $43,490. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,900. 75th percentile: U.S. $62,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $76,350. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $37,240 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $76,350 |
| Workers on average earn | $55,420 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Transportation4.8/5
- Administrative4.6/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
- Administration and Management4.3/5
- English Language4.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- AESDirect
- Arcline ArcFreight
- CEDAS Gateway
- CargoWise ediEnterprise
- Email software
- IES Ecellerate
- Kewill Global Trade and Logistics
- Manufacturing resource planning MRP software
Tools & Equipment
- Desktop computers
- Laptop computers
- Laser facsimile machines
- Multi-line telephone systems
- Personal computers