Start Your Career as a Freight Forwarder with Supply Chain Training

The logistics industry is a great option for anyone looking to start a rewarding new career. Among today’s highly globalized major economies, individuals with the skills necessary to move goods from one destination to another safely and in compliance with all of the necessary regulations will be key to the success of many companies.

One of the most common activities in the logistics industry is what’s known as freight forwarding. A freight forwarder doesn’t move goods themselves, but rather acts as an intermediary between a shipper and the various services they depend on to ship their goods. Given the highly complicated nature of navigating international trade routes, services, and regulations, freight forwarders play an essential role in the growing logistics industry.

Keep reading if you want to know more about this fascinating career, and how to get started in it with supply chain training.

What You’ll Do in Your Career as a Freight Forwarder

In the simplest terms, a freight forwarder assists and advises their clients on how to move their goods from one destination to another.

While that might sound relatively straightforward, the realities of international shipping are incredibly complex. This is why freight forwarders are needed. Freight forwarders use their extensive professional network and in-depth knowledge of shipping practices to ensure that their client’s goods travel efficiently, and arrive safely and on time, with the lowest possible cost.

In order to achieve this, a freight forwarder will research and plan routes, taking into account the type of goods being shipped, the distance they need to travel, and the desired delivery date. They handle insurance, customs documentation, and various other regulatory requirements on behalf of their client. They will arrange pickup at intermediate destinations, and arrange storage for the goods as needed. Freight forwarders might also use technology and software applications to track goods in real time as they move through the shipping chain.

How to Know if a Career in Freight Forwarding Is Right for You

Freight forwarding is a great career option for anyone who enjoys fast-paced and varied work in a primarily office-based setting. While some larger companies might require non-standard work hours, individuals who develop experience in the industry have the option of finding specializations or niches within it, which can provide more flexibility and independence.

If you’re detail-oriented and good at multitasking, then you might be well suited to supply chain courses and the particular demands of being a freight forwarder. Building relationships with shippers and transporters can also be essential to the job, so those with good interpersonal skills will find themselves at an advantage. Other important qualities for freight forwarders include good communication skills and problem-solving abilities.

Supply Chain Courses Can Give You the Experience You Need

National Academy (now, Anderson College)’s 46-week diploma program in supply chain training can equip you with the skills you need to begin a career as a freight forwarder. Not only do students learn about the supply chain, logistics, distribution, and business processes, but they also complete an internship in the sector, providing them with valuable contacts and real-world experience in the industry. Graduates of the program are also eligible to receive certification from the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association and membership to the Supply Chain Management Association, credentials that can set them apart from other job applicants and give them the best possible start to their career in freight forwarding.

Are you interested in starting a rewarding new career as a freight forwarder?

Contact Anderson College for more information about our supply chain training program.