Duties / Responsibilities Of Freight Forwarder?

[syedzaidi]

Dear All,

Please can you tell me complete duties / responsibilities of freight forwarder.?

looking forward for your immediate reply.

Thanks,

Ali

[berry]

so far i understand, this is a very vast issue. better try searching internet. there are some good writings out there.

[shahriar]

Dear Ali,

you may try this link.

http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/ac ... 1078045408


regd

shahriar

[Carryward]

Dear Ali...

Functions of the International Freight Forwarder

According to the CIFFA, the most elementary role of the international freight forwarder is to arrange for the movement of goods from point A to point B, in accordance with the client's instructions, in the most economical, timely and safe fashion. The ten major functions a forwarder can perform are:

1. Best Routing: Freight forwarders can recommend the best (economical/timely/safe) routing and book space with a carrier. Thanks to more efficient routing an exporter's goods may be more competitive in new markets.

2. Packaging: They advise on or arrange for appropriate packaging, marking and labelling; or containerization. This includes directions on stowing and container use.

3. Customs Clearance: Freight forwarders need a basic knowledge of how local and foreign customs clearance works, and what papers are required for it. They give advice on foreign import regulations.

4. Transport Insurance: Unless the exporters make their own insurance arrangements, the forwarders are usually asked to do so because of their knowledge of the available coverage and their limitations.

5. Warehousing and Distribution: Freight forwarders arrange storage, either after customs clearance or while still "in bond", and give advice on facilities, rates and procedures. They also arrange for the distribution of large lots, including re-labelling and re-shipping.

6. Rate and Contract Negotiations: Forwarders command a large volume of freight and are thus in a position of strength to obtain the best possible rates.

7. Finding Alternatives: Forwarders are flexible and can find alternative ways of moving the goods in the case of an emergency such as earthquakes, strikes, weather or riots.

8. Groupage/Consolidation: Smaller shipments may be moved into a full carload/trailer load/container load, at great savings to the exporter.

9. A World-Wide Network: With branches or correspondents in all major ports/cities they act as groupage or degroupage agents, attend to reforwarding and customs clearance and are available for advice and consultation.

10. Follow-Up: Forwarders stay in touch with their customers and see to it that their shipments, once delivered to the carrier, do indeed move out and reach their destination.

Furthermore, freight forwarders can provide the exporter with an initial quotation on the following:

· Cost of freight

· Port charges

· Consular fees

· Cost of special documentation

· Cost of insurance

· Fee of the freight forwarder

This information may be used to prepare an accurate price quotation for the foreign buyer.

[shahriar]

great attempt dear carry. and well answered.

regd

shahriar

[syedzaidi]

Dear Gurus,

Many thanks for detailed / comprehansive replies.

Actually am doing a job in Pakistan, Private firm as a Procurement Officer, so i have many questions in mind so i ll ask you time to time if you dont mind.

Regards,

Ali