Freight Forwarder
A freight forwarder is a company that books and coordinates international shipments across carriers, ports, and customs on behalf of a shipper.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
A freight forwarder runs the international move for you, so their skill decides how reliably containers arrive and what you pay for them. Forwarders book ocean and air space, prepare documents, coordinate pickup and delivery, and often provide customs brokerage. Most brands importing from Asia use one. For example, a forwarder can combine three suppliers' small shipments into one container, which is often cheaper than three separate LCL shipments. Compare forwarders on all-in, door-to-door quotes and on how they handle delays, not on ocean rate alone.
Common questions
- What is the difference between a freight forwarder and a customs broker?
- A freight forwarder arranges the transport of goods, such as booking ocean or air space and coordinating pickup and delivery. A customs broker is licensed to file entries and clear goods through US Customs; many companies offer both services.
- What is an NVOCC?
- A non-vessel operating common carrier issues its own bills of lading and resells ocean space it buys from shipping lines, without operating ships. Many forwarders are also licensed NVOCCs.
- Does a freight forwarder handle customs clearance?
- Many do, through an in-house or partner licensed customs broker. Confirm who files your ISF and entry, since the forwarder and the broker can be different companies.