GlossaryFreight
Freight forwarder
A company that organizes international shipments for shippers, booking transport and handling documents across carriers and modes.
A freight forwarder arranges the movement of goods on behalf of a shipper. Forwarders book space with ocean carriers, airlines and trucking companies, prepare or coordinate shipping documents, and often arrange customs clearance through a broker.
Most forwarders do not own ships or planes. Their value is in coordinating many carriers, consolidating cargo, and handling the paperwork and exceptions of international freight.
Learn more in our Cross-border shipping articles.
Buy, print and track shipping labels and customs documents across carriers from one place.