Freight Forwarding Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global commerce, the role of a Freight Forwarding Manager has never been more vital.

As international trade expands, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can coordinate, manage, and ensure the seamless flow of goods across borders.

But what are the actual responsibilities of a Freight Forwarding Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of freight forwarding management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Freight Forwarding Manager job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Freight Forwarding Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Freight Forwarding Managers are responsible for overseeing and managing the transportation of goods between locations.

Their key role is to ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of goods to the customer.

They deal with planning, coordinating, and monitoring of shipments.

The duties and responsibilities of a Freight Forwarding Manager include:

• Managing the shipping and delivery processes of goods in the most effective and efficient manner
• Developing and maintaining relationships with various carriers, agents and vendors
• Coordinating with clients and carriers to plan and track shipments
• Ensuring compliance with regulations and laws related to international and domestic trade
• Monitoring and managing the performance of staff members and freight processes
• Negotiating contracts, transportation costs, and handling charges with carriers and agents
• Implementing and managing logistics IT systems to track goods through the entire shipping process
• Resolving any issues or delays that arise during the shipping process
• Preparing and managing budgets and ensuring cost-effectiveness in all operations
• Ensuring customer satisfaction by addressing customer concerns and resolving complaints
• Planning and implementing staff training for skill development and process understanding

 

Freight Forwarding Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Freight Forwarding Manager to oversee and manage all freight forwarding operations.

As Freight Forwarding Manager, your duties will include negotiating freight rates, managing relationships with logistics partners, planning routes, tracking shipments, and ensuring compliance with shipping regulations.

Our ideal candidate has a thorough understanding of supply chain management and a proven track record in freight forwarding.

You should be skilled at problem-solving, have excellent negotiation skills and be able to lead a team effectively.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee all freight forwarding operations and ensure they comply with shipping regulations.
• Negotiate freight rates with shipping companies and logistics partners.
• Manage relationships with logistics service providers, clients, and customs officials.
• Plan and monitor shipments, routes, and deliveries.
• Prepare and manage budgets and performance reports.
• Ensure compliance with shipping documentation and procedures.
• Address and resolve any issues or complaints related to the freight forwarding process.
• Provide training and guidance to staff members.
• Stay current with changes in freight forwarding and shipping regulations.
• Implement operational improvements to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in freight forwarding or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of shipping regulations and procedures.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Good computer skills and proficiency in logistics software.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Business Administration, or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Freight Forwarding Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for client meetings or site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Logistics.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $105,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Freight Forwarding Manager Do?

Freight Forwarding Managers typically work for logistics companies, shipping lines or manufacturing companies with a significant amount of imports or exports.

Their primary responsibility is to oversee the movement of goods from the manufacturer or producer to the market, customer or final point of distribution.

This involves organizing and planning for the transportation of goods via sea, air, or land routes.

Freight Forwarding Managers deal with the entire process of shipping including booking cargo space, negotiating freight charges, preparing and checking bills of lading, managing inbound and outbound documentation, and ensuring adherence to freight regulations and standards.

They coordinate with various agents and parties including shipping lines, customs, trucking companies, and warehouse staff to ensure smooth shipment process.

Freight Forwarding Managers also play a crucial role in solving any issues or discrepancies that may arise during the shipping process and ensure that goods reach their destination in a timely and efficient manner.

They may also be responsible for maintaining and developing relationships with existing customers in person and via telephone calls and emails, and negotiating and closing contracts with the aim of maximizing profits.

 

Freight Forwarding Manager Qualifications and Skills

A successful Freight Forwarding Manager should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of import and export laws, as well as shipping and customs regulations to ensure all shipments meet legal requirements.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills to manage the logistical aspects of shipping goods, including scheduling, tracking, and coordinating.
• Exceptional negotiation skills for securing contracts with shipping lines, airlines, road and rail freight operators.
• Superior communication skills to liaise effectively with clients, shipping agents, and customs officials, and to lead and manage the freight team.
• Ability to use freight management and logistics software for planning, tracking and reporting on shipment activities.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues that arise during the shipping process, such as delays, damages, or lost goods.
• Financial acumen to manage budgets, control costs, and prepare financial reports.
• Understanding of safety and environmental regulations related to freight and shipping operations.

 

Freight Forwarding Manager Experience Requirements

Freight Forwarding Managers typically need a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in the logistics and freight forwarding industry.

This experience might be gained through roles such as Freight Forwarder, Logistics Coordinator, or Operations Coordinator.

Candidates who have had hands-on experience in managing the movement of goods between locations, handling customs and regulatory procedures, and coordinating with various transport and logistics providers would be considered for this role.

In addition, professionals who have worked in customer service roles within the logistics or freight forwarding industry are often considered, as these roles provide experience in managing client relationships and expectations, which is a key component of the Freight Forwarding Manager’s job.

Candidates with more than 5 years of industry experience and a track record of successful management of freight forwarding operations may be suitable for senior managerial roles.

This might include experience in strategic planning, team leadership, and financial management within the logistics and freight forwarding sector.

Furthermore, due to the international nature of the role, experience in dealing with international freight forwarding and familiarity with international trade laws and regulations would be highly beneficial.

 

Freight Forwarding Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Freight Forwarding Manager generally holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, logistics, supply chain management or a related field.

They should have a solid understanding of shipping procedures, international trade, and import/export laws.

This knowledge is often gained through specialized courses taken during their degree or through specific industry training programs.

Experience in the field is also important, as practical knowledge of customs documentation, freight rates, and transportation modes is key to this role.

As such, many Freight Forwarding Managers start their careers in entry-level positions within logistics or supply chain management and work their way up.

Some positions may require Freight Forwarding Managers to hold a master’s degree in a related field, particularly for roles with a strategic focus or in larger international companies.

Professional certifications, such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), are not typically required but can help demonstrate a candidate’s expertise and commitment to the field.

Continual education and staying current with changes in trade regulations, transportation methods, and technology is crucial for success in this role.

As such, many Freight Forwarding Managers pursue ongoing professional development opportunities.

 

Freight Forwarding Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Freight Forwarding Manager is $72,437 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary greatly depending on the individual’s level of experience, the size and location of the company, and the complexity of the shipments being managed.

 

Freight Forwarding Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Freight Forwarding Manager need?

A Freight Forwarding Manager should have excellent organizational and planning skills to manage the logistics of shipping goods.

They should have strong communication and negotiation skills to deal with suppliers, carriers, and clients.

Knowledge of regulations regarding international trade and customs is also crucial.

They should also possess strong problem-solving skills to handle any issues that might arise during the freight forwarding process.

 

Do Freight Forwarding Managers need a degree?

Most Freight Forwarding Managers are required to have a bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, supply chain management, or a related field.

While a degree is beneficial, extensive experience in freight forwarding or logistics can also be considered valuable.

 

What should you look for in a Freight Forwarding Manager’s resume?

Look for experience in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field.

It’s essential that they have experience in international trade and are familiar with customs regulations.

Strong leadership skills are also a must, so look for examples of successful team management.

Lastly, any certifications in logistics or supply chain management can be seen as a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Freight Forwarding Manager?

A good Freight Forwarding Manager is detail-oriented, as they need to oversee all aspects of the freight forwarding process.

They should be adaptable and able to manage changes in shipping schedules or unforeseen issues.

Good negotiation skills are also important, as they will often need to negotiate contracts with carriers and suppliers.

They should also be comfortable working under pressure and capable of making critical decisions quickly.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Freight Forwarding Manager?

Hiring a Freight Forwarding Manager can be challenging due to the specific skills and knowledge required for the role.

You need to find someone with a strong understanding of international trade and customs regulations, experience in logistics, and excellent leadership and negotiation skills.

However, with a clear and detailed job description, and by offering competitive remuneration, you can attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unravelled the intricacies of what it truly means to be a Freight Forwarding Manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about overseeing cargo transportation.

It’s about orchestrating global supply chains, one shipment at a time.

With our comprehensive Freight Forwarding Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to set sail.

But why drop anchor here?

Navigate further with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for pinpoint-accurate listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every shipment is a part of a larger trade network.

Let’s streamline the future. Together.

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