What Does a Freight Forwarder Do? A Complete Guide for Australian Businesses
Introduction: What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?
Looking to expand your business globally or streamline your supply chain? Then you’ll want to understand the pivotal role freight forwarders play in international trade. This guide explores exactly what a freight forwarder does, and why working with the right partner—like Moving Solutions International—can save your business time, money, and frustration.
Many Australian importers and exporters find international logistics confusing. That’s where we step in. As your logistics coordinator, we manage freight from door to door, ensuring shipments are compliant, cost-effective, and delivered on time.
Learn more about our international freight services
What Is a Freight Forwarder?
A freight forwarder is a third-party logistics expert who organises the transportation of goods from one destination to another. Freight forwarders don’t move cargo themselves. Instead, they act as middlemen between shippers and carriers—negotiating contracts, managing paperwork, tracking shipments, and solving unexpected logistics issues.
Their value lies in experience and connections. Freight forwarders have a global network of sea, air, and land carriers, customs brokers, and warehouses—all working together to get your goods where they need to be, safely and legally.
Key Freight Forwarding Services Explained
Freight Forwarding Logistics Planning
Not every shipment is alike. Freight forwarders evaluate the best combination of transport modes—air, sea, rail, and road—to meet your priorities around speed, cost, and cargo type.
Documentation and Freight Compliance
International shipping involves extensive documentation. This includes:
Customs Clearance and Freight Forwarding Regulation
Getting through Australian and foreign customs can be complex. Experienced forwarders collaborate with licensed customs brokers to ensure compliance with trade laws, tariffs, and inspection requirements.
Visit Australian Border Force for regulatory information.
Freight Insurance Services
Freight forwarders offer cargo insurance to cover loss or damage in transit. This ensures your goods are protected from the unexpected.
Warehousing, Storage, and Distribution
We offer warehousing and storage for consolidated shipments or bulk goods. This includes palletising, cross-docking, and last-mile delivery.
Real-Time Freight Tracking and Visibility
Stay informed with shipment tracking from pick-up to delivery.
Why Freight Forwarding Matters to Australian Businesses
As an island nation, Australia relies heavily on international shipping. With strict customs controls and long transit routes, choosing a reliable freight forwarder isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Freight forwarders help businesses:
Understand Incoterms and customs
Optimise routes and pricing
Avoid demurrage fees
Expand to international markets
Visit FIATA and IATA to learn about freight forwarding standards.
Do you handle imports and exports? Yes, via air and sea.
Can I track my shipment? Yes, with live updates.
What if my freight is held by customs? We work with customs brokers to resolve delays.
Are freight forwarders cheaper than shipping directly? Often, yes—due to better rates and fewer delays.
