ADD ADVICE TO FAVMaterials handler / freight forwarder
Materials handlers / freight forwarders plan the (often international) movement of goods on behalf of another person or company.
What materials handlers / freight forwarders do
- organise the transport of goods using all modes of transport including road, rail, sea and air
- advise on the most commercially viable method of transporting goods
- organise and co-ordinate the consolidation of small loads of freight into full loads
- negotiate contracts at competitive rates
- book space on ships, aircraft and road transport
- make available value-added services including warehousing, sorting, packaging and assembly of goods.
Key skills for materials handlers / freight forwarders
- good numerical skills
- attention to detail
- commercial acumen
- some knowledge of sales and marketing
- excellent organisational skills
- IT skills
- a practical mind
- foreign languages may be useful.
Training to be a materials handler / freight forwarder
Graduate training is usually on the job and lasts up to two years, although there are a few graduate training schemes in this area.
It is also possible to get into freight forwarding by first gaining experience in other areas, such as operational management.
The British International Freight Association and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport both offer qualifications through courses or distance learning.
Salaries for materials handlers / freight forwarders
Average starting salaries for graduates are in the range of £16,000 to £22,000, but vary depending on the size and location of the employer, as well as individual performance. Salaries can progress up to £45,000 and beyond.
Professional bodies
- British International Freight Association
- Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport
- Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply
- Institute of Export
- Freight Transport Association
