Understanding the strategic role of the freight forwarder in import-export
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🗓️ April 2025
SEO keywords: international freight forwarder, freight transport, import/export logistics, customs clearance, Incoterm, TARIC, cargo insurance, FCL, LCL
📦 Introduction: The freight forwarder, this often neglected link…
When we talk about importing, we often think about choosing a supplier or negotiating the price . However, there is an essential link, often overlooked by beginners: the freight forwarder .
It's the link between your supplier in China (or elsewhere) and your warehouse in Europe . And believe us: even with the best products , poor logistics can ruin your business.
In this article, we explain the key role of the freight forwarder , the services they offer , and how to choose the right one to secure your imports.
🚛 What is a freight forwarder?
An international freight forwarder is an expert in freight transport .
Its mission: to organize, coordinate and secure each stage of your supply chain, from the factory to your warehouse or your end customer.
💬 Definition :
Freight forwarder : Professional or company specializing in organizing the international transport of goods.
He acts as a logistical conductor , managing:
- Sea, air, rail or express transport ,
- Customs formalities , Cargo insurance ,
- And any unforeseen events (delays, blockages, redelivery) .
🚢 What modes of transport are available?
A good freight forwarder adapts the solution according to your product, your deadlines and your budget:
🌊 Maritime :
Ideal for large volumes .
- FCL (Full Container Load): you fill an entire container.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Your products share a container with other shippers.
✈️ Air :
For urgent or high-value goods .
Faster, but more expensive.
🚄 Railway :
Good compromise between cost and time (especially from China to Europe).
⚡ Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS) :
Perfect for small packages . Very fast, but avoid for large volumes due to the cost.
🛡️ Insurance and risk management
The freight forwarder may offer Ad Valorem insurance , based on the declared value of the goods , to cover:
- Flight,
- Broken,
- Loss,
- Damage during transport.
💬 Key definitions :
Cargo : Goods transported by sea, air or land.
Ad Valorem : Insurance calculated on the market value of the cargo.
✅ It also anticipates logistical hazards (strikes, weather, port overload, etc.) and offers alternative solutions .
🧾 Customs clearance and tax optimization
The freight forwarder is also a tax asset . It supports you in:
- Choosing the right Incoterms ,
- Optimize customs classification via the TARIC code ,
- Reduce your customs duties and VAT on imports .
💬 Key terms :
Incoterm : International rules that define responsibilities between seller and buyer.
TARIC : 10-digit customs code used in the EU to calculate taxes and identify applicable standards.
🎯 A good customs strategy sometimes saves hundreds or thousands of euros per container.
🕵️ How to choose a good freight forwarder?
Not all freight forwarders are created equal. Here are the essential criteria for making the right choice:
✅ Price transparency (no hidden fees),
✅ Mastery of customs formalities in the country of origin AND arrival,
✅ Clear and proactive tracking of your goods,
✅ Fluent communication in French or English ,
✅ Experience in your sector (electronics, textiles, automotive, etc.).
❌ Common mistakes to avoid
🚫 Not checking if the forwarder is licensed or registered
🚫 Not clarifying who handles customs clearance
🚫 Accepting a vague or incomplete quote
🚫 Do not ask for estimated times for each step
💡 If a freight forwarder promises you miracles without asking questions: run away.
✅ Conclusion: The freight forwarder, more than a service provider, a partner
A good freight forwarder doesn't just "move boxes."
It is a true strategic partner for your import.
🚀 It saves you time,
💰 It helps you reduce your costs,
📦 It secures your deliveries from end to end.
🎯 At Born2Succeed, we recommend the right suppliers… AND the right freight forwarders
Our supplier packs are designed to go beyond simple contacts.
We also guide you on:
- The adapted Incoterms ,
- Transport solutions according to your volume ,
- And reliable, tested and validated partner freight forwarders .
👉 Order your pack and benefit from concrete recommendations to make your first import a success.