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If you’ve Googled “Freight Forwarder job description,” you’ve probably noticed the same problem: most articles are dry, copy-paste templates filled with bullet points, buzzwords, and zero personality.
They all follow the same tired formula:
- Apply here.
But here’s the truth: job posts like that don’t actually attract great candidates. They don’t sell the opportunity. They don’t inspire someone who could be a great fit to stop scrolling and say, “That’s me.”
Top freight forwarders — the ones who can juggle customs paperwork, coordinate shipments across time zones, and keep clients informed without missing a beat — aren’t motivated by bland checklists. They want to know:
- What company they’ll be representing.
- Why their role matters.
- How they’ll make an impact on your operations.
The good news? Writing a job description that actually connects with candidates doesn’t require you to be a marketing genius. It just requires the right approach.
👉 Before we dive in, I recommend you check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — it breaks down why generic job descriptions fail and gives you a proven framework for creating posts that attract top talent.
In this article, we’ll build on that framework and apply it specifically to Freight Forwarder job descriptions, giving you:
- A plain-English definition of the role.
- Two ready-to-use templates (experienced vs. entry-level).
- A breakdown of why they work.
- An example of a bad post (and how to fix it).
- Bonus tips, an AI caution, and a copy-paste template for quick use.
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What a Freight Forwarder Actually Does - Their Roles
Most job descriptions reduce a freight forwarder to a list of tasks like “arrange shipments” or “handle customs paperwork.” While true, that oversimplifies the role.
In reality, a freight forwarder is the orchestrator of global trade. They make sure goods move smoothly across borders, through ports, and onto trucks or planes — all while keeping clients updated and solving problems that can arise at any stage.
A strong freight forwarder is:
- A logistics expert who understands shipping routes, carriers, and regulations.
- A problem-solver who can navigate customs, delays, and unexpected issues without derailing an entire supply chain.
- A relationship manager who communicates clearly with clients, suppliers, and partners.
- A detail-oriented planner who ensures that documents, compliance requirements, and delivery timelines line up perfectly.
Think of them as the air traffic controller of shipping and logistics — they don’t fly the plane, but without them, nothing arrives on time.
This is why hiring the right freight forwarder is crucial: a skilled one can save your company money, reduce risks, and strengthen client trust, while a poor hire can cause costly delays and unhappy customers.
Two Great Freight Forwarder Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Freight Forwarder
Job Title: Freight Forwarder (Global Air & Ocean) — Houston, TX
Type: Full-Time | Comp: $58,000–$75,000 base + performance bonus | Schedule: Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM | Hybrid: 3 days onsite / 2 remote
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager: (Insert Loom/YouTube link here)
Who We Are
Blue Harbor Logistics is a mid-market 3PL based in Houston supporting U.S.–LATAM and Trans-Pacific trade lanes. We specialize in time-sensitive industrial and consumer goods, coordinating air, ocean, and road freight with an emphasis on customs compliance and clear client communication. Our team is tight-knit, fast-moving, and obsessed with doing right by our customers.
Our Culture
Clear communication, ownership, and reliability. We keep promises, raise flags early, document everything, and help each other win.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Own door-to-door coordination for air & ocean imports/exports (booking → delivery).
- Prepare and audit commercial invoices, packing lists, HAWB/MAWB, HBL/MBL, certificates, and AES filings.
- Liaise with carriers, NVOCCs, truckers, terminals, and customs brokers to prevent/resolve delays.
- Track milestones (ETD/ETA, rollovers, holds) and proactively update clients.
- Negotiate carrier rates and secure space during peak periods.
- Investigate exceptions (short shipments, damages, demurrage/detention) and drive resolutions.
- Maintain clean files in TMS/CRM, ensuring audit-ready documentation.
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years in freight forwarding (air & ocean) with hands-on file ownership.
- Working knowledge of Incoterms, HTS classification basics, ISF, FMC/CBP
- Confident communicator with shippers, consignees, carriers, and brokers.
- Strong problem-solving, prioritization, and follow-through under time pressure.
- Comfortable in TMS/ERP/Excel; fast, accurate documentation.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base + quarterly performance bonus
- Medical, dental, vision; 401(k) with match
- 15 days PTO + 10 paid holidays; birthday leave
- Annual learning stipend; paid industry certifications
- Onsite parking; monthly phone/internet stipend
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: You’ll own end-to-end files and be the reason shipments clear and customers stay.
- Autonomy: We trust you to make calls, escalate early, and close the loop.
- Growth: Advance into key account ownership or team lead as we scale.
- Tools: Modern TMS, real-time tracking, and a no-nonsense documentation culture.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and respond within 7–10 business days. Shortlisted candidates complete a skills evaluation and a structured interview. Finalists meet the team and receive a prompt decision.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen (skills-first): (Insert WorkScreen link). You’ll complete a short logistics/problem-solving evaluation so we can assess real-world ability—not just résumés.
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Freight Forwarder
Job Title: Junior Freight Forwarder (Training Provided) — Mombasa/Nairobi
Type: Full-Time | Comp: KES 95,000–130,000 per month (DOE) | Schedule: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager: (Insert Loom/YouTube link here)
Who We Are
Safari Trade Logistics supports East Africa imports and exports through Mombasa Port and JKIA. We help SMEs move goods reliably across EAC, Middle East, and Europe trade lanes. If you’re organised, curious, and eager to learn global logistics, you’ll fit right in.
Our Culture
Team-first, detail-driven, and calm under pressure. We value punctual updates, tidy documentation, and respectful client communication.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support senior forwarders with air & ocean bookings, trucking, and last-mile coordination.
- Learn to prepare compliant documents (commercial invoices, packing lists, airway bills, bills of lading).
- Track shipments and proactively update clients on ETAs, holds, and next steps.
- Coordinate with truckers, depots, and warehouses for collections/deliveries.
- Maintain accurate files in our TMS and assist with invoice support.
- Participate in a 12-week training plan covering Incoterms, customs basics, and milestone management.
What We’re Looking For
- Excellent written & verbal communication (customer-facing).
- Strong organisation and follow-through; comfortable with spreadsheets.
- Curiosity about trade, shipping, and cross-border logistics.
- Prior logistics exposure is a plus, not required—we’ll train you.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary with quarterly performance bonus
- Medical cover; statutory NSSF/NHIF compliance
- 15 days annual leave + public holidays
- Transport allowance for port/airport runs
- Paid training & mentorship; certification support (FIATA/IATA basics)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Career Launchpad: Break into global logistics with hands-on training.
- Visibility: Work on real files from week one with coaching and feedback.
- Progression: Clear path to Freight Forwarder → Senior → Key Accounts.
- Meaningful Work: Help East African businesses trade confidently and grow.
Our Hiring Process
Every application is reviewed. We aim to respond within 10 business days. Shortlisted candidates complete a skills potential evaluation and a video interview. Finalists join a paid trial project (5–10 hours) to ensure mutual fit.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: (Insert WorkScreen link). The evaluation focuses on communication, organisation, and problem-solving—no prior freight knowledge required.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Why These Freight Forwarder Job Descriptions Work
🔹 1. Clear & Specific Job Titles
Instead of just “Freight Forwarder,” the titles specify the focus and context:
- “Freight Forwarder (Global Air & Ocean) — Houston, TX”
- “Junior Freight Forwarder (Training Provided) — Mombasa/Nairobi”
These titles immediately communicate the role, level, and location — making them far more searchable and relevant than generic labels.
🔹 2. Personal Touch With a Video Element
Both posts start with a short video from the hiring manager.
This humanizes the company, introduces candidates to the people behind the role, and sets the tone for a transparent and engaging process. Few job ads do this, which makes it a real differentiator.
🔹 3. Company Story With Real Identity
Instead of vague “About Us” statements, each job description reflects a specific company identity:
- Blue Harbor Logistics focuses on U.S.–LATAM and Trans-Pacific trade.
- Safari Trade Logistics highlights its presence in East Africa and SME support.
This helps candidates immediately picture the company’s environment and decide if it’s a fit.
🔹 4. Warm, Contextual Introductions
The descriptions go beyond listing tasks — they explain why the role matters and the impact the candidate will have:
- Blue Harbor’s forwarder ensures “shipments clear and customers stay.”
- Safari Trade’s junior forwarder is positioned as “helping East African businesses trade confidently and grow.”
This turns routine logistics duties into meaningful, mission-driven work.
🔹 5. Transparent Responsibilities & Requirements
The responsibilities are written in plain English and show the real day-to-day. Instead of jargon, they emphasize:
- Tracking milestones, updating clients, solving exceptions (Blue Harbor).
- Supporting seniors, maintaining files, joining structured training (Safari Trade).
The requirements are realistic: not bloated wish lists, but targeted skills that reflect what’s truly needed.
🔹 6. Perks & Benefits vs. Why This Role Is a Great Fit
These sections are intentionally separated.
- Perks & Benefits: tangible compensation (salary, PTO, health cover, training stipend, allowances).
- Why This Role Is a Great Fit: emotional motivators (impact, autonomy, progression, meaningful work).
This balance appeals to both the head (practical needs) and the heart (purpose).
🔹 7. Respectful Hiring Process
Both posts explain the process in a transparent, candidate-friendly way:
- Timeline expectations (7–10 days for Blue Harbor, 10 days for Safari).
- Use of WorkScreen for skills-first evaluation (fair, bias-free).
- Paid trial project for entry-level roles to ensure mutual fit.
This shows respect for applicants’ time and reduces the anxiety that often comes with job hunting.
🔹 8. Clear & Inviting Call to Action
Instead of a cold “send CV to hr@company.com,” the CTAs invite candidates to apply through WorkScreen, explaining how the evaluation works and why it’s fair. This makes the process feel modern, transparent, and candidate-first.
✅ Together, these elements transform the job post from a boring list of tasks into a compelling recruiting tool that both attracts and converts the right talent.
Bad Freight Forwarder Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Freight Forwarder
Company: Global Trade Solutions
Location: Nairobi
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
Global Trade Solutions is looking for a freight forwarder to manage shipments. The candidate will handle logistics, documentation, and ensure timely deliveries.
Responsibilities
- Manage daily import/export operations.
- Prepare shipping documents.
- Coordinate with carriers and clients.
- Track shipments and resolve delays.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in logistics or business.
- 3+ years of experience in freight forwarding.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work under pressure.
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@globaltradesolutions.com by May 30, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
1. Generic Job Title
Simply calling it “Freight Forwarder” gives no clue about level (junior vs. senior), specialization (air, ocean, road), or location relevance.
2. Cold, Empty Introduction
The job summary is lifeless. It doesn’t explain why the role matters or what the company stands for. No mission, no values, no impact.
3. Vague Responsibilities
“Manage daily operations” or “coordinate with carriers” could apply to any logistics role. Candidates can’t picture their actual day-to-day.
4. Rigid Requirements
The requirements list is uninspired and overly formal. Demanding a degree and “3+ years” without flexibility excludes capable, motivated candidates who could excel with training.
5. No Salary or Benefits
Leaving out pay or perks creates distrust. Today’s candidates expect transparency — omitting it feels outdated and uncompetitive.
6. Dismissive Hiring Process
The cold “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” line shows no respect for applicants’ time and effort. It makes the company look bureaucratic and uncaring.
7. Zero Personality
There’s no culture, no human touch, and no differentiator. It feels like a formality rather than an invitation to join a team.
👉 By showing this “bad” version, we highlight the stark difference between lifeless job ads and modern, candidate-centric job posts like the Blue Harbor and Safari Trade examples.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Freight Forwarder Job Post Stand Out
Even after you’ve written a strong, candidate-friendly job description, there are a few extra touches that can elevate your post from good to exceptional:
🔒 1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE on Security & Privacy
Job seekers worry about scams. Build trust by adding a clear statement:
“We take applicant privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or sensitive personal information during the hiring process.”
This small line instantly reassures candidates that your process is legitimate.
🗓️ 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
While freight forwarding is fast-paced, candidates still value balance.
Example:
“Enjoy 20 days of paid annual leave plus local holidays — so you can recharge and come back focused.”
Showing that you care about rest and work-life balance makes your company more attractive.
📈 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Freight forwarding can feel like a “dead-end job” in some companies. Prove yours is different by emphasizing growth:
“We invest in your career — from FIATA certification support to mentorship and leadership training.”
This signals long-term commitment and attracts ambitious talent.
🎥 4. Include a Short Video (Loom or YouTube)
We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth repeating: a 60-second video from the hiring manager or team lead can do wonders. Candidates get to see who they’d be working with, hear your culture, and feel welcomed before even applying.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
💬 5. Candidate Experience Statement
Show you respect applicants’ time by adding:
“We reply to every application within 10 business days. No matter the outcome, you’ll hear from us.”
This level of transparency sets you apart in an industry where applicants often hear nothing back.
Should You Use AI to Write a Freight Forwarder Job Description?
AI tools are everywhere right now. With a single click, you can generate an entire job description in seconds. But here’s the problem: if you rely on AI alone, you’ll end up with the same issue as the “bad job post” we looked at earlier — generic, lifeless, and forgettable.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
Using AI without context often results in:
- Generic posts that sound identical to every other company.
- Buzzword overload (lots of “dynamic environment” and “self-starter” clichés).
- No cultural identity, which means it attracts job-hoppers instead of committed talent.
- Wrong focus — it lists duties, but never explains why the role matters or what makes your company special.
The result?
👉 You don’t stand out.
👉 You attract the wrong candidates.
👉 You risk damaging your employer brand.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI isn’t the enemy. It’s a powerful tool — if you give it the right inputs. Think of it as your writing assistant, not your replacement.
Here’s how to use it properly:
- Feed it the raw ingredients:
- What your company does.
- What the role actually entails.
- Your culture, tone, and values.
- Salary, perks, and growth opportunities.
- The kind of candidate you want (skills, traits, mindset).
- What your company does.
- Use a thoughtful prompt:
Example:
“Write me a Freight Forwarder job description for Safari Trade Logistics. We’re based in Nairobi/Mombasa and help SMEs with import/export. The role involves air & ocean shipments, customs paperwork, and client communication. Our culture is team-first and detail-driven. We want someone organized, curious, and eager to grow. Salary is KES 95,000–130,000/month with training and mentorship. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Please use a warm, professional tone and highlight why this role matters.” - Polish the output manually:
- Adjust wording to feel more natural.
- Inject a human voice (like the video element or candidate experience statement).
- Make sure it matches your brand personality.
- Adjust wording to feel more natural.
💡 Quick Tip
AI is best used for polishing and structuring — not for inventing your job posts from scratch. Treat it like an assistant editor, not your recruiter.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Copy-Paste Freight Forwarder Job Description Templates
We get it — sometimes you don’t have time to write the “perfect” job post. That’s why we’ve included two versions you can copy, paste, and customize.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational / Culture-First Style
Job Title: Freight Forwarder – Orchestrate Global Shipments at [Company Name] 💼 Location: Remote (HQ: [City, State]) 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [$[X],000 – $[Y],000]/year
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager: [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we help customers move goods across borders with precision, transparency, and care. From air and ocean freight to customs and last-mile trucking, we keep supply chains flowing and customers informed at every milestone.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Coordinate air, ocean, and road shipments from booking through delivery.
- Prepare and audit commercial invoices, packing lists, HAWB/MAWB, HBL/MBL, and other customs docs; ensure compliance.
- Liaise with carriers, NVOCCs, truckers, terminals, and customs brokers to prevent/resolve delays.
- Track ETD/ETA, manage holds/rollovers, and proactively update clients.
- Negotiate rates and secure space during peak periods.
- Maintain clean, audit-ready files in our TMS/CRM.
What We’re Looking For
- [1–3/3–5]+ years of freight forwarding experience (air &/or ocean).
- Working knowledge of Incoterms, ISF/AMS, basic HTS, and general customs concepts.
- Confident communicator with shippers, consignees, carriers, and brokers.
- Strong problem-solving, prioritization, and documentation accuracy.
- Comfortable with spreadsheets and logistics/TMS tools.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base salary + performance bonus
- Medical, dental, vision; retirement plan
- days PTO + paid holidays
- Annual learning stipend; industry certification support
- [Stipend/Allowance, e.g., phone/internet or commute]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: Own end-to-end files and keep shipments moving on schedule.
- Autonomy: Make smart calls, escalate early, and close the loop.
- Growth: Clear path into key accounts or team leadership as we scale.
- Tools: Modern TMS and real-time tracking that lighten the admin load.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. You’ll complete a short skills-based evaluation so we can assess real-world ability—not just résumés. We respond to every application within [X] business days.
✅ Option 2: Structured (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: Freight Forwarder – Keep Global Cargo On Track at [Company Name] 💼 Location: Remote (HQ: [City, State]) 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [$[X],000 – $[Y],000]/year
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Freight Forwarder to manage international and domestic shipments, ensuring smooth, compliant operations from booking through final delivery. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and comfortable coordinating multiple stakeholders across time zones.
Responsibilities
- Arrange shipments via air, sea, and road; secure bookings and capacity.
- Prepare and review shipping and customs documentation; ensure compliance.
- Track cargo, manage exceptions (demurrage, detention, rollovers), and provide timely updates.
- Collaborate with carriers, brokers, warehouses, and clients to resolve issues.
- Maintain accurate records and audit-ready files in the TMS/ERP.
Requirements
- [2–4]+ years of freight forwarding experience (air &/or ocean).
- Knowledge of Incoterms, customs processes, and basic trade compliance.
- Excellent written and verbal communication; client-facing confidence.
- Solid negotiation and vendor management skills.
- Proficiency with logistics/TMS software and spreadsheets.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base + bonus eligibility
- Health, dental, vision; retirement plan
- days paid time off + holidays
- Professional development & certification support
How to Apply
Submit your application via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Our process includes a short skills evaluation and a structured interview. We’ll keep you updated at every step.
Next Step: Let WorkScreen.io Handle the Heavy Lifting
Writing a great job post is only half the battle. The real challenge comes after — sorting through dozens (or hundreds) of applicants to find the right one. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
🎯 Spot Top Talent Faster
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
🧪 Run One-Click Skill Tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
🛡️ Eliminate Low-Effort & AI-Generated Applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
📊 Make Smarter, Data-Driven Decisions
No more gut-feel or keyword-matching. WorkScreen gives you clear, objective data on candidate performance, so you can make confident hiring decisions that reduce bias and costly mis-hires.
Freight Forwarder job post is ready
share the WorkScreen link with candidates, let them complete the evaluation, and instantly see who rises to the top.
streamline your hiring process from start to finish.
Freight Forwarder Job Description - FAQs
A great freight forwarder combines technical logistics knowledge with soft skills.
- Technical skills: understanding Incoterms, customs regulations, and shipping documentation; ability to work with TMS/logistics software.
- Soft skills: strong communication (with clients, carriers, and brokers), problem-solving under pressure, time management, and attention to detail.
- Mindset: proactive, adaptable, and calm in the face of unexpected delays or compliance issues.
Salaries vary by region, experience, and company size:
- United States: typically ranges from $48,000 to $70,000/year, with senior roles exceeding $80,000.
- United Kingdom: usually between £26,000 and £40,000/year, with higher salaries in London or for air/ocean specialists.
- Kenya & East Africa: often KES 80,000–150,000/month, depending on level and international exposure.
Bonuses and commissions are also common, especially when forwarders manage accounts or negotiate rates with carriers.
A freight forwarder manages the end-to-end movement of goods across air, sea, and land — booking cargo, preparing documents, and coordinating carriers.
A customs broker, on the other hand, specializes in compliance with import/export laws — filing customs entries, calculating duties/taxes, and ensuring cargo clears the border.
Many forwarders partner with brokers or have in-house brokerage services, but the roles are distinct.
They streamline complex logistics, saving time and money by:
- Negotiating better shipping rates.
- Reducing risks of delays, penalties, or compliance errors.
- Providing visibility into global shipments.
- Acting as a single point of contact across carriers, customs, and warehouses.
In short, they keep supply chains efficient and clients confident.
