Freight Forwarder Practices - IIEI-127

Course Description: This six-week online course focuses on the role of the freight forwarder in the global supply chain. It was designed to assist those who are or aspire to be responsible for selecting and working with international freight forwarders, or for individuals seeking employment within a freight forwarding company. Its focus is on the internal operations of a freight forwarder and how it generally interfaces with client companies.

This course provides a strong understanding of the strategic management of a freight forwarder, particularly as a company offering a range of services supporting the global supply chain.  Elements of an integrated service provider, responsibilities and obligations of the forwarder, invoicing, and both mutual interests and conflict of interests with the client company are explored. The student will acquire the following knowledge and skills that can be applied to the workplace.

To develop a working knowledge of the functions of a freight forwarder. This includes but is not limited to

• a)     operation of an independent freight forwarder versus as part of an integrated service provider.
• b)     strategies to maximize control and profitability.
• c)      marketing of the business and its services.
• d)     obligations of the freight forwarder to the client.
• e)     conflicts of interest between the freight forwarder and the client.
• f)        steps and procedures in handling of the client's business.

Prerequisite: None

Course Credit: 3 Credit Hours

Major Course Topics & Course Outcomes

As a result of the group and individual activities included in this course, the student will acquire the following knowledge and skills that can be applied to the workplace: 

Freight Forwarder

• Recognize the possible scope of activities of an international freight forwarder

Components of the International Logistics Activity

• Define the components of international logistics

Construction of Transaction

• Understand the freight forwarders role in the construction of the international transaction

Role of the Freight Forwarder

• Comprehend the possible rolls of the freight forwarder 

Mutual Interests

• Understand the mutual interests of all parties in the transactions 

Conflict of Interest

• Assess the interests of the freight forwarder 

Authorization

• Understand the legal representations of being a freight forwarder  

Implications for the Seller using the "Buyer's Forwarder"

• Distinguish the legal issues of being the “Buyers Forwarder”

A Freight Forwarder (FF)

• Know the requirements to become a FF
• Understand the responsibilities of a FF
• Discuss the role of a FF

The Business of FF

• Understand the business practices of a FF

 

Course Materials:

There is one textbook for this course.

Export-Import: Everything You and Your Company Need to Know to Compete in World Markets: Zodl, Joseph A., (2006) IIEI Press, Phoenix, AZ  ISBN 0-9773098-0-0

Additional required reading for this course consists of the weekly lectures and reading material available on the internet via public websites at no cost to the student.

Please note that textbooks are subject to change. Please contact your advisor before purchasing the textbook for your class to confirm.