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Freight forwarder: Training

Some larger companies offer comprehensive graduate training schemes. These normally last up to two years, with periods spent on rotation in various departments. You learn on the job, whilst studying for relevant professional qualifications. Training support varies widely between companies, so it is essential to research this area carefully when looking for vacancies.

Freight forwarding is a specialist profession. The British International Freight Association (BIFA) provides training leading to professional qualifications recognised both inside and outside the industry. They include the BTEC Intermediate Awards in Multimodal International Freight Procedures, Customs Export and Import Procedures and Customs Import Entry and Procedures. BIFA has also launched a professional qualification structure for freight forwarders. The qualification 'Understanding the Freight Business and International Trade' is available at three levels:

• BIFA Certificate;
• BIFA Diploma;
• BIFA Advanced Diploma.

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) UK offers a level 5 Professional Diploma in Logistics and Transport for new managers or recent graduates with non-business degrees. It is also possible for graduates to gain direct entry to chartered membership of the institute by completing a CILT-approved company professional development programme that complies with the requirements of the CILT Graduate Development Scheme.

The Institute of Export also offers the Advanced Certificate in International Trade (ACIT) and the Diploma in International Trade (DIT).

AGCAS

Written by Simon Thompson, University of Derby

Last updated:

December 2008

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