Freight Forwarders
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Research rates, routings, or modes of transport for shipment of products. Maintain awareness of regulations affecting the international movement of cargo. Make arrangements for additional services, such as storage or inland transportation.
Median pay: $52,260/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +8.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 8,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Negotiate shipping rates with freight carriers.
• Arrange for special transport of sensitive cargoes, such as livestock, food, or medical supplies.
• Arrange for applicable duties, taxes, or paperwork for customs clearance.
• Inform clients of factors such as shipping options, timelines, transfers, or regulations affecting shipments.
• Prepare shipping documentation, such as bills of lading, packing lists, dock receipts, or certificates of origin.
• Complete customs paperwork.
• Prepare invoices or cost quotations for freight transportation.
• Select shipment routes, based on nature of goods shipped, transit times, or security needs.
What's the median pay for Freight Forwarders?
The median pay for Freight Forwarders is $52,260 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Freight Forwarders?
Employment for Freight Forwarders is projected to change +8.5% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Freight Forwarders?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Freight Forwarders?
About 8,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.