Bridging Global Trade: Freight Forwarding and Shipping Documentation Training Course

Introduction

In the complex ecosystem of international trade, freight forwarders serve as the vital navigators, orchestrating the seamless movement of goods across borders and through multiple modes of transport. Their expertise lies not only in logistics coordination but also, critically, in mastering the vast array of shipping documentation that accompanies every consignment. Errors or omissions in documentation can lead to significant delays, hefty fines, cargo impoundment, and financial losses, underscoring the paramount importance of precision and up-to-date knowledge in this dynamic field.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip participants with a comprehensive and practical understanding of modern freight forwarding operations and the critical role of accurate shipping documentation. From mastering multimodal transport arrangements and customs procedures to expertly handling bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates, you will gain the expertise to manage international shipments efficiently and compliantly. This empowers you to optimize supply chain flows, mitigate risks, and position your organization as a reliable and effective facilitator of global commerce.

Target Audience

  • Freight Forwarding Professionals and Operations Staff.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Managers.
  • Export/Import Managers and Coordinators.
  • Shipping Line Documentation and Customer Service Personnel.
  • Customs Brokers and Compliance Officers.
  • International Trade Specialists.
  • Warehouse and Distribution Center Managers handling International Shipments.
  • Business Development Managers in Logistics Services.

Duration: 10 days

Course Objectives

  • Upon completion of this training course, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the fundamental role and responsibilities of a freight forwarder in international trade.
  • Grasp the complexities of various shipping modes and their integration in multimodal transport.
  • Analyze the critical importance of accurate and compliant shipping documentation for seamless cargo movement.
  • Comprehend the key customs procedures, regulations, and international trade terms (Incoterms®).
  • Evaluate different strategies for optimizing logistics costs and lead times in freight forwarding.
  • Develop practical skills in preparing, vetting, and managing essential shipping documents.
  • Navigate the intricacies of cargo insurance, claims, and risk management in international shipments.
  • Formulate robust strategies for enhancing efficiency, ensuring compliance, and providing superior customer service in freight forwarding operations.

Course Content

Introduction to Freight Forwarding

  • Defining Freight Forwarding : services offered, role as orchestrator of supply chains
  • Types of Freight Forwarders : air, ocean, road, rail, project cargo, customs brokers
  • Key Stakeholders in International Trade : shippers, consignees, carriers, customs, banks
  • The Freight Forwarding Process : from booking to delivery, key milestones
  • Legal and ethical responsibilities of a freight Forwarder

Modes of Transport and Multimodal Solutions

  • Ocean Freight : FCL, LCL, breakbulk, RoRo, liner vs. tramp shipping
  • Air Freight : express, regular, cargo aircraft, air cargo hubs
  • Road and Rail Freight : domestic and international trucking, intermodal rail
  • Multimodal and Intermodal Transport : concept, benefits, single contract for multiple modes
  • Selecting the optimal transport mode(s) based on cargo, cost, time, and service requirements

International Trade Terms (Incoterms® 2020)

  • Purpose and Structure of Incoterms® : defining responsibilities between buyer and seller
  • EXW, FCA, CPT, CIP, DAP, DPU, DDP : understanding the "E, F, C, D" groups and their implications
  • FAS, FOB, CFR, CIF : specific rules for sea and inland waterway transport
  • Impact of Incoterms® on Cost, Risk, and Responsibility : for freight forwarders and clients
  • Practical application of Incoterms® in quotations and contracts

Core Shipping Documentation

  • Bill of Lading (B/L) : functions (receipt, contract of carriage, document of title), types (original, copy, negotiable, non-negotiable)
  • Air Waybill (AWB) : functions and differences from B/L
  • Sea Waybill and Express Release : alternatives to original B/L for faster release
  • House B/L vs. Master B/L/AWB : understanding relationships in freight forwarding
  • Importance of accurate and timely documentation for cargo movement

Commercial and Financial Documentation

  • Commercial Invoice : contents, purpose, and role in customs clearance
  • Packing List : detailed cargo contents, dimensions, weights for customs and handling
  • Certificate of Origin : proving goods' nationality for preferential tariffs, trade agreements
  • Payment Terms in International Trade : letters of credit, open account, CAD, prepayment
  • Relationship between commercial documents and financial transactions

Customs Procedures and Compliance

  • Role of Customs Authorities : revenue collection, trade facilitation, security, border control
  • Customs Declaration Forms : accurate completion, common data elements
  • Customs Valuation and Classification : Harmonized System (HS) codes, duty calculation
  • Customs Regimes : temporary import/export, transit, bonded warehouses
  • Consequences of non-compliance: penalties, delays, cargo seizure

Cargo Insurance and Claims

  • Types of Marine Cargo Insurance : all risks, named perils, particular average
  • Institute Cargo Clauses (A, B, C) : understanding coverage levels
  • Role of Cargo Surveyors : assessing damage, determining cause
  • Claims Procedures : notification, documentation, mitigation of loss
  • Importance of proper insurance for freight forwarders and their clients

Port and Terminal Operations from a Forwarder's Perspective

  • Port Services and Charges : terminal handling, demurrage, detention, storage
  • Pre-Arrival and Pre-Clearance Procedures : expediting cargo release
  • Cargo Release and Delivery : coordination with carriers, truckers, consignees
  • Managing Congestion and Delays : communication, contingency planning
  • The forwarder's role in optimizing port efficiency

Digitalization and Technology in Freight Forwarding

  • Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) : standardizing data exchange with carriers, customs
  • Freight Forwarding Software (FFS) : operational s, integration, automation
  • Real-time Cargo Tracking and Visibility Platforms : enhancing supply chain transparency
  • Blockchain in Logistics : secure documentation, smart contracts
  • Cybersecurity considerations for digital freight forwarding operations

Strategic Aspects of Freight Forwarding

  • Customer Service Excellence : communication, problem-solving, client retention
  • Cost Optimization Strategies : negotiating rates, consolidating cargo, optimizing routes
  • Risk Management in Forwarding Operations : operational, financial, reputational risks
  • Compliance Management : staying updated with changing regulations
  • Building strategic partnerships with carriers, customs, and other logistics providers.

CERTIFICATION

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com

For More Details call: +254-114-087-180

 

Bridging Global Trade: Freight Forwarding And Shipping Documentation Training Course in Denmark
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