10 freight forwarding services you can offer

As a freight forwarder, offering specialist freight forwarding services can set you apart from the competition. By expanding your offering, you can cater to a variety of customer needs, making you the go-to choice for customers with specific requirements.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most in-demand services, and how a freight forwarders network like Haulage Exchange can help you find the right carriers to support you and your customers.

Specialist freight forwarding services and certifications

1. ADR (Transporting Dangerous Goods)

ADR, which is a French acronym for “European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road”, is required when transporting hazardous materials, including chemicals and flammable substances. 

This freight forwarding service ensures safe and legal transport across long distances, making it incredibly useful for industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing that require the movement of dangerous goods.

2. DGSA Qualified (Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor)

DGSA provides oversight for the safe transport of hazardous goods, ensuring compliance with safety and legal guidelines. 

This qualification is legally required for high-risk shipments, offering peace of mind to customers handling sensitive materials that require stringent safety measures.

3. FORS Bronze, Silver, Gold Certification

FORS operators demonstrate excellence in fleet operations, appealing to clients who prioritise safety and environmental standards. 

Bronze focuses on legal compliance, Silver on maintaining safety equipment, and Gold on managing noise pollution and emissions. A FORS accreditation assures customers that their goods are transported by a fleet committed to high operational standards.

4. Frozen Transport

Frozen transport is helpful for clients needing temperature-controlled transport for items like pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, or biological samples. 

By offering this freight forwarding service, you can guarantee that your customers’ items are kept at the correct temperatures throughout long-distance transit, maintaining their integrity and safety.

5. Garments On Hanger (GOH)

GOH is ideal for clients in the fashion industry who require wrinkle-free delivery of clothing items. 

Retailers, fashion designers, and garment manufacturers benefit from this service as it ensures that their products are ready to wear or sell upon arrival, maintaining their quality and presentation.

6. High Security Freight Forwarding Services

This means carriers can provide enhanced security for high-value or sensitive items, such as electronics, jewellery, or confidential documents. 

This service is suitable for customers needing assurance that their goods are protected during transit, reducing the risk of theft or damage.

7. Level A/B Aviation, Cargo Operative

This is necessary for customers needing to ship goods via air freight, such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, or urgent parts. 

This freight forwarder service ensures secure and compliant delivery to and from airports, crucial for goods that need to be transported quickly and safely.

7. Refrigerated/Chilled Transport

This is required for customers needing to keep items cool, such as dairy products, fresh flowers, or certain pharmaceuticals. 

This freight forwarder service maintains chill temperatures throughout the journey, ensuring that these products arrive in optimal condition.

8. Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)

Means secure and efficient customs controls, essential for customers regularly importing or exporting goods. 

This status ensures expedited customs clearance and enhanced security, making international shipping smoother and more reliable for businesses.

9. CMR Insurance Certification

CMR insurance provides legal protection for international shipments, which is required for customers transporting goods across borders, especially in the EU.

Similar to freight forwarder insurance, CMR ensures the security and compliance of items like furniture, electronics, or commercial goods, offering peace of mind and legal assurance during transit.

Find certified specialists on Haulage Exchange

Haulage Exchange can help you find specialist carriers to offer these freight forwarding services, providing several key benefits. 

With access to over 50,000 compliant vehicles, you can find the right vehicle for any job, ensuring you meet diverse customer needs. Sameday pickups ensure quick response times, enhancing customer satisfaction.

All carriers on HX are continuously monitored for compliance with industry standards, ensuring safe and legal operations. By using HX data to find competitive rates, you can offer cost-effective freight forwarding services. Real-time tracking allows you to monitor freight in transit, providing clients with accurate delivery updates and exceptional customer service. Additionally, streamlined payments with our new SmartPay functionality makes your accounting simple and efficient.

---