Essentials of Freight Forwarding and Supply Chain Logistics

Global supply chain and logistics specialists play a crucial role in ensuring that companies comply with all applicable U.S. import and export laws and global regulations. Their work involves staying up to date with U.S. customs and import/export regulations, facilitating shipments, coordinating with various logistics and regulatory organizations, and handling documentation requirements for the efficient movement of goods across borders. Freight forwarders, logistics companies, and businesses in general rely heavily on these specialists to maintain compliance with trade regulations, support secure and cost-effective global supply chains, and provide high-quality customer service.

In this comprehensive global freight forwarding and supply logistics course, you will learn about the essential roles of freight forwarders and key concepts in cargo transportation. Fundamental topics covered include important documents such as the bill of lading (crucial for international trade), cargo transportation calculations, and international regulations. You will explore both ocean and air cargo transport, focusing on shipper-forwarder relationships, customs broker relationships, and other key dynamics. Your training also covers the import requirement basics and the geography relevant to logistics.

Upon completion of this freight forwarder and supply chain logistics course, you will be able to demonstrate your competency in international supply chain and logistics practices and compliance with regulations.

What you will learn

• Fundamentals of freight forwarding, cargo transportation, and regulatory compliance
• Specific information about air freight, ocean freight, and imports and customs brokerages
• The importance of trade terms (Incoterms) and world geography

How you will benefit

• Obtain the knowledge that will help you get a job in the global supply chain and logistics industry
• Broaden your knowledge if you have a role in a specific area of the industry (e.g., currently a specialist in this field)
• Earn a certificate of completion that you can present to potential employers

1. Functions of Freight Forwarders
2. Cargo Transportation - Basic Concepts and Issues
3. Bill of Lading
4. Cargo Transportation Math - Calculations Used in Cargo Transportation
5. International Transport Carrier & Transit Cargo Regulation
6. Basics of Imports
7. Import/Export Docs. for DG, Animals, Plants & Other Related Factors
8. Basics of Import-Export
9. Essentials of Country Requirements & Incoterms
10. Basics of Supply Chain Logistics and Security
11. Basics of Ocean Cargo Transport
12. Shipper-Ocean Forwarder Relationships & Responsibilities
13. Ocean Forwarder Liability & Relationships With Carriers
14. Basics of Air Cargo Transport
15. Types of Air Cargo Carriers & Shipment Costs
16. Customs Brokers and Import Agencies
17. Customs Broker and Importer Relationships
18. Basics of U.S. Imports
19. Customs Broker's Relationships
20. Geography for Logistics

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to complete this online course.

This is not an instructor-facilitated course. Although there is no direct interaction with an instructor, students can seek help from an industry expert by submitting questions via email.

What is a freight forwarder?

A freight forwarder is a logistics professional who uses their knowledge of transportation tactics and organizational skills to coordinate the movement of goods from manufacturers to retail locations, company storage facilities, or directly to customers.

What is the average freight forwarder salary?

Salary.com reports that the average freight forwarder salary in the U.S. is $94,624 as of June 2025, with a typical salary range of $86,519 to $103,246.

What types of jobs can I pursue with the education gained through this course?

After completing this course, you are qualified to pursue jobs in the global supply chain and logistics industry. Specific types of jobs for which this course is valuable:

• Freight forwarding operations agent/administrator
• Export or import specialist/administrator/coordinator
• Ocean freight coordinator/administrator
• Air freight specialist/administrator/coordinator
• Customs coordinator/administrator
• Customs entry writer
• Freight forwarding field sales, territory sales, business development, inside sales agent
• Shipping clerk
• International trade coordinator/administrator
• Forwarding/supply chain operations customer service agent/coordinator/administrator
• Forwarding/transportation provider pricing analyst/coordinator/administrator
• Logistics analyst/specialist

What do supply chain specialists working for manufacturers with global supply chains do?

Supply chain specialists working for manufacturers with global supply chains are responsible for ensuring the efficient, cost-effective, and timely flow of materials, components, and finished goods across international borders. Their work is crucial for maintaining production schedules, meeting customer demand, and minimizing costs and disruptions.

How much do these types of jobs pay?

Starting base pay in the global supply chain and logistics industry varies by role, company, and location. Generally, the starting base pay for operational roles in the United States is approximately $50,000 per year. The average salary for experienced operational personnel ranges from $85,000 to $105,000. Entry-level sales roles can pay more than operational roles, with total compensation approaching and possibly exceeding $100,000 per year.

Is there a long-term career opportunity in the global supply chain and logistics industry?

The long-term career potential of the global supply chain and logistics industry is exceptionally strong, driven by rapid technological innovation, ongoing globalization, and the critical role supply chains play in business continuity and competitiveness.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

No.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 6 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."