Definition
A freight forwarder organises international transport — carrier booking, documentation, consolidation and often customs clearance — even if they do not own the ships or planes. They are central to door-to-door lead time and landed cost.
Worked example
Your forwarder books FCL Shenzhen–Felixstowe, files docs, hands to a UK broker, and arranges drayage to your 3PL with an ASN.
Why it matters for replenishment
Forwarder cut-offs and sail dates set real order-by dates for imports more than factory production alone.
Guides & calculators
Educational overview of common shipping terms including Incoterms® 2020 concepts. Not legal, customs or tax advice. Incoterms® is a trademark of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Confirm the exact rule and named place in your contract, and speak to your freight forwarder or adviser for live shipments.