Average Freight Forwarder salary in the UK

Freight Forwarder - LHR/HARMONDSWORTH - £30k - £33kOperations SpecialistDepartment: OperationsReports to: Operations ManagerAbout the RoleThe Operations Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day coordination and execution of domestic and international freight movements, ensuring shipments are handled efficiently, accurately, and in line with customer requirements.Working closely with customers, suppliers, airlines, hauliers and global partners, the Operations Specialist plays a key role in delivering high service levels while maintaining operational accuracy, compliance and profitability.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational Coordination• Coordinate and manage air, road, courier and multimodal shipments from booking through to delivery.• Liaise with airlines, hauliers, agents, suppliers and customers to ensure smooth execution of shipments.• Monitor shipment progress and proactively manage delays, exceptions and service issues.• Ensure all operational milestones are completed and updated within company systems.• Prepare and process shipping documentation accurately and in a timely manner.• Support time-critical and urgent shipments where required.Customer Service & Communication• Provide customers with shipment updates and proactive communication throughout the transport process.• Respond promptly to customer enquiries and operational requests.• Build and maintain strong working relationships with customers, suppliers and overseas partners.• Escalate service issues where necessary and support resolution.Compliance & Administration• Ensure compliance with customs requirements, security regulations and company procedures.• Maintain accurate shipment records and operational documentation.• Ensure all jobs are completed and closed correctly within the operating system.• Assist with audits and compliance checks as required.Cost Control & Profitability• Obtain rates from suppliers and subcontractors.• Assist in ensuring jobs are operated in line with company margin expectations.• Verify supplier invoices and support accurate job costing.• Highlight any operational or cost issues that may impact profitability.Team Support• Work collaboratively with colleagues across operations, sales and finance.• Provide support during busy periods and assist with workload management.• Contribute ideas for improving operational efficiency and customer service.Skills & Experience• Minimum 1–3 years' experience in freight forwarding, logistics, transport or supply chain operations.• Good understanding of airfreight, road freight, courier or multimodal transport operations.• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously.• Excellent communication and customer service skills.• High attention to detail and accuracy.• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.• Experience using freight forwarding systems (e.g. Boxtop) desirable.• Knowledge of customs procedures would be advantageous.Personal Attributes• Organised and methodical.• Proactive and willing to take ownership.• Calm under pressure and able to prioritise effectively.• Team player with a positive attitude.• Customer-focused and solutions-driven.• Reliable, professional and accountable.Why Join Us?• Join a growing and ambitious logistics business.• Work within a fast-paced and dynamic environment.• Opportunities for training, development and career progression.• Be part of a supportive team focused on delivering exceptional customer service.

Role: Freight Operator - Air/ Sea/ RoadLocation: Birmingham, West MidlandsPackage: £30,000 - £36,000 + bonusesWe’re working with an industry leading forwarder in the Birmingham area that are looking for an excellent and experienced Multimodal Operator with Import/ Export experience.If you thrive in a fast-paced logistics environment and want to be part of a business that values your experience, rewards your hard work, and offers genuine career progression, this could be the perfect fit.Responsibilities:Handling Multimodal freight shipments from start to finishLooking after key customers, ensuring all their bookings are complete from Start to FinishEnsuring customers are assisted and kept up to date of progress at all times.Taking on responsibilities to ensure all customers queries are dealt withSecuring the best rates, maximising profit on jobsCompletion of Customs declarations - import/ exportRequirements:Previous experience working on Multimodal Freight ShipmentsKnowledge of complete operations process from Start to Finish including customsExcellent customer service skillsIf you have the right skillset and are keen to take the next step up in your

Export & Import Freight ForwarderLocation: Felixstowe OfficeJob Type: Full-time, Office-basedSalary: CompetitiveJoin our team as an Export & Import Freight Forwarder by Sea, where you will play a crucial role in solving complex international freight operations and ensuring the seamless movement of cargo across global supply chains. This position is ideal for a seasoned logistics professional with deep industry knowledge, strong commercial awareness, and a knack for optimising processes.Day-to-day of the role:Coordinate end-to-end export and import shipments across sea, road, air, and multimodal transport, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and profitability.Manage key client accounts, providing strategic support, handling escalations, and maintaining strong long-term relationships.Oversee complex documentation and customs processes, including tariff classification, duty calculations, CDS entries, and compliance with UK/EU/global regulations.Negotiate rates and service agreements with carriers, shipping lines, airlines, and overseas agents to secure competitive pricing and service levels.Provide expert guidance on Incoterms, trade compliance, customs requirements, and international shipping regulations.Support commercial decision-making by preparing quotations, analysing margins, and contributing to pricing strategies.Handle shipment exceptions and high-impact issues, proactively resolving delays, disputes, and operational challenges.Maintain accurate operational and financial records, ensuring data integrity within freight management systems such as Multi freight or similar platforms.Required Skills & Qualifications:Minimum of 5 years' experience in logistics, shipping, or supply chain covering Import & Export.Strong organizational skills, clear communication, and attention to detail.Familiarity with customs rules, Export declarations, Carnets, Dangerous Goods Awareness, Incoterms.Proficiency in software: Multi freight preferred.Benefits:Competitive salary.Company pension.20 days holiday plus bank holidays.Position within a fast-moving global logistics environment.Opportunities to shape operational processes and contribute to commercial strategy.To apply for the Export & Import Freight Forwarder position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.