Understanding the language of international freight is essential for any business moving goods across borders. From managing documentation to navigating global transport networks, the industry has a language of its own. At Clique Logistics, we believe confident, informed decision-making starts with understanding the basics. Here’s a rundown of the key concepts you’ll encounter in international freight forwarding.

Freight Forwarders

A freight forwarder is a third-party agent that organises the movement of goods across international borders on behalf of importers and exporters.

Freight Forwarding

The overall process of planning and executing the shipment of goods globally, including booking, compliance, and delivery.

International Freight

A general term for the movement of goods between countries using various modes of transport and involving customs processes.

International Logistics

The complete coordination of product movement and information across international supply chains.

International Transport

The actual physical movement of goods between countries, often involving multiple modes such as sea, air, or land.

Customs Brokerage

The process of clearing goods through customs, including document submission, duty payment, and compliance.

Imports

Goods brought into a country from overseas, requiring knowledge of tariffs, compliance, and documentation.

Exports

Goods sent out of a country to another, with responsibilities including compliance with destination regulations.

Sea Freight / Ocean Freight

The most economical way to transport large volumes of goods globally, using FCL or LCL container shipping.

Air Freight

A fast but costlier option for moving time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable goods internationally.

4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics)

A comprehensive logistics partner that oversees the entire supply chain, including strategic management and integration of all logistics providers.

Global trade is full of moving parts, and understanding the terminology is the first step toward navigating it with confidence. These terms form the foundation of international freight and logistics.

At Clique Logistics, we empower our clients with the knowledge and tools they need to move freight across borders with confidence.

Ready to simplify your global freight? Reach out to the team at Clique Logistics and experience a smarter approach to international shipping.