What is the difference between freight forwarding and shipping agency?

First, the definitions are different

Freight Forwarding: The full name is freight forwarding. Refers to the completion of a certain link or related link of the goods in the import and export logistics and transportation entrusted by the owner. Common freight forwarding work includes air and sea import and export, import and export customs clearance, import customs declaration, etc.

Shipping Agency: The full name is shipping agency. Refers to the formalities and coordination work related to the ship business, and ultimately ensure the smooth progress of cargo loading and unloading. Common shipping agency work includes: quarantine, towing, loading and unloading goods, signing bills of lading, etc.


Second point, different responsibilities

Freight forwarding: It is essentially the same as third-party logistics. It is not the actual carrier of the shipping company, but the consignor of twenty cargo owners. It helps cargo owners handle the connection and communication of goods in the import and export logistics.

Ship agency: Ship agency mainly provides a series of specific services for ships and shipping companies.


The third point, the service object is different

Freight Forwarding: Serving the vast number of foreign trade, factories and shipper friends, it is the link between the shipper and the carrier.

Shipping Agency: Serving shipping companies, it is a bridge between shipping companies or carriers and ports.


Fourth point, other content

Freight forwarding: generally divided into first-level freight forwarding and second-level freight forwarding. The first-level freight forwarder can book space directly with the shipping company, but it is not necessarily eligible to book space. The second-level freight forwarder is not necessarily worse than the first-level freight forwarder. Specifically, it depends on the qualifications and capabilities of the freight forwarding company. Not all freight forwarders are omnipotent, and not all freight forwarders have the same scope of work.

Shipping agency: LCL bookings are made by freight forwarding companies. Shipping companies generally do not accept LCL, so LCL bills of lading are generally not shipping company bills of lading.

Regarding the difference between a freight forwarder and a shipping agency, these points are listed in general. Finally, I remind everyone that when choosing a freight forwarder, it is necessary to comprehensively consider the service, price, advantages, qualifications and other aspects. The freight forwarder that meets the requirements of the freight forwarder itself is the best. Good freight forwarder for shippers.