Salary progression Forwarder, freight forwarder

Average salary 41 400 kr
Males 41 900 kr
Females 40 200 kr

What does a freight forwarder in shipping do? – Tasks and work environment

A freight forwarder in shipping is responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising the transportation of goods both nationally and internationally. Tasks include contact with clients and carriers, booking transports, preparing shipping documents, and managing customs and import issues. The role requires accuracy, flexibility, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. The work environment is often office-based but can also include visits to clients, terminals, or warehouses, and the pace can be high during busy periods with quick decision-making.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for freight forwarders in shipping has increased from 37,100 SEK per month in 2022 to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 41 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.3% during the period, which is slightly above the average wage growth on the labor market. Factors driving this increase include rising demand for logistics services, digitalization within the transport sector, and an increased need for qualified staff capable of managing complex logistics flows. Wage disparities between genders persist, with women still earning 96% of men's salaries. Wages are also influenced by education level, sector, and geographic location.

Freight forwarder in shipping salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 41 400 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK
  • Salary for men: 41 900 SEK/month
  • Salary for women: 40 200 SEK/month
  • Women earn: 96% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

To work as a freight forwarder in shipping, a high school education with a focus on logistics, trade, or transportation is usually required. Many employers also seek post-secondary studies in logistics, economics, or international trade. Practical experience in the transport and logistics industry is often advantageous, as are good skills in English and digital systems.

  • High school education: Focus on transport, logistics, or trade (3 years)
  • Post-secondary education: Logistics or economics, 1–3 years
  • Certifications: Courses in customs handling, freight forwarding, or international trade
  • Internships: Work placements or trainee programs
  • Prerequisites: Good knowledge of English and IT systems

Many freight forwarders in shipping quickly develop an international contact network, as the work often involves daily contact with actors in several countries. This makes the profession one of the more globally oriented within the transport industry, which can open doors for international work or projects abroad.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Employees working as freight forwarders in shipping are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. Some employers also provide access to training, bonus programs, or extra vacation days. Opportunities for remote work are available, especially with larger employers that have digitized processes.

Competition and challenges

The market for freight forwarders in shipping is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. There are 412 job openings in the profession, indicating some mobility but also requirements for the right skills. Digitalization and automation are rapidly changing the tasks, demanding adaptability and technical understanding. Competition can be fierce for the most attractive positions, especially in metropolitan areas and with larger international companies. Smaller towns may offer fewer but more stable jobs.

Tips for aspiring freight forwarders in shipping

To succeed as a freight forwarder in shipping, it is helpful to be organized and capable of managing multiple tasks, as the workday often involves quick shifts and many contacts. Attention to detail is important, especially when handling customs documents and contracts. Developing good communication skills in both Swedish and English increases the chances of effective collaboration with clients and suppliers. Flexibility is useful when unexpected transport issues arise, and a solution-oriented approach is appreciated by employers. Gaining practical experience early through internships or summer jobs provides valuable insights into the industry and enhances competitiveness in the job market.

Key facts about a freight forwarder in shipping

  • Education level: High school or post-secondary logistics/economics education
  • Work environment: Office-based, often fast-paced
  • Demand: Moderate, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
  • Number of job openings: 412 in the profession
  • Special skills: Customs handling and digital logistics systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a freight forwarder in shipping, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as transportation manager, logistics coordinator, or project manager within larger companies. Some choose to specialize in customs handling, international trade, or digital logistics. Projections from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that demand for transportation managers and logistics coordinators, including freight forwarders, is expected to remain stable over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. The industry is influenced by global trade, digitalization, and increasing demands for sustainable transportation, which can create new opportunities for those updated on technology and regulations.

Frequently asked questions about a freight forwarder in shipping

  • What does a freight forwarder in shipping earn?
    - The average salary is 41 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
  • Are there gender differences in salary?
    - Yes, women earn on average 40 200 SEK while men earn 41 900 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become a freight forwarder in shipping?
    - High school education with a focus on logistics, trade, or transportation is recommended, preferably complemented with post-secondary studies.
  • What is the job market like for freight forwarders in shipping?
    - Demand is considered moderate and the recruitment situation is balanced according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
  • What are the job responsibilities of a freight forwarder in shipping?
    - Planning and booking transports, customer contact, preparing documents, and handling customs issues.
  • Are there career opportunities in this profession?
    - Yes, it is possible to advance to roles such as transportation manager, logistics coordinator, or customs and international trade specialist.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Forwarder, freight forwarder is 44500 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a post-secondary education, less than 3 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 42700 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Forwarder, freight forwarder is 38600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 40500 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 32900 kr 34300 kr
25-34 98% 37600 kr 39100 kr
35-44 95% 40900 kr 42700 kr
45-54 94% 41000 kr 42700 kr
55-64 97% 41000 kr 42700 kr
65-68 40900 kr 42800 kr
Snitt 96% 39800 kr 41400 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Forwarder, freight forwarder has the SSYK code 4323, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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