Shipping workers

What does a Freight Forwarding Worker do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Freight Forwarding Worker is responsible for organizing and coordinating transportation of goods both nationally and internationally. Tasks include booking freight, contacting carriers, handling customs documents, and continuously following up on deliveries. The job requires precision, good communication skills, and the ability to quickly solve unforeseen problems. Work is mostly performed in an office environment but may also include visits to terminals and warehouses. The pace is often high, especially during unexpected disruptions in the supply chain or logistical challenges.

Salary development over time

The salary for Freight Forwarding Workers has shown steady growth over the past years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, increasing to 39 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.4% during this period. Salaries have been influenced by increased demand for logistics services, digitalization within the transport sector, and the growing need for expertise in customs handling. The industry’s stable development and ongoing globalization have contributed to maintaining positive salary growth, while employers compete for experienced freight forwarding workers. Differences between regions and employers exist, especially depending on sector and education level.

Freight Forwarding Worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 37,400–42,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Gender difference: Women earn 94% of men's salary
• Job market: 412 job openings within the profession, moderate opportunities

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Freight Forwarding Worker usually goes through high school transport programs or equivalent education with a focus on logistics and transport. Many employers also require post-secondary courses in logistics, administration, or international trade. Practical experience and good language skills are often advantageous, especially for work involving international transports.

• High school education: Transport or trade programs, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: In logistics, customs handling, or international trade
• Certifications: For example, ADR, IATA-DGR for dangerous goods
• Internship: Very valuable for gaining insight into the profession and building contacts
• Language skills: English and possibly additional languages increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Freight forwarding workers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, wellness contributions, and insurance. Some employers also offer bonus programs based on performance, flexible working hours, or the possibility of remote work. Other common compensations include subsidized lunches or employee discounts on travel and transportation.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Freight Forwarding Workers is characterized by a balanced recruitment situation, where supply and demand roughly match. Nationally, employment opportunities are considered moderate, and over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged. Digital transformation and increased efficiency requirements mean the role is constantly evolving, placing high demands on further training and adaptability. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in metropolitan areas and larger international companies.

Tips for aspiring Freight Forwarding Workers

To succeed as a Freight Forwarding Worker, it’s beneficial to have a strong sense of organization and be meticulous in documentation and follow-up. Good communication skills facilitate contact with carriers, customers, and authorities, so developing proficiency in both Swedish and English is wise. Flexibility is an important trait, as the workday often involves quick adjustments and unforeseen events. Being solution-oriented helps with delivery or logistics flow problems, and technical curiosity provides advantages when new digital tools are introduced. Actively seeking internships and building networks within the industry increases the chances of getting your first job, while an interest in international issues and regulations simplifies work in a globalized industry.

Key facts about Freight Forwarding Workers

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Salary range: 37,400–42,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Gender difference: Women earn 94% of men’s salary
• Job market: 412 job openings within the profession, moderate opportunities

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Freight Forwarding Worker, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as transport manager, logistics coordinator, or team leader within larger freight forwarding companies. Some choose to specialize in international transport, customs handling, or dangerous goods, often leading to higher responsibilities and salaries. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand for transport managers and logistics coordinators is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced job market nationally. Those combining experience with further education in logistics and leadership are particularly strong in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about Freight Forwarding Workers

• What does a Freight Forwarding Worker earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with a range between 37,400 and 42,400 SEK.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn an average of 38 400 SEK, which is 94% of men's salary (40 900 SEK).
• What education is required to become a Freight Forwarding Worker?
  - High school education in transport or trade is most common, often supplemented with courses in logistics.
• What is the job market like for Freight Forwarding Workers?
  - There are 412 job openings within the profession, and the job market is considered balanced with unchanged demand moving forward.
• What does the work involve in practice?
  - The role involves planning, booking, and following up on transports, as well as handling documentation and customer contacts in a fast-paced environment.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, with experience, one can advance to roles such as transport manager, team leader, or specialist within logistics.
• What benefits are common for Freight Forwarding Workers?
  - Collective agreement benefits, occupational pensions, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonuses or flexible working hours are often offered.