While some people use them interchangeably, they’re not the same, but in many cases, especially for UK businesses, the ideal setup is to work with a provider who can offer both.
When freight and customs services are joined up, it’s easier to keep shipments moving, reduce admin and avoid delays. You get one point of contact, consistent paperwork and a more efficient process from start to finish.
In this article, we explain the difference between the two roles and why having them combined under one roof can make a real difference.
What is a freight forwarder?
A freight forwarder arranges the movement of goods from one place to another. That includes booking transport, coordinating with carriers, arranging storage and handling the logistics of getting goods from point A to point B.
Depending on the provider, this might involve:
- Sea Freight - Full or part container loads
- Air Freight – Direct and Consolidations and Courier options
- Road UK and EU – Full, part loads and groupage options
- Warehousing and distribution
- Project forwarding for oversized or specialised cargo
Acting as a single point of contact, a good freight forwarding company will manage the full journey and deals with any issues that arise along the way.
The role of a customs broker
A customs broker helps ensure your goods meet all legal requirements to enter or leave a country. That includes submitting declarations, classifying goods correctly, checking for licences or permits and making sure taxes and duties are properly handled.
You can find out more in our separate article, What is a Customs Broker?
Do you need a freight forwarder and a customs broker?
Depending upon agreed Incoterms between the buyer and seller, you may need both types of services because transport and compliance go hand in hand. The freight forwarder looks after the movement of goods, while the customs broker ensures they move legally. However, they don’t need to be different companies and there are clear advantages to choosing a provider that can do both, like Superior Freight Services UK. It simplifies communication, avoids crossed wires and often leads to faster, more consistent shipments.
The advantage of having both services under one roof
Using one company for both freight and customs clearance brings a number of practical benefits:
- One team coordinating everything before, during and after transit
- Faster resolution of issues (no chasing between different agents)
- Better visibility and control over the full process
- More accurate, consistent documentation
- Easier billing and simpler communication
Whether you’re importing, exporting or doing both, working with one team that understands the full picture can make a big difference to cost, compliance and peace of mind.
At Superior Freight Services, we provide both customs brokerage and freight forwarding, with support tailored to the size and complexity of your business. Whether you need a one-off shipment or full supply chain coordination, we can help manage the process from start to finish, with compliance, timing and cost all considered together.
Need help with freight, customs or both?
We’re happy to advise, whether you’re looking to improve your existing setup or want someone to take care of everything for you.
Contact our team to find out more or visit our dedicated customs broker web page.