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Which of the following best defines a freight forwarder?

  1. A professional managing documentation for international shipping

  2. A business focused on supplying raw materials

  3. A service that combines shipments for cost efficiency

  4. An agency responsible for warehousing products

The correct answer is: A service that combines shipments for cost efficiency

A freight forwarder is essentially an intermediary that arranges the logistics and transportation of goods on behalf of shippers. The central function of a freight forwarder is to consolidate shipments from multiple clients to optimize transportation costs and streamline the shipping process. This often involves negotiating rates with carriers and managing the complexities associated with international shipping. While managing documentation for international shipping and offering warehousing services are important components of the logistics landscape, these tasks alone do not encapsulate the primary role of a freight forwarder. Specifically, the act of combining shipments is key to achieving cost efficiency, which is why this option is the most accurate definition. Freight forwarders leverage their expertise in logistics to create more economical shipping solutions, benefiting their clients by reducing overall shipping costs while also providing comprehensive support throughout the shipping process.