Spelling out the key elements of forwarding success

Technological proficiency is critical to achieve economic efficiency and effectiveness in the forwarding industry, says Ilse de Bruin, managing director of UTi’s freight forwarding operations. “The ability to deliver a high-quality, consistent service for the client at a highly competitive price and to make quick and effective decisions comes with extensive experience and exposure to various projects, shipment types and situations. The ability to build relationships with various stakeholders, vendors and clients is critical as well.” Freight forwarding is a demanding profession requiring a base of technological aptitude. People in the industry need to keep abreast of changes and developments in various sectors and sharpen their financial understanding, their knowledge of global systems, sense of urgency and understanding of true customer service, she said. “Clients demand innovative thinking, and without staying at the forefront, it would be difficult to show the value to our clients.” Vanessa Whitehead, vice president of UTi’s People Partnerships, agreed. “People in freight touch every aspect of business on a micro and macro level. “You need a good understanding of business drivers in other industries. You have to have knowledge of the infrastructural challenges countries face and changes in trade regulation. This base knowledge is then used to produce innovative solutions for clients.”