1

Freight Forwarding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Established in 1981, Orient Express Container (OEC) Group is one of the top freight forwarders in the transportation industry. We provide freight transportation, logistics, and information services ...

Established in 1981, Orient Express Container (OEC) Group is one of the top freight forwarders in the transportation industry. We provide freight transportation, logistics, and information services ...

Established in 1981, Orient Express Container (OEC) Group is one of the top freight forwarders in the transportation industry. We provide freight transportation, logistics, and information services ...

Established in 1981, Orient Express Container (OEC) Group is one of the top freight forwarders in the transportation industry. We provide freight transportation, logistics, and information services ...

Import Freight Forwarder

Carson, CA · On-site

$22 - $28.75/hr

Experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or international shipping * Knowledge of air freight and ocean import procedures * Understanding of import documentation and customs processes * Strong ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freight Forwarding information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$49.3K

$65.6K

How much do freight forwarding jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight forwarding in California is $49,317.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $55,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in freight forwarding, and how can they be managed?

Freight forwarding professionals often navigate challenges such as coordinating shipments across multiple countries, managing tight deadlines, and resolving unexpected delays due to customs or weather. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with carriers and clients, and having a strong understanding of international regulations can help address these issues. Many freight forwarders rely on technology and established logistics networks to proactively manage disruptions and ensure goods reach their destinations efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freight Forwarder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freight Forwarder, you need a solid understanding of logistics, international shipping regulations, and supply chain management, often supported by relevant certifications or experience in transportation or logistics. Familiarity with freight management systems, customs documentation software, and global trade compliance tools is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help manage complex shipments and coordinate with clients and partners. These competencies are crucial for ensuring timely, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods across borders.

What is freight forwarding?

Freight forwarding is a service used by businesses and individuals to arrange the shipment of goods from one location to another, often internationally. Freight forwarders act as intermediaries between shippers and transportation services, handling logistics such as booking cargo space, preparing shipping and customs documents, and negotiating freight charges. They coordinate the movement of goods by various modes of transport, including air, sea, road, or rail, and often provide additional services like warehousing, insurance, and tracking. Their goal is to ensure goods are shipped efficiently, securely, and cost-effectively.

What is the difference between Freight Forwarding vs Customs Broker?

AspectFreight ForwardingCustoms Broker
CredentialsLogistics certifications, freight forwarding licensesCustoms broker licenses, import/export certifications
Work EnvironmentGlobal logistics, shipping companiesCustoms agencies, import/export firms
Industry UsagePlanning and coordinating shipmentsClearing goods through customs

Freight forwarding involves organizing the transportation of goods across borders, while customs brokers focus on clearing shipments through customs. Both roles require knowledge of international shipping regulations and certifications, but they serve different functions in the supply chain.

What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Forwarding jobs in California? The most popular types of Freight Forwarding jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freight Forwarding jobs? Cities in California with the most Freight Forwarding job openings:
Infographic showing various Freight Forwarding job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,317 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Freight Forwarding Specialist

Freight Forwarding Specialist

AppleOne

San Francisco, CA

$64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Freight Forwarding Specialist with strong Import and Export expertise to join our growing logistics team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a Freight Forwarding environment, proficiency in documentation and compliance, and the ability to deliver top-tier customer service in a fast-paced global logistics setting. Required Experience ? 2+ years Import experience in a freight forwarding company ? 2+ years Export experience in a freight forwarding company ? Experience with CargoWise (preferred) ? Minimum 5 years total experience in freight forwarding or logistics ? High school diploma/GED ? Strong computer skills and excellent written/verbal communication ? Knowledge of international trade regulations, DOT, air export rules, Schedule B classification ? Familiarity with Hazardous Materials and Dangerous Goods regulations ? Understanding of international banking requirements (letters of credit, payment terms) ? Basic math skills for metric/currency conversions Key Responsibilities Import & Export Operations Coordinate customer bookings and set up new shipper profiles Prepare, process, and review all import/export documentation in compliance with global regulations Assist with restricted article submissions and ensure regulatory accuracy Track, trace, and update shipment milestones, addressing any exceptions immediately Customer Service & Relationship Management Deliver high-level customer support to ensure a positive service experience Communicate shipment updates, resolve billing disputes, and assist with new trade lane opportunities Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, agents, brokers, and service partners Logistics & Carrier Coordination Dispatch carriers for pickups at CFS, FTN, and customer distribution centers Coordinate oversized, out-of-gauge, and Hazmat shipments Resolve delays, compliance issues, and release problems to ensure timely movement of freight Handle dangerous goods documentation and oversee proper handling procedures Administrative & Financial Duties Enter accurate shipment data into internal systems Generate freight quotes and develop rate structures Resolve billing issues and verify vendor and customer invoicing accuracy Provide manual reports and documentation as requested by customers Additional Duties Work all urgent/immediate shipment cases Perform other related duties as assigned
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Protected Veterans
The Know Your Rights poster is available here:
https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf
The pay transparency policy is available here:
https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ofccp/pdf/pay-transp_%20English_formattedESQA508c.pdf
For temporary assignments lasting 13 weeks or longer, the Company is pleased to offer major medical, dental, vision, 401k and any statutory sick pay where required.
We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact your staffing representative who will reach out to our HR team.
AppleOne participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf
We also consider for employment qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements, including, if applicable, the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Pursuant to applicable state and municipal Fair Chance Laws and Ordinances, we will consider for employment-qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records, including, if applicable, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. For Los Angeles, CA applicants: Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
#1067

Company Description

This company offers growth and a great group of people to work with.

AppleOne logo

About AppleOne

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AppleOne is a renowned staffing service based in Glendale, California, USA. Positioned in the Human Resources industry, the company offers extensive staffing and recruiting solutions, such as temporary, full-time, and part-time placement, to companies across diverse industry sectors. The company was established by Bernie Howroyd in 1964, launching the business to aid others in finding excellent jobs and companies in finding excellent people.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Glendale, CA, US

Year founded

1964