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Freight Forwarding Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Supply Chain Manager

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Manage relationships with co-packers, bottling partners, freight forwarders, customs brokers, warehouses, and other supply chain partners to ensure reliable execution and scalable operations.

NEU provides logistics solutions and comprehensive transportation services through its international freight forwarding and logistics network, including specialized handling of: air, land, sea and ...

$180 - $240/hr

You will own our global 3PL partnerships and warehouse network, select and manage our freight forwarders and customs brokers, and set the customs strategy that opens challenging new markets as Tive ...

New

$180 - $220/hr

Logixboard builds software for the freight forwarding industry. Our platform spans two areas: a white-labeled supply chain visibility product that freight forwarders offer to their customers, and AI ...

Dispatcher I

Hebron, KY ยท On-site

Associate Degree or equivalent preferred. * 0-3 years in Freight Forwarding industry experience preferred and/or industry experience in customer service/operations. * Proficient in Microsoft Office

Dispatcher I

Hebron, KY ยท On-site

Associate Degree or equivalent preferred. * 0-3 years in Freight Forwarding industry experience preferred and/or industry experience in customer service/operations. * Proficient in Microsoft Office

Client Service Specialist

Hebron, KY ยท On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Freight Forwarding Knowledge * Documentation Skills * Listening * Resolving Conflict * Ability to Multi-task Physical Requirements * Job may require extended sitting or standing, use of standard ...

Showing results 41-60

Freight Forwarding information

See Kentucky salary details

$28.2K

$43.4K

$57.8K

How much do freight forwarding jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight forwarding in Kentucky is $43,402.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $48,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Do freight forwarders make money?

Freight forwarders earn revenue by charging clients for logistics services such as transportation, customs clearance, and warehousing. Their profitability depends on factors like volume, efficiency, and operational costs, with experienced professionals often earning competitive salaries or commissions. Success in the field requires strong negotiation skills and knowledge of international shipping regulations.

How much do freight forwarders make?

Freight forwarders typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and company size. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized knowledge, and years of experience in logistics and supply chain management.

Is freight forwarding a good career?

Freight forwarding is a viable career that involves coordinating the shipment of goods internationally, requiring skills in logistics, communication, and documentation. It offers opportunities for advancement and often involves working with transportation management systems and industry regulations. Job stability and growth depend on global trade trends and individual experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Forwarding jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Freight Forwarding jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Freight Forwarding jobs in Kentucky?

For Freight Forwarding jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Freight Forwarding jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Freight Forwarding job openings:

Infographic showing various Freight Forwarding job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,402 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Supply Chain Manager

IJW Whiskey Company

Louisville, KY โ€ข On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

IJW Whiskey Company, LLC (IJW) is a dynamic, fully integrated spirits company. Founded in 2017, we've compiled the largest independent library of aged Kentucky bourbon and rye and established a global presence including offices in Beverly Hills, Louisville and Tokyo, Japan, a 40-acre campus in Danville. Our ambitious growth trajectory includes a new whiskey distillery in Shelbyville, KY, slated for completion in early 2026, and a Japanese distillery in Chitose that will be completed in late 2026.
With over 100 years of combined industry expertise, our diverse team of seasoned professionals and dynamic newcomers has propelled IJW to the forefront of the spirits industry. Our strategic partnership with one of the nation's largest independent Wine & Spirits distributors has enabled us to offer 22 products across four unique private label bourbon brands in 28 states. We have added to our spirits portfolio with our first Tequila and Mezcal brands.
Summary:
We are looking for a Supply Chain Manager to oversee and enhance our supply chain processes. Reporting to our Director of Procurement, the ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the finished goods supply chain, ensuring seamless operations and cost-effectiveness. The Supply Chain Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and logistics partners to optimize inventory management, reduce lead times, and maintain the highest service standards.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Supply Chain Operations & Optimization
    • Own end-to-end supply chain operations for finished goods, including imports/exports, warehousing, logistics, inventory management, and distribution across the U.S. 3-tier system.
    • Lead demand planning, inventory optimization, and S&OP to balance service, inventory, and operational efficiency.
    • Manage relationships with co-packers, bottling partners, freight forwarders, customs brokers, warehouses, and other supply chain partners to ensure reliable execution and scalable operations.
    • Support supply chain readiness for new product launches, business expansion, and future manufacturing initiatives.
    • Develop and monitor KPIs for inventory health, OTIF, lead times, fill rates, and logistics costs.
  • Risk Management & Continuity
    • Develop risk mitigation strategies for suppliers, logistics, inventory, regulatory compliance, and global trade disruptions.
    • Establish contingency inventory, alternate sourcing, and backup logistics plans for critical materials and SKUs.
    • Ensure compliance with import/export, customs, TTB, FDA, and bonded warehousing regulations.
  • Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
    • Support sourcing strategies for barrels, grains, flavors, ingredients, and other key materials, including supplier qualification, negotiations, contract management, and market analysis.
    • Partner on supplier performance, cost reduction, and sourcing initiatives that improve continuity, scalability, and operational efficiency.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Collaborate with procurement, production, quality, finance, sales, and commercial teams to align supply chain strategy with business goals.
    • Build strong partnerships with co-packers and bottling partners to support production planning, capacity, service levels, and growth.
    • Provide leadership with regular reporting on supply chain performance, risks, opportunities, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Operations, or a related field; MBA or other advanced degree is an asset.
  • 3-5+ years of progressive experience in supply chain, logistics, procurement, or operations, preferably in beverage alcohol, CPG, food & beverage, or other regulated industries.
  • Experience managing international imports, customs, freight forwarding, bonded warehousing, and global logistics, including imports from markets such as Japan and Mexico.
  • Working knowledge of TTB, FDA, import/export regulations, USMCA, and compliance requirements related to alcohol distribution and the U.S. 3-tier system.
  • Proven experience optimizing logistics networks, reducing landed costs, improving service levels, managing inventory, and supporting demand planning, forecasting, and S&OP.
  • Experience managing relationships with co-packers, bottling partners, 3PL providers, freight carriers, and international suppliers.
  • Proficiency with ERP systems, inventory planning tools, and transportation management systems.
  • Experience supporting new product launches, supply chain scaling, strategic sourcing, category management, and continuous improvement initiatives, including KPIs, dashboards, and process automation.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, negotiation, vendor management, and cross-functional leadership skills, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.