January 2024 will see the British International Freight Association (BIFA) add a new training course to its one-day freight essentials training portfolio.

Introduction to Freight has been designed for anyone who is a complete newcomer to the world of freight and logistics and is a practical course for beginners that will give participants a good foundation in the processes involved when importing and exporting goods.

BIFA’s freight and customs training courses aim to be the most engaging within the industry, whether that be an online class, face-to-face, or eLearning. Delivered by a team of industry experts, the various courses have gained a well deserved reputation for being very informative and delivering great value for money; and that will be the case for the new course. In 2023, BIFA has trained over 1000 learners face-to-face on its various courses.

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By the end of the course, participants can expect to be able to identify all parties involved in the process of importing and exporting goods, whilst understanding the process of a shipment, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the freight forwarding and logistics company and the various carriers involved.

Furthermore, the course will ensure that they will be able to determine the main elements required when arranging a shipment between a buyer and seller; and understand the common documents that may be needed and are used within the industry.

The course will define why shipping instructions are required and explain their roles and responsibilities.

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It will also explain the differences between the commercial invoice and the packing list, and determine information that needs to be provided; whilst providing an overview of Incoterms 2020 and their role in the terms of sale.

Carl Hobbis, member services director at BIFA, who has management responsibility for the trade association’s training and development services said: “The course is an ideal starting point from which to move on to BIFA’s ‘Freight Forwarding Essentials’ and ‘Customs Essentials’ courses, which give more insight into specific aspects of the logistics industry and customs processes, respectively.

“Anyone working for a BIFA member wishing to participate in the new course can take advantage of a special introductory offer and save £100 when they book and secure their spot on this course for only £190.”