Apprentice Standard

Since mid-2016, BIFA supported a group of employers developing a relevant apprenticeship in the Freight Forwarding sector. The standard for the International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprenticeship scheme was approved on 20 April 2018.

International Freight Forwarding Specialist

Level 3

Set at Level 3 (A Level) with a minimum duration of 18 months, the new apprenticeship will provide students with core knowledge and skills including; industry awareness, customs procedures and commercial. At the beginning of the programme, apprentices will also be given one of three pathways; air freight, ocean freight or road freight, to reflect the focus of our member’s operations. Whichever pathway apprentices take, specific knowledge and skills will be acquired in addition to the three mandatory modules.

You can view the standard here

We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has been involved in creating the standard:
Kuehne+Nagel, Davies Turner, DHL, Metro Shipping, Hellmann, Neon Freight, OIA Global, DSV Air & Sea, Dachser, DB Schenker, Panalpina, Intelligent Global Logistics, Maltacourt and Yusen Logistics.

If the International Freight Forwarding Specialist Level 3 apprenticeship standard is not for you/your employee, check out the other apprenticeships available in Transport & Logistics ranging from Level 2 to Level 6 (degree equivalent).

Hear what apprentices have to say…

Are you looking for an apprenticeship?

One of the big attractions of choosing a career in Freight Forwarding is the different pathways that your career could take you. Here you can read a range of case studies from established BIFA Members supporting this. You can also see top tips from existing apprentices as to why you should consider it.

Industry Insights from apprentices

My apprenticeship has given me a great platform for a career in logistics and provided a great alternative to University. I've learnt an immense amount from experienced colleagues and the positive feedback I've received from customers, both internally and externally.

Asif

What I love is that you never know what you’re going to get, every shipment is different and you don’t know what it’ll be until you open your emails in the morning. Every day is a learning curve.

Lizzy

Industry Insights from employers

DB Schenker is a strong advocate for the International Freight Forwarding apprenticeship and we see this as an ideal entry point into the logistics industry. We have enjoyed tremendous success with previous apprenticeship programmes, with students graduating to multiple diverse roles throughout our company.

Ray Hennessy, CEO, DB Schenker