International Freight Forwarding Executive Apprenticeship Course Syllabus
Course Title
International Freight Forwarding Executive Apprenticeship Course
Course Code
IFFE101
Description
This course, under the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), provides comprehensive training for international freight forwarding executives, focusing on managing global logistics, preparing shipping documentation, and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in coordinating sea, air, and land transport, negotiating with carriers, and handling customs clearance, preparing them for roles in logistics, shipping, and freight forwarding companies. The course aligns with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and complies with the Apprentices Act, 1961.
Objectives
- Plan and coordinate international freight forwarding operations across air, sea, and land transport.
- Prepare and manage shipping documentation, including bills of lading and commercial invoices.
- Ensure compliance with global trade regulations, customs requirements, and Incoterms.
- Negotiate with carriers and coordinate with stakeholders to optimize logistics efficiency.
Schedule
The course spans 8 weeks, combining basic training and on-the-job practical training as per ATS guidelines. Each week focuses on specific skills essential for international freight forwarding executives. Below is the detailed breakdown:
Week 1: Introduction to International Freight Forwarding
Overview of freight forwarding, executive roles, global logistics, workplace safety, and trade fundamentals under ATS.
Week 2: Freight Forwarding Documentation
Preparing key documents like bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin for international shipments.
Week 3: Global Trade Regulations
Understanding Incoterms 2020, WTO regulations, and Indian customs laws (e.g., Customs Act, 1962) for compliance.
Week 4: Transport Modes and Carrier Negotiation
Coordinating air, sea, and land transport, negotiating rates with carriers, and selecting optimal shipping routes.
Week 5: Customs Clearance Coordination
Managing customs clearance processes, coordinating with customs brokers, and using systems like ICEGATE for documentation.
Week 6: Freight Forwarding Software
Using logistics software (e.g., CargoWise, SAP) for shipment tracking, documentation, and operational management.
Week 7: Stakeholder Coordination and Risk Management
Collaborating with shippers, consignees, and customs officials, and addressing risks like delays or cargo damage.
Week 8: Final Project and Assessment
Completion of a comprehensive freight forwarding project and preparation for the All India Trade Test (AITT) under NCVT.
Assessment Methods
Apprentice performance is evaluated through a combination of practical, theoretical, and participatory components, preparing them for the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC):
- Weekly Assignments: 40%
- Midterm Project: 20%
- Final Project: 30%
- Participation and Attendance: 10%
Instructor
Prof. Rakesh Sharma
Language
Available in: English
Status
Published
Additional Notes
Apprentices must be at least 14 years old and meet the minimum educational qualification (typically 12th grade passed or equivalent, preferably with a commerce or logistics background, as per trade requirements). The course includes basic training (20-25% of the program) and on-the-job training, with a stipend provided as per NAPS guidelines (e.g., Rs. 7700 per month for one-year ITI trade passed apprentices, as per Gazette notification dated 25th September 2019). Successful completion leads to the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) upon passing the All India Trade Test (AITT), recognized for employment in government and private sectors. The training emphasizes coordination and compliance, addressing the demand for skilled freight forwarding professionals in India’s growing global trade and logistics sectors.