A freight forwarder is an entity that purchases motor service from a licensed motor carrier.
Unlike a freight broker, a freight forwarder assumes responsibility for a shipment from origin to destination and typically issues bills of lading. The Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) Termination Act requires all freight forwarders to register, not only those concerned with household goods. Security requirements must be met, although only household goods (HHG) freight forwarders are required to carry cargo insurance.