Freight Forwarding Speakers

A freight forwarding speaker is someone who specializes in sharing insights, strategies, and trends related to the global movement of goods-and they do it in a way that educates and energizes an audience. These speakers typically come from backgrounds in logistics, supply chain management, or international trade, and they bring that expertise to conferences, webinars, podcasts, and virtual summits.

But they're not just logistics professionals. What sets a freight forwarding speaker apart is their ability to communicate complex shipping and customs processes in a way that's accessible and engaging. Whether they're breaking down the impact of new EU import regulations or explaining the difference between FOB and CIF shipping terms, they translate technical jargon into real-world relevance.

You'll often find freight forwarding speakers at industry events like Transport Logistic in Munich or Breakbulk Middle East, but they're also increasingly featured in cross-industry events where global trade intersects with tech, sustainability, or entrepreneurship. For example, a freight forwarding speaker might be invited to a SaaS founder summit to explain how to streamline international product delivery.

In short, a freight forwarding speaker is a communicator first and a logistics expert second. They bridge the gap between the shipping world and the rest of us-whether we're running a Shopify store or managing a multinational supply chain.

When global supply chains get disrupted, who helps us make sense of the chaos? That's where a freight forwarding speaker comes in. They don't just explain what's happening-they help businesses adapt, pivot, and thrive in a rapidly changing logistics landscape.

Freight forwarding speakers are crucial because they bring clarity to a notoriously complex industry. From customs compliance to multimodal transport, the freight world is filled with moving parts. A skilled speaker can demystify these systems for audiences ranging from startup founders to procurement officers.

They also help businesses stay ahead of trends. For instance, when COVID-19 upended global shipping, freight forwarding speakers were among the first to highlight alternative routes, digital freight platforms, and nearshoring strategies. Their insights helped companies avoid costly delays and rethink their logistics models.

Moreover, these speakers often act as connectors. They introduce audiences to new technologies (like blockchain in freight tracking), regulatory updates, and even new markets. Their talks can spark partnerships, innovation, and smarter decision-making.

So whether you're organizing a virtual summit for eCommerce sellers or a corporate roundtable for logistics pros, a freight forwarding speaker isn't just helpful-they're a strategic asset.

Freight forwarding speakers educate, inform, and inspire audiences by unpacking the complexities of global shipping and logistics. But their role goes far beyond simply explaining how freight moves from point A to point B.

They typically do the following:

- Break Down Industry Concepts. They explain freight terms like 'bill of lading', 'harmonized codes', or 'last-mile delivery' in ways that non-experts can understand.

- Share Real-World Case Studies. Whether it's how a retailer optimized their supply chain using predictive analytics, or how a manufacturer navigated post-Brexit customs, these stories help audiences apply lessons to their own operations.

- Highlight Trends and Innovations. From green logistics to AI-powered freight matching, speakers keep audiences up to date on what's next in the industry.

- Offer Strategic Advice. They might guide small businesses on how to choose the right freight forwarder or advise corporations on how to diversify their shipping routes.

- Engage in Q&A and Panels. Many also participate in live discussions, offering tailored insights and answering specific audience questions.

In essence, freight forwarding speakers act as translators between the logistics world and the broader business community. Their job is to make global trade understandable, actionable, and even a little exciting.

Becoming a freight forwarding speaker isn't just about knowing logistics. It's about turning that knowledge into a message people want to hear. Here's how to get started:

1. Define Your Niche
- Freight forwarding is broad. Are you an expert in customs brokerage? Cross-border eCommerce? Cold chain logistics? Pick a lane.
- Tip: Look at trending topics on Talks.co or LinkedIn events to see what organizers are booking.

2. Build Your Authority
- Start by publishing content. Write LinkedIn posts, contribute to trade magazines, or launch a podcast.
- Host webinars or virtual summits to showcase your insights. Use platforms like Talks.co to list yourself as a speaker.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- This is your digital resume. Include your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a few video clips.
- Make it easy for event organizers to contact you. Talks.co makes this seamless by connecting hosts and guests directly.

4. Pitch Yourself Strategically
- Reach out to industry events, logistics expos, and virtual summits. Tailor your pitch to their audience.
- Tip: Offer to speak for free at first to build your portfolio. Focus on value, not just credentials.

5. Leverage Feedback and Referrals
- After each gig, ask for testimonials and referrals. Word of mouth is gold in this space.
- Keep refining your message based on audience feedback and industry shifts.

Becoming a freight forwarding speaker is about positioning yourself as the go-to voice in a niche that moves the world. Start small, stay consistent, and let your expertise do the talking.

To be a freight forwarding speaker, you need more than just logistics knowledge. You need a combination of industry experience, communication skills, and a platform to amplify your voice.

Industry Expertise
You don't need to be a 30-year veteran, but you do need credibility. Maybe you've optimized supply chains for eCommerce brands, or you've worked in customs compliance across multiple regions. Whatever your angle, your experience should be specific and relevant.

Speaking and Communication Skills
Being an expert isn't enough if you can't explain complex topics in a clear, engaging way. Practice storytelling. Use real-world examples. Freight forwarding can be dry if not delivered with energy and clarity.

Digital Presence
In today's world, your online presence matters. Create a speaker page with your bio, topics, and media. Platforms like Talks.co help you connect with event organizers and get discovered by the right audience.

Networking and Outreach
You need to be proactive. Join logistics forums, attend virtual summits, and connect with hosts on LinkedIn. The more visible you are, the more opportunities will come your way.

Adaptability and Global Awareness
Freight forwarding is global. Speakers who understand regional nuances-like EU customs vs. US import laws-stand out. Tailor your content for different audiences, whether you're speaking to a startup in Nairobi or a freight tech firm in Singapore.

In short, to be a freight forwarding speaker, you need a mix of subject matter expertise, presentation skills, and the right tools to get your message out there. Talks.co is a great place to start building that visibility.

Yes, freight forwarding speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and event type.

Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Paid Gigs: These are typically at large conferences, corporate training sessions, or sponsored webinars. Rates can range from $500 to $10,000+ depending on the speaker's profile.
- Unpaid Gigs: Common at industry meetups or early-stage virtual summits. These are often used for exposure, lead generation, or portfolio building.

Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: A speaker with 15 years in global freight operations will command more than a newcomer.
- Speaking Niche: Specialized topics like AI in freight forwarding or cross-border compliance often pay more.
- Audience Size and Type: Speaking to a room of C-suite execs at a Fortune 500 logistics summit? Expect higher rates.

Data Snapshot
According to SpeakerHub and industry surveys:
- 35% of logistics speakers report earning between $1,000-$5,000 per event.
- 20% earn over $5,000 per keynote.
- 45% do a mix of paid and unpaid gigs to build their brand.

Pros and Cons
- Pros: Income, authority, networking, lead generation.
- Cons: Inconsistent pay, travel demands, prep time.

So yes, freight forwarding speakers do get paid-but like any speaking niche, it's a mix of strategy, positioning, and persistence.

Freight forwarding speakers monetize their expertise in several ways, and it's not just about keynote fees. Here's a breakdown of the most common income streams:

1. Speaking Fees
- This is the most obvious one. Speakers get paid for keynotes, panels, and workshops at logistics expos, corporate events, and virtual summits.
- Rates vary based on experience, topic demand, and audience size (see 'How much do freight forwarding speakers make').

2. Consulting and Advisory Services
- Many speakers use their stage time to attract consulting clients. After a talk on customs digitization, for example, a company might hire the speaker to audit their import/export workflows.
- This is especially common in regions like Southeast Asia or Latin America, where freight infrastructure is rapidly evolving.

3. Courses and Digital Products
- Some speakers package their knowledge into online courses, eBooks, or templates. Think: 'Mastering Incoterms 2020' or 'Freight Forwarding for eCommerce Brands'.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi are popular for this.

4. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
- If a speaker has a strong following, they can partner with freight tech companies or logistics SaaS tools. For example, promoting a customs automation platform during a webinar.

5. Virtual Summits and Events
- Hosting your own event is a powerful revenue stream. Using Zoom, speakers can organize virtual summits, invite other experts, and monetize through ticket sales, sponsorships, or upsells.

In short, freight forwarding speakers make money by combining stage time with smart backend offers. The most successful ones treat speaking as a lead magnet, not just a paycheck.

Freight forwarding speakers can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands per event, depending on several variables. Let's break it down.
Typical Fee Ranges

Experience Level	Fee Per Speaking Engagement
Beginner (0-2 years)	$250 - $1,000
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$1,000 - $5,000
Expert (8+ years)	$5,000 - $15,000+

Influencing Factors
- Event Type: Corporate training pays more than a panel at a trade show.
- Audience Size: A keynote at a 5,000-person expo will pay more than a 50-person webinar.
- Region: Speakers in North America or Western Europe typically earn more than those in developing markets, though this is shifting with virtual events.
Additional Income Streams (see 'How do freight forwarding speakers make money'):
- Consulting gigs post-speech can bring in $10,000+ per client.
- Online course sales can generate passive income ranging from $500/month to $10,000/month.
Real-World Example:
A speaker specializing in cross-border eCommerce logistics might earn $3,000 for a 45-minute keynote at a Shopify partner event, then land a $20,000 consulting contract with a brand expanding into Asia.
So while the speaking fee is important, the real money often comes from what happens after the talk.

If you're looking to book a freight forwarding speaker, the cost can vary widely based on experience, topic, and event format. Here's what you can expect:
Cost Breakdown by Type of Event

Event Type	Cost Range
Virtual Panel	$250 - $1,500
Webinar or Workshop	$500 - $3,000
In-Person Keynote	$2,000 - $10,000+
Corporate Training Session	$5,000 - $20,000+

Factors That Affect Cost
- Speaker Reputation: A well-known expert with media appearances or a bestselling book will cost more.
- Customization: Tailored presentations or proprietary frameworks increase fees.
- Travel and Logistics: For in-person events, you'll need to cover travel, accommodation, and per diem.
Tips for Budgeting
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget. Many offer flexible packages.
- Consider virtual events to cut costs. A $10,000 keynote in-person might cost $3,000 virtually.
- Bundle services. Some speakers offer discounts if you book them for both a keynote and a breakout session.
Hidden Costs to Watch
- AV setup for hybrid events.
- Licensing fees if the talk is recorded and redistributed.
In summary, freight forwarding speakers can be a worthwhile investment-just make sure you're clear on deliverables and value for your audience.

Here's a curated list of standout freight forwarding speakers who've shaped the industry with their insights and influence:

1. Steve Ferreira
- Founder of Ocean Audit and frequent speaker on ocean freight auditing and transparency.
- Known for breaking down complex freight billing issues with humor and clarity.

2. Lora Cecere
- While more broadly a supply chain analyst, her insights into freight logistics and demand-driven supply chains have made her a go-to speaker at logistics summits.

3. Mark Millar
- Author of 'Global Supply Chain Ecosystems', Millar is a frequent keynote speaker across Asia and Europe.
- Known for connecting macro trends to freight forwarding strategies.

4. Inna Kuznetsova
- Former CEO of 1010data and Maersk executive, she brings a tech-forward perspective to freight logistics.
- Often speaks on digital transformation in freight forwarding.

5. Eric Johnson
- Senior editor at JOC.com, Eric is a frequent moderator and speaker at global freight events.
- His deep knowledge of freight tech makes him a favorite among digital-forward audiences.

6. Ken Allen
- CEO of DHL eCommerce Solutions, Allen has spoken extensively on last-mile delivery and global freight strategy.

7. Beth Peterson
- Founder of BPE Global, she's a top voice in trade compliance and export controls.
- Regular speaker at trade and freight compliance events.

These speakers have not only delivered powerful talks but also influenced how freight forwarding is understood and executed globally.

Looking for top freight forwarding speakers making waves today? Here are some of the most in-demand voices globally:

1. Steve Ferreira (USA)
- A go-to expert on ocean freight auditing. His appearances on CNBC and at major logistics events make him a trusted voice.

2. Mark Millar (Hong Kong/UK)
- With a global footprint, Millar speaks at events from Singapore to London. His ability to connect global trade trends with actionable freight strategies is unmatched.

3. Inna Kuznetsova (USA/Russia)
- A freight tech leader with a strong background in AI and data analytics. She's a regular at tech-forward logistics conferences.

4. Lora Cecere (USA)
- Founder of Supply Chain Insights, she's a must-hear speaker for anyone interested in the intersection of freight and demand planning.

5. Eric Johnson (USA)
- Known for his work at The Journal of Commerce, Johnson brings freight tech insights to life with clarity and depth.

6. Julian Smith (UK)
- A rising voice in sustainable freight forwarding, especially in the EU. Frequently speaks at green logistics forums.

7. Aditi Sharma (India)
- A regional expert on freight forwarding in South Asia, focusing on digitization and SME logistics.

8. Carlos Torres (Mexico)
- Known for his bilingual talks on cross-border freight between the US and Latin America.

9. Nicolette van der Jagt (Netherlands)
- Director General of CLECAT, she's a strong voice in European freight policy and customs.

10. Benjamin Gordon (USA)
- Founder of Cambridge Capital, Gordon speaks on freight investment trends and M&A in logistics.

These speakers are shaping the global freight conversation-whether through tech, policy, or strategy. If you're planning a summit or webinar, these are the names to watch.

Let's unpack some of the most persistent misconceptions about freight forwarding speakers. Whether you're new to the logistics space or just curious about the niche, these myths can cloud your judgment.

1. Myth: Freight forwarding speakers only talk about shipping containers and customs paperwork.
That's like saying tech speakers only talk about keyboards. Freight forwarding speakers cover a wide range of topics: global trade policy, supply chain digitization, sustainability in logistics, and even geopolitical risk. For example, speakers at the Transport Logistic conference in Munich often dive into AI-driven route optimization and blockchain applications in cargo tracking.

2. Myth: You need to be a freight forwarder to be a freight forwarding speaker.
Not true. While many speakers have hands-on experience in freight forwarding, others come from adjacent industries like finance, tech, or international law. What matters is your ability to offer insights that help logistics professionals solve real problems. Think of someone like Cathy Roberson, who transitioned from analyst to speaker by offering data-driven insights into freight trends.

3. Myth: The audience for freight forwarding speakers is too niche to matter.
Tell that to the 70,000+ attendees at events like Breakbulk Europe or the Global Supply Chain Summit. Freight forwarding is a trillion-dollar industry. The audience includes shippers, carriers, tech startups, regulators, and investors. It's niche, yes, but it's a high-impact niche.

4. Myth: Speaking in this space won't grow your personal brand.
Actually, it can position you as a thought leader in a high-barrier industry. Speakers who consistently deliver value in this space often get invited to consult, join advisory boards, or collaborate with global trade organizations. It's not about going viral on YouTube. It's about being trusted in boardrooms.

5. Myth: You have to be boring because it's a technical topic.
Nope. Some of the best freight forwarding speakers use storytelling, humor, and visuals to make complex topics accessible. Just look at how speakers at TPM (Trans-Pacific Maritime Conference) use case studies and real-time data to keep audiences engaged. Being informative doesn't mean being dull.

When you think of compelling public speakers, freight forwarding might not be the first industry that comes to mind. But the truth is, some of the most impactful voices in global trade come from this space. Let's explore a few standout examples.

Take Lars Jensen, for instance. A former Maersk executive turned industry analyst, Lars has become a go-to speaker at global logistics events. His talks blend data analysis with strategic forecasting, helping audiences understand container shipping volatility. What sets him apart? He doesn't just share stats-he tells the story behind the numbers. At a recent conference, he walked the audience through the domino effect of port congestion in Asia and how it rippled through European supply chains. It was part economics lesson, part thriller.

Then there's Inna Kuznetsova, a tech executive who transitioned into logistics and now speaks on digital transformation in freight. Her sessions often focus on AI and predictive analytics in supply chain management. At the FreightWaves LIVE event, she captivated a mixed audience of tech founders and freight brokers by showing how machine learning can reduce deadhead miles and improve load matching. Her storytelling style? Clear, confident, and always anchored in real-world application.

In Latin America, Diego Padilla from Mexico has made waves by speaking on cross-border trade and customs modernization. His bilingual sessions at regional trade expos have helped bridge the gap between U.S. and Mexican logistics operators. He often uses real case studies from maquiladora zones to highlight inefficiencies and propose tech-driven solutions.

These speakers didn't start with massive platforms. They built credibility by consistently showing up with value, tailoring their message to the audience, and staying ahead of industry shifts. Whether it's through data, storytelling, or regional expertise, they've carved out a space where their voice matters-and gets invited back.

So, where are freight forwarding speakers heading next? As global trade evolves, so does the conversation around it. Here's what's coming down the pipeline for those stepping up to the mic in this space.

First, expect a surge in demand for speakers who can translate complex tech into practical insights. With AI, IoT, and blockchain becoming more embedded in logistics, audiences want clarity, not jargon. Freight forwarding speakers who can demystify these tools-especially for small to mid-sized businesses-will be in high demand.

Second, sustainability is no longer a side topic. It's front and center. Speakers who can talk about carbon-neutral shipping, green corridors, and ESG compliance with authority will dominate stages. Think of how companies like Maersk are investing in methanol-powered vessels. Speakers who can connect these innovations to business strategy will stand out.

Third, regional expertise is gaining value. The pandemic exposed how fragile global supply chains can be. Now, localized knowledge-like navigating African trade corridors or Southeast Asian port regulations-is gold. Freight forwarding speakers with boots-on-the-ground insights will be sought after by global audiences.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Hybrid event formats. Virtual + in-person is here to stay, so speakers need to master both.
- Interactive sessions. Panels, live Q&A, and audience polling are replacing one-way keynotes.
- Cross-industry collaboration. Expect more joint sessions with fintech, cybersecurity, and sustainability experts.
- Data storytelling. Raw data isn't enough. Speakers must turn metrics into narratives that drive action.

In short, the future belongs to freight forwarding speakers who are adaptable, tech-savvy, and globally aware. If you can connect the dots between policy, technology, and human behavior, you'll not only stay relevant-you'll lead the conversation.

Getting started as a freight forwarding speaker? You don't need to reinvent the wheel. Here's a curated list of tools and platforms to help you build your authority, land speaking gigs, and deliver standout presentations.

1. Talks.co. A smart platform that connects speakers with podcast hosts. Perfect for building your voice and reaching niche logistics audiences. Tip: Use keyword filters like 'supply chain' or 'logistics tech' to find relevant shows.

2. FreightWaves SONAR. A real-time freight market analytics tool. Great for pulling up-to-date data to support your presentations. Tip: Use it to show trends in spot rates or capacity shifts during your talk.

3. Slidebean. A presentation builder that helps you design clean, professional decks without needing a design degree. Tip: Use their pitch deck templates to structure your talk like a business case.

4. SpeakerHub. A directory for professional speakers. You can create a profile, list your topics, and get discovered by event organizers. Tip: Niche your profile by focusing on freight, logistics, or global trade.

5. Coursera - Supply Chain Management Specialization. Brush up on fundamentals or go deep into advanced topics. Tip: Use it to strengthen your credibility if you're transitioning into the space from another industry.

6. Notion. Organize your research, scripts, and event calendar in one place. Tip: Create a content bank of case studies, stats, and quotes to pull from when building talks.

7. LinkedIn Events. A goldmine for finding virtual logistics events and webinars. Tip: Attend as a guest first, then pitch yourself as a speaker once you understand the audience.

8. Canva. For quick visual assets, social media posts, or infographics to support your speaker brand. Tip: Use it to create a one-pager speaker sheet with your bio, topics, and testimonials.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, these tools can help you build credibility, connect with the right people, and deliver talks that resonate.