Transport capacity and commission agent: what are the differences?
In the road haulage sector, it's common to come across two concepts that are often confused: the transport capacity and the freight forwarder. However, these two statuses are very different in their operation, responsibilities and positioning in the logistics chain.
For companies looking for a fast, reliable solution, it's essential to understand the difference between forwarding agent and freight forwarder. This guide gives you the keys to a clearer understanding of which method is best suited to the requirements of express transport.
What is transport capacity?
Definition and objectives of transport capacity
The "capacité de transport" is the legal authorization allowing a company to operate as a road haulage operator for hire or reward. It is based on a certificate of professional competence issued by the authorities, following an examination validating skills in the management, regulation and organization of transport operations.
This enables companies like HK Courses to offer transport services under their own name, with an integrated fleet of vehicles and drivers. This positioning guarantees complete control over service quality and deadlines.
What are the terms and conditions?
The attestation de capacité is obtained after passing an examination organized by the DREAL. Preparatory training, often taken with organizations such as AFTRAL, is highly recommended. This training covers key topics such as road transport regulations, accounting, insurance, fleet management and contract law.
In order to operate, the company must also be registered on the transporters' register, appoint a qualified transport manager and demonstrate a minimum financial capacity.
Transport capacity: legal obligations
The carrier is legally responsible for the smooth transportation of goods. They must comply with social and technical regulations, guarantee the safety of journeys and ensure the conformity of transport contracts. Regular checks are carried out by the authorities to ensure compliance with these obligations.
What is a freight forwarder?
Definition and missions of a freight forwarder
The freight forwarder is an intermediary who organizes the transport of goods on behalf of a customer. Unlike the carrier, the freight forwarder does not carry out the transport itself. He selects the service providers, coordinates operations and manages overall logistics.
Its added value lies in its ability to design a tailor-made solution, backed by a network of partner carriers.
What is the regulatory framework?
The freight forwarding profession is governed by the French Commercial Code. To operate, you need to be registered as a freight forwarder, have the appropriate professional qualifications, and comply with the rules governing logistics contracts and insurance obligations.
What are the commissionaire's responsibilities and commitments?
The freight forwarder is contractually bound to ensure that the shipment runs smoothly, even if he does not carry it out. He assumes responsibility for his choice of subcontractors, and must ensure that operations are carried out in accordance with the commitments made to his customer.
Summary: the main distinctions between transport capacity and freight forwarder
The nature of activities
The carrier acts directly: he takes charge of the goods using his own resources and delivers them to the end customer. The forwarder, on the other hand, orchestrates the operation but delegates the execution.
Legal responsibilities
The carrier is physically responsible for the goods throughout the entire transport process. The freight forwarder, on the other hand, is contractually responsible for the proper execution of the entire chain, even if it is delegated.
Interactions with customers and carriers
In the case of a carrier, the customer deals directly with the professional providing the service. Conversely, a commission agent acts as an intermediary between the customer and one or more service providers. This model can dilute traceability and lengthen decision-making times.
How do you choose between carrier and freight forwarder?
Decision-making criteria
For a company wishing to transport its goods in complete safety, the choice between a qualified carrier and a freight forwarder depends above all on the level of control, responsiveness and transparency expected.
Using a licensed carrier, like HK Courses, means that the company works directly with the person who actually carries out the transport. This is a particularly good choice if :
- Short lead times or urgent deliveries;
- You want a single point of contact, responsible from start to finish;
- Traceability, safety and punctuality are top priorities;
- You're looking to build a lasting relationship with a responsive professional.
Forwarding agents, on the other hand, are more suited to companies wishing to completely outsource logistics management, sometimes for complex or multi-carrier flows. It is better suited to a global approach, but involves an additional layer of intermediation, which can affect response times in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Reliability, control and transparency
By choosing a carrier with capacity, you have access to a service performed directly by the company you have commissioned. This limits the loss of information and intermediaries, and guarantees a higher level of commitment.
HK Courses, as a capacity carrier, provides its own vehicles, qualified drivers and real-time tracking of goods. This autonomy enables us to carry out our deliveries rigorously, rapidly and in line with your business requirements.
Understanding the difference between transport capacity and freight forwarding means better grasping the freight transport issues. The former acts, the latter organizes. HK Courses, a company with its own capacity, guarantees its customers direct, reliable and rapid handling of their shipments. A complete control of operationsthat makes all the difference in the world of express transport.
