Here at Barrington Freight, we are proud members of the British International Freight Association (BIFA). As Freight forwarders, it’s important to have an association available to represent not only our best interests, but the interests of our customers and other freight forwarding companies. But who are the BIFA, and what do they actually do?
Who are they?
The British International Freight Association is the main trade association for any UK-registered companies that are involved in the movement of freight. Whether it’s by air, road, rail or sea, the BIFA are the lead organisation setting insurance-backed industry standards for any and all companies and related persons to the industry and its activities. It is a not-for-profit organisation that is entirely funded by subscriptions, meaning that it is run by its members for its members. With a full-time Secretariat, there is full-time cover and support for Freight companies and their assets.
Training
The BIFA can offer industry training to any of its members, but it doesn’t stop there. It also opens this training and development to International traders. Throughout the year, courses are run all over the UK, covering subjects including customs procedures, dangerous goods, security, imports, exports and international trade procedures. They also have information available about apprenticeships, as well as providing extra support for small companies who are taking on under 18 year olds.
Representation
Acting as an authoritative voice at official and government levels, BIFA uses its position to represent its members and the entire freighting industry. It is one of the only freight trade associations to be listed by the UK Government on their Business Link website, and is also regularly consulted by HM Revenue and Customs as a member of the Joint Customs Consultative Committee. It is also the UK National Association member of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), meaning that they can offer Freight Companies amazing representation and support at national and international levels.
Information and Guidance
All members of the BIFA will receive a copy of the Association’s monthly newsletter, the BIFAlink. I will keep them up to date on all sorts of things to do with the industry, and with a full list of the members on the website as well as constantly updated information about the freight and trade communities, there is certainly plenty for freight forwarders to keep up to date with. There are plenty of conferences and seminars taking place the whole year round, and any subjects that require any extra focus or coverage will always receive it.
Industry Promotion
The BIFA can offer plenty of promotion of not only its members to the industry, but the industry to its members. The Secretariat handles a large number of enquires every year, and the BIFA as a whole consistently encourages the world of freight and logistics as a path for students to take. It can also provide support and assistances to new importers and exporters, and for an extra leg up in promotion, they regularly partake in all kinds of industry trade fairs throughout the UK.
For more information about the BIFA or Barrington Freight and our services, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
