Still unsure whether you need a CHA or a Freight Forwarder for your shipments?
When your shipment reaches an Indian port, two professionals stand between your cargo and your customer — the Customs House Agent (CHA) and the Freight Forwarder.
Both are critical, but their roles are often misunderstood.
At Cargo People Logistics & Shipping Pvt. Ltd., we often meet clients who assume a freight forwarder handles everything — transport, customs, and documentation. In reality, these are two different functions that must work together for smooth global trade.
What Does a CHA Do?
A Customs House Agent (CHA) — or Customs Broker — is licensed by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to manage customs clearance on your behalf.
They handle:
- Filing import/export documentation via ICEGATE
- Classifying goods and calculating duties
- Coordinating with customs, DGFT, FSSAI, and port officials
- Managing duty payments, IGST refunds, and compliance
Without a CHA, your cargo may reach the port but never clear it.
That’s where Cargo People’s licensed CHA team steps in — ensuring zero delays, accurate documentation, and compliance with every regulation.
Learn more: Cargo People – Customs Clearance Services
What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?
A Freight Forwarder coordinates the physical movement of goods.
From booking air or sea freight to arranging door-to-door delivery, they handle the operational side of trade logistics.
While the CHA manages customs clearance, the Freight Forwarder ensures your goods physically move across borders — safely and cost-effectively.
Why Both Roles Matter
In modern trade, you can’t afford to choose one over the other.
A CHA ensures compliance, while a Freight Forwarder ensures connectivity.
When both work together under a single logistics provider like Cargo People, your shipment flows smoothly from factory to destination.
This integrated approach helps you:
- Avoid customs delays and penalties
- Save costs on demurrage and detention
- Streamline communication and accountability
- Gain real-time visibility on every shipment
The Cargo People Advantage
As one of India’s trusted international logistics companies, Cargo People Logistics & Shipping Pvt. Ltd. combines both CHA services and freight forwarding expertise under one roof.
We help importers and exporters handle:
Customs documentation and clearances
Air, Sea, and Door-to-Door logistics
Freight rate optimization and cargo tracking
End-to-end trade compliance support
📞 Call: +91 78350 06245
📧 Email: Cha@cargopeople.com
Book a Consultation
Fial Thought
Global shipping isn’t just about moving cargo — it’s about navigating regulations, timing, and coordination.
With Cargo People, you get a logistics partner who understands both the law and the logistics — helping your business trade smarter, faster, and stress-free.




