Global commerce has expanded as a result
of Shipping companies in Afghanistan, bilateral and multilateral
trade agreements, and upgraded and advanced information systems and logistical infrastructure.
Though, it is common to have agents, often
known as C&F agents (clearing & Airfreight Service Provider in
Afghanistan), undertaking both services on behalf of their customers,
clearing and freight forwarding are distinct businesses.
While a freight forwarder is a business
that transports the customer's goods from one location to another, a clearing
agent is an agent who handles all port and customs formalities on behalf of the
consignee or receiver of cargo at the destination port.
Customs brokers and customs house agents
are other terms for clearing agents. Most nations require a clearing license
granted by the competent authorities in order to act as a valid clearing agency
and clear goods.