Poland is one of the most important transport and logistics markets in Europe. Thanks to its strategic geographical location, the country connects Western and Eastern European markets, making it home to thousands of transport and freight forwarding companies. It is no surprise that an increasing number of entrepreneurs from Lithuania and other EU countries are interested in establishing a freight forwarding company in Poland and obtaining the required freight forwarding license.
In this article, we explain what a freight forwarding license in Poland is, what requirements must be met, how much it costs, and which documents need to be submitted.
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What Is a Freight Forwarding License in Poland?
A freight forwarding license in Poland (Polish: licencja na wykonywanie transportu drogowego w zakresie pośrednictwa przy przewozie rzeczy) is a mandatory authorization for companies that organize cargo transportation and act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers.
With a freight forwarding license in Poland, a company may:
- organize freight transportation;
- find carriers for customers’ shipments;
- conclude transport contracts;
- coordinate logistics processes;
- provide domestic and international freight forwarding services.
It is important to understand that a freight forwarding license does not authorize a company to transport goods using its own vehicles. For such activity, a separate transport license is required.
Why Establish a Freight Forwarding Company in Poland?
In recent years, Poland has become one of the fastest-growing logistics markets in Europe. Due to its large domestic market and strong international freight flow, the country offers significant opportunities for logistics and forwarding businesses.
The main advantages include:
- a large and dynamic transport market;
- a strategic geographical location in Europe;
- access to the entire European Union market;
- a wide network of carriers and logistics partners;
- access to international freight exchanges;
- favorable conditions for business expansion.
As a result, freight forwarding in Poland is an attractive option not only for Polish entrepreneurs but also for business owners from Lithuania and other EU countries.
Who Can Obtain a Freight Forwarding License in Poland?
The following entities may apply for a license:
- companies registered in Poland;
- EU citizens establishing a company in Poland;
- foreign investors operating under Polish law.
Requirements for obtaining a Freight Forwarding License
1. Financial Capacity – EUR 50,000
The applicant must demonstrate financial capacity of at least EUR 50,000.
This may be proven through:
- annual financial statements;
- bank guarantees;
- surety agreements;
- securities;
- real estate ownership documents;
- other financial assets.
2. Professional Competence Certificate
At least one company director or appointed transport manager must hold a Certificate of Professional Competence in road transport.
The certificate is obtained by passing a specialized examination in Poland.
3. Good Reputation Requirement
Company directors and responsible persons must meet the good reputation requirement.
This means they must not have been convicted of:
- financial crimes;
- fraud;
- document forgery;
- other serious economic offenses.
4. Registered Office in Poland
A freight forwarding license may only be issued to companies that have a registered office in Poland.
How Much Does a Freight Forwarding License Cost in Poland?
The official fee depends on the validity period:
- 2 to 15 years – PLN 800;
- 15 to 30 years – PLN 900;
- 30 to 50 years – PLN 1,000.
Most companies choose the longest validity period, as the price difference is minimal.
How to Submit an Application?
The application must be submitted to the competent city or county authority responsible for the company’s registered office.
The application must include:
- proof of payment of the licensing fee;
- copy of the Certificate of Professional Competence;
- evidence of financial capacity;
- declarations from company directors;
- transport manager documentation;
- any additional documents required by the authority.
The competent authority will verify the application and may request corrections or additional documents if necessary.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain the License?
In most cases, the decision is issued within 30 days.
In more complex cases, the procedure may take up to 60 days.
Therefore, it is important to prepare all documents carefully to avoid delays.
Validity and Revocation of the License
A freight forwarding license in Poland may be issued for a period from 2 to 50 years.
The license may be revoked if:
- the company does not start operations within 6 months;
- financial requirements are no longer met;
- the company cooperates with unauthorized carriers;
- bankruptcy proceedings are initiated;
- the company is liquidated.
Reporting Changes to Company Information
Any changes to the information provided in the license application must be reported to the competent authority.
Such notification must be submitted within 28 days of the change.
Difference between freight forwarding license and transport license in Poland
Many entrepreneurs planning to start a business in the transport sector often confuse a freight forwarding license with a transport license. Although both licenses are related to the freight transport industry, their purposes are different.
A freight forwarding license in Poland grants the right to organize cargo transport and act as an intermediary between clients and carriers. A freight forwarder does not perform transport services themselves, but instead coordinates the entire logistics process — finding carriers, planning routes, arranging transport conditions, and ensuring smooth delivery of goods.
A transport license in Poland, on the other hand, is required for companies that carry out freight transport using their own vehicles. Such companies must maintain a vehicle fleet, meet additional financial requirements, and comply with the provisions of the EU Mobility Package.
In practice, many companies start with freight forwarding activities, as it allows them to enter the transport market with lower initial investment. Later, as the business grows, they acquire their own trucks and additionally obtain a transport license.
If you are planning to establish a logistics company in Poland, it is important to decide in advance whether you intend only to organize transport services or also to perform transport operations yourself. This will determine the type of license required, the scope of documentation, and the applicable regulatory requirements.
A freight forwarding license in Poland is a mandatory requirement for companies that want to legally organize transport and provide logistics services. To obtain it, businesses must meet financial requirements, appoint a qualified transport manager, and demonstrate good reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a Lithuanian citizen obtain a freight forwarding license in Poland?
Yes. Lithuanian citizens may establish a company in Poland and apply under the same conditions as Polish citizens.
Does a freight forwarding license allow transport with own vehicles?
How much does the license cost?
How long is the license valid?
Is a Certificate of Professional Competence required?
Can international freight forwarding be organized?
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