Freight Forwarders Register: New Rules and Practical Nuances

As market participants gradually register in the freight forwarders register (this can be done without penalties until April 30), the practical application of the new requirements is becoming clearer.

Once included in the register, freight forwarders face additional obligations. In particular, they must notify the Federal Security Service of Russia within 45 days and ensure the storage of detailed transportation data — including information on clients and routes — for a period of three years. Upon request, this data must be provided to Rostransnadzor and other government authorities.

At the same time, not all logistics market participants are required to register. By default, the requirements do not apply to carriers, terminals, stevedores, warehouse operators, and rail operators. However, this changes if such companies begin to provide services that may be classified as freight forwarding. The boundaries are not yet clearly defined, and much will depend on enforcement practice.

A separate issue concerns foreign freight forwarders. According to clarifications from the Ministry of Transport, in order to operate legally in Russia, they must not only be included in the register but also have a formal legal presence in the country: a residence permit for individuals, or a registered representative office or branch for legal entities.

As for the transition to electronic transport consignment notes, the formal deadline is set for September 1. However, market participants expect a transition period of up to six months, although no final decision has yet been made.