0:00Two related but distinct roles exist in Cameroon's import and export chain.
0:06In practice they are very often one company.
0:10A transitaire is a freight forwarder.
0:13It arranges the physical movement of your cargo:
0:16booking space with a carrier, consolidating shipments,
0:20coordinating with the port or airport,
0:23and managing the paperwork that travels with the goods.
0:27A commissionnaire en douane agréé
0:29is a licensed customs broker.
0:32It is authorised to file customs declarations and represent you before
0:37Cameroon Customs.
0:39That role legally requires formal accreditation,
0:42not just business registration.
0:46Most importers do not want to manage two relationships,
0:49so the market has consolidated around integrated logistics companies that
0:55hold both licences.
0:57But ask any agent which of the two they personally hold.
1:01Some smaller operators handle only the freight forwarding side,
1:05and subcontract the customs declaration to a separate licensed broker.
1:11Always ask which licences they hold.