The Import and Export Specialist manages the international shipment of goods, ensuring compliance with trade regulations, cost-effective transportation, and timely delivery. This role involves coordinating with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and internal teams to streamline import and export processes, maintain accurate documentation, and resolve shipping challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

Import and Export Operations

• Oversee the end-to-end import and export process, including shipment planning, execution, and tracking.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations, international trade laws, and company policies.
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to facilitate the timely clearance of goods.
• Manage shipping schedules, negotiate freight rates, and optimize logistics costs.
• Trace shipment through transit points up to final destination and advice customer service as needed.

Documentation and Compliance

• Prepare and review shipping documents, including bills of lading, invoices, certificates of origin, and packing lists.
• Maintain accurate records of import and export transactions in compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Stay updated on trade agreements, tariffs, and restrictions affecting company operations.
• File customs declarations and ensure compliance with import/export licensing requirements.

Problem Resolution

• Address and resolve shipping issues such as delays, damaged goods, or regulatory challenges.
• Act as a point of contact for customs inquiries, audits, and inspections.
• Collaborate with internal departments to manage inventory discrepancies or supply chain interruptions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with procurement, inventory management, and sales teams to align logistics with business objectives.
• Provide guidance to internal teams on import/export requirements and best practices.
• Assist in supplier and vendor evaluations from a logistics and compliance perspective.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in clearing and forwarding, or a related field.
• 3 years of experience in import/export operations or international logistics.
• Familiarity with customs clearance processes and global shipping regulations.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of trade regulations, Incoterms, and international shipping standards.
• Proficiency in logistics software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail.

Preferred Skills:

• Certification in International Trade or Logistics (e.g., Certified Customs Specialist, CILT).
• Knowledge of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and country-specific import/export regulations.
• Experience in managing supply chain operations for multiple countries or regions.