Customs Specialist

Relocruitment; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics company in London is seeking a Customs Expert to manage import and export operations in fine art shipping. You'll ensure compliance with customs regulations, prepare declarations, and work in a fast-paced environment handling high-value shipments. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in customs declarations, a strong understanding of logistics processes, and the ability to multitask effectively. This position offers a dynamic work setting with flexible remote options post-probation.

Qualifications

• Proven experience completing customs declarations is essential.
• Hands-on experience with road freight or multimodal logistics is important.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit import and export customs declarations via CDS.
• Close down T1s and manage transit documents.
• Manage communications with HMRC and customs officials.

Skills

Customs declarations experience

Import/export procedures understanding

Road freight logistics experience

Multitasking ability

Confident communication

Attention to detail

Problem-solving mindset

IT literacy

Tools

CDS via Descartes

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Are you a Customs expert ready to bring your skills to one of the most fascinating sectors in logistics? This is a unique opportunity to join a leading fine art shipping company, where precision, passion, and professionalism meet culture and creativity. You'll play a vital role in ensuring artworks and high-value shipments move smoothly across borders — balancing compliance, accuracy, and speed in a fast-paced environment.

The Role

You'll be a key part of the Customs team, managing the full range of import and export formalities. From preparing and submitting declarations to closing down T1s, you'll take ownership of ensuring all movements comply with UK and international customs regulations. This isn’t a support role — it's for someone who knows customs inside out and can hit the ground running.

While the business handles multimodal shipments, a large proportion of work is road freight, often time-sensitive with last-minute requests. This means we're looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast-moving environment — ideally with road freight or multimodal experience, rather than purely sea freight.

You'll also liaise with third-party providers, issuing instructions and ensuring accuracy across all documentation and communication.

After a successful probation period, you'll have the flexibility of one day working from home per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit import and export customs declarations via CDS (training on Descartes can be provided).
• Close down T1s and ensure all transit documents are properly managed.
• Issue accurate clearance instructions to internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor shipments and ensure all records are complete and compliant.
• Liaise confidently with HMRC, freight forwarders, and customs officials.
• Maintain accurate, organised, and up-to-date documentation.
• Support the customs team with daily operational activities.
• Ensure all work meets current customs regulations and company standards.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience completing customs declarations — this is essential.
• Strong understanding of import/export procedures and customs compliance.
• Hands-on experience with road freight or multimodal logistics.
• Ability to multitask and manage shifting priorities under pressure.
• Confident communicator — comfortable coordinating with internal teams and third parties.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Problem-solving mindset and a proactive attitude.
• Experience with CDS via Descartes is desirable, but not essential.
• IT-literate with Microsoft Office and customs systems.

Why Join?

This is your chance to use your customs expertise in a specialised, prestigious niche of logistics — fine art shipping. You'll work with rare and valuable items, develop your technical skills, and be part of a team that values excellence and precision.