Import Coordinator – Freight Forwarding

SDW Recruitment Ltd; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus scheme

Free parking

Casual dress

Pension contribution

Job summary

SDW Recruitment Ltd is representing a family-run freight forwarder in Portsmouth seeking an Import Coordinator. You will manage shipments across sea, air and road from quotation to delivery, liaising with clients, suppliers and carriers to meet deadlines.

The role requires at least 2 years in freight forwarding (import/export) with strong organisation and communication, plus attention to detail. Salary is £28,000–£35,000 with a bonus scheme, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in freight forwarding (import or export).
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Managing import and export shipments from start to finish.
• Liaising with clients and overseas agents to provide tailored logistics solutions.
• Handling customs documentation and clearances (experience preferred).
• Maintaining accurate shipment records and communicating updates to customers.
• Working collaboratively with the operations team to meet client expectations.

Skills

Freight forwarding

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Team work

Tools

Boxtop

Descartes

CNS

Destin8

Job description

Import Coordinator

Portsmouth | Full-Time | £28,000 – £35,000 + Bonus

Are you an experienced freight professional looking for a role where your expertise is valued and your contribution truly matters? Join a well-established, family-run freight forwarder that’s been connecting businesses around the world for over 30 years. You’ll be part of a close-knit team that prides itself on exceptional customer service and a personal approach that sets us apart.

About the Role:

We’re looking for an Import Coordinator to join our busy operations team in Portsmouth. You’ll be responsible for managing shipments across sea, air, and road – from quotation right through to delivery. This is a varied role where no two days are the same. One day you might be clearing a container of machinery, the next arranging air freight for a delicate product. You’ll work closely with clients, suppliers, and carriers to ensure shipments run smoothly and deadlines are met.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Managing import and export shipments from start to finish
• Liaising with clients and overseas agents to provide tailored logistics solutions
• Handling customs documentation and clearances (experience preferred)
• Maintaining accurate shipment records and communicating updates to customers
• Working collaboratively with the operations team to meet client expectations

What Our Client Is Looking For:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in freight forwarding (import or export)
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• High attention to detail and ability to work under pressure
• Positive, can-do attitude with a team-focused approach
• Experience using Boxtop, Descartes, CNS, or Destin8 is a bonus

What’s on Offer:

• Salary: £28,000 – £35,000 per year, depending on experience
• Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm (no weekends)
• Bonus scheme for great performance
• Free parking & casual dress
• Supportive, friendly team culture
• Pension contribution

If you’re passionate about logistics and want to work for a company that values people over process, we’d love to hear from you to tell you more.