Ocean Freight Operator

White Recruitment Construction; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading freight forwarding company is looking for a Cross Trade Operator specializing in sea freight imports and exports to join their team in Solihull. The ideal candidate will manage end-to-end sea freight operations and coordinate with various international partners. A collaborative culture and long-term career development opportunities are provided, along with a competitive salary package. This role offers a chance to advance skills in a stable and supportive working environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Career development opportunities

Supportive team-focused environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in sea freight imports and exports within a freight forwarding environment.
• Strong understanding of ocean freight processes and documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end sea freight operations for import, export, and cross-trade shipments.
• Prepare and manage shipping documentation including Bills of Lading and commercial invoices.
• Coordinate with overseas agents, shipping lines, and global partners.

Skills

Sea freight imports and exports

Cross-trade operations

Excellent organizational skills

Confident communication

Tools

ASM Sequoia

CNS

Destin8

Job description

Position: Cross Trade Operator – Sea Freight (Imports & Exports)
Location: Solihull (On-Site) | Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Up to £34,000 (depending on experience)

Are you an experienced Sea Freight Operator with strong import and export experience and an interest in cross-trade operations? This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established and growing freight forwarding business known for its collaborative culture, operational excellence, and long-term career development.

You’ll be joining a knowledgeable, supportive freight team based on-site in Solihull, taking ownership of end-to-end sea freight movements, including cross-trade shipments between third countries.

Cross Trade Operator – Sea Freight Role

As a Cross Trade Operator, you will manage FCL and LCL sea freight shipments across imports, exports, and cross-trade lanes. You’ll liaise closely with overseas agents, shipping lines, and clients to ensure shipments move smoothly, compliantly, and on schedule.

This role is ideal for an operator confident in managing international freight movements from booking through to final delivery, with exposure to multi-country coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end sea freight operations for import, export, and cross-trade shipments
• Handle FCL and LCL consignments, ensuring accurate and timely processing
• Coordinate with overseas agents, shipping lines, and global partners
• Prepare and manage shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, and packing lists
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations and customs requirements
• Monitor shipments and provide proactive updates to clients
• Work closely with internal teams (transport, finance, and operations) to meet service levels
• Invoice files accurately and in line with agreed rates and timelines
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with customers and suppliers

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in sea freight imports and exports within a freight forwarding environment (essential)
• Cross-trade experience preferred, but not essential for the right candidate
• Strong understanding of ocean freight processes and documentation
• Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail
• Confident communicator, comfortable liaising with international partners
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Experience using freight forwarding systems (e.g. ASM Sequoia, CNS, Destin8) is advantageous

Why Join?

• Join a stable, growing freight forwarder with a strong industry reputation
• Work in a supportive, team-focused environment
• Competitive salary with clear progression opportunities
• Long-term career development within international freight operations

WR is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.