Forwarding Manager

Career Horizons; Klang City; On-site; MYR 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Career Horizons is seeking a Forwarding Manager in Malaysia to oversee end-to-end freight forwarding operations. The role focuses on import/export processes, documentation flow, and regulatory compliance.

You will lead customs clearance, coordinate carrier bookings, and drive SOPs and KPIs to ensure timely, accurate delivery while supporting customers and internal teams. Minimum 5 years in freight forwarding with hands-on customs clearance is required, along with HS/HTS knowledge and leadership

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, International Trade, or related field.
• At least 5 years of freight forwarding experience with hands-on customs clearance.
• Strong knowledge of HS/HTS classification and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee full customs clearance for import/export shipments.
• Manage daily freight forwarding operations across air, sea, road, and cross-border shipments.
• Coordinate carrier bookings and negotiate freight rates.
• Review and prepare shipping documentation (BL, AWB, invoices, packing lists, COO).
• Review import/export documentation for accuracy and compliance.
• Lead, train, and supervise forwarding and customs clearance teams.

Skills

HS/HTS classification

Duty/tax structures

Regulatory compliance

uCustoms

ZB submission processes

Import/export permits

Air/Sea/Cross-border handling

DG handling

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Pressure management

Education

Diploma or Degree in Logistics/Supply Chain/International Trade

Tools

uCustoms

MyTradeNet

Job description

The Forwarding Manager is responsible for overseeing end-to-end freight forwarding operations, ensuring all shipments are handled efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with regulatory requirements. This role focuses on managing import and export processes, ensuring smooth documentation flow, supporting both customers and internal teams, and driving continuous operational improvements to achieve timely and reliable delivery performance.

Key Responsibilities

A. Customs Clearance & Regulatory Compliance

• Lead and oversee the full customs clearance process for both import and export shipments
• Ensure accurate HS/HTS classification, tariff application, and duty/tax calculations
• Review and verify all customs declarations (e.g., K1, K2, K8, K9, K4)
• Liaise with relevant authorities such as Customs, MAQIS, SIRIM, MITI, KKM, CIDB, and others
• Manage ZB submissions in uCustoms, including document verification, exemption requests, and follow-ups
• Ensure compliance with INCOTERMS, licensing requirements, permits, and exemptions
• Stay updated on regulatory changes, tariff updates, and government policies

B. Freight Forwarding Operations

• Manage daily operations across air, sea, road, and cross-border shipments (FCL/LCL, break-bulk)
• Coordinate bookings with carriers and negotiate freight rates
• Liaise with shipping lines, airlines, and transport providers
• Monitor shipment progress to ensure timely delivery and collection
• Oversee preparation of shipping documentation (e.g., BL, AWB, invoices, packing lists, COO, insurance)

C. Documentation & System Management

• Review all import/export documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Manage declarations via uCustoms and MyTradeNet systems
• Maintain proper documentation records for audits (Customs, internal, statutory, ISO)
• Coordinate manifest submissions and handle post-declaration amendments when required

D. Customer & Vendor Management

• Act as the key point of contact for customers regarding shipment updates, customs inquiries, and issue resolution
• Provide guidance on HS classification, duty estimation, and compliance requirements
• Build and maintain strong relationships with carriers, port operators, and government agencies

E. Team Management

• Lead, train, and supervise forwarding and customs clearance teams
• Assign tasks, monitor team performance, and ensure service quality standards
• Develop and implement SOPs to improve operational efficiency

F. Cost Control & Performance Management

• Negotiate freight and clearance costs to optimize margins
• Review and validate supplier invoices for cost accuracy
• Monitor KPIs including turnaround time, clearance efficiency, and compliance accuracy

Authority

• Support and oversee daily forwarding operations and coordination activities
• Ensure adherence to established processes and operational guidelines
• Contribute to process improvements and resolve operational issues

Job Requirements

Education

• Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, International Trade, or related field

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in freight forwarding with hands‑on customs clearance and declaration experience

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of HS/HTS classification, duty/tax structures, and regulatory compliance
• Experience with uCustoms system and ZB submission processes
• Familiar with import/export permits and regulatory procedures
• Knowledge of air, sea (FCL/LCL), cross-border, and dangerous goods (DG) handling
• Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines