Ocean Freight Forwarder

JP Gray; Rotterdam; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

JP Gray in Rotterdam is seeking an experienced Ocean Freight Forwarder to manage the full shipment lifecycle for international ocean cargo. You will act as the main link between customers, carriers, customs brokers and internal teams to ensure on-time, compliant deliveries.

You will coordinate bookings, secure space with shipping lines, prepare all documentation, monitor shipments and resolve issues proactively.

Qualifications

• Experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or international transport.
• Strong knowledge of ocean freight operations and shipping docs.
• Familiar with customs procedures, Incoterms, and trade regulations.
• Excellent communication and customer service.

Responsibilities

• Coordinating international ocean freight shipments from booking to final delivery.
• Negotiating rates and arranging cargo space with shipping lines.
• Preparing and managing shipping, customs, and export/import documentation.
• Monitoring shipments and resolving operational issues.
• Maintaining relationships with carriers and clients.
• Identifying process improvements and cost efficiencies.

Skills

Freight forwarding

Ocean freight operations

Customer service

Incoterms

Documentation

Microsoft Office

Freight software

Multitasking

English

Russian

Tools

Freight forwarding software

Job description

Are you an experienced freight forwarding professional who thrives in a fast-paced international environment? Do you enjoy coordinating shipments, solving logistics challenges, and building strong customer relationships? This could be your next career move.

• End date: 4 months


• Language: English (Dutch is a plus)

About the organisation

This organisation is a globally recognised logistics and supply chain organisation with operations across multiple continents. Every day, they help businesses move goods efficiently around the world through integrated transport and freight forwarding solutions.

With a strong focus on customer service, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, they have built a reputation as a trusted logistics partner for international clients. To support further growth, they are looking for an experienced Ocean Freight Forwarder to join their team in Rotterdam.

What will you do?

As an Ocean Freight Forwarder, you will manage the complete shipment lifecycle, ensuring cargo reaches its destination safely, efficiently, and on time. You will become the key link between customers, shipping lines, customs brokers, transport providers, and internal teams.

Your responsibilities:

• Coordinating international ocean freight shipments from booking to final delivery


• Arranging cargo space with shipping lines and negotiating competitive rates


• Preparing and managing all shipping, customs, and export/import documentation


• Monitoring shipments and proactively resolving operational issues


• Ensuring compliance with customs regulations, Incoterms, and international trade requirements


• Acting as the main point of contact for customers and providing shipment updates


• Building strong relationships with carriers, suppliers, and logistics partners


• Identifying opportunities to improve processes, service levels, and operational efficiency


• Managing potential risks and solving challenges before they impact the customer

What do you bring:

• Previous experience within freight forwarding, logistics, or international transportation


• Strong understanding of ocean freight operations and shipping documentation


• Knowledge of customs procedures, international trade regulations, and Incoterms


• Excellent communication and customer service skills


• Strong organisational abilities and attention to detailExperience with freight forwarding software and Microsoft Office


• Fluency in English and Russian


• A proactive, solution-oriented mindset


• The ability to remain calm under pressure and effectively manage multiple priorities.