Air Import Specialist: End-to-End Shipping & Compliance

Forward Air Corp.; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with employer match

Employee stock purchase program

Paid holidays

Generous PTO

Commuter benefits

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking an Import Coordinator - Air in Des Plaines, IL to support international air import operations from arrival through final delivery.

You will handle documentation, tracking, and carrier coordination to ensure timely clearance and data accuracy. The role requires strong organizational and communication skills, experience with CargoWise or similar TMS, and the ability to work on-site with occasional travel.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; bachelor’s preferred.
• Experience in logistics, transportation, or related operations.
• Basic understanding of air import processes and international shipping.
• Experience with CargoWise or similar TMS/forwarding tools; quick learner.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Time management and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow procedures and meet deadlines.
• Discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
• Proficiency with Windows, Microsoft 365, and web conferencing tools.
• On-site work environment with travel.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate air import shipments from pre-arrival to final delivery.
• Process import documentation such as arrival notices and invoices.
• Enter and maintain accurate shipment data in CargoWise and other systems.
• Track shipment arrivals, customs clearance status, and delivery milestones.
• Communicate with airlines, brokers, trucking providers, warehouses, and internal teams.
• Follow U.S. import compliance requirements and internal procedures.
• Identify documentation issues or delays and escalate as needed.
• Support duty, fee, and charge validation for billing accuracy.
• Respond to customer inquiries related to shipment status.
• Maintain accurate and organized shipment records.
• Assist with coverage during peak volume periods.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Time management

Attention to detail

Discretion and confidentiality

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain, business or related field

Tools

CargoWise

Microsoft Office 365

Teams

Zoom

Webex

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking an Import Coordinator - Air in Des Plaines, IL to support international air import operations from arrival through final delivery.

You will handle documentation, tracking, and carrier coordination to ensure timely clearance and data accuracy. The role requires strong organizational and communication skills, experience with CargoWise or similar TMS, and the ability to work on-site with occasional travel.