Import/Export Freight Manager

Phase Consulting; United States; Remote; USD 65,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an experienced Import/Export Freight Manager to lead international freight operations. This dynamic role involves overseeing import and export shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and optimizing logistics processes. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, startup-like environment, leveraging strong negotiation skills and a customer-centric approach. With significant opportunities for career advancement, this position offers a chance to make a substantial impact in a growing company dedicated to excellence in logistics.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Opportunities for career growth

Professional development

Dynamic work environment

Qualifications

• 5+ years in freight forwarding and logistics operations.
• Deep knowledge of international shipping regulations and customs procedures.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of import/export freight operations.
• Ensure compliance with trade regulations and customs procedures.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients and vendors.

Skills

Freight Forwarding

Logistics Management

Customs Compliance

Negotiation Skills

Problem-Solving

Vendor Management

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor’s degree in International Business

Tools

Logistics Management Software

Freight Forwarding Platforms

Microsoft Office

Job description

Direct message the job poster from Phase Consulting

Location: Remote – U.S. – Work From Home

Job Type: Full-time

Our Client:

Our client is a well-established freight forwarding company offering 3rd party integrated logistics to international customers and is looking to expand its U.S. direct brokerage presence. The company is highly customer-centric with strong customer service values.

Job Overview:

Our client seeks an experienced Import/Export Freight Manager to oversee and manage international freight operations. The ideal candidate will handle import and export shipments, ensure compliance with customs regulations, optimize logistics processes, and maintain strong relationships with clients, carriers, and government authorities. This individual must have extensive experience in ocean and trucking carrier selection and relationship management. This full-time role is suited for a leader with an entrepreneurial mindset and growth-oriented attitude, comfortable in a startup environment with broad responsibilities. The position begins as fully remote during the first year, with significant opportunities for career advancement based on business growth, skills, experience, and leadership aspirations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage all aspects of import and export freight operations, including ocean, land, and air shipments.
• Ensure compliance with trade regulations, customs procedures, and documentation requirements.
• Coordinate with shipping lines, airlines, trucking firms, and customs brokers for seamless cargo movement.
• Negotiate contracts and freight rates with carriers to secure cost-effective shipping solutions.
• Track shipments, monitor deliveries, and proactively resolve transportation or customs issues.
• Prepare accurate and timely import/export documentation such as bills of lading, invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
• Stay informed about changes in trade policies, tariffs, and shipping laws.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and regulatory bodies.
• Optimize supply chain and logistics strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Train and supervise freight forwarding staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and company policies.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business, or related field (asset).
• At least 5 years of experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or import/export operations; minimum of 3 years in ocean transportation within the U.S.
• Deep knowledge of international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and trade compliance.
• Experience handling freight documentation, customs clearance, and tariff classifications.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills, with existing regional and local carrier networks.
• Familiarity with freight forwarding platforms and systems.
• Proficiency in logistics management software and Microsoft Office.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments under pressure.
• Knowledge of Incoterms, HS codes, and cost optimization strategies.
• Entrepreneurial, business development, and carrier relationship management skills are highly valued.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience managing a team within a freight forwarding environment.
• Familiarity with import/export laws in regions such as US, EU, and Asia.

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Dynamic, fast-paced work environment.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Supply Chain and General Business

Industries

• Freight and Package Transportation, Maritime Transportation, and Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage