Import Freight Forwarder

ILS Inc.; California (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

ILS Inc. is seeking an Import Freight Forwarder to coordinate international shipments by air and ocean. You will manage documentation, liaise with overseas agents, carriers, and customers, and ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations and internal procedures.

You will track shipments, prepare import documents, review quotes, and resolve delays. Strong communication, problem solving, and attention to detail are essential for accurate records and timely cargo movement.

Qualifications

• Experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or international shipping.
• Knowledge of air freight and ocean import procedures.
• Understanding of import documentation and customs processes.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines.
• Proficiency with logistics software and office tools.

Responsibilities

• Prepare quotations with foreign agents and carriers.
• Coordinate international import shipments by air and ocean freight.
• Track shipments from origin to final delivery.
• Review import documents: bills of lading, airway bills, invoices, packing lists.
• Communicate with overseas agents, carriers, trucking companies, and warehouses.
• Ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations and import requirements.
• Coordinate customs clearance with brokers.
• Provide shipment updates and customer service to clients.
• Arrange delivery appointments and inland transport.
• Resolve delays or documentation issues.
• Maintain shipment records and update internal systems.
• Verify freight charges and invoices.
• Collaborate with operations to ensure customer satisfaction.

Skills

Communication

Customer Service

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Time Management

Teamwork

Tools

Logistics software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

Position Title: Import Freight Forwarder

Department: Operations / Logistics

Reports To: Operations Manager / Logistics Manager

Job Summary

The Import Freight Forwarder is responsible for coordinating and managing international import shipments via air and ocean freight. This role ensures shipments move efficiently from origin to final destination while complying with all customs regulations, documentation requirements, and company procedures. The Import Freight Forwarder communicates with overseas agents, carriers, customs brokers, and customers to provide smooth and timely cargo movement.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare quotations in coordination with foreign agents and Carriers
• Coordinate and manage international import shipments by air and ocean freight
• Track and monitor shipments from origin to final delivery
• Prepare and review import documentation including bills of lading, airway bills, commercial invoices, and packing lists
• Communicate with overseas agents, carriers, trucking companies, and warehouses
• Ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations and import requirements
• Coordinate customs clearance with customs brokers
• Provide shipment updates and excellent customer service to clients
• Arrange delivery appointments and inland transportation
• Resolve shipment delays, discrepancies, or documentation issues
• Maintain accurate shipment records and update internal systems
• Verify freight charges, invoices, and billing information
• Work closely with operations team to ensure customer satisfaction

Required Qualifications

• Experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or international shipping
• Knowledge of air freight and ocean import procedures
• Understanding of import documentation and customs processes
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines
• Proficiency in logistics software, email, and Microsoft Office
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in freight forwarding or logistics operations
• Knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations and import compliance
• Experience working with international agents and carriers
• Familiarity with freight management or ERP systems

Key Skills

• Logistics coordination
• International shipping knowledge
• Documentation management
• Time management and organization
• Customer communication
• Problem solving and multitasking