Freight Forwarder

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Commission structure

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Growing company

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Freight Forwarder to manage international and domestic shipments from the Western Cape region. You will coordinate air, sea, and land transport, prepare landing documents, liaise with carriers and brokers, and ensure timely deliveries while resolving transit issues.

The role requires strong knowledge of global trade, incoterms, and regulatory compliance, with excellent negotiation and communication skills to optimize costs and service levels.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a freight forwarder or in international logistics.
• Strong knowledge of shipping procedures, incoterms, and customs regulations.
• Excellent negotiation and client/carrier relationship skills.
• Proficiency using freight forwarder software and standard office apps.

Responsibilities

• Arrange and manage cargo space bookings with lines, airlines, and trucking firms.
• Prepare shipping docs: bills of lading, declarations, permits.
• Coordinate with customs brokers for smooth clearance.
• Track shipments and update clients on status.
• Negotiate freight rates and terms with carriers.
• Resolve shipment issues like delays or damages.

Skills

Freight forwarding experience

Global trade knowledge

Negotiation

Carrier relations

Shipping software

Incoterms & customs

Problem solving

Tools

Freight forwarding software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and proactive Freight Forwarder to manage the international and domestic shipment of goods from their Paarl, Western Cape location. This role is critical in coordinating the logistics of cargo, ensuring timely and cost-effective transportation by air, sea, or land. You will be responsible for preparing documentation, liaising with carriers, customs brokers, and clients, and resolving any issues that may arise during transit. This is a challenging yet rewarding position for someone with a strong understanding of global trade and logistics operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Arrange and manage the booking of cargo space with shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies.
• Prepare and process all necessary shipping documentation, including bills of lading, customs declarations, and import/export permits.
• Coordinate with customs brokers to ensure smooth clearance of goods through customs.
• Track shipments and provide regular updates to clients on the status of their cargo.
• Negotiate freight rates and service terms with carriers to achieve cost efficiencies.
• Resolve any issues or discrepancies related to shipments, such as delays, damages, or customs holds.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Freight Forwarder or in a related international logistics role.
• In-depth knowledge of shipping procedures, incoterms, and customs regulations in various countries.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with carriers and clients.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding software and standard office applications.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and the capacity to handle complex logistics challenges.
• Understanding of air, sea, and land transportation modes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and commission structure.
• Opportunity to work with a diverse range of international clients and cargo.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Professional development in international trade and logistics.
• Be part of a growing company in a key economic region.