Freight Forwarding Specialist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life assurance

Professional development

Virtual conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Freight Forwarding Specialist to manage international and domestic shipments remotely, coordinating end-to-end lifecycle from booking to delivery. The role emphasizes compliance, documentation, and carrier relationships.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 5 years in freight forwarding, deep knowledge of Incoterms and customs procedures, and proficiency with freight forwarding software and ERP systems. Remote work from Stellenbosch area is supported.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in International Business, Logistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in freight forwarding or international logistics.
• In-depth knowledge of shipping terms, Incoterms, and customs procedures.
• Proficiency with freight forwarding software and ERP systems.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting and manage multiple shipments.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage international and domestic freight shipments via air, sea, and land.
• Prepare and process shipping documentation including bills of lading and customs declarations.
• Ensure compliance with trade regulations and import/export requirements.
• Source and negotiate rates with carriers and logistics providers.
• Track shipments and provide updates to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Resolve delays, damages, or discrepancies promptly and efficiently.
• Maintain records of shipments and documentation.
• Build relationships with clients, airlines, shipping lines, and customs brokers.
• Identify opportunities for service improvement and cost optimization.
• Stay informed about changes in trade regulations and market trends.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Customer service

Remote work

Education

Bachelor's degree in International Business/Logistics

Tools

Freight forwarding software

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized freight forwarding company, is seeking a seasoned Freight Forwarding Specialist to manage international and domestic shipments remotely. This role is crucial for coordinating the seamless movement of goods across borders, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, and maintaining strong relationships with clients and carriers. You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of a shipment, from booking to final delivery, handling all documentation and customs procedures. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of international trade, shipping modes, and logistics software. This fully remote position allows you to leverage your expertise from anywhere, making a significant impact on global supply chains from your home office, while being based remotely in or around Stellenbosch, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage international and domestic freight shipments via air, sea, and land.
• Prepare and process all necessary shipping documentation, including bills of lading, customs declarations, and invoices.
• Ensure compliance with all international trade regulations, customs laws, and import/export requirements.
• Source and negotiate rates with carriers and logistics providers.
• Track shipments and provide regular updates to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Resolve any shipment delays, damages, or discrepancies promptly and efficiently.
• Maintain accurate records of all shipments and associated documentation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, airlines, shipping lines, and customs brokers.
• Identify opportunities for service improvement and cost optimization in freight forwarding.
• Stay informed about changes in trade regulations and market trends.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in International Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in freight forwarding or international logistics.
• In-depth knowledge of shipping terms, Incoterms, and customs procedures.
• Proficiency with freight forwarding software and ERP systems.
• Strong understanding of different transportation modes and their associated documentation.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting and manage multiple complex shipments simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle pressure.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.
• Familiarity with global trade compliance and security initiatives.
• Must have a reliable internet connection and a dedicated remote workspace.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary with potential for performance-based bonuses. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy significant flexibility and the elimination of commuting. Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a retirement fund, and life assurance. Professional development is supported through ongoing training, industry certifications, and opportunities to attend virtual conferences. You will work with a global team, utilizing advanced logistics platforms and contributing to a dynamic international trade environment. Be part of a leading logistics provider that values innovation and employee growth, managing global freight from your chosen location, conceptually linked to Stellenbosch, Western Cape .