Remote Freight Forwarder - Operations Specialist

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 400,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Fully remote position

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Collaborative international team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Freight Forwarder, Operations Specialist to manage international shipments from booking to delivery. The role emphasizes end-to-end air and ocean freight, customs compliance, and proactive client communication while working fully remotely.

You will coordinate with carriers and overseas partners, prepare documentation, track shipments in real time, and support process improvements in a global logistics team. A strong home office setup is required.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of freight forwarding or international logistics experience.
• In-depth knowledge of air and ocean freight procedures, documentation, and customs processes.
• Experience with import and export shipments.
• Familiarity with Incoterms and international trade compliance.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding software and MS Office.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a remote setting.
• A dedicated home office setup with reliable internet connectivity is essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end air and ocean freight shipments, from booking to final delivery.
• Coordinate with carriers, customs brokers, and overseas partners to ensure smooth transit.
• Prepare and process all necessary shipping documentation, including bills of lading, customs declarations, and commercial invoices.
• Ensure compliance with all international trade regulations, customs laws, and tariffs.
• Track shipments in real-time and proactively communicate status updates to clients and stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues or delays that may arise during transit.
• Negotiate rates and service terms with carriers and vendors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing exceptional customer service.
• Utilize and maintain proficiency in freight forwarding software and relevant industry platforms.
• Stay informed about changes in global shipping routes, regulations, and market conditions.
• Process and verify freight invoices for accuracy.
• Contribute to process improvements within the operations team.

Skills

Communication skills

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Independent work in remote setting

Tools

Freight forwarding software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic international freight forwarding company, is actively seeking a skilled and self-directed Remote Freight Forwarder, Operations Specialist to join their global network. This role is perfectly suited for an experienced professional who excels in managing international shipments from start to finish, leveraging technology to coordinate complex logistics without being tied to a physical office. You will be responsible for the end-to-end management of air and ocean freight shipments, ensuring efficient customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and client satisfaction. Working remotely allows for significant flexibility while demanding strong organizational skills and proactive problem-solving. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a substantial impact on international trade operations while enjoying the benefits of a fully remote position. We value individuals who are detail-oriented, possess excellent communication skills, and are adept at navigating the complexities of global logistics. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining our reputation for excellence and reliability in the international shipping arena.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the complete lifecycle of air and ocean freight shipments, from booking to final delivery.
• Coordinate with carriers, customs brokers, and overseas partners to ensure smooth transit.
• Prepare and process all necessary shipping documentation, including bills of lading, customs declarations, and commercial invoices.
• Ensure compliance with all international trade regulations, customs laws, and tariffs.
• Track shipments in real-time and proactively communicate status updates to clients and stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues or delays that may arise during transit.
• Negotiate rates and service terms with carriers and vendors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing exceptional customer service.
• Utilize and maintain proficiency in freight forwarding software and relevant industry platforms.
• Stay informed about changes in global shipping routes, regulations, and market conditions.
• Process and verify freight invoices for accuracy.
• Contribute to process improvements within the operations team.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3-5 years of direct experience in freight forwarding or international logistics operations.
• In-depth knowledge of air and ocean freight procedures, documentation, and customs processes.
• Proven experience managing import and export shipments.
• Familiarity with Incoterms and international trade compliance.
• Proficiency in using freight forwarding software and standard office applications (MS Office Suite).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a remote setting.
• A dedicated home office setup with reliable internet connectivity is essential.
• Experience with a global client base is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary reflecting your expertise and remote work status.
• Fully remote position offering excellent work-life balance.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Collaborative and supportive international team environment.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing global company.