Remote Senior Freight Forwarder & Import/Export Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive contract rate

Flexible hours

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a global leader in supply chain management to hire a Remote Senior Freight Forwarder & Import/Export Specialist. The role focuses on managing international and domestic cargo movements from a remote location, requiring expert knowledge of customs procedures and trade regulations.

You will negotiate with carriers, oversee shipping documentation, track shipments, and advise on cost-saving logistics strategies while collaborating with sales and operations teams.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in freight forwarding, import/export, and international logistics.
• Strong knowledge of customs procedures, tariffs, and trade agreements.
• Excellent communication for remote client and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of freight forwarding (air, sea, and land).
• Coordinate international shipments and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Negotiate rates with carriers to optimize cost and service.
• Prepare shipping docs: bills of lading, declarations, and certificates of origin.
• Track shipments and update clients and stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings.
• Stay updated on changes in trade laws, customs regulations, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with sales and operations to provide quotes and proposals.

Skills

Freight forwarding

Import/Export

International logistics

Negotiation

Remote client management

Education

Bachelor's degree in logistics or related field

Tools

Freight forwarding software

Global trade management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in supply chain management, is seeking a highly experienced Remote Senior Freight Forwarder & Import/Export Specialist to manage international and domestic cargo movements. This pivotal role will be executed entirely from a remote location, requiring a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of global trade regulations, customs procedures, and logistics optimization. You will be instrumental in ensuring the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective transit of goods across borders. This position offers the unique advantage of working from anywhere, while contributing to critical international trade operations. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing complex freight forwarding operations and a commitment to excellence in a virtual setting. This role demands proactive communication and meticulous attention to detail to navigate the intricacies of global commerce.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the freight forwarding process, including air, sea, and land transportation.
• Coordinate international shipments, ensuring compliance with all import and export regulations, customs documentation, and tariffs.
• Negotiate rates and terms with carriers, vendors, and service providers to optimize costs and service levels.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing expert advice on international trade and logistics solutions.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of all necessary shipping documentation, including bills of lading, customs declarations, and certificates of origin.
• Track and trace shipments, providing timely updates to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Resolve any issues or discrepancies that arise during the transit process, such as customs holds or transit delays.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings within the freight forwarding operations.
• Stay abreast of changes in international trade laws, customs regulations, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with the sales and operations teams to provide accurate quotes and service proposals.
• Ensure all activities are conducted in compliance with company policies and industry standards.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in freight forwarding, import/export, and international logistics.
• In-depth knowledge of customs procedures, tariffs, and international trade agreements.
• Proven ability to negotiate effectively with carriers and vendors.
• Excellent understanding of shipping documentation requirements for various trade routes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, essential for remote client and stakeholder management.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding software and global trade management systems.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, and meet tight deadlines.
• A dedicated, quiet workspace with reliable high-speed internet access is mandatory.
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business, or a related field is preferred.
• Professional certifications (e.g., FIATA, CPLP) are a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Fully remote position offering unparalleled flexibility and autonomy.
• Significant earning potential with a competitive contract rate.
• Opportunity to work with a prestigious international logistics firm.
• Direct involvement in complex and rewarding global trade operations.
• Continuous learning and exposure to diverse international markets.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones.
• Be part of a forward-thinking company that embraces remote work.
• Contribute to shaping efficient global supply chains.
• Potential for long-term engagement based on performance.