Senior Import Controller

Switch Recruit; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 780,000; Full time

Job summary

Switch Recruit is seeking a detail-oriented Import Controller to coordinate international freight movements and manage import shipments end-to-end. You will ensure customs compliance, accurate documentation, invoicing, and data quality while guiding junior team members.

The role requires 5–7 years of import control experience in forwarding, strong seafreight import knowledge, and exposure to ShipShape. Export exposure is highly advantageous for this role in a dynamic logistics environment.

Qualifications

• Matric certificate required.
• Two-year freight forwarding qualification at NQF Level 4 or 5.
• 5–7 years of import controlling experience in forwarding.
• Proven end-to-end import process management.
• Seafreight export experience advantageous.
• ShipShape experience advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage forwarding of import shipments per client requirements.
• Manage customs clearance and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate import cargo movement through the international transport chain.
• Arrange transport to ensure timely movement and delivery of cargo.
• Prepare and manage shipment documentation for accuracy.
• Complete invoicing and administer shipment files from start to finish.
• Arrange appropriate insurance and manage claims when required.
• Interpret Incoterms, freight rates and international transport requirements.
• Maintain high data quality and accurate shipment information.
• Provide guidance and direction to Import Controllers and Learners.
• Ensure compliance with Quality Management System.
• Assist with additional duties and operational requirements as needed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Client-focused

Shipment coordination

Compliance knowledge

Education

Matric certificate

NQF 4/5 freight forwarding qualification

Job description

This role requires a detail-oriented, client-focused professional who can coordinate international freight movements, manage shipment files from forwarding through to invoicing and ensure compliance with all relevant requirements.

Strong seafreight import knowledge is essential, while experience in seafreight exports will be highly advantageous.

Duties:

• Coordinate and manage the forwarding of import shipments in line with client requirements.
• Manage the customs clearance process and ensure shipments comply with relevant statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate the movement of import cargo throughout the international transport chain.
• Arrange and coordinate transport to ensure the timely movement and delivery of cargo.
• Prepare and manage shipment documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Complete invoicing and administer shipment files from start to finish.
• Arrange appropriate insurance cover and manage claims when required.
• Interpret and apply Incoterms, freight rates and relevant international transport requirements.
• Maintain high standards of data quality and ensure accurate shipment information is recorded.
• Provide guidance, support and direction to Import Controllers and Learners.
• Ensure compliance with the company's Quality Management System.
• Assist with additional duties and operational requirements as needed.

Requirements:

• Matric certificate.
• A two-year freight forwarding-related qualification at NQF Level 4 or NQF Level 5, or an equivalent qualification.
• Minimum 5–7 years of recent import controlling experience within the clearing and forwarding industry (non-negotiable).
• Proven experience managing the end-to-end import process.
• Seafreight export experience (extremely advantageous).
• ShipShape experience (advantageous).