At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage customs processes and ensure smooth international shipments.
- Company: Join a dynamic freight forwarding team in Biggleswade.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, Monday to Friday hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a crucial role that impacts global trade and compliance.
- Qualifications: Experience in customs clearance and strong knowledge of UK customs procedures required.
- Other info: Opportunity to work independently and develop problem-solving skills in a fast-paced setting.
The predicted salary is between 22500 - 28500 £ per year.
Location: Biggleswade
Salary: £26,500 – £28,500 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Customs Co-ordinator to join our busy freight forwarding team in Biggleswade. This role is crucial in ensuring international shipments are processed smoothly and in full compliance with UK customs and excise regulations—especially during time-critical periods, when trailers cross borders and issues may arise.
The ideal candidate will be hands-on with customs procedures, and capable of resolving problems independently, including retrieving and submitting missing or incorrect documentation to HMRC in a timely manner. You will support all aspects of the customs clearance cycle while providing guidance to internal teams and ensuring accurate recordkeeping for audits and compliance.
Duties
- Complete and submit accurate import/export customs declarations in a timely manner.
- Ensure compliance with HMRC regulations and other relevant authorities for all shipment types.
- Proactively monitor weekend trailer movements, retrieve documentation where needed, and liaise with HMRC to resolve clearance issues without delay.
- Manage customs processes including IPR/OPR, SIEL/OIEL licensing, AEO standards, and transit procedures.
- Track and monitor shipments through the customs process, identifying and resolving any issues or delays.
- Liaise primarily with internal teams and, on occasion, directly with customers to obtain required documentation and resolve queries.
- Escalate non-compliance or procedural issues to the Customs Manager where appropriate.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in line with legal, audit, and HMRC requirements.
- Process entries using customs software.
- Support audits, KPI tracking, and regular customs reporting.
- Provide customs guidance to other departments, reviewing documentation and processes for compliance.
- Handle carnet entries, excise movements, bonded warehousing, and post-entry amendments.
The Candidate
- Proven experience in a customs clearance or freight forwarding role is essential.
- Strong knowledge of UK customs procedures, including tariff classification, valuation, import/export controls, and duty relief schemes.
- Comfortable resolving live shipment issues independently, especially under time pressure.
- Strong understanding of excise procedures.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Excellent accuracy and attention to detail in data entry and recordkeeping.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision.
- A team player who can also operate independently, managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Customs Coordinator employer: ACS Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
ACS Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Customs Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with UK customs regulations and procedures. Understanding the nuances of customs clearance will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the freight forwarding and customs industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and changes in customs regulations. This knowledge can be a great conversation starter and shows that you are proactive and engaged in your field, which is crucial for a Customs Coordinator.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully resolved customs issues under pressure. This will highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently, both of which are key for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Customs Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in customs clearance or freight forwarding. Emphasise your knowledge of UK customs procedures and any specific achievements that demonstrate your problem-solving skills under pressure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are the ideal candidate for the Customs Coordinator role. Mention your hands-on experience with customs procedures and your ability to resolve issues independently, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Attention to Detail: Since accuracy is crucial in this role, provide examples in your application that demonstrate your attention to detail. This could include instances where you successfully managed documentation or resolved compliance issues.
Highlight Communication Skills: The role requires clear communication with internal teams and customers. Make sure to mention any relevant experiences where you effectively communicated complex information or resolved queries, showcasing your verbal and written communication skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at ACS Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Customs Regulations
Make sure you brush up on UK customs and excise regulations before the interview. Being able to discuss specific procedures, such as IPR/OPR and AEO standards, will show that you're well-prepared and knowledgeable about the role.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've resolved issues in previous roles, especially under time pressure. This will highlight your ability to handle live shipment problems independently, which is crucial for a Customs Coordinator.
✨Showcase Attention to Detail
Since accuracy is key in customs documentation, be ready to discuss how you ensure precision in your work. Mention any tools or methods you use to maintain high standards in data entry and recordkeeping.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for liaising with internal teams and customers, so be prepared to demonstrate this during the interview.