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- Tasks: Manage international shipments and ensure compliance with customs regulations.
- Company: Join The Winterbrook Group, a leading commodities trader in the UK and Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing team making a real impact in the pet food industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in freight forwarding and strong knowledge of shipping regulations required.
- Other info: Office-based role with flexibility and opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Winterbrook Group is a leading commodities trader across the UK and Europe and a manufacturer of ingredients for pet and animal feed, with production facilities in the UK. As one of the largest suppliers to the UK pet food industry, this position offers an exciting opportunity to join an established, high-performing team with strong prospects for career progression.
We are seeking an experienced Import Forwarding Specialist with a strong background in freight forwarding and customs clearance. The successful candidate will manage international shipments—both containerized and bulk—ensuring compliance with regulations, optimizing transport routes, and delivering exceptional service to clients.
Key Responsibilities- Coordinate and manage import shipments from overseas suppliers, including container and bulk cargo.
- Liaise with global partners, carriers, and shipping lines to arrange timely collection and delivery.
- Prepare and process all shipping documentation (Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, customs declarations).
- Ensure compliance with UK and international customs regulations and trade requirements.
- Track and monitor shipments, providing proactive updates to clients and internal teams.
- Handle customs clearance procedures and maintain accurate documentation.
- Negotiate freight rates and service agreements with carriers and logistics providers.
- Resolve operational issues such as delays, damages, or discrepancies.
- Provide competitive quotes and tailored logistics solutions to clients.
- Maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
- Update and maintain shipment data in ERP and logistics systems.
- Proven experience in freight forwarding, import logistics, and customs clearance.
- Strong knowledge of international shipping regulations and documentation.
- Familiarity with UK customs procedures and compliance requirements.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Strong communication and customer service abilities.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., Sage, Microsoft Dynamics).
- Ability to manage multiple shipments and work under pressure.
- Expertise in Incoterms and international trade compliance.
- Additional language skills (advantageous).
- Professional certifications in freight forwarding or logistics (e.g., FIATA, CILT).
- Office-based role with occasional visits to ports, warehouses, or client sites.
- Flexibility to work outside standard business hours when required by shipment schedules.
Salary: £40,000 – £50,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Freight Forwarder in Exeter employer: Howarth Winterbrook LTD
Contact Detail:
Howarth Winterbrook LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Freight Forwarder in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local freight forwarding events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of customs regulations and shipping documentation. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence and show off your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We suggest mentioning something specific from the conversation to make it personal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing a role with us. We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who are ready to take their career in freight forwarding to the next level!
We think you need these skills to ace Freight Forwarder in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Freight Forwarder role. Highlight your experience in freight forwarding, customs clearance, and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your organisational and communication skills in your application. Mention specific examples of how you've managed shipments or resolved issues in the past. We appreciate candidates who can demonstrate their abilities!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Howarth Winterbrook LTD
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of freight forwarding and customs clearance. Familiarise yourself with the latest UK and international shipping regulations, as well as the specific documentation required for import shipments. This will show that you're not just a candidate, but someone who truly understands the industry.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles in freight forwarding and how you've successfully managed shipments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've handled customs clearance or resolved operational issues. This will help demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the company and its operations. Inquire about their approach to optimising transport routes or how they maintain relationships with global partners. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready to Negotiate
Since negotiating freight rates and service agreements is part of the job, be prepared to discuss your approach to negotiations. Think about past experiences where you successfully negotiated terms with carriers or logistics providers. This will highlight your ability to deliver competitive quotes and tailored solutions.