At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate the import and export of vehicles globally, ensuring smooth operations.
- Company: Join a fast-paced international car logistics business with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, 20 days leave, and opportunities for process improvement.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with potential for career growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in global vehicle logistics while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years in vehicle shipping, strong customs knowledge, and problem-solving skills.
Vehicle Import & Export Operations Specialist
Location: Felixstowe – office-based Salary: £35,000–£40,000 per annum Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:30pm Contract: Full-time, permanent
We are seeking an experienced Vehicle Import & Export Operations Specialist to join a fast-paced international car and motor vehicle logistics business.
This position involves coordinating the seamless movement of cars, motorcycles and other vehicles throughout the UK, Europe and worldwide.
You will act as a subject-matter expert within the vehicle shipping team, managing valuable client accounts, resolving complex operational issues and ensuring every shipment is handled efficiently, compliantly and profitably.
Applicants must have previous experience in car or motor vehicle imports and exports, together with strong customs knowledge.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate vehicle imports, exports and UK transport from start to finish across sea, road and air freight.
- Arrange containerised and Ro Ro vehicle shipments.
- Manage key client accounts and build lasting relationships with private owners, collectors, dealerships, car clubs and overseas agents.
- Prepare and oversee import and export documentation and customs declarations.
- Manage tariff classifications, VAT and duty calculations, temporary imports, NOVA declarations, ATA Carnets and Carnets de Passage.
- Apply knowledge of vehicle approval processes, including IVA and SVA requirements.
- Negotiate competitive rates and service agreements with carriers, shipping lines, airlines, vehicle packers and overseas agents.
- Prepare quotations, analyse margins and support commercial pricing decisions.
- Resolve delays, disputes, customs queries and other high-impact shipment issues.
- Maintain accurate operational and financial records using freight management software such as Multi Freight or a similar system.
- Provide clients and colleagues with guidance on customs requirements, trade compliance and international shipping regulations.
- Liaise professionally with Border Force and other relevant authorities when required.
Essential Experience and Skills
- At least two to three years’ experience in international car or motor vehicle shipping and transport.
- Proven experience managing vehicle imports and exports.
- Strong knowledge of customs procedures, import and export declarations, duties, VAT and relevant shipping documentation.
- Familiarity with containerised and Ro Ro vehicle movements.
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong negotiation skills and commercial awareness.
- Clear and confident communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, suppliers, overseas agents and authorities.
- A positive, proactive attitude and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Dangerous goods awareness would be advantageous.
Benefits
- Company pension.
- 20 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays.
- The opportunity to join a fast-moving global vehicle logistics operation.
- Scope to improve operational processes and contribute to commercial strategy.
If you have the required vehicle import and export experience, strong customs knowledge and a proactive approach to solving problems, we would like to hear from you
Car Import Operator in Felixstowe employer: Integral Staff
Join a dynamic and well-established organisation as a Business Development Manager, where your passion for winning new business will be rewarded with a competitive salary, bonus potential, and a company car or car allowance. Our supportive team culture fosters ongoing training and career development, ensuring you have the tools to thrive in a field-based sales environment while building lasting customer relationships. With genuine opportunities for progression, this role offers a meaningful and rewarding career path in the foodservice industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Car Import Operator in Felixstowe
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Integral Staff and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Integral Staff!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Integral Staff keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Car Import Operator in Felixstowe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Integral Staff:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Integral Staff. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Integral Staff
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Integral Staff.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Integral Staff that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Integral Staff. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!