Introduction
The Import Operations apprenticeship provides hands‑on experience within an international freight‑forwarding environment. The trainee will gain an understanding of the processes involved in importing goods, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, coordinating shipments, and delivering excellent customer service.
About the Employer
RIF Worldwide Plc is committed to helping customers achieve their operational and financial objectives through continually offering better, faster and more cost-efficient services. The company recognises that the choice of forwarder is a vital decision for any customer and will remain focused on providing innovative solutions tailored to giving a market edge to any company using our services.
What You'll Do
- Operational Support: Assist with the processing of import shipments across sea, air, or road freight
- Update internal systems with shipment data, status updates, and customer notes
- Customs & Compliance: Learn to submit customs declarations using relevant systems (e.g., CDS/CHIEF or broker software)
- Check commodities using HS codes, duty rates, and import controls
- Ensure all activities comply with UK customs regulations and company policies
- Maintain accurate and audit‑ready shipment files
- Interaction: Build strong working relationships with internal teams
- Administrative Duties: Assist with cost entry and basic financial checks
- Support with filing, archiving, and general administrative tasks
- Training Outcome: A natural next step, taking full responsibility for managing import shipments, customer accounts, and customs processes.
Skills Required
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Problem solving skills
- Administrative skills
- Number skills
- Analytical skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Patience
Qualifications
- Essential - GCSE - English - 4 or C
- Essential - GCSE - Maths - 4 or C
Course Information
Course: International freight forwarding specialist (level 3)
Level: 3
Route: Transport and logistics
Apprenticeship Level: Advanced
Working Arrangements
Working Week: Monday - Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm
Expected Duration: 1 Year 9 Months
Training Provider: WEST THAMES COLLEGE
