At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage customs operations for China-UK shipments, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at the forefront of international trade.
- Benefits: Enjoy autonomy, professional growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global trade while developing your expertise.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years of customs experience and strong knowledge of regulations.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with international teams and enhance your career.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced and detail-driven Customs Specialist to join our growing team. This role is focused on customs operations and compliance for air and ocean freight imports and exports between China and the UK. You will play a critical role in ensuring smooth, compliant, and efficient customs clearance while supporting business growth and customer satisfaction.
What You’ll Do
- Take end-to-end ownership of customs operations for China–UK import and export shipments (air & ocean), including reviewing commercial documents (invoices, packing lists, B/Ls) and preparing/submitting customs declarations via relevant systems.
- Ensure full compliance with Chinese and UK customs regulations, tax policies, and applicable trade agreements (including rules of origin).
- Independently manage and resolve customs exceptions such as inspections, classification challenges, valuation queries, and other clearance issues, delivering timely and effective solutions.
- Coordinate closely with customs brokers, freight forwarders, warehouses, and transport teams in both China and the UK to ensure seamless cargo and information flow.
- Act as a subject-matter expert, providing customs and compliance advice to clients and internal sales teams (HS classification, regulatory requirements, duty/VAT calculations).
- Analyse customs data and processes, identify risks and inefficiencies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce costs and improve clearance efficiency.
- Stay up to date with regulatory and policy changes in China and the UK, assess business impact, and lead internal process updates accordingly.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree or above; International Trade, Logistics, or related fields preferred.
- 3–5 years’ hands-on customs experience within international trade or logistics, with solid exposure to China–UK air and ocean freight.
- Strong working knowledge of China E-Port / Single Window systems; experience with the UK CDS (Customs Declaration Service) is a strong plus.
- In-depth understanding of customs procedures, import/export regulations, VAT and duty regimes, and inspection/quarantine requirements in both China and the UK.
- Proven expertise in HS classification and origin determination.
- Excellent written and spoken English and Mandarin, with the ability to communicate confidently with UK stakeholders and handle professional correspondence.
- Detail-oriented, highly responsible, resilient under pressure, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
Why Join Us
- Opportunity to work at the centre of China–UK trade operations.
- High level of autonomy and professional impact.
- Collaborative, international working environment.
Interested? Feel free to connect or apply directly via LinkedIn.
Customs Specialist in Twickenham employer: SF EXPRESS (EUROPE)
Contact Detail:
SF EXPRESS (EUROPE) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Customs Specialist in Twickenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the customs and logistics field, especially those who work with China–UK trade. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of customs regulations and compliance. We want you to be the go-to expert during your interview, so practice explaining complex topics in simple terms.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss past experiences where you tackled customs exceptions or improved processes. We love candidates who can think on their feet and deliver effective solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to make an impact in the customs operations space.
We think you need these skills to ace Customs Specialist in Twickenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Customs Specialist role. Highlight your experience with customs operations, compliance, and any specific knowledge of China–UK trade. 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 customs operations and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your hands-on customs experience, especially with air and ocean freight. We want to know about your successes in managing customs exceptions and ensuring compliance—so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at SF EXPRESS (EUROPE)
✨Know Your Customs Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of customs regulations, especially those related to China and the UK. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your understanding of compliance, HS classification, and any challenges you've faced in customs operations.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share instances where you've successfully managed customs exceptions or resolved clearance issues. Highlight your ability to think on your feet and provide timely solutions, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since you'll be liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly in both English and Mandarin. You might be asked to explain complex customs processes, so being able to communicate effectively is key.
✨Stay Updated on Regulations
Demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement by discussing how you keep yourself informed about changes in customs regulations and policies. Mention any recent updates you've learned about and how they could impact operations.