At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage import shipments, ensuring smooth customs clearance and timely delivery.
- Company: Dynamic freight forwarder with a focus on teamwork and efficiency.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative team of five, perfect for those who thrive in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced industry and make a real difference in global trade.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years in UK import operations and strong attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 29250 - 35750 £ per year.
Our client, a freight forwarder, is looking for an Ocean Import Operator with a focus on Customs Clearance to join their office in Grays.
What you'll be doing day to day:
- Taking ownership of import shipments from arrival to delivery, keeping every file moving and up to date.
- Reviewing commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading and other supporting documents for accuracy and completeness.
- Identifying missing or incorrect information early and chasing customers, overseas agents and suppliers to resolve it.
- Providing clearance instructions and the required documentation to our customs manager, and following through to release.
- Understanding and applying the requirements of UK import procedures, including commodity codes, values, incoterms, duty and VAT, and any additional controls or certificates a commodity may need.
- Keeping customers informed with clear, proactive updates by phone and email.
- Liaising with hauliers, ports, depots and other third parties to keep delivery on track.
- Maintaining accurate records in our operating system and flagging anything that needs escalating.
- Working closely with the wider import team and supporting colleagues during busy periods and absence.
What we're looking for:
- Essential
- Ideally at least 2-3 years' experience in UK import operations, freight forwarding or customs clearance.
- Solid working knowledge of the UK import process and what is needed to get cargo cleared and delivered.
- Confident understanding of import documentation and the information a customs entry requires.
- Genuinely organised, with a keen eye for detail.
- Comfortable managing multiple live shipments at once and prioritising sensibly.
- Confident and professional on the phone and over email, with customers and with third parties.
- Friendly and collaborative, and happy working as part of a small team of five.
- Able to work independently and take responsibility for your own files.
- Desirable
- Familiarity with freight forwarding operating system / customs software - MultiFreight.
- Exposure to a range of commodity types and any associated controls – able to do a customs entry.
Ocean Import Operator in Grays employer: Top Talent Recruit
Join a dynamic team at our Witham office, where we prioritise employee growth and development in the fast-paced world of freight forwarding. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, offering you the chance to make a meaningful impact while enjoying competitive benefits and a commitment to work-life balance.
We think you need these skills to ace Ocean Import Operator in Grays
Customs Clearance
UK Import Procedures
Import Documentation
Attention to Detail
Organisational Skills
Communication Skills
Freight Forwarding Knowledge
