Import Specialist

Summary

Walker International Transportation LLC, A Walker SCM, LLC affiliate company, brings an experienced team approach to multi-national logistics service. We provide superior products without sacrificing the small firm attributes that have distinguished our firm since its inception - personal attention, expertise and reliability. We are a 3PL provider of international transportation services, including freight forwarding, assembly and contract packaging services, warehousing, procurement and distribution. Our clients include many “Fortune 500” companies.

About Us

An Import Specialist in Freight Forwarding is responsible for managing and coordinating the international movement of goods into a country. This role involves working closely with customs authorities, shipping companies, suppliers, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with import regulations and that goods are efficiently transported from their origin to their final destination.

Customs Documentation and Compliance

• Ensure all necessary import documentation (e.g., bills of lading, invoices, packing lists) is accurately prepared and submitted.
• Liaise with customs brokers to ensure compliance with national and international import regulations.
• Monitor and maintain import tariffs, quotas, and other regulatory requirements.
• Ensure the accurate classification of goods for customs purposes, including managing Harmonized System (HS) code
  
  
  

Freight Management

• Work with shipping lines, air freight carriers, and road transportation companies to secure competitive and reliable rates.
• Manage import shipments, including booking, tracking, and resolving any shipping issues.
  
  
  

Inventory and Supply Chain Coordination

• Collaborate with warehousing and distribution teams to ensure smooth delivery and proper storage of imported goods.
• Coordinate the unloading, inspection, and inventory of goods upon arrival.
• Assist with maintaining accurate records for inventory management and forecasting.
  
  
  

Problem Resolution

• Address any shipment delays, customs issues, or damages, working closely with stakeholders to resolve problems quickly.
• Ensure timely updates are provided to clients or internal teams about any issues affecting the arrival of goods.
  
  
  

Customer Service and Communication

• Communicate with clients, suppliers, and internal teams regarding the status of shipments and expected delivery times.
• Provide updates on any issues, delays, or customs holds.
• Ensure a smooth flow of information between all parties involved in the import process.
  
  
  

Cost Control and Budgeting

• Negotiate rates and shipping terms with carriers and service providers to ensure cost-effective transport solutions.
• Track and manage the budget for import logistics, ensuring adherence to financial plans.
• Monitor and report on expenses related to customs duties, taxes, and shipping fees.
  
  
  

Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate risks related to customs non-compliance, delays, or loss of goods.
• Implement measures to prevent fraud, smuggling, or theft during the import process.
• A bachelor’s degree in business, logistics, international trade, or a related field is typically required.
• Previous experience in freight forwarding, international logistics, or customs compliance is highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of import regulations, customs procedures, and international shipping documentation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for dealing with customers, customs officials, and suppliers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to handle any shipment or customs issues that arise.
• Ability to manage complex documents, regulations, and logistical challenges accurately.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and manage tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with logistics management systems, customs software, and MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.).
  
  
  

USD $64,000.00 - USD $64,000.00 /Yr.