Ocean Freight Import and Export clerk

SUMMARY:
We are currently looking for an Ocean Freight Import & Export Clerk to manage and coordinate end-to-end ocean freight import and export shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, shipping line requirements, and internal service standards, while delivering cost-effective and timely cargo movement for clients.

POSITION INFO:

Minimum Requirements

Education & Qualifications

• Matric (essential)
• Certificate/Diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain, or Freight Forwarding (advantageous)
• Strong understanding of:
  
  • Ocean freight processes
  • Import & export documentation
  • Incoterms
  • Customs procedures and compliance
• Experience using freight forwarding systems (e.g., Cargo Wise One or similar)
• Excellent administrative and organisational skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Understand tariffs/customs
  Own vehicle essential

Key Responsibilities

• 5 years’ experience in ocean freight imports and exports
• Proven experience handling FCL and LCL shipments
• Experience working with clearing agents and shipping lines
• Exposure to both import and export documentation
• Import Operations

• Handle full import process from pre-alert to final delivery
• Receive and verify shipping documents (BLs, invoices, packing lists, COO, permits)
• Register and manage files on the freight system
• Coordinate customs clearing instructions with clearing agents
• Track vessel arrivals and cargo status
• Arrange container unpacking and final delivery
• Resolve shipment delays, discrepancies, or customs queries
• Ensure accurate billing and job costing for imports
• Must have at least 5 years of experience in Ocean freight import and export.

Export Operations

• Manage export bookings with shipping lines and agents
• Request and confirm freight rates and sailing schedules
• Coordinate cargo readiness, packing, and container bookings
• Prepare and submit export documentation (BL instructions, invoices, packing lists)
• Liaise with transporters, depots, and warehouses
• Ensure cargo meets international shipping and destination requirements
• Monitor vessel departures and provide shipping confirmations to clients.

Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with SARS customs regulations and international trade requirements
• Maintain accurate and complete shipment files
• Ensure correct tariff codes, customs values, and Incoterms are applied
• Adhere to internal SOPs and audit requirements.

Client & Stakeholder Liaison

• Communicate proactively with clients on shipment status
• Liaise with shipping lines, agents, clearing agents, transporters, and depots
• Handle client queries and resolve operational issues professionally
• Provide excellent customer service at all times.

Financial & Administrative Duties

• Verify supplier invoices (shipping lines, transporters, depots)
• Capture costs and raise client invoices accurately
• Monitor outstanding documentation and PODs
• Assist with month-end reporting where required.