Job Description

OVERVIEW

We are recruiting on behalf of our client for a FCL Import Freight Coordinator. Our client is a US-based freight forwarding and logistics company managing full-container-load (FCL) ocean freight imports into the United States. This is a remote position requiring close coordination with overseas agents, ocean carriers, customs brokers, and US customers throughout the full import lifecycle.

The successful candidate will work aligned to US Eastern Standard Time (EST) business hours and must be comfortable managing time-sensitive shipment milestones, regulatory filing deadlines, and proactive exception handling from origin through to final delivery.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage FCL import shipments end-to-end, from pre-alert receipt through customs clearance and final delivery coordination
• Prepare and submit ISF and AMS filings accurately and within required regulatory timeframes
• Review Master and House Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and other shipping documentation for accuracy and compliance
• Issue arrival notices and coordinate US customs clearance with licensed customs brokers
• Track vessel movements, container status, rail, and terminal activity to proactively identify and address delays
• Arrange container releases, drayage, and empty-container returns while actively monitoring free days to minimize demurrage, detention, and per diem charges
• Maintain accurate shipment records, resolve operational exceptions including customs holds an examination, and process invoicing through the TMS

REQUIREMENTS

• Matric (Grade 12) as a minimum; a National Diploma or relevant NQF Level 6 qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain, or International Trade is advantageous
• Minimum 3 years of ocean freight operations experience at a freight forwarder or NVOCC
• Previous freight forwarding experience is essential, with proven hands-on FCL import experience US ocean freight import experience preferred
• Strong understanding of US import shipping processes, documentation and regulations, including ISF, AMS and ACE
• Knowledge of Bills of Lading, cargo releases and Incoterms
• Experience with major carrier portals, including Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd
• Comfortable communicating directly with US customers, customs brokers, shipping lines and international logistics partners
• Experience using freight forwarding or Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
• Strong organisational skills and ability to independently manage multiple shipments and deadlines
• Customs brokerage and bonded cargo experience advantageous
• Full-time position, working US Eastern hours

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Prior experience working with or on behalf of US-based freight forwarders or NVOCCs
• Familiarity with US port operations, rail inland moves, and drayage coordination
• Experience communicating directly with overseas origin agents and ocean carrier representatives
• Exposure to monitoring and managing demurrage, detention, and per diem charges across major US ports

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Strong communication skills
• High attention to detail
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to work independently
• Professionalism and reliability