Ocean Import Specialist

About the company

Scan Global Logistics is a full-service global logistics provider present on all continents. We bring a human approach to logistics, making the world a little less complicated. Our culture is based on four virtues: respect, integrity, entrepreneurship, and fun.

About the role

SGL is seeking a proactive Ocean Import Coordinator to oversee end-to-end ocean import operations. In this role, you will manage the complete freight forwarding process from initiating shipment documentation to coordinating with internal teams and delivering exceptional customer service. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals with freight forwarding experience who are eager to advance their careers in international logistics and gain hands-on experience in all aspects of ocean import operations.

Responsibilities

• Enter international ocean import tracking documentation from origin to destination.
• Ensure regulatory requirements are met and shipments have exact paperwork, such as transit documents and customs clearances.
• Process, distribute, and discharge documentation in a timely way to carriers, forwarders, customers, and agents.
• Prepare data entry and confirmation of key milestones (departure, arrival, customs clearance, PODs, etc.) as per Customer Standard Operating Procedures.
• Maintain polite, timely, and efficient customer service.
• Oversee and complete proper billing to clients based on agreed pricing to maintain accurate costs and profits.
• Ensure shipments are picked up and transferred with proper partners.
• Develop techniques and procedures for transporting commodities from local or offshore locations to warehouses or final consignee locations.
• Negotiate shipping costs to stay competitive.
• Prepare customs declarations and bonds.
• Develop and manage relationships with local suppliers and co-load carriers (e.g., airline agents, freight forwarders, customs brokers, local pickup and delivery firms).
• Establish and manage procedures to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy work environment.
• Take booking requests, ensure bookings are made at current and accurate rates, and consolidate and route shipments.
• Arrange for container pickup and return to railyard.
• Coordinate daily shipments (documentation, monitoring, arranging pickup/dispatching, communicating with carriers, and issuing invoices).
• Monitor and manage shipments until completion, keeping customers informed of import details.
• Maintain in-depth communications with vendors, shippers, customers, carriers, overseas agents, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and local pickup/delivery companies.
• Respond to emails and rate requests in a timely manner to assist local sales efforts.
• Create customer invoices and approve payables for accurate and timely billing.
• Review standard operating procedures to ensure compliance with FMC, Quality Assurance Standards, TAPA, IMDG, ISO, and Customs.
• Understand the Ocean Export process, EEI, and NVOCC/Non-NVOCC.
• Improve operational efficiency and productivity by identifying best practices.
• Complete all inbound moves, including ITs and permits to transfer.
• Escalate problems to management when necessary.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Department Manager.

Requirements

• Ocean Import experience (2+ years required).
• Experience in freight forwarding ocean operations processes and procedures.
• Experience with bonded freight and cargo.
• Previous experience with CargoWise is required.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States and pass TSA eligibility screening.

Qualifications

• Customer service oriented.
• Attention to detail.
• Problem-solving attitude.
• Active listening and telephone etiquette.
• Basic software skills (Microsoft Office & Excel).
• Basic computer skills.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

Pay

$31.25 - $32.69 per hour.

Schedule

8-hour shift, Monday to Friday.

Benefits

• 401(k).
• Health Insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision Insurance.
• Employee assistance program.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Life insurance.
• Short Term Disability Insurance.
• Long Term Disability Insurance.
• Paid Time Off.
• Tuition Reimbursement.

Work Location: On-site in Elizabeth, NJ.