Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced International Logistics & Import Coordinator to manage the end-to-end process of ocean freight container shipments from overseas factories to our facilities. This role covers ocean booking, rate negotiation, inland transportation (drayage, rail, trucking), and customs documentation. The ideal candidate is highly organized, comfortable managing high shipment volumes, and confident negotiating directly with ocean carriers.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate directly with overseas factories/suppliers to confirm production timelines and shipment readiness
- Book ocean freight containers with carriers/forwarders, ensuring on-time pickup aligned with factory production schedules
- Negotiate freight rates and contract terms directly with ocean carriers to control costs and secure capacity during peak season
- Coordinate drayage, rail, and trucking operations for inland container movement from port to final destination
- Track container status from origin through transit to final delivery across all modes (ocean, rail, truck)
- Prepare and review shipping documents including commercial invoices, packing lists, Bills of Lading (BL/MBL), and certificates of origin
- Prepare and submit customs entry documentation; ensure compliance with import regulations (CBP, HTS classification, ISF filing, etc.)
- Communicate proactively with freight forwarders, customs brokers, rail/trucking carriers, and internal warehouse teams to resolve delays or discrepancies
- Monitor high-volume booking calendars and flag capacity/scheduling risks in advance
- Maintain accurate shipment records and tracking logs across all transportation modes
Required Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in international logistics, import/export operations, or freight forwarding
- Proven experience negotiating rates and contracts with ocean carriers/steamship lines
- Working knowledge of container types (20', 40', 40HC) and ocean booking processes
- Hands-on experience coordinating drayage, rail, and intermodal trucking operations
- Familiarity with customs documentation and import compliance (ISF, HTS codes, customs bonds)
- Strong written/verbal communication skills for coordinating across time zones with overseas factories
- Proficient in Excel; experience with TMS or ERP systems a plus
- Highly organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable managing multiple shipments simultaneously
Preferred
- Experience with 3PL/warehousing operations
- Existing carrier relationships/contacts at major ocean lines
- Familiarity with UPS/XPO or similar carrier systems
- Knowledge of INCOTERMS
Pay: $54,641.11 - $65,804.35 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
