Job Description
Essential Job Functions
International Freight & Imports Experience Is Required
Ocean Freight Management:
- Coordinate inbound international shipments, primarily via ocean and rail, from global suppliers.
- Plan and organize the movement of goods from origin to destination, selecting optimal shipping routes and carriers based on timing, cost, and service quality.
- Oversee container consolidation, sailing schedules, transloading, drayage, and port operations to ensure efficiency.
- Track and report shipment progress; proactively address delays, port congestion, and missed transshipments.
Documentation Management:
- Ensure the accurate and timely preparation of all international shipping documents, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and shipping manifests.
- Collaborate with customs brokers to ensure smooth customs clearance and delivery timelines.
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of import/export regulations, Incoterms, and U.S. Customs compliance.
- Ensure all shipments adhere to international trade regulations, including tariffs, duties, embargoes, and FTZ requirements.
- Carrier and Vendor Management:
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with ocean carriers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers.
- Negotiate competitive rates and service contracts, benchmark pricing, and manage performance KPIs.
Shipment Tracking & Communication:
- Monitor cargo movement from foreign origin through final delivery.
- Provide updates to internal teams and customers regarding ETAs, delays, or changes.
- Set up systems to ensure visibility and proactive communication.
Cost Optimization:
- Analyze and reduce landed costs by optimizing container loads, Incoterms, and carrier selection.
- Collaborate with Finance and Purchasing on freight budgeting, cost allocation, and invoice auditing.
Issue Resolution & Process Improvement:
- Troubleshoot and resolve shipping delays, damages, or misroutes in real-time.
- Identify inefficiencies in the import process and implement best practices for continuous improvement.
Customer Support:
- Serve as a point of contact for freight-related inquiries from customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
- Provide accurate delivery timelines and support customer satisfaction goals.
Warehouse Transfers & Inventory Movement
- Schedule and track warehouse transfers to maintain stock balance and support order demand.
- Coordinate with warehouse teams to align shipment schedules and reduce backorders.
- Ensure accurate documentation and system recordkeeping for all inventory movements.
Customer Order Fulfillment
- Manage outbound order shipping and ensure timely, accurate deliveries.
- Build multi-stop truck routes to reduce freight costs and improve efficiency.
- Monitor outbound carrier performance, service levels, and customer satisfaction.
Transportation & Cost Optimization
- Evaluate and select FTL/LTL carriers based on price, reliability, and timeliness.
- Negotiate rates and implement cost-saving initiatives such as load consolidation and backhauls.
- Develop and report on freight KPIs such as on-time delivery, cost per mile, and lead time reduction.
Sales Support & Inside Sales
- Drive Retail product sales through proactive call-outs, upselling, and account support.
- Assist Outside Sales in meeting revenue objectives and strategic territory development.
- Update ERP systems with accurate customer, order, and freight details.
- Participate in sales planning meetings and maintain communication with key accounts.
- Generate new leads and maintain positive distributor relationships.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Logistics & Supply Chain Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of international shipping, ocean freight, customs compliance, and transportation planning.
Analytical Skills:
- Ability to analyze freight spend, carrier performance, and logistics metrics to inform decision-making.
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills:
- Effective communicator across teams, vendors, and customers; strong negotiation skills.
- Organizational & Planning Skills:
- Ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects, and execute under deadlines.
- Problem-Solving:
- Proactive in identifying shipping and logistics challenges and implementing sustainable solutions.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in logistics, international trade, or inside sales.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in international logistics or freight coordination, with a strong focus on ocean freight.
- Familiarity with ERP and TMS systems, customs documentation, and Incoterms.
- Experience working with distributors, architects, or contractors preferred.
Ability to Commute:
- Charlotte, NC 28277 (Required)
- Work Location: In person
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