Ocean Freight Import Operator

Job Description

Right Now Group are currently recruiting for an experienced Ocean Freight Import Operator to join a leading international logistics business based in the Ipswich/Felixstowe area.

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This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Ocean Freight Import Operator with a strong background in ocean imports, particularly far east imports into the UK.

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The successful candidate will be responsible for managing ocean freight shipments from booking through to final delivery, handling both FCL and LCL/consolidation movements and working closely with shipping lines, co-loaders, overseas agents, hauliers, warehouses, customs teams and customers.

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The role would suit someone who is proactive, commercially aware and customer-focused, with a strong understanding of UK import procedures and the ability to manage shipments efficiently from origin through to final delivery.

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Responsibilities of the Ocean Freight Import Operator:

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• Manage day-to-day ocean import shipments from booking through to final delivery
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• Handle both FCL and LCL/consolidation import shipments, including direct shipping line and co-loader movements
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• Manage ocean freight imports from the Far East into the UK
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• Liaise with shipping lines, co-loaders, overseas agents, hauliers, warehouses, customs teams and customers
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• Monitor vessel arrivals, shipment milestones, sailing schedules and delivery deadlines
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• Proactively manage delays, service issues and operational queries, keeping customers updated throughout
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• Maintain accurate shipment tracking and ensure customers and internal teams have full visibility of cargo movements
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• Work closely with customs clearance and transport teams to ensure efficient and compliant cargo processing
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• Ensure all shipment, cost and sales information is accurately entered into internal systems
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• Assist with invoicing issues, claims and customer service queries where required
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• Build strong working relationships with customers through reliable service, communication and proactive problem solving
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• Support the department in achieving KPI targets relating to service quality, profitability, data accuracy and customer satisfaction
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• Identify opportunities to improve operational processes and customer service
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• Benchmark service prices and transit solutions against competitors
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• Ensure all shipments are handled in accordance with company procedures, compliance requirements and relevant industry regulations
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• Maintain a commercial approach, balancing customer service with cost control and operational efficiency
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The successful Ocean Freight Import Operator will ideally have:

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• Previous experience working as an Ocean Freight Import Operator
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• Ideally a minimum of 2 years' experience within ocean freight operations
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• Strong knowledge of Far East import shipping services into the UK
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• Experience handling both FCL and LCL/consolidation shipments
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• Good understanding of international shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, delivery orders and certificates of origin
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• Good knowledge of Incoterms and their application within ocean freight
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• Strong understanding of UK customs formalities and import arrival procedures
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• Experience handling Port Health, HMRC and related UK import compliance processes
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• Good knowledge of shipping lines, vessel schedules and sailing/transit times from the Far East into the UK
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• Strong attention to detail and accurate data entry skills
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• Good Microsoft Office and Excel skills
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• Experience using freight management or ERP systems; knowledge of Azyra FMS/ERP would be advantageous
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• Good understanding of file P&L and gross profit margins
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• Strong communication and customer service skills
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• A proactive, solutions-focused approach to operational challenges
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• Excellent organisational and time-management skills
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• The ability to work effectively as part of a busy operational team
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• A commercial mindset with an understanding of cost control and operational efficiency
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Hours for the Ocean Freight Import Operator:

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The position operates Monday to Friday.

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Week 1-4: 09:00am - 17:30pm (1-hour break)

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Week 5: 07:00am - 15:30pm

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Salary for the Ocean Freight Import Operator:

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£28,000 - £32,000 depending on experience

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This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Ocean Freight Import Operator to join an established international logistics business and play an important role within its Felixstowe operations.

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If you have strong Ocean Freight Import experience and are looking for your next opportunity, apply now through Right Now Group for further information.

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Apply now through Right Now Group for further information.