The Inbound Controller: Import & Export is responsible for managing and controlling the end-to-end import and export flow of goods to warehouses, distribution centers, or directly to clients. The role ensures that all shipments are executed accurately, compliantly, cost-effectively, and timeously, in accordance with SARS customs regulations, trade requirements, and company standards
Key Responsibilities
1. Pre-Shipment & Trade Coordination (Import & Export)

Liaise with international suppliers and export partners to confirm goods readiness, packaging, labelling standards, and shipping deadlines.
Verify and apply correct Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.).
Book freight with approved freight forwarders across sea, air, road, and rail transport modes.
Request, validate, and manage all import and export shipping documentation prior to shipment departure.

2. Import & Export Documentation & Customs Clearance

Manage all import and export customs documentation via the internal customs management system.
Ensure customs clearance is completed prior to vessel arrival (imports) or cargo departure (exports).
Prepare, review, submit, and archive SAD500 declarations for imports and exports.
Ensure accurate preparation and compliance of export documentation, including:

Commercial invoices
Packing lists
Bills of Lading / Air Waybills / Sea Waybills
Certificates of Origin (SADC, EUR1, where applicable)
Export permits and licences (where applicable)
HS tariff classifications and customs valuation

Ensure compliance with the SARS Customs & Excise Act and applicable exchange control regulations.
Support and participate in SARS audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews.
Apply working knowledge of customs stops, border police inspections, NRCS stops, and export control requirements.
Liaise with clearing agents on inspections, queries, SAD500 amendments, and customs or invoicing discrepancies.
Update internal systems with customs clearance and shipment status.

3. Shipment Tracking & Control

Track shipments from origin to final destination.
Monitor ETD/ETA, transhipments, route changes, and delays.
Proactively communicate shipment status, risks, and delays to internal stakeholders.
Conduct daily follow-ups with clearing agents, transporters, and relevant parties.

4. Warehouse, Inventory & Delivery Coordination
 Maintain accurate container and inventory control.

Coordinate the timely receiving and unloading of inbound containers.
Schedule deliveries and collections in line with operational requirements.
Process direct deliveries via the sales system.
Book deliveries upon receipt of IODs and PODs.
Verify received goods against documentation and report shortages or damages.

5. Client & Internal Support

Support internal teams and clients with import and export-related queries.
Coordinate delivery and collection dates.
Assist with shipping, customs, and sales-related queries.
Maintain professional and effective communication with all stakeholders.
Support issue resolution and escalation where required.

6. Cost Control & Performance Monitoring

Monitor and control freight costs, demurrage, detention, and storage charges.
Support cost optimisation initiatives.
Track and support KPIs, including:

On-time delivery performance
Customs clearance lead times
Import and export cost variances
Documentation and SAD500 accuracy


Tools & Systems

Customs management systems
ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Dynamics, or similar)
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Transport Management Systems (TMS)
Microsoft Word, Excel (advanced), PowerPoint, and Outlook