Import Freight Controller must be able to perform the following specific functional responsibilities:

- Be able to interpret a quotation, including the following specific items/terms

What are the terms of the consignment - ex Works, FOB, CIF, C&F?

Who is the carrier (shipping line/airline)?

Who is the agent?

Identify who the shipper is

Correctly identify what documentation is required to effect the clearance of the consignment

- Be able to manage the full end-to-end process of the logistics supply chain of a consignment, including:

Know the Federal Clearing value chain (quotes to final delivery)

Know the internal role players in the Federal Clearing value chain, and who is responsible for what

Contact the shipper or agent, and request the relevant shipping documentation

Be able to register the shipment on ShipShape

Be able to capture the necessary information into ShipShape

Be able to make a cargo booking with the carrier

Be able to complete a bill of lading or air way bill

Be able to complete a certificate of origin or other certificates/permits as/if required.

Be able to advise the shipper and consignee of the milestone dates of the consignment

Arrange with a transporter/trucking company for pick-up and delivery of goods to depot

Follow up with the relevant parties to track the consignment

Be able to accurately complete the Cover Sheet for invoicing purposes.

Be able to calculate and record all charges relating to the shipment

- Be able to engage with the relevant parties

Interacting with the Federal Clearing Customs Department to create and submit the BoE

Interact with the Federal Logistics Team to arrange delivery

Advising the consignee of all charges

Liaising with the Finance department to create a proforma/draft invoice for the client

Submit the invoice to the client, and obtain payment prior to submission of customs documentation and delivery

- Ensure the delivery of the cargo

Ensure that all necessary import documentation has been completed

Ensure that the cargo has been picked up on time and delivered to consignee.

Follow up with the client that the delivery was made

Get feedback from the client regarding service

- Handle unusual circumstances

Know when additional import documentation is required

Know how to complete and submit import permit documentation

Be able to complete documentation required for a provisional or penalty payment

An Import Freight Controller must have the following general skills:

- Be organized with excellent attention to details, and prepare each file according to Federal Clearing's guidelines

- Be neat. Each file should be compiled in a manner that notes, additional charges, changes from the original quote are well documented and easy for the invoicing department to make note of

- Be proactive, which means:

Providing the consignee and Federal Manager with regular updates regarding any shipment

Contacting the client immediately when there are any deviations from the quote, or later agreed terms/costs

Preparing documentation in advance in order to ensure client service

Following up with clients when they do not respond to emails or voice messages

- Be able to communicate clearly and effectively, including:

Able to use outlook

Able to compose a professional business email

Able to communicate effectively via telephone

Able to confirm telephonic discussion with follow up written emails

- Know how to delegate to another department, but still retain accountability for the work

Education

- Import Freight Controller must have a matric

- Preferably have a shipping qualification from a recognized training provider

Experience

- Must have a minimum of 2 years shipping experience