Ocean Freight Coordinator
Job Summary:
An Ocean Freight Coordinator manages the logistics and coordination of ocean freight shipments. This role involves ensuring the efficient and cost-effective transportation of goods by sea from the point of origin to the final destination. The Ocean Freight Coordinator communicates with shipping lines, customs brokers, global agents, and transport companies to ensure timely delivery, compliance with regulations, and high levels of customer satisfaction. They are also responsible for obtaining quotations from global agents to secure the best rates and services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Shipment Coordination:
- Planned, organized, and managed ocean freight shipments from booking to delivery.
- Coordinate with shipping lines, freight forwarders, carriers, and global agents to secure space and rates.
- Schedule pick-up and delivery of cargo, ensuring on-time shipment.
- Documentation and Compliance:
- Prepare and process all necessary shipping documents, including bills of lading, packing lists, and commercial invoices.
- Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, customs requirements, and company policies.
- Handle customs clearance procedures and communicate with customs brokers to resolve any issues.
- Tracking and Reporting:
- Monitor and track shipments, ensuring timely delivery and addressing delays or disruptions.
- Maintain accurate records of shipments, costs, and other relevant data.
- Generate and analyze reports on shipment performance, costs, and customer satisfaction.
- Cost Management:
- Negotiate rates and contracts with shipping lines, service providers, and global agents.
- Monitor and control shipping costs, seeking cost-effective solutions.
- Provide cost estimates and quotes to clients.
- Problem Solving:
- Identify and resolve issues that may affect the timely and cost-effective transportation of goods.
- Implement contingency plans to address disruptions in the supply chain.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure smooth operations.
- Global Agent Communication:
- Communicate with global agents to receive quotations for freight services.
- Evaluate and compare quotations to select the most cost-effective and reliable options.
- Maintain strong relationships with global agents to ensure ongoing cooperation and competitive rates.
Skills
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Proven experience in ocean freight coordination, logistics, or a similar role.
- Strong knowledge of international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and documentation requirements.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work well under pressure and solve problems efficiently.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with Export Sea freight operations.
- Knowledge of import/export local regulations and compliance.
- Familiarity with various modes of transportation and global trade routes.
- Multilingual capabilities, especially in languages relevant to key shipping routes and client bases.