Ocean Import Coordinator

Rhenus Logistics•Cranford, NJ

About The Position

Coordinate end-to-end ocean import shipments, ensuring timely execution from arrival through final delivery. Communicate proactively with customers, overseas agents, ocean carriers, customs brokers, truckers, and internal teams to ensure the seamless movement of freight. Prepare and distribute pre-alerts, shipment updates, arrival notices, status reports, and other import documentation. Monitor shipment milestones, resolve delays or service issues, and provide customers with accurate, timely updates throughout the shipment lifecycle. Prepare, review, and issue Bills of Lading, delivery orders, Proofs of Delivery (PODs), invoices, and other shipping documentation with a high degree of accuracy. Coordinate cargo pickups, inland transportation, and final delivery while ensuring customer requirements and service commitments are met. Negotiate competitive rates with carriers and logistics providers while supporting customer quotations as required. Review carrier and vendor invoices, reconcile shipment costs, approve payments, and ensure timely customer billing. Manage shipment files, pending charges, profit share requests, and financial records in accordance with company procedures. Handle shipment exceptions, claims, and operational issues by identifying practical solutions and coordinating with all relevant stakeholders. Maintain accurate shipment records, client reports, and operational data within the transportation management system. Collaborate with internal departments and international partners to deliver exceptional customer service and continuously improve operational performance. Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

3+ years of experience in ocean freight forwarding, with a strong focus on import operations.
Proven experience managing end-to-end ocean import shipments within a freight forwarding environment.
Solid understanding of ocean transportation processes, shipping documentation, Incoterms, and international trade regulations.
Experience coordinating with ocean carriers, overseas agents, customs brokers, trucking providers, and other third-party logistics partners.
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to build strong relationships across internal and external stakeholders.
Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple shipments in a fast-paced environment.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, particularly when preparing shipping documentation and managing operational records.
Strong attention to detail required for documentation and day-to-day tasks.
A proactive, team-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

Nice To Haves

experience with freight forwarding or transportation management systems is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Coordinate end-to-end ocean import shipments, ensuring timely execution from arrival through final delivery.
Communicate proactively with customers, overseas agents, ocean carriers, customs brokers, truckers, and internal teams to ensure the seamless movement of freight.
Prepare and distribute pre-alerts, shipment updates, arrival notices, status reports, and other import documentation.
Monitor shipment milestones, resolve delays or service issues, and provide customers with accurate, timely updates throughout the shipment lifecycle.
Prepare, review, and issue Bills of Lading, delivery orders, Proofs of Delivery (PODs), invoices, and other shipping documentation with a high degree of accuracy.
Coordinate cargo pickups, inland transportation, and final delivery while ensuring customer requirements and service commitments are met.
Negotiate competitive rates with carriers and logistics providers while supporting customer quotations as required.
Review carrier and vendor invoices, reconcile shipment costs, approve payments, and ensure timely customer billing.
Manage shipment files, pending charges, profit share requests, and financial records in accordance with company procedures.
Handle shipment exceptions, claims, and operational issues by identifying practical solutions and coordinating with all relevant stakeholders.
Maintain accurate shipment records, client reports, and operational data within the transportation management system.
Collaborate with internal departments and international partners to deliver exceptional customer service and continuously improve operational performance.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.