Job Description

Essential Job Functions

International Freight & Imports Experience Is Required

Ocean Freight Management:

• Coordinate inbound international shipments, primarily via ocean and rail, from global suppliers.
• Plan and organize the movement of goods from origin to destination, selecting optimal shipping routes and carriers based on timing, cost, and service quality.
• Oversee container consolidation, sailing schedules, transloading, drayage, and port operations to ensure efficiency.
• Track and report shipment progress; proactively address delays, port congestion, and missed transshipments.

Documentation Management:

• Ensure the accurate and timely preparation of all international shipping documents, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and shipping manifests.
• Collaborate with customs brokers to ensure smooth customs clearance and delivery timelines.
• Regulatory Compliance:
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of import/export regulations, Incoterms, and U.S. Customs compliance.
• Ensure all shipments adhere to international trade regulations, including tariffs, duties, embargoes, and FTZ requirements.
• Carrier and Vendor Management:
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with ocean carriers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers.
• Negotiate competitive rates and service contracts, benchmark pricing, and manage performance KPIs.

Shipment Tracking & Communication:

• Monitor cargo movement from foreign origin through final delivery.
• Provide updates to internal teams and customers regarding ETAs, delays, or changes.
• Set up systems to ensure visibility and proactive communication.

Cost Optimization:

• Analyze and reduce landed costs by optimizing container loads, Incoterms, and carrier selection.
• Collaborate with Finance and Purchasing on freight budgeting, cost allocation, and invoice auditing.

Issue Resolution & Process Improvement:

• Troubleshoot and resolve shipping delays, damages, or misroutes in real-time.
• Identify inefficiencies in the import process and implement best practices for continuous improvement.

Customer Support:

• Serve as a point of contact for freight-related inquiries from customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Provide accurate delivery timelines and support customer satisfaction goals.

Warehouse Transfers & Inventory Movement

• Schedule and track warehouse transfers to maintain stock balance and support order demand.
• Coordinate with warehouse teams to align shipment schedules and reduce backorders.
• Ensure accurate documentation and system recordkeeping for all inventory movements.

Customer Order Fulfillment

• Manage outbound order shipping and ensure timely, accurate deliveries.
• Build multi-stop truck routes to reduce freight costs and improve efficiency.
• Monitor outbound carrier performance, service levels, and customer satisfaction.

Transportation & Cost Optimization

• Evaluate and select FTL/LTL carriers based on price, reliability, and timeliness.
• Negotiate rates and implement cost-saving initiatives such as load consolidation and backhauls.
• Develop and report on freight KPIs such as on-time delivery, cost per mile, and lead time reduction.

Sales Support & Inside Sales

• Drive Retail product sales through proactive call-outs, upselling, and account support.
• Assist Outside Sales in meeting revenue objectives and strategic territory development.
• Update ERP systems with accurate customer, order, and freight details.
• Participate in sales planning meetings and maintain communication with key accounts.
• Generate new leads and maintain positive distributor relationships.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Logistics & Supply Chain Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of international shipping, ocean freight, customs compliance, and transportation planning.

Analytical Skills:

• Ability to analyze freight spend, carrier performance, and logistics metrics to inform decision-making.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills:
• Effective communicator across teams, vendors, and customers; strong negotiation skills.
• Organizational & Planning Skills:
• Ability to prioritize, manage multiple projects, and execute under deadlines.
• Problem-Solving:
• Proactive in identifying shipping and logistics challenges and implementing sustainable solutions.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in logistics, international trade, or inside sales.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in international logistics or freight coordination, with a strong focus on ocean freight.
• Familiarity with ERP and TMS systems, customs documentation, and Incoterms.
• Experience working with distributors, architects, or contractors preferred.

Ability to Commute:

• Charlotte, NC 28277 (Required)
• Work Location: In person

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